Budapest is a city rich in history and culture. Situated on the banks of the Danube River, Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Budapest, the Hungarian capital, has much to see and do, from touring historical landmarks to enjoying world-class restaurants and nightlife.
Yes, Budapest, Hungary’s capital city, is well worth visiting. It’s a city rich in history, culture, and beauty. It is home to impressive architecture, museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions. The city’s vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and thermal baths make it an excellent destination for those who want to relax and unwind.
Here are 20 reasons why Budapest is worth visiting:
Budapest is a city with a rich History and Culture.
The city was founded in the 1st century AD by the Celts and has been an important regional center ever since.
Over the years, many different cultures, such as the Romans, the Magyars, the Ottomans, and the Austro-Hungarians, have left their mark on Budapest.
Budapest has a lot of museums, galleries, and theaters where you can see the work of both local and international artists.
The city is home to many important cultural institutions, including the Hungarian National Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Hungarian State Opera House.
Budapest is also a major center for music and theater, with a thriving classical music scene and several important theater companies.
The Architecture is Stunning.
Budapest is one of the most beautiful European cities and is well known for its beautiful buildings. From Gothic Revival to Art Nouveau, this city’s architecture shows its long and interesting history.
The Castle District is probably one of the most interesting parts of Budapest. It has cobblestone streets lined with Baroque and Rococo buildings, many of which were built in the 1800s.
Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion (a Neo-Gothic extravaganza), Matthias Church (a Gothic masterpiece from the 1400s), and St. Stephen’s Basilica (an example of neoclassical architecture) are also important landmarks.
Buda Castle
The Budapest Royal Castle is a place every visitor to Budapest must see. The Széchenyi Library, the Hungarian National Gallery, and the Budapest History Museum can all be found inside.
The inside of the Buda Castle is intriguing, but it’s worth coming up just for the views over the city and the walk you can take around the entire area surrounding the castle.
Fisherman’s Bastion
A lookout point on the top of Buda Hill, the Fisherman’s Bastion is made up of seven beautiful towers and a statue of Stephen I on horseback. The towers honor the seven tribes that started Hungary.
Given how close it is, you can stop by this fortress when you go up to see Budapest Castle and enjoy the fantastic city views from that height, which we recommend you do at sunset.
Matthias Church
The many different styles of architecture in Matthias Church show how troubled the building and city’s history has been.
The first church burned down in 1241, and from 1255 to 1269, a new church was built as part of Béla IV’s fortified city.
Most of this Gothic building is still there; Mátyás Corvinus added more details in the 1500s.
Frigyes Schulek gave it a new look in the Neo-Baroque style between 1873 and 1896, which was the last time it was fixed up.
St. Stephens Basilica
St. Stephen Basilica can be seen from all over Budapest. It may be the most photographed place in the city because it looks so beautiful when lit at night.
At 315 feet tall, the dome is the same height as the dome of the Parliament, whose builders chose not to go any higher.
It looks like a Greek cross and was built between 1851 and 1905.
Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge is another architectural highlight in Budapest. This is an elegant span across the Danube River that was opened in 1849 as one of the first permanent crossings between Buda and Pest.
With its big stone lions that stand for power and strength, it is a popular place for locals and tourists. The bridge is a reminder of Hungary’s troubled past because it was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt soon after.
Andrássy Avenue
The main street of Budapest, Andrássy Avenue, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002 because of its beautiful facades and Renaissance palaces.
Andrássy Avenue is the most prestigious address in Budapest. It is a long, wide boulevard from Városliget to the city center. There are restaurants, theaters, shops, and the Budapest Opera House along it.
It is also home to some great galleries, such as the House of Terror Museum or the Hungarian National Gallery, showcasing works by famous Hungarian painters like Tivadar Csontvary Kosztka or Mihaly Munkacsy.
People often call Andrássy Avenue “Budapest’s Champs-Élysées” because of how grand and beautiful it is.
Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is a captivating example of neo-Gothic architecture. It is one of the most significant parliament buildings in the world, measuring 880 feet in length and 387 feet in width. It was built between 1884 and 1902 in Kossuth Square, on the banks of the Danube.
The Parliament Building is known for its impressive architecture and impressive collection of statues and sculptures. It has over 40 statues of important figures from Hungarian history, and its dome is topped with Hungary’s crown jewels. The building has over ten courtyards with sculptures depicting scenes from Hungarian folklore.
