Often dubbed the “Paris from the East”, Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Europe. Budapest is divided into two areas by the Danube River: the hilly areas of Buda and the flatlands of Pest.
Budapest is known for its thermal baths, with some of the most famous ones being Széchenyi Baths, one of the largest spa bath complexes in Europe, and Gellért Thermal Bath, a thermal bath complex known for its majestic Art Nouveau architecture.
Aside from its grand baths, Budapest also has other renowned city icons, such as the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a historic suspension bridge connecting Buda and Pest, as well as the Hungarian Parliament Building, the largest building in Hungary. You’re also highly recommended to visit the Buda Castle, a historical baroque castle and palace complex that offers you a panoramic view of the city.
Budapest also has a diverse culture that was born from a blend of Turkish, Austrian, and Hungarian cultures, which are reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and art. When night falls, explore the ‘ruin bars’, which are eclectic, abandoned buildings turned into unique and vibrant nightlife venues.
The Budapest Metro is a subway network that is accessible by both locals and tourists. The metro operates from around 04:30 to 23:30, and the fares vary depending on the duration of your journey, or the type of ticket that you bought. Generally, the fare starts from 350 HUF. Remember to validate your ticket before boarding the train. The map of the metro routes is available at each station to help you navigate your journey.
In Budapest, you can use a public transport system that consists of the metro, tram, bus, and trolebus. Make sure to buy and validate a ticket before boarding the public transport. If you’re caught using an unvalidated ticket, you might be fined. Should you plan on exploring the city using public transport, you can use daily or weekly passes for a more affordable option.
When in Budapest, make sure that you try goulash, a Hungarian meat stew. Aside from goulash, you’re also recommended to try kürtőskalács or chimney cake, which is a sweet cone-shaped pastry that is sprinkled with sugar and various toppings, and pálinka, a traditional strong fruit-based liquor.
When visiting thermal baths like Széchenyi or Gellért, make sure to bring your own swimming equipment and anti-slip sandals. Most thermal baths have their own rules regarding what type of swimsuits are allowed. Remember to drink lots of water and take a short break every once in a while to keep your body hydrated.
Budapest has many festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Zsolnay Light Festival which is held in summer, where many buildings and bridges in this city are decorated with artistic lights. There’s also the Budapest Wine Festival in autumn, where you can sample various Hungarian wines.
Most restaurants, shops, and hotels in Budapest accept credit card payments. However, it is recommended to carry some cash, especially when visiting traditional markets or smaller establishments. Also, be sure to inform your bank of your overseas travel to prevent your card transactions from being blocked.
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