Budapest is the Capital City of Hungary, and the ninth largest city in Europe. It dates back to the Roman times, but largely grew to its current size in the 19th Century.
No building in Budapest exceeds 96m in height, with the Parliament building and St Stephen's Basilica both exactly, symobolising the nation's millenium in 1896. It is also home to the oldest metro in Europe, which is a designated UNESCO site.
This video takes you on a walking tour of the city, and shows you inside and out of some of the most popular attractions.
City History
1. Buda and Pest
Budapest was formed when three cities merged in 1873; Buda, Pest and Obuda. The city straddles the Danube River, with Buda on the West and Pest on the East side,
connected by a series of road, foot and tram bridges.
Margaret Island is situated between the two, and is a beautiful park, perfect for cycling.
You will find a water park, fountain displays and theatre performances there in peak season.
2. Parliament Building
Budapest's Parliament building is the third largest parliament building in the world, situated on the banks of the Danube.
It's domed neo-gothic character makes it striking, and is best across the river, where you can appreciate its grandure and size.
The interior is regal, with high ceilings, organte decoration and red and gold themes throughout. The Holy Crown of Hungary can be found in the Central Hall.
3. Buda Castle
Buda Castle lies on the opposite side of the Danube to the Parliament Building, at the top of castle hill. Not only can you walk around the immense castle and grounds, but the views across the river are spectacular.
The Medieval castle was rebuilt after being largely destroyed in World War II, the medival structures still remain in parts.
In the past, the palace has been home to Hungarian Kings, and now hosts many museums and seasonal festivals, including the Budapest Wine festival, and Festival of Folk Arts.
4. Varosliget, City Park
Varosliget is a hub of tourist attractions in Budapest, and was the centre of Millennial celebrations in 1896. The main entrance is through Hereos Square.
The beautiful castle is home to several museums, all housed in unique and impressive buildings; The Museum of Fine Art, The Museum of Transportation, and The Museum of Agriculture, which is housed in Vajdahunyad Castle and is the largest museum of its kind in Europe.
Some of the sites within Varosliget Park
Museum of Fine Arts
Vajdahunyad Castle
Zoo and Botanical Gardens
5. Heroes Square
Hosok Tere (Heroes Square), is an important historical and political point for Budapest, with statues of the seven Magyars and past national leaders.
The centreal feature of the square is Millenium Monument, which remembers all those who lost their lives fighting for the countries independence.
The Museum of Fine Art lies on the left of the square, and the Palace of Art on the right. Beyond the monument, you can enter Varosliget park.
This area of Budapest is packed with sites, you need a whole day to explore it fully.
6. Szecheyni Thermal Bath
Budapest is well known for its thermal baths. The Szenchyni thermal baths in Varosliget park are the largest of their kind in Europe.
Szecheyni is supplied by 2 thermal springs and boasts 3 outdoor pools and 15 indoor pools which range in temperature, along with sauna, steam room and aroma room facilities.
For those who want a break from the speed of city breaks, this is the perfect opportunity to slow down and relax.
Budapest is well known for its thermal baths. The Szenchyni thermal baths in Varosliget park are the largest of their kind in Europe.
Szecheyni is supplied by 2 thermal springs and boasts 3 outdoor pools and 15 indoor pools which range in temperature, along with sauna, steam room and aroma room facilities.
For those who want a break from the speed of city breaks, this is the perfect opportunity to slow down and relax.
The Views
7. Funicular Railway
On the Buda side of the river, the Funicular Railway is an easy way to reach the top of castle hill, where you cann find Buda Castle and the Royal Palace.
The cable car was built in the 19th Century, and provides panoramic views across the Danube and over Pest, as you travel up the hill.
If you prefer to stay grounded, it's a 10 minute walk to reach the top, and you can stop to admire the view at any point.
8. Beers on Wheels
A fun way to see the city is hiring Beers on Wheels, a mobile bar with beer on tap, fitting up to 17 people.
You can sample some of the best hungarian beers, whilst seeing the sites of the city
Popularlity of these types of tour is growing, with many popping up throughout Europe.