In addition to its impressive exterior, the Hungarian Parliament Building has almost 700 rooms, including the Main Staircase, the Dome Room, and the Old Upper Chamber. Visitors can take tours of the building to learn more about its history and see its beautiful interiors.
During the summer months, the Parliament Building is also known for its light show, which is shown on its walls every hour on the hour at night. This is a must-see event for visitors to Budapest and adds to the building’s already impressive beauty.
World-Class Museums and Galleries.
Budapest has museums and art galleries that are among the best in the world. They show the best of Hungarian culture and history.
Hungarian National Museum
This National Museum is one of Budapest’s most important cultural places. It has a massive collection of artifacts from ancient times to the present. It is also home to archaeological collections, which include weapons, ceramics, textiles, sculptures, coins, and more.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is another art museum and one of the biggest art museums in Europe. It has more than 100 galleries and a large collection of European and Hungarian art from many different time periods.
From masterpieces by Monet and Renoir to paintings by Hungarian artists like Mihaly Munkacsy and Tivadar Csontvary Kosztka, visitors can explore a wide range of works from different eras at this museum.
Folk Art
Hungary is also known for its unique folk art traditions, which you can learn more about at the Museum for Applied Arts or the Hungarian Ethnographic Museum. These museums feature displays of Hungary’s traditional craftsmanship and other works from around the world.
Additionally, they often host workshops teaching visitors about pottery-making or weaving techniques.
Contemporary Art
The Ludwig Museum Budapest—Contemporary Art Museum is another important gallery. It is in the Palace near Castle Hill in District I. This museum is about showing modern art, including pieces by Andy Warhol, Louise Bourgeois, and other artists from around the world and the United States. People can take part in guided tours that explain the art on display and other hands-on activities that teach people about modern art movements.
Private Collections
In addition to these great museums and galleries, Budapest is also home to some smaller private collections, like the Jewish Historical Institute and the Ernst Museum Budapest, which focus on Jewish history and surrealism, respectively.
Impressive Food and Drinks Scene.
Budapest is a foodie’s dream, with restaurants and bars that serve everything from traditional Hungarian food to dishes from around the world.
What to Eat
Hungarian traditional fare is based on hearty ingredients like pork and beef, often served with vegetables like paprika, peppers, and onions.
Some classic Hungarian dishes include goulash—a thick soup made with beef or pork—töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage), and palacsinta (crepes).
For a unique culinary experience, locals recommend visiting one of Budapest’s ruin bars. These empty buildings have been turned into lively bars with furniture and art that don’t match. They often feature live music and serve delicious Hungarian food such as lángos (fried bread) and gőzgombóc (steamed dumplings).
And for dessert, many small patisseries are dotted around the city, offering treats like poppyseed strudel or Dobostorta – Hungary’s most famous dessert cake, made using seven layers of chocolate buttercream atop fluffy sponge cake.
What to Drink
Regarding beverages, Budapest is home to some of the best wineries in Europe. The city is surrounded by vineyards that make great wines, such as Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) from Eger Village, Somlói Apaszem from Veszprém County, or Tokaji Aszu from Zemplén Hills.
Locals also enjoy the fruity flavors of Unicum, Hungary’s national drink made from over 40 herbs and spices, which tastes surprisingly good mixed with beer or even orange juice!
Budapest is full of cafés serving rich espresso drinks alongside artisan cakes and pastries.
With so many delicious culinary options—sweet and savory—it is no wonder Budapest is a top destination for foodies.
The Danube River.
The city of Budapest is located on the Danube River, one of the most important rivers in Central Europe. It is the perfect setting for a variety of activities and sights.
One of the best ways to experience Budapest is by taking a boat ride along its waters. Several companies offer river cruises with amazing views of the city’s skyline and famous bridges like the Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, and Elizabeth Bridge. From the comfort of their cruise, passengers can enjoy a tasty lunch while taking in the sights of Budapest.
Visitors can also kayak or canoe down the Danube to get up close and personal with Budapest’s iconic landmarks. Many rental companies offer equipment and guided tours that take you to hidden gems away from the crowds and popular attractions such as Margaret Island and Budai Sziget. With an experienced guide pointing out interesting facts about Budapest’s history along the way, it will surely be an unforgettable experience!
Another great way to explore is by bike along the Danube, part of EuroVelo6, a long-distance cycle route connecting France with Hungary.
