Budapest is often called the @Paris of the East'. and there is no doubt it is one of the world's most romantic cities. With the majestic Danube as its centre separating Buda and Pest, cosy cafes, elegant boulevards and the cobbled streets of the Castle district, it is the ideal romantic getaway.
From the airport
Train: Trains leave Terminal 1 for the Western train station.
Bus: Take bus 200 from outside Arrivals to the final stop, Kobanya-Kipest station, for the metro to the centre.
Shop
The Sterling Gallery sells unique jewellery by young Hungarian designers. A good choice if you are in search of something individual and contemporary.
Add some colour to a grey day by visiting the Glass Studio where you will find Hungarian and Italian glass jewellery and ornaments for the home.
At Vali Folklor, you will find more than 500 dolls with folk clothing representing the various regions of Hungary, as well as the historical uniforms of the Hussars and soldiers.
It might be obvious but the Castle District offers beautiful views from Buda to the Pest side, the Hungarian House of Wine and it is a World Heritage site.
Better than any guide book, Beyond Budapest is a tour company that specialises in showing off the legendary Eighth District, including a visit to an art studio, gypsy musician's family, traditional sweet shop and more.
To see
- the Parliament
- the Danube river
- Margaret Island with the largest park of the city which also has a small zoo, green fields, a Japanese garden, a musical fountain, a public beach, a running track and also the best open air clubs of the city
- the western railway station, Nyugati Palyaudvar
- West End shopping centre
The Szechenyi baths can be found in the Varosliget park in Budapest. The covered part in a modern renaissance style was built in 1913. The outside part was created in 1927. The name refers to the ideal of devotion to the public weal of the Count Istvan Szechenyi. The water is drawn from a spring that is 960 meters deep. Over 70% of Hungarian soil contains thermal waters.
In Winter, glide around the ice. The world's largest outdoor rink is in Varosliget park next to the fairytale Vajdahunyad castle.
Enjoy a glass of Hungarian champagne. The Torley factory has been producing sparkling wine for more than 125 years. Rise a glass and admire the view of the Danube from the Four Seasons hotel.
Get cosy in a cafe. Ruszwurm, in the Castle district or try Gerbeaud in Pest for its delicious cakes and home-brewed beer.
The name Auguszt has been synonymous with fine pastry so make sure you seek out one of the three family run cafes called Auguszt Cukraszda.
Visit the Opera House. See a show at the opulent Hungarian State Opera House, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Take a funicular to the Castle district. The easiest, most scenic way to reach the Castle District is by funicular. Take the lowest carriage for the best views of the city.
Dine on a floating restaurant. Enjoy dinner and a cocktail whilst admiring fabulous views of the Chain Bridge from the gleaming Legenda Cruise ship.
Day trip
Balatonfured. There is no better place than Lake Balaton on a summer's day. About 120 kilometres west of Budapest, Balatonfured is the oldest spa resort in Hungary, with a breathtaking promenade and plenty of opportunities for swimming and sailing.
Sopron, Famous for its decision to belong to Hungary instead of Austria, Sopron is lovely at any time of the year. Among the many buildings from almost every century, the most famous is the so-called Fire Tower.
Stroll along Margaret Island and escape the city on this small island in the middle of the Danube that is home to 100 hectares of peaceful parkland.
Godollo. Head to the pretty town of Godollo, 30 kms away. Visit 'Sissi Castle' (Kiralyi Kastely) where the beloved Austrian-Hapsburg Queen Elizabeth , or Sissi, resided.
