Discover the most buzzed-about city still under the mainstream radar. Enjoy one of my favorite activities in Budapest before the rest of the world does too!
Everyone knows that hitting up a thermal bath is a must-do in the capital of Hungary. What if you also want to visit landmarks, try local restaurants and shop at interesting boutiques? Here’s a list of fun activities outside of the spa!
SEE
Fisherman’s Bastion
Budapest, Szentháromság tér, 1014 Hungary
Let’s start in the Buda part of Budapest, which is both ritzy and historic. It’s also one of my favorite areas, because of the beautiful views of Castle Hill. Right next to Matthias Church, you’ll see Fisherman’s Bastion – a neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque style terrace where you can see a gorgeous view of Danube, the longest river in the European Union. The first citizens arrived to Castle Hill in the 13th century after the Mongolian invasion, today, it’s recognized as a World Heritage Site.
Buda Castle, Hungarian National Gallery
Budapest, Szent György tér 2, 1014 Hungary
First completed in 1265, Buda Castle is comprised of palaces for the Hungarian kings. It’s survived the Middle Ages, the Ottoman and Baroque periods. Today, you can check out changing of the guards every hour from 8:30 am – 5 pm. The Hungarian National Gallery is also here, with impressive collections of 6000 paintings, 2100 sculptures, 3100 medals, 11,000 drawings, and 5000 prints.
Parliament Building
Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary
While you’re still on the Buda side, make sure to take a stroll along the Danube and snap a few photos of the magnificent Parliament building. It’s the largest building in Hungary and the tallest in Budapest.
Crossing the Chain Bridge, we cross over to the Pest side, and in the heart of downtown is Fashion Street!
Heroes’ Square & Vajdahunyad Castle
Budapest, Hősök tere, 1146 Hungary
Heroes’ Square hosts many important political events throughout Hungarian history. You can see statues of the famous Seven Chiefains (leaders of seven tribes,) and other national leaders and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Right next to Heroes’ Square is the incredible castle of Vajdahunyad. Built in 1896, the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque-style castle was a celebration of 1,000 years of Hungary since the Hungarian Conquest of the Carpathian Basin.
EAT
Vendéglő a KisBíróhoz
Budapest, Szarvas Gábor út 8/d, 1125 Hungary
One of my favorite restaurants in Budapest has always been Bock Bisztró, truly one of the best in the city and also a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant. But Bock’s owner has taken it to the next level by expanding it to Vendéglő a KisBíróhoz with a beautiful collection of wines and gourmet meal highlighting Hungarian traditional dishes made with fresh produce and local ingredients.
Central Market Hall
Budapest, Vámház krt. 1-3, 1093 Hungary
Great Market Hall or Central Market Hall is the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest. On the first floor, you can find product, meats, pastries, candies, spices and spirits. The second floor has eateries and souvenirs. Closed on Sundays, the market is a great place for a quick meal.