Budapest is one of the up and coming travel hot-spots in Europe. It is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with the Danube River splitting the cities of Buda and Pest. There is so much to like about Budapest, from thermal baths to castles and palaces. If you’re considering a vacation to Budapest then check out this Quick Travel Guide to Budapest.
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Fun Things To Do in Budapest
Much of Budapest has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, namely the banks of the Danube and the Castle Quarter. This city is spectacularly beautiful, and so easy to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in Budapest:
Parliament Building: Sounds kind of boring right? But the Budapest Parliament Building is built in a Gothic Revival style, and is one of the biggest buildings in this part of Europe.
Fisherman’s Bastion: Almost directly across the Danube River from the Parliament Building is the Fisherman’s Bastion, a beautiful neo-gothical building with spectacular views of the east side of the Danube River (Pest). Fisherman’s Bastion is right next to the “Disneyland Church” which is visible from all over Budapest.
Grand Palace: Visiting the castle district is of the best Budapest activities. Part of this is the Grand Palace on the opposite side (Buda) of the river from the city centre. You can make a day trip of touring this spectacular complex, with many fine attractions including the National Art Gallery.
Boat Cruise on the Danube River: Most of the best sights in Budapest are built along the Danube River. And so the best way to do a Budapest city tour is to take a boat cruise along the river. Most Cruises are approximately 90 minutes long, and there are many dining cruise options to choose from.
Thermal Baths: Budapest is well known for it’s abundance of thermal baths throughout the city. The thermal baths are some of the hottest Budapest tourist spots, literally.
Day Trips from Budapest
The entire area has a rich Ottoman and Austrio-Hungarian history. Here are some of the best day trips or weekend trips from Budapest.
Old Village of Holloko: This UNESCO World Heritage attraction is a living time machine. Holloko is the best preserved example of a traditional settlement from the 17th and 18th centuries. Just 1 hour away from Budapest, there are plenty of tour options available to visit Holloko.
Esztergom: This city on the Danube River is just 60km from Budapest. Esztergom was the capital of Hungary until the 13th century, and is one of the oldest towns in Hungary. This historic town is bursting with colourful history and mind blowing scenery like Castle Hill.
Best Area to Stay in Budapest
Budapest is a reasonably priced city to find accommodations, such that you should be able to get a great hotel right in the city centre. The Belvaros (Pest) area is the best area for tourists, it runs along the east side of the Danube River from Margaret Bridge to Liberty Bridge. Here you will find loads of great shopping, dining and attractions.
Cheap Accommodation in Budapest
The City Hotel Pilvax is right in the middle of the action in downtown Pest. It is close to the river and Elizabeth Bridge, offering great access to the Buda side of the river.
Mid Range
We highly recommend the Zenit Budapest Palace, a mid priced hotel with chic decor and incredible breakfasts. In my opinion this is the best place to stay in Budapest. Reasonably prices yet classy. Hot tip: there’s an amazing local bakery right next door. 
Affordable Luxury
Budapest is a great place to splurge on some luxury accommodation, as it is cheaper than you will find in most other European cities. A great one to try is the Sofitel Budapest Hotel, with an immaculate view across the Danube river to the Grand Palace. And it’s right near the best shopping and cafe areas. 
Shop Around for a Great Deal
We always recommend shopping around for a great deal on accommodation, and the Booking Deals Finder is a great place to start. Booking.com
Travel from Budapest to Vienna
Wondering where to go next? I recommend you travel from Budapest to Vienna; it is an easy journey by train when you know how. To learn all about how to do it read this arcticle.
Quick Travel Guide to Budapest
Plan Your Trip to Budapest
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