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Budapest
Hungary
Visit Budapest
Budapest, the enchanting capital city of Hungary, is often referred to as the "Pearl of the Danube" and is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and thermal baths. Straddling the Danube River, the city is divided into two distinct parts: Buda, with its hilly and historic landscape, and Pest, known for its flatter, more cosmopolitan vibe. This duality offers visitors a rich variety of experiences, from exploring ancient castles and palaces to enjoying the lively nightlife and contemporary art scenes.
One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Buda Castle, a historical palace complex of the Hungarian kings in Budapest. Perched on Castle Hill, it provides a majestic panorama of the entire city. Nearby, the Fisherman's Bastion offers one of the best vantage points for breathtaking views of the Pest side of the city, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, an impressive example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Across the river, the Parliament itself is open to guided tours that reveal its opulent interior, including the Holy Crown of Hungary.
Budapest is also famous for its thermal baths, a legacy of the Ottoman influence in Hungary. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest spa complexes in Europe, is an ideal spot to unwind with its numerous pools, saunas, and massage therapies. For a different taste of local life, head to the Central Market Hall where you can sample traditional Hungarian cuisine like goulash, lángos, and various paprika-infused dishes. As the sun sets, the city's ruin pubs in the Jewish Quarter come alive, offering a unique nightlife experience where historical settings blend with modern-day entertainment. Whether you're soaking in history or the thermal waters, Budapest promises a compelling mix of relaxation and exploration.
Budapest Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
27°F
37°F
7
February
30°F
43°F
7
March
34°F
50°F
12
April
46°F
61°F
11
May
53°F
68°F
11
June
59°F
77°F
11
July
63°F
81°F
7
August
63°F
81°F
7
September
54°F
72°F
7
October
46°F
59°F
7
November
37°F
48°F
12
December
30°F
37°F
12
Need to Know Before You Go To Budapest
Nickname:
The Pearl of the Danube
Primary Language:
Hungarian
Time Zone:
Europe/Budapest
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type C and Type F
Annual Visitors:
3.5 million
Primary Export:
Pharmaceuticals
Busiest Travel Months:
July, August, June
Quietest Travel Months:
January, February, November
Find your Next Adventure in Budapest
Explore Budapest
Iconic Landmarks
Buda Castle
This historic castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings in Budapest was first completed in 126
Located on the southern tip of Castle Hill, it is part of the Budapest World Heritage Site. The castle is home to the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.
Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most recognizable structures in Budapest. Situated on the bank of the Danube, it's the largest building in Hungary and the tallest in Budapest. Its stunning Gothic Revival architecture makes it a popular tourist attraction.
Chain Bridge
Officially known as the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, this suspension bridge spans the River Danube between Buda and Pest, the western and eastern sides of Budapest. Opened in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge across the Danube in Hungary and is a key symbol of the city.
Fisherman’s Bastion
Located in the Buda Castle district, near Matthias Church, Fisherman's Bastion offers some of the best panoramic views of Budapest. Its fairytale turrets and neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque architecture make it a favorite spot for tourists.
St. Stephen's Basilica
This Roman Catholic basilica is named in honor of Stephen, the first King of Hungary. It's the third largest church building in present-day Hungary and is famous for its rich architecture and the holy relic it houses – the right hand of St. Stephen.
Heroes' Square
Known as Hősök tere in Hungarian, this major square is noted for its iconic statue complex featuring the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important national leaders. It's also a gateway to the City Park and lies at the end of Andrássy Avenue, with the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art on either side.
Cultural Experiences
Thermal Baths
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, thanks to the city's location on over a hundred thermal springs. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest spa complexes in Europe, and the Gellért Baths, known for their stunning Art Nouveau architecture, are must-visit spots. Bathing in these thermal waters is a quintessential Budapest experience, offering relaxation and a peek into a centuries-old tradition.
Hungarian State Opera House
Attending a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House is a cultural treat. The building itself is an architectural marvel, and the opera company is one of Europe's finest. Even if you don’t catch a performance, take a guided tour of the opulent interiors.
Castle Hill (Várhegy)
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to Buda Castle, the historic castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings. Walking through the cobblestone streets of the Castle District, with its Gothic arches, eighteenth-century Baroque houses and quaint cafés, feels like stepping back in time. Don't miss the panoramic views of the city from Fisherman's Bastion.
Hungarian National Museum
To dive deep into the history of Hungary from the foundation of the state to the 1990s, a visit to the Hungarian National Museum is essential. The museum's collections of artifacts, art, and memorabilia tell the rich story of the nation.
Jewish Heritage
The Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world, is a center for the Jewish community in Budapest. Exploring this area, including the Jewish Museum and the Holocaust Memorial Room, offers insight into the tragic and resilient history of Jews in Budapest.
Ruin Pubs and Hungarian Cuisine
No visit to Budapest is complete without spending an evening in one of its famous "ruin pubs".
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in the Buda Hills
The Buda side of the city features rolling hills which are perfect for hiking. You can explore numerous trails that offer scenic views of the city and the surrounding natural landscapes. Popular spots include Normafa and the area around Janos Hill, the highest point in Budapest.
