A Local'S Guide To Budapest Top 10 Things To Do!

It is important to note that Budapest is currently one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe that can be visited quite inexpensively. From the architectural designs, hot thermal spas, its active nightlife, culture, and history, this destination has got it all. Being a resident, I have been fortunate enough to explore this incredible city and therefore I will list my ten favorite things to do here.

1. Bathing in the Thermal Baths in Hungary

Budapest lies on a fault line that is replete with thermal springs hence its reputation as the ‘Spa Capital of the World.” Széchenyi, Gellért, and Király are 3 examples of historic thermal baths with indoor and outdoor pools of varying sizes and temperatures cozily nestled in Baroque or Art Nouveau buildings. Treat yourself to a relaxing warm temperature bath in the evening forgetting the day’s stress while gazing at these beautiful structures. Do not let the opportunity to try the tradition of taking a bath outdoors during winter in Hungary!

2. Stroll Along the Perimeter of Budapest’s Buda Castle

Over the Danube lies the Buda Castle district of architectural reminiscence. Originally built in the 13th century, kings and high-ranking nobilities once resided here, but today the castle holds palaces, churches, and museums including the National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. Stroll around the Marzipan town along the cobblestone path while at the same time enjoying the view of the Pest side of the river. Now the funicular railway links you between Buda and Pest making your visit easy.

3. Cruise the Danube

It is located on the beautiful Donau River and for this reason, Budapest is often referred to as the Pearl of the Donau. Do not miss the must-see sights such as the building of parliament, Buda Castle, Margaret Island, and even the Banks of the Danube which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site travel on the riverboat sightseeing cruise. These sightseeing tours offered in most cruises, are available in multiple languages and operate daily throughout the year with both, lower and upper decks, partly covered and partly open.

4. Take the metro, specifically line number

Regardless of the reasons, one must acknowledge that Metro Line 1 has become not only a subway line but an attraction too. The oldest electrified underground railway is in Continental Europe with some stations being decorated in the architectural styles of the nineteenth century. Riding the length of the platform and joining and leaving the train is also a good way to look at platforms and notices such as the Platform of Heroes with statues of the country presidents.

5. The Chain Bridge: A walk across the famous bridge.

The Chain Bridge was constructed crossing the River Danube as the first permanent stone bridge that was inaugurated in 1849 connecting ancient Buda and Pest. Have a relaxing stroll over while enjoying the splendid sights of Castle Hill and the Hungarian Parliament Building. The towers located at each side of the bridge are very attractive lookout points. During the night and especially during the evening, do not fail to see the light show that goes around the bridge and is reflected on the calm waters of the Danube River.

6. Visit the Royal and Elegant Hungarian Parliament

This Neo-Gothic structure is the biggest in Hungary, and it offers 691 rooms with elegant interior designs, it is situated on the bank of the Danube River. This castle offers astonishing interior views, the hexadecagonal central hall, fine staircases, and the crown jewels, all of which one can view on the guided tour that should be booked ahead of time, especially in the summer. Visitors should not leave without a visit to the parliamentary observation terrace, where you can get a view of the city.

7. Explore Ruin Bars and NightLife

During the day, the area is quite enjoyable especially because the Jewish Quarter of Budapest, for example, houses such landmarks as the Great Synagogue. Yet, when the lights are out, it becomes the very heart of nightlife in Budapest and the surrounding area! There are ruin bars located in buildings and yards of ruins with furniture and accessories that would look quite ridiculous but give a rather interesting atmosphere like an old Trabant car used as a table. Stop by a pub and get a craft beer or sit down for a glass of Hungarian wine and bar crawl until the wee hours.

8. Marvel at Matthias Church

Standing high on Budapest’s Buda side, Castle Hill, this imposing 14th-century cathedral is a beautiful work of architecture. Although the exterior construction, especially the stone carvings and the tile roof, are amazing on their own, the interior is where the true beauty of the structure lies. Painted in bright colors arches extend across Interior walls reaching up to vaulted ceilings which are adorned with Hungarian folk art patterns as well as biblical scenes. It has no parallel with cathedrals anywhere else in Europe.

9. Ride Europe's Oldest Funicular

The Buda Castle Hill Funicular which started its journeys in 1870, ascended the ground of what was considered an unclimbable hill to interconnect the river bank of the Danube to the Buda Castle District. It is a very small cable ride, only 95 meters in length, but the view is very interesting and takes no more than 60 seconds. The lower station mimics a Gothic fort with water Bastion walls, ideal for a quick photo stop as you alight or board.

10. Visit more Central Market Hall.

Visiting Hungary without going to Budapest’s indoor food market or Market Hall is a huge mistake. It opened in 1897 and with the aromatic smell of paprika, the taste of Tokaji wine, the fresh meats, and produce, and the outlook of Hungarian folk costumes, and handicrafts. The upper floor has several levels and allows visitors to take excellent photos of the building’s steelwork. To satisfy your palate and take Hungary’s pride home, Hungarikum is here!

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