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Travel Monday – Budapest

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Author: Kathryn Frengs (350 Articles)

Travelfusion's Social Media Officer, I manage all of our online marketing and presence on Twitter, Facebook, our blog and more. I love my job!

We’ve been all around the world on our Travel Monday series and this week, I’m taking it back to one of my favourite places that I’ve visited recently – Budapest, Hungary.

Hungary’s capital city, Budapest is divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, which were one separate cities.  The two officially unified in 1873 to form what we now know as Budapest.  A fascinating city full of beautiful architecture and friendly people, there were so many things that I loved experiencing in Budapest on my recent trip, that I’d love to share some ideas of things to do and see whilst there.

budapest parliament

Photo credit: **Maurice**

One of my favourite places to explore was the banks of the Danube River, the centrepiece of the city.  Stroll along the waterfront in Pest and enjoy up-close views of the massive Hungarian Parliament building.  Or, for a lazier tour, hop in the tram (line 2) that runs up and down the Danube on the Pest side and offers magnificent views of the Buda hills and castle.  However, don’t forget to validate your ticket every time you use the Budapest public transportation as ticket checkers operate in nearly every station and seem to be quite serious about assessing fines to those without a valid ticket.

budapest chain bridge

Photo credit: Neil Carey

The Chain Bridge crosses the Danube and connects the two sides of the city.  When I visited, there was an outdoor market along the bridge with stalls selling delicious local cuisine and handicrafts.  A ride up to the top of Castle Hill will offer you the best views of the city.  Take the time to explore the castle or take a walk through the Fisherman’s Bastion a short walk up the hill.  Both are beautiful and fantastic photo spots.

hero square

Photo credit: artorusrex

Another one of my favourite things to visit was Heroes’ Square in Pest, next to City Park.  A monument to statesmen from the seven tribes that founded Hungary along with other notable Hungarian historical figures.  The size of this monument can’t be appreciated in pictures and a visit to the site is definitely worthwhile on your visit to the city.

szechenyi bath budapest

Photo credit: Elin B

Budapest is also well-known for its spas built around the myriad thermal springs in the area.  Serving both medicinal and bathing purposes, many of the spa baths in Budapest have been in existence for hundreds of years.  Pay an entrance fee to enjoy the thermal waters en masse or pay a bit more for individual treatments – either way, you’ll be enjoying the “City of Spas!’

Want to take a trip to this beautiful city?  Flights from London to Budapest for a long weekend this July start at £112 return.  Flights from Manchester to Budapest start at £163 return and from Birmingham to Budapest from £113 for the same weekend.  The favourable exchange rate means that you’ll be able to do and see a lot for less than you would spend back at home.

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  • http://fastforwardacademy.com/ Mia

    Wow, I did not know that Budapest was the combination of two cities that were separated by the Danube River. Just the sight of the Danube River is already spectacular.

  • Travelfusion

    It's a beautiful city for sure! Well worth a visit!

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