Along this route is the National Blue Trail, which is mostly flat and goes through beautiful nature reserves, small villages, and historical sites like Visegrád Castle or Szentendre Skanzen Open Air Museum, which are both just outside of Budapest, in the Hungarian countryside.
The Famous Thermal Baths.
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths and has more than 120 public and private bathhouses. The best thermal baths include:
Széchenyi Thermal Baths
The most famous is Széchenyi Baths, an enormous complex located in City Park, which is believed to have healing properties due to its thermal waters.
The bath water is naturally warm because it comes from two thermal springs under Budapest. There are many pools inside and outside. The temperature of the water is between 77°F (25°C) and 104°F (40°C), making it perfect for swimming or soaking in the thermal pools.
Visitors can also get a variety of treatments, like massages, facials, scrubs, mani-pedis, aromatherapy, and steam rooms.
Gellért Hotel and Baths
The Gellért Baths inside the Hotel Gellért on the Buda side of Budapest are another popular bathhouse.
This luxurious spa is renowned for its Art Nouveau decor and Roman-style architecture. Its marble pillars and stained-glass windows make it a great place to relax after a long day exploring the city’s sights. Its hot, steamy thermal pools are also said to be very therapeutic because they have a lot of minerals in them.
Other Bathhouses
Visitors looking for something more unique should try Rudas Baths.
This is one of Budapest’s oldest bathhouses. It is best known for its octagonal pool, surrounded by pillars and arches that look like Turkish hammams. It even has a fountain in the middle, which adds to its beauty.
For a truly authentic experience, head to Király Thermal Baths, located in central Budapest near the Buda Castle District. This small bathhouse from the 1600s is very popular with the locals, who come here when they need a break from the busyness of everyday life.
But if you’re looking for something more affordable yet still enjoyable, head out to Lukács Baths, located near Margaret Island on the Pest side of Budapest. It offers a range of treatments at an affordable cost—particularly compared to other spas in town—plus you get access to saunas and hot tubs where you can relax without breaking your budget.
The Beautiful Parks of Budapest.
Budapest is a city full of natural beauty, with plenty of open spaces and parks for visitors to explore.
City Park
The sprawling City Park is one of the largest green spaces in Budapest, covering an area of about 500 acres, and is home to the famous Vajdahunyad Castle. Inside, you’ll find a calm lake surrounded by lawns, gardens, pavilions, and sculptures, like the Millennium Monument, which was built to honor Hungary’s thousand-year history. It is also home to the Budapest Zoo and Budapest Amusement Park.
Margaret Island
Margaret Island is another popular park for visitors. It is a peaceful oasis on the river between Buda and Pest.
In the summer, you can walk, ride a bike, or sunbathe on its beaches. The island is rich in historical structures, such as the ruins of a Dominican abbey built in 1251 and the Árpád Lookout Tower, built between 1894 and 1902. It is also home to several attractions, such as a water tower, a Japanese Garden, a Musical Fountain, an Open Air Theatre, and many more!
Kerepesi Cemetery
Kerepesi Cemetery is another interesting park worth visiting in Budapest. Located in the Obuda district, it was established in 1847 as Hungary’s first national cemetery, where people from all walks of life were buried together regardless of their social status—an idea that was unheard of at this time! It is now a place to learn about Hungarian history and culture. It has more than 3000 tombs, including those of prime ministers, writers, poets, and musicians.
Kiskorona Park
Finally, there’s Kiskorona Park near Deák Ferenc Ter (square). This relatively small park offers a nice break from sightseeing when visiting downtown Budapest. With plenty of trees providing shade during hot summer days, plus benches to sit at while admiring birds taking flight or squirrels playing around, it is an excellent spot for rest and relaxation!
Vibrant Nightlife.
Budapest is known for its vibrant nightlife, sure to please and delight visitors looking for a good time. There are many options for local pubs, trendy bars, lively clubs, or live music venues.
Jazz Clubs
Budapest is the place for you if you’re a jazz fan. The city is home to many jazz bars like Jazz Cafe Budapest and Akvárium Klub, which offer an intimate setting with nightly performances from some of Hungary’s most talented musicians.
Other popular spots include Oktogon Café & Restaurant, Szimpla Kert Bar and Garden, and A38 Ship—all great places to relax and listen to some smooth jazz while enjoying a few drinks.
