Complete Guide To Budapest Hungary

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Budapest is the capital of Hungary. Hungary is a land locked country and is south of Slovakia and also borders Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Romania and Ukraine. The city is the commercial, industrial, administrative, and political center of Hungary. The town has progressively developed since the prehistoric period and is now the home of almost a fifth of Hungary’s population. Budapest has long been a lively cultural center and the focal point of the country. It is one of the biggest cities in Europe and among the leading regional cities in terms of dynamic fashion, cuisine, design, and art.

I was in the Czech Republic for a few days and decided to visit Budapest. It was a short flight and I was able to find cheap tickets. Overall, I found the Hungarian people to be very friendly and very open to the West. Many young people that I interacted with in Czech Republic were not very enthusiastic about the West in general and particularly the United States.

Strategic location of Budapest.

Budapest is strategically positioned at the center of the Carpathian Basin in Hungary. The city is built along the Danube River in the beautiful natural setting where the plains expanding to the east and south meet the hills of western Hungary. It has two parts: Buda and Pest, which are positioned on opposite sides of the River Danube. The city has significant topographical distinctions: Buda lies on the higher terraces of the river and the western hills, while the bigger Pest stands on a flat sand plain on the opposite bank of the river.

Where should you stay in Budapest?

At first sight, Budapest appears like a big and overwhelming place. When planning for a trip by yourself, it might be challenging to choose the neighborhood to stay in Budapest. If you take some time to familiarize yourself with the city, you will realize that it is a collection of neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

• District I (Várkerület): This is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Budapest. It is located on the Buda side of the city and offers picturesque flagstone streets, impressive ancient architecture, and quaint views. This is the best place to stay if it is your first time in Budapest due to the city’s attractions, excellent restaurants, and amazing views. If you are a photographer, District I is a great place to stay. The views of the city from the hills are amazing.

• District VI (Terézváros)This is one of the smallest and most populated neighborhoods in Budapest city. It is situated in the Pest side of river Danube and is a lively neighborhood full of activity and excitement. Terézvárosis is where you will find the best budget living spaces in Budapest – from boutique hotels to backpacker hostels; you will find accommodation that suits your budget in this active neighborhood.

• District VII (Erzsébetváros): Erzsébetváros is a historic Jewish quarter that holds several religious, cultural, and heritage sites, including famous synagogues. It is also the best neighborhood to stay in Budapest if you want some nightlife. It is the home to rustic street food, hip restaurants, vibrant clubs, and trendy bars. If you want a great night out in Budapest, Erzsébetváros is the place to be.

• District V (Belváros): Belváros is one of the biggest neighborhoods in Budapest that includes various cultural and historical attractions, including the Central Market Hall, the Chain Bridge, and the Parliament building. It is well connected to other neighborhoods in the city, which makes it an excellent place for families.

The cuisine in Budapest.

• Gulyás: This is a rich stew made of vegetables and meat and paprika seasoning. Although beef is the most commonly used meat, you can also get Gulyás made from chicken, pork, or even some vegan and vegetarian versions. The basic rule is to utilize Paprika as the principle seasoning spice.
  
• Lecsó: This is a vegetable stew with onions, yellow peppers, and tomatoes and a generous amount of paprika powder and salt. It is often served with bread and a scoop of sour cream. The meal is best for vegetarians visiting Budapest.

• Milk Bars: This might sound unusual, but drinking milk in devoted milk bars is a custom in Budapest. Owners open milk bars early for locals who are stopping by for a fast breakfast pastry and drink on their way to school or work.

5 best places to visit in Budapest

• Hungarian Parliament Building & Crown Jewels: The Hungarian Parliament building is the third-largest parliament building in the world. The Neo-Gothic structure was inaugurated in 1886 to mark the 1000th anniversary of the country. It consists of 691 rooms and 19 kilometers of stairs and corridors.
  
• St. Stephen’s Basilica: This is a popular attraction due to its attractive architecture, impressive interior, and panoramic views from its roof. The interior is highly decorated with medieval art that represents the symbols of the mass.

• Fisherman’s Bastion: This is a collection of Neo-Romanesque towers, walls, colonnades, and courtyards that were built from 1895 to 1902. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Budapest due to its panoramic view of the Danube and the city.
  
• The Danube Promenade: This is on the Banks of the Danube river – northeast side, near the parliament buildings. Here, you will find Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial. This is a series of 60 pairs of steel shoes that commemorate the Jews who were shot by the Nazis.

• The Museum of Fine Arts: This is not only the most important art gallery in Budapest; it also holds one of the largest collections of ancient works by European authors. It includes an extensive array of Dutch, Spanish, and Italian paintings.

The one thing that I really enjoyed during my stay in Budapest were the “Ruin Pubs”. These pubs are set in old abandoned buildings, warehouses etc. Each pub has it’s own theme and they are a fun place to hangout.

Have you visited Budapest?

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