Hungary · City Guide
Budapest
Budapest is one of Europe's most beautiful and atmospheric capitals, a magnificent city of thermal baths, grand 19th century architecture, outstanding wine and food culture, vibrant ruin bar nightlife and a dramatic setting astride the Danube with Buda Castle on one bank and the magnificent Parliament building on the other. From the Széchenyi Baths and the Great Market Hall to the Ruin Bars of the Jewish Quarter and the Hungarian State Opera, Budapest delivers a European city experience of extraordinary richness.
Elect's take
"Budapest is one of those European cities that I find genuinely difficult to leave. The combination of the thermal baths, exceptional food and wine, the beautiful architecture and the extraordinary energy of the ruin bar culture creates something that rewards extended exploration at every time of day."
The Széchenyi Thermal Baths are the most famous and spectacular of Budapest's thermal bath complexes, a magnificent Neo-Baroque building in City Park with 21 pools including outdoor pools where chess is played year-round regardless of weather. The Hungarian Parliament Building on the Danube is one of the most impressive Gothic Revival buildings in the world, visible from both banks and extraordinary when illuminated at night. The Great Market Hall provides an outstanding introduction to Hungarian produce, paprika, salami and embroidered textiles. The Ruin Bars of the 7th District Jewish Quarter, particularly Szimpla Kert, are one of Europe's most distinctive nightlife experiences. Tokaj wine and Hungarian cuisine — goulash, fisherman's soup, lángos — are outstanding.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Budapest's most spectacular thermal bath complex with outdoor pools and year-round chess.
Hungarian Parliament
One of Europe's most impressive Gothic Revival buildings on the banks of the Danube.
Ruin Bars
A uniquely Budapest phenomenon of bars in derelict buildings, led by Szimpla Kert.
Great Market Hall
An outstanding covered market of paprika, salami, wines and Hungarian craft.
Tokaj Wine
Hungary's legendary dessert wine tradition from one of Europe's oldest wine regions.
Hungarian Cuisine
Outstanding goulash, fisherman's soup, lángos and the full range of Hungarian culinary tradition.
