Budapest

The pearl of the Danube, with the Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion and Széchenyi Baths. Ruin-bar nightlife and great value make it a must-see on any Central European itinerary.

Budapest is the capital of Hungary, in the north-central part of the country. The Danube flows from north to south and splits the city in two. On the west bank, Buda is hilly and home to Castle Hill, Gellért Hill, the Royal Palace and Fisherman's Bastion. On the east bank, Pest is flat and holds the Parliament Building, St. Stephen's Basilica, Andrássy Avenue, Heroes' Square and the commercial center. The two banks are linked by the Chain Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge, Liberty Bridge and others, and the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue are together a World Heritage Site. The climate is temperate continental. April–June and September–October are most comfortable, with temperatures of 15–25°C. July–August often tops 30°C, but night cruises and open-air thermal baths are lively. In December the Christmas markets at Vörösmarty Square and in front of the Basilica are very atmospheric, and soaking in an outdoor thermal pool in sub-zero weather is a unique experience. The main sightseeing area can be divided into four parts: Castle Hill (Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church; half a day to a day); the Danube bank and the Inner City (Parliament, Chain Bridge, the Basilica, Váci utca; one day); Andrássy Avenue to City Park (Opera House, Heroes' Square, Széchenyi Baths, Vajdahunyad Castle; one day); and the Jewish Quarter (Great Synagogue, ruin bars; at night). The town of Szentendre on the Danube Bend is 40 minutes away by HÉV suburban train and makes a good half-day trip. Getting there: Budapest Liszt Ferenc Airport (BUD) has direct flights from cities such as Shanghai and Beijing, or connections via Europe; the 100E airport bus takes about 40 minutes to Deák Ferenc tér in the city center. The city has 4 metro lines (M1 is the oldest metro on the European continent), and tram line 2, which runs along the Danube, is a sightseeing route in itself. Buy a 24- or 72-hour ticket, or the Budapest Card (which includes public transport and discounts on some attractions and thermal baths). Suggested stay: 3 days, with a fourth day for the Danube Bend or the Eger wine region. Tips: the currency is the forint (HUF). Some restaurants accept euros but at a poor rate, so pay by card or withdraw only a little cash. Use only licensed taxi companies with a yellow plate and meter (such as Főtaxi or the Bolt app), and do not flag down cabs on the street. Restaurants usually add a 12–15% service charge automatically, so check the bill before deciding whether to tip more. Bring your own swimsuit, slippers and towel for the thermal baths (rentals are available). In July–August, book Parliament tickets on the official website at least a week ahead.

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