By Soren Rivero
When you think of Budapest, what’s the first thing that comes to mind – the thermal baths, vibrant culture, stunning architecture, or maybe something else?
The enchanting capital of Hungary truly has everything that a city needs to make for an exciting vacation. From boat cruises along the Danube River, to wine tasting at renowned pubs, there’s so much to do in Budapest. Crafting your Budapest itinerary? Here are the top reasons to visit Budapest!
Cultural Kaleidoscope
To start, Budapest is a phenomenal place for those who appreciate art and history. One of the best reasons to visit Budapest is to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. The Budapest Museum of Fine Arts and the Hungarian National Museum provide a comprehensive detailing of Hungary’s past. While there, you’ll also learn about the city’s artistic achievements. Another great place to visit in Budapest is the Hungarian State Opera House. This Neo-renaissance masterpiece is as much of a visual treat as it is a world-class venue for performances.
Breathtaking Panoramas
Take a trip to the Citadella atop Gellért Hill for unparalleled panoramic views of Budapest. Offering a 360-degree vista of the city, this fortress provides the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos. Another vantage point worth seeing is from Buda Castle Hill (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Comprising cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and hidden gems, this charming labyrinth is a more than enough reason to visit Budapest.
Architectural Marvels and Historic Beauty
Budapest is a living testament to centuries of history, and nowhere is this more evident than in its architectural wonders. You’ll witness a wide variety of styles throughout the city, including Gothic spires and fairytale-like turrets. One of the most well-known works is The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, which runs between Buda and Pest.
Diverse Districts
Budapest has a variety of diverse neighborhoods with their own unique charm. You’ll find historic sites, including Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, in the bustling district of Buda. Over in Pest, witness a different side of Hungary characterized by a youthful nightlife, cultural attractions, and shopping streets. The Jewish Quarter, with its ruin bars and vibrant street art, adds a modern and bohemian flair to the city. Exploring these districts is one of the best things to do in Budapest!
Thermal Baths
You’ve probably heard Budapest referred to as “The Spa Capital of the World” thanks to its abundance of thermal springs, which are among one of the top reasons to visit Budapest. Take, for example, the Széchenyi Baths, housed in a grand neo-baroque building. Here, you can relax in medicinal waters known for soothing muscles and calming the senses. The Art Nouveau atmosphere of the Gellért Baths is another popular choice to add to your Budapest itinerary.
The Danube River
One of Budapest’s most iconic features is the Danube River, which flows gracefully through the heart of Budapest. If you’re on a Budapest vacation, make sure to enjoy a cruise along this gorgeous river. The ride offers a unique view of the city’s inherent beauty, even allowing you to see some of the best attractions in Budapest: Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Buda Castle, and Parliament Building. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Budapest!
Ruin Bars (& other nightlife)
Did you know that Budapest’s nightlife is quite the legendary experience? One particular thing that contributes to this is the city’s ruin bars. These unique taverns are located in abandoned buildings, courtyards, or vacant lots, creating an atmosphere that's both trendy and historic. Szimpla Kert, the pioneer of ruin bars, is a labyrinthine space designed with avant garde decorations, known for its artsy vibe. Spend a night at one of Budapest’ ruin bars and live out the Hungarian nocturnal life.
Warm Hospitality
Sure, there’s tons of cool stuff to do in Budapest, but look beyond that and you’ll notice that the city is very hospitable to guests. The warmth and friendliness of the Hungarian people leave a lasting impression, making your stay feel like a home-away-from-home. Feel free to ask for recommendations from locals, interact with shop employees, or converse with other travelers at the aforementioned ruin bars. Budapest’s warm hospitality is definitely one of the best reasons to visit Budapest.
Culinary Delights
Treat your taste buds to a gastronomic delight by indulging in Hungarian cuisine! Sample traditional dishes such as goulash, lángos (fried flatbread), and chimney cake, all while exploring the city's vibrant markets and charming eateries. You’ll also want to visit Central Market Hall to buy local produce, spices, and even artisanal goods. For the most authentic dining experience, reserve a time at a ‘borozo’ (wine pub) to dine on regional dishes paired with Hungarian wines.
Festivals and Events
If you’re the festive type, Budapest is a city that will intrigue you beyond comparison. This city loves to celebrate. Taking one look at the yearly calendar will show you that there are dozens of festivals and events in each month. Some notable ones are the Budapest International Documentary Festival, Budapest Opera Ball, and Budapest Wine Festival. Time your trip with one (or more) occurring festivals and experience one of the best reasons to visit Budapest.
Curious about taking a vacation to Budapest yourself? Browse our wide variety of Budapest vacations and book your dates today!
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