Straddling the Danube, Hungary’s compact capital is one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in Europe. From incredible architecture to healing thermal waters, old-world cafés to grungy ruin pubs, here are 10 reasons to add Budapest to your bucket list.
DK Budapest
View BookThe architecture
If you appreciate architecture, Budapest is a dream destination. From Gothic to Baroque to Renaissance and Neoclassical, the city is full of eye-catching styles. Two absolute must-sees are St Stephen’s Basilica, designed by one of the country’s most renowned architects, Miklós Ybl, and the magnificent Mátyás Church, which features an imposing Gothic tower and diamond-patterned roof.
The Jewish Quarter
The Jewish community has long been an important part of Budapest’s cultural fabric. While persecution during World War II has undoubtedly left its mark, today the Jewish Quarter is wonderfully vibrant and a testament to the strength of the city’s Jewish culture. The Great Synagogue, with its stunning rose window and eye-catching red-and-yellow brick-work, is found here and there are also countless places to sample Jewish food such as Frőhlich, a kosher confectioner that sells some of the best flodni in the city.
The thermal baths
A network of hot springs simmering beneath its streets makes Budapest a bathing haven. The city’s thermal waters are not just good for relaxation but are also helpful in the relief of specific complaints, including joint and muscle damage, rheumatism, post-traumatic stress and menstrual pain. If you really want to spoil yourself, indulge in a mud therapy session or a Swedish massage at the exquisite Secessionist Gellért Hotel and Baths.
The ruin bars
Romkocsma (ruin bars) are an unmissable part of Budapest’s nightlife. Housed in once-derelict buildings, these atmospheric drinking spots are filled with an eclectic collection of mismatched furniture and colourful, kitsch art. Head to the city’s first ruin bar, Szimpla Kert, for contemporary art, live music and street food. Anker’t, set inside a former factory, and the maze-like Fogas Haz also promise a great night out.
The café culture
Budapest’s thriving coffee culture dates back centuries so it’s no wonder its cafés have elevated the act of enjoying a coffee and cake to an art form. Visit historic haunts like Baroque Ruszwurm, in operation since 1927, or New York Café, once the meeting place of Budapest’s literati. If you prefer something more modern there are a number of tempting new-wave coffee shops to try, such as Espresso Embassy and Pöttyös.
Castle Hill
Strolling through World Heritage Site Castle Hill will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. This is where you’ll find one of the most magical spots in the whole city, Fisherman’s Bastion. With its stone turrets spiralling upwards into the sky, this iconic monument resembles an ethereal fairy-tale castle. From here you’ll get a great view of the city and the shimmering Danube river.
The Danube
Budapest’s world-famous river bisects the city in two. It is spanned by countless scenic bridges, including the iconic Chain Bridge, and home to a scattering of leafy green islands. The most popular, Margaret Island, is essentially one giant park. It’s home to a number of pretty gardens, including one in the Japanese-style. Nearby Óbuda, mean-while, may be known more for its party culture, but this emerald islet is in fact home to a shady cycling path, as well as activities such as wakeboarding and jet skiing.
The cuisine
Hungary is well known for its rich and spicy cuisine. Goulash, a rich soup made with meat and vegetables, is the ultimate comfort food. If you’re after the stewlike version of this dish, order a plate of pörkölt. Other classics include paprikas csirkeee (chicken in a creamy sauce) and toltott paprikaaa (stuffed peppers). And don’t miss lángos, delicious deep fried discs of dough smothered in sour cream and cheese.
The wine
Hungary is home to 22 wine regions, meaning there’s plenty of options to try. Head to one of Budapest’s bars to sample sweet, golden Tokaji or sip your way through a glass or two of Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood), a red wine flavoured with rich fruity, spicy notes. One of the best bars is Faust Wine Cellar, an atmospheric wine bar housed in an old cellar. In summer, make like a local and try fröccs (rosé or white wine mixed with refreshing soda water).
The green spaces
Budapest is blessed with a bounty of verdant green spaces, including sprawling parks, hidden gardens, tranquil cemeteries and tree-clad hills. The vast City Park, featuring tree-lined paths and an expansive lake, is a popular picnic spot for locals. The west of the city is dominated by rolling hills: Gellért Hill’s shady paths are just perfect for a peaceful stroll while further west lie the forest-clad Buda Hills, criss-crossed with walking routes.
Read next
Move over Berlin, it’s all about Germany’s southern capital this summer...
France may be the most visited country on earth, but that doesn’t mean escaping the crowds is impossible...