Dance Clubs
The city is also full of lively clubs that will keep you dancing all night! Check out popular spots like Instant Club, Larm Club, or Corvin Club—all offering a range of different styles of music, including house, techno, and hip hop. You can also find many alternative rock music venues, like Budapest Park and Durer Kert, located in the city’s heart.
Outdoor Terraces
Finally, outdoor terraces are another great way to experience Budapest’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Head to Recirquel Creative Arts Centre, where you can enjoy international acts under the stars at their summer terrace series held from May until late September every year.
Or visit OAZO Terrace on Buda Castle Hill for amazing views over the Danube and fantastic food and drink options.
Whether you’re looking for an evening filled with relaxing jazz tunes or one spent on your feet dancing through the night in one of Budapest’s lively clubs, you won’t be disappointed by this vibrant city’s nightlife offerings.
With so many different venues scattered throughout town, it is hard not to find something fun and exciting, no matter your taste.
The Music and Theater Scene.
Budapest is a major cultural and artistic center with a thriving music and theater scene. The city is home to many important cultural institutions, including the Hungarian State Opera House and the National Theater, which host regular performances of opera, ballet, and other classical productions.
In addition to these traditional venues, Budapest also has a vibrant contemporary music scene. Many music festivals take place in Budapest annually, including the Sziget Festival, one of Europe’s largest music festivals.
The theater scene in Budapest is also thriving, with many professional companies producing plays, musicals, and other performances. The city is home to the National Theater, the Katona József Theater, and the Madách Theater, among Hungary’s most important theater companies.
Great Shopping Options.
Budapest is a great place to go shopping because it has so many shops, galleries, and places to buy souvenirs. You’ll find everything you need, from local specialties to international brands.
WestEnd City Center and Rkád Shopping Mall are two of the city’s fantastic shopping malls. Here you can find a variety of shops selling fashion items, household items, electronics, and more.
Both malls offer excellent dining options, with plenty of restaurants and eateries.
Local Handcrafts
If you want to explore the local Hungarian craftsmanship and pick up some unique souvenirs, head to Falk Miksa Street or Váci Street. The shops on these two streets are known for selling handmade items like painted Easter eggs and embroidered tablecloths. You can also browse art galleries showcasing modern Hungarian artists and their works.
Central Great Market Hall
For a truly unique shopping experience in Budapest, visit the famous Central Great Market Hall—the largest indoor market in Budapest.
Here is where locals come to shop for fresh produce, but visitors can find anything from spices and Hungarian cakes (like chimney cake) to clothing and souvenirs.
Take your time browsing around this vibrant market, as it will be an unforgettable experience!
Vintage Stores
Finally, don’t forget about Budapest’s vintage stores, which have become increasingly popular over the last decade. Whether its clothes or furniture you’re after, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for amongst all the vintage stores within walking distance of each other in downtown Budapest.
Beautiful and Historic Religious Temples.
Budapest is filled with many centuries-old churches that offer a unique glimpse into the city’s history and culture.
Matthias Church
This iconic church is located on the Buda side of Budapest and is one of the city’s most famous buildings. It has a beautiful interior with mosaics, marble columns, and colorful paintings. The church is also known for its roof, which is made of colorful Zsolnay tiles from Hungary, which is known for making tiles. Because of its beautiful setting and gorgeous architecture, the church is also popular for weddings in Budapest.
The Great Synagogue
The Synagogue on Dohány Street is the biggest in Europe and is thought to be one of the most beautiful buildings in Budapest.
Built-in 1859, it is an impressive piece of architecture that still stands today as a memorial to Jewish life before World War II. There are intricate chandeliers, paintings, sculptures, and colorful stained-glass windows with Jewish symbols. All of these things add to the grandeur of the synagogue.
St. Stephens Cathedral
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Stephen is another breathtakingly beautiful building in Budapest’s old town district of Pest.
This Romanesque Revival-style basilica contains five naves, twenty-six altars dedicated to various saints, and a crypt housing the mummified right hand of St. Stephen himself.
As you admire its awe-inspiring architecture from the outside or inside, you’ll be able to feel the spiritual atmosphere within its walls.
St. Anne
St. Anne’s Church is situated near Ferenciek Square in central Budapest and is one of Hungary’s oldest churches, dating back to 1222.
Its Baroque style is unique compared to other churches around Budapest due to the stucco decoration on its facade done by Italian sculptors in 1740, which is why it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
Inside you will find beautiful furnishings, including an altar crafted by Adam Mňck during 1745–1756 and two organs built by János Soós in 1764–1765 that are still used today during service times.