Cycling Along the Danube
Rent a bike and take a ride along the Danube River. There are well-maintained bike paths on both sides of the river, offering a pleasant ride with stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks like the Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge.
Kayaking or Canoeing on the Danube
For water sports enthusiasts, kayaking or canoeing on the Danube provides a unique perspective of the city. You can paddle under the bridges and alongside the riverbanks of Budapest, enjoying the cityscape from the water.
Exploring Margaret Island
Margaret Island is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the Danube, accessible from both Buda and Pest. It's a great place for jogging, biking, or just walking around. The island features a large park, swimming pools, a water tower, and medieval ruins.
Rock Climbing at Cserépvár
Located a short distance from Budapest, Cserépvár offers rock climbing opportunities for climbers of various skill levels. The area has several routes that provide a good challenge and a fun day out for adventure seekers.
Visiting the Palvolgyi Cave
Explore the underground world of Budapest by visiting the Palvolgyi Cave. This cave system is one of the longest in the Buda Hills and offers guided tours that take you through its stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Off the Beaten Path
Explore the Kőbánya Cellars
Located in the district of Kőbánya, these vast limestone cellars were originally used for beer brewing and storage. This underground labyrinth extends over 30 kilometers, with parts dating back to the Middle Ages. Guided tours can take you through these eerie yet fascinating tunnels, offering a glimpse into a hidden part of Budapest's industrial history.
Visit the Törökbálint Radio Observatory
For those interested in science and astronomy, the Törökbálint Radio Observatory offers a unique outing. Located just outside Budapest, this facility is part of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and features giant radio telescopes used for astronomical research. Visitors can learn about the universe and the technology used to explore it, though it's advisable to arrange visits in advance.
Discover the Soroksár Danube Branch
This lesser-known branch of the Danube River offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city center. Ideal for cycling or walking, the area features paths along the water and through quaint local villages. It's a great spot for bird watching or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon in nature.
Check Out the Flipper Museum
This museum is a paradise for pinball enthusiasts. Housing one of the largest collections of pinball machines in Europe, the Flipper Museum allows visitors to play on a vast array of machines, some of which date back to the 19th century. It's a playful and nostalgic way to spend an afternoon.
Relax in Kerepesi Cemetery
While visiting a cemetery might sound morbid, Kerepesi Cemetery is as much a park and sculpture garden as it is a final resting place. It's one of the oldest cemeteries in Hungary and is the burial site of many famous Hungarian figures. The elaborate tombstones and peaceful paths make it a reflective place to explore Hungarian history and art.
Attend a Performance at the A38 Ship
A reconstructed Ukrainian stone-carrier ship serves as one of Budapest's most unique cultural venues. Moored on the Danube, the A38 Ship hosts concerts, exhibitions, and performances, featuring both local and international artists. It's a favorite among locals and offers stunning views of the city from its decks.
Budapest Fun Facts
Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is rich in history and culture. Here are ten fun facts about this fascinating city:
- City of Spas
Budapest is often called the "City of Spas" because it has more thermal and medicinal water springs than any other capital city in the world. The city's bath culture dates back to Roman times, and today, there are over 15 public thermal baths in Budapest.
- Buda and Pest
Budapest is actually made up of three cities: Óbuda, Buda, and Pest. Buda and Pest are separated by the Danube River. They were united into a single city in 1873.
- The Hungarian Parliament Building
One of the most iconic buildings in Budapest, the Hungarian Parliament Building, is the third largest parliament building in the world. It has 691 rooms and 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) of stairs.
- The Chain Bridge
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge was the first permanent bridge across the Danube in Hungary and a symbol of advancement and connection between the east and west. It opened in 1849.
- Inventors and Innovations
Budapest is the birthplace of many inventors and their creations, including the Rubik's Cube, invented by Ernő Rubik, and the ballpoint pen, invented by László Bíró.
- The Castle Hill Funicular
The Budavári Sikló is a funicular railway that connects the Adam Clark Square at the foot of the Chain Bridge to Buda Castle above. It first opened in 1870 and is one of the oldest in the world.
- The Dohány Street Synagogue
Located in Budapest, it is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world, capable of holding up to 3,000 people.
- A City of Caves
Budapest has a vast network of over 200 caves under the city, formed by the same thermal springs that feed the city’s famous baths. Some of these caves are open for tours.
- The Millennium Underground
Budapest's Metro Line 1 (the Yellow Line) is the second oldest underground metro line in the world, opened in 1896. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 2002.
- Coffee House Culture
Budapest was once home to more than 400 coffee houses, serving as important meeting spots for writers, artists, and intellectuals during the early 20th century. This tradition of coffee houses and cafés continues to be a significant part of Budapest's culture.
Featured Picture Gallery
An Aerial Shot of Budapest with the Danube River
View the Szechenyi Chain Bridge Lights During The Evening
Visit Budapest Castle Hill
Explore Budapest and the Architecture
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