No matter what your religious beliefs might be, visiting these beautiful churches in Budapest will certainly make for an unforgettable experience. You will be moved by the beauty of these churches, whether you look at their stunning architecture or learn about their exciting pasts.
Budapest is a Relatively Inexpensive city compared to other European destinations.
Budapest is an incredibly affordable city to visit compared to other European destinations. Its cost of living is more than 40% lower than the average in Western Europe, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
Prices of groceries, transportation, and entertainment are much lower than in cities like Paris or Amsterdam, so visitors can save quite a bit when visiting Budapest.
Healthcare is also relatively inexpensive in Budapest. Medical treatments are significantly cheaper than those offered in other countries across Europe.
Public transportation is very affordable and efficient. Trains are available to many cities throughout the country, such as Győr, Eger, and Debrecen, for only a few euros each way.
Public buses are also available for shorter trips around Budapest for just 0.30 euros per ride.
All these factors contribute to Budapest being one of Europe’s most affordable destinations.
Budapest is easily Accessible.
Budapest is easily accessible to travelers from all over the world.
Due to its location in the middle of Europe, Budapest is easy to get to from most of the continent’s big cities.
Two international airports serve Budapest: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and Budapest Ferihegy Airport. Most of the big airlines in Europe fly to and from these airports, with direct flights from many places in Europe.
Getting around is easy, too; the city is crisscrossed with public transportation options such as buses, trams, and subways, making it easy to explore different parts of the city quickly and conveniently.
Additionally, commuters can easily use trains and intercity buses to get in and out of Budapest.
The extensive network of streets is ideal for car rentals, although it is possible to bike or even travel on foot within Budapest’s city limits if you have enough time.
Visitors can also take advantage of one of Hungary’s many lake cruises, which is a great way to experience dazzling views of the Danube on a relaxing boat ride. Several companies offer sightseeing cruises along the river, with live tour guides explaining historical sites along the way.
A great destination for Outdoor Enthusiasts.
Budapest is a great destination for outdoor activities, with something to suit every taste. For hikers and trekkers, the Buda Hills offer plenty of trails and paths to explore, as well as stunning views of the city.
The Danube is perfect for those who enjoy boating, kayaking, or canoeing. Several boat rental companies along the river make it easy to explore this beautiful area by water. You can take a leisurely paddle down the Danube in search of Budapest’s many historical sites or go on an exciting white-water rafting tour through one of the nearby gorges.
Budapest also offers many routes for cyclists, from easy, scenic paths to more difficult mountain biking tracks. The Városliget is home to many bike lanes and is a great spot to start your cycling explorations around the city.
If you’d like some physical challenges during your stay. In that case, the Buda Hills boasts several climbs suited for both novice and experienced climbers alike, with breathtaking views of Budapest at the top.
Golfers can also enjoy themselves in Budapest; there are several golf courses within 30 minutes of downtown Budapest offering green fees at very affordable prices. And if you’ve always wanted to try archery, there is also an archery range near Memento Park where visitors can practice their skills with recurve bows under professional supervision.
The city has a rich Jewish History.
Budapest is home to a vibrant and historically significant Jewish community.
The city is home to the world’s largest synagogue, the Dohány Street Synagogue, which is often referred to as the “Great Synagogue” of Budapest.
It was built in 1859 and is one of Europe’s most impressive religious buildings. In Hungary, it is a national monument. The tall building is decorated with oriental designs and stands more than 50 meters high, making it one of the most impressive sights in Budapest.
In addition to this grand synagogue, there is also an important Holocaust memorial on its premises, commemorating the 70,000 Hungarian Jews who were deported during World War II and serving as a poignant reminder of Budapest’s difficult past.
Other Jewish landmarks around Budapest include the Kazinczy Street Great Synagogue, the former Rumbach Street Synagogue (now an art gallery), and the famous Eötvös Castle Terrace, where Sigmund Freud used to take strolls with his children.
Aside from these monuments, several other sites related to Budapest’s Jewish history are worth visiting, such as historic cemeteries like the Jewish Cemetery of Budapest or the so-called “Jewtown”—the area between Dohány utca and Károly kört.
The Jewish history of Budapest can also be learned in the city’s many Jewish-themed museums. The House of Terror Museum, also called Terror Haza, is one of them. It shows how Jews were treated when Nazi Germany ruled Hungary during WWII. The museum uses audio-visual aids and real artifacts from this time period—such as letters sent by victims—to tell their stories.
The Holocaust Memorial Center for Hungarian Jews is another important museum. It opened in 2004 near Lake Balaton and is both a memorial site and an educational center that teaches people about Hungary’s troubled past when the Nazis were in charge.
Moreover, those interested in learning more about Judaism can visit some of Budapest’s several synagogues still used today by local worshippers, such as the Orthodox Great Synagogue, where they can experience authentic Sabbath services or attend religious festivals like Sukkot or Purim when celebrated by members of this thriving community.
Budapest is a Major Cultural Hub.
Many festivals and events happen all year long in Budapest, which is a major cultural center.
From traditional Hungarian celebrations like Sziget Festival and Budapest Spring Festival to more contemporary gatherings like Budapest Pride and the Budapest International Wine Festival, the city is home to some of Europe’s most exciting and unique festivals.
Sziget
Sziget is one of the biggest music festivals in Europe. Each year, it draws more than 500,000 people. The week-long festival takes place on Buda Island in August and features dozens of musical acts worldwide. Aside from concerts, there are also plenty of activities at Sziget—such as sports competitions, art exhibitions, theater performances, circus shows, and much more.
Budapest Spring Festival
Every year in April or May, the Budapest Spring Festival takes place. It is put on by the Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, and there are concerts all over the city to celebrate classical music. Some of Hungary’s most talented musicians usually play famous pieces by well-known composers like Haydn and Mozart during the festival’s symphonies and operas.
Outdoor
For those interested in something less classical but still fun and exciting, Budapest is home to several large-scale outdoor music events, such as Balaton Sound, which is held near Lake Balaton each July. This popular festival brings in thousands of people annually for four days of amazing live performances by DJs and artists worldwide.
International Wine Festival
The Budapest Wine Festival is another annual event that will please visitors from all over the globe. Since 2006, this three-day event has been held on Obuda Island in August. It is a great chance for wine lovers to try some of Hungary’s best wines while listening to live music from top local bands. There are also wine tastings, where experts are on hand to help you pick the right bottle for any event or budget.
Budapest Pride
For those who want to experience something different during their stay in Budapest, then they should check out Budapest Pride—an event aimed at celebrating diversity within our society while also advocating for LGBT rights around the world.
This event happens every year between June 8th and June 14th. There are usually film screenings, talks on gender issues, and pride marches in central Budapest decorated with rainbow flags. Parties are held at nightclubs around the city, leading up to a huge outdoor concert in the park, where top Hungarian and international stars perform until late at night.
From traditional Hungarian celebrations to modern festivities, there is something for everyone when it comes to experiencing Budapest’s vibrant culture through its many festivals & events offered throughout the year!
Beautiful and Historic Bridges.
Budapest is home to some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic bridges.
The Chain Bridge
As we’ve already discussed, the Chain Bridge is one of the most impressive engineering feats in the city and one of the oldest bridges in Budapest. Built between 1839 and 1849, this iconic suspension bridge is a popular landmark connecting the two sides of the Danube.
It looks much like London’s famous Tower Bridge, so people often call it “the Little Sister of the Danube.”
At night, over 1000 light bulbs are strategically placed to make the Gothic-style towers of the chain bridge glow in a beautiful way, making the view even more beautiful.
Elizabeth Bridge
The Elizabeth Bridge is another iconic bridge over the Danube. This steel truss bridge was built in 1903 and is named after Empress Elisabeth of Austria (known commonly as Sisi).
This bridge is known for its metalwork in the Art Nouveau style, which stands out at night because of how it is lit up.
Liberty Bridge
The Liberty Bridge is a truss arch across the river near downtown Budapest. It was built in 1896 to celebrate Hungary’s 1000th anniversary as a country. It was renamed the Liberty Bridge during WWII because it helped free Budapest from Nazi control.
Today, this unusual building stands proudly on the other side of the river. Its intricate details can still be seen through its yellow paint.
Megyeri Bridge
In 2008, the Megyeri Bridge opened just outside of Budapest. It is over two kilometers long, making it one of Europe’s longest cable-stayed bridges. This modern marvel has two tall pylons and twelve cables holding up its deck. People on both sides of the river can see beautiful sights at sunset or sunrise.
Budapest certainly has some genuinely great bridges that should not be missed when visiting. From suspension bridges to steel trusses to modern cable-stayed bridges, there are many ways to appreciate Hungary’s engineering skills while looking at some amazing bridges over the Danube.
Budapest is a Great Destination for Art.
Budapest is a great destination to experience the vibrant art scene of Eastern Europe. The best of Hungarian and international artists can be seen in the city’s many museums and art galleries.
The National Museum
This is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks and a great place to learn more about Hungary’s past and current cultural identity. This museum is near Heroes’ Square and has many different sections, each with its own theme. Visitors can explore everything from ancient artifacts to modern artworks by renowned Hungarian artists.
The Ludwig Museum
The Ludwig Museum is the best modern art museum in Budapest. It has pieces by some of Hungary’s most important modern artists. This museum is on the Danube and has some of the best sculptures, paintings, photographs, and multimedia installations of modern art in Europe.
The Kunsthalle Budapest
The Kunsthalle Budapest is also a must-see for those interested in exploring the creative side of Budapest’s culture. The gallery has shows all year long by well-known artists from all over the world, and their permanent collection includes works by Mihály Munkácsy, Robert Capa, József Rippl-Rónai, and László Moholy-Nagy, among others.
Jewish Museum
For something completely different, visitors should head to the Dohány Street Synagogue & Jewish Museum, one of Budapest’s most important religious sites for Jews worldwide. It is also home to a remarkable collection of Jewish artworks and artifacts—all carefully preserved in their original state—that tell stories about Jewish life in Hungary through the ages.
Budapest Gallery Weekend
For even more unique experiences, you should check out Budapest Gallery Weekend, an annual event that celebrates contemporary art with over 60 galleries participating each year. You’ll find anything from installations created by up-and-coming Hungarian artists to large-scale interactive pieces by famous international names like Yoko Ono or Ai Weiwei.
Budapest has a Unique Blend of Eastern and Western influences.
Hungary is between central Europe and the Balkans. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers who want to experience a unique combination of East and West in one destination.
The West greatly impacted Budapest’s architecture, which is mainly in the Baroque style from the 1800s. Many of these buildings have fancy facades and domes that remind you of places like Vienna and Prague in Europe. The Opera House is a great example, as is St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Eastern influences can also be seen throughout Budapest, particularly in its culture. Hungarian food has a lot of Turkish flavors, and traditional folk music often has sounds from nearby Balkan countries like Croatia or Romania.
Budapest is a great place because it has managed to keep both Eastern and Western parts in a very different city from other big European cities.
A Diverse, Friendly, and Welcoming city.
Budapest is home to more than two million people from all walks of life, making it a vibrant and diverse city. The population is made up of people from a variety of backgrounds, including Hungarian natives as well as immigrants who have settled in the city over the years. Many of these migrants come from countries in the surrounding region, such as Serbia, Romania, and Ukraine, adding an interesting cultural mix to Budapest’s population.
The city’s largest demographic is Hungarians, who comprise around 83% of the population. Other ethnicities in Budapest include the Romani, German, Russian, Ukrainian, and Slovakian communities.
In recent years, many foreign investors and professionals have moved to Budapest to work. This has made the city feel more international.
Budapest is also home to many religious communities representing the major world religions: Christianity is by far the largest, with Roman Catholicism being the dominant branch, followed by several Protestant denominations; approximately 17–20% of the population is Muslim; 5–6% are Jewish; and 2–3% practice Buddhism or other Eastern religions.
Budapest is known for its many cultures and traditions, which can be seen in its buildings, food, art galleries, museums, and places to hear music.
With its stunning scenery and plenty of entertainment options and attractions, Budapest is an attractive destination for visitors looking for both cosmopolitan living and traditional charm at the same time.
Final Thoughts
Budapest is a vibrant and fascinating city that is well worth visiting. There are countless reasons to visit this beautiful city with its rich history and culture, stunning architecture, and thriving music and theater scene.
In addition to its many attractions, Budapest is also a great destination for food lovers. The city is home to various restaurants, cafes, and food markets that offer everything from traditional Hungarian cuisine to international dishes. And with its affordable prices and friendly locals, Budapest is a welcoming and affordable destination for travelers from around the world.
So why not plan a trip to Budapest and discover all this amazing city has to offer?
Budapest is a place that will impress and inspire you with its long history, lively culture, and many things to do.
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