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Budapest city breaks
‘The Queen of the Danube’ has magnificent sights lining both sides of the mighty river. Huge squares and grand buildings tell detailed stories about Budapest’s impressive history. Thermal baths, decadent cafés and arty pubs also highlight how this hip Hungarian capital offers up incredible original experiences.
Riverside views
Walk to the top of Gellért Hill and get the best view of the city and its grand architecture. At the very top is the Citadella, a fortress-like building with views up and down the Danube. On your way, stop at the caves and be dazzled by the white crystals that cover the interior walls.
Enjoy a bit of pampering
Take your pick from the 15 thermal baths that are open to the public. Head to the 16th century baths, which regularly host the famous spa parties – ‘sparties ’ – on Fridays and Saturdays. Children will go mad for the chutes and wave machine at the Palatinus Bath on Margaret Island.
Chilled nights
As the sun goes down, you’ll find the trendiest joints for after-dark tipples. From the bar top to your champagne flute, Icebar keeps things cool, so don the thermal capes and get acquainted with this wintery wonderland. If edgy haunts – all rustic and neon – are more your thing, don’t miss the ruin bars.
No.11 – TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Destinations
From thermal baths to ruin bars, Budapest has struck gold – this historic Hungarian hotspot has bagged number 11 in TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Destinations in Europe.
from
£204pp
Based on
- Edinburgh, Thu 25 Jan 2018
- 3 Nights, Room Only
- 2 Adults, 0 Children
Continental Hotel Budapest
Budapest City, Budapest
plus
Our rating
Based on 4407 reviews
- Great for exploring
- 40m from the nearest bus stop
- 1.2km from Vaci Street
- Modern and luxurious
- Close to ruin pubs
from
£249pp
Based on
- Edinburgh, Thu 25 Jan 2018
- 3 Nights, Bed and Breakfast
- 2 Adults, 0 Children
Hilton Budapest
Budapest City, Budapest
Our rating
Based on 4291 reviews
- Great views of the city
- 180m from the nearest bus stop
- 1km from Buda Castle
- Restored historical cloister within the hotel
- On the Buda side
from
£172pp
Based on
- Edinburgh, Thu 25 Jan 2018
- 3 Nights, Room Only
- 2 Adults, 0 Children
Hotel Erzsebet City Centre
Budapest City, Budapest
Our rating
Based on 2240 reviews
- Great for shopping
- 500m from Vaci Street
- Excellent steak restaurant on-site
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Language
Hungarian
Currency
Forint
Time difference
+1hr
Cost of a beer
£2 / 700 Ft
48-hour travel card
£10 / 3,495 Ft
Three course meal
£25 / 8,737 Ft
Sightseeing
Stand in awe outside Parliament Building, a structure of incredibly striking spires and domes. Cross over the unmissable suspension bridge of Budapest, the Chain Bridge, and you’ll reach the staggering castle grounds. Buda Castle’s a wowing UNESCO World Heritage site. Be there on the dot for the Changing of the Guard.
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Eating and drinking
When dusk draws in, the city ignites. As well as trying the local fruit brandy, pálinka, make a stop at Budapest’s famously ornate coffee shops. Delicacies are liberally spiced with paprika – such as the classic stew, goulash. Wander along the Danube and you’ll see loads of restaurant boats to sample traditional cuisine by the waterfront.
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Shopping
For unique souvenirs, Hungarian folk art shops sell traditional embroidery, delicate dolls and local pottery. The really grand, glamorous shopping starts on Váci Street – the main medieval thoroughfare in Pest. Andrássy Avenue is also lined with boutiques and architectural marvels, but if you want to bag a bargain, hit the Great Market Hall.
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Getting around
Travelling around Budapest is a beautiful, unique experience, all thanks to the Millennium Underground Railway. The oldest system in mainland Europe, its stations have a classic style that harks back to the late 19th century when they were built. Many areas of the city are pedestrianised too, including Heroes’ Square, plus there's an overground system to utilise.
12-18 October 2017 – Restaurant Week
A range of Budapest’s best restaurants show off their culinary skills with a week of special deals. Many even offer a fixed-price 3-course menu for as little as £10.
November 2017 – January 2018 – Christmas Markets
Vörösmarty tér, is the place to head to see the city's largest Fair. Magic by day, and even more magical at night when the square is illuminated with twinkling fairy lights.
10-12 February 2018 – Mangalica Festival
Paying homage to the heritage breed Mangalica pig, this event celebrates all things pork with a showcase of tasty produce like smoked hams, salami and sausages.
March – April 2018 – Buda Castle Easter Market
With a wine terrace, food stalls, handicrafts and live folk music, this three-day event brings to life Hungarian traditions. You’ve got to paint some eggs, too.
May 2018 – Budai Gourmet Festival
Wineries, restaurants and artisan foodies of all sorts, showcase the best of their produce at this 3-day gastro festival. Held at Millenáris Park, the event includes tastings, classes and stacks of stalls.
June 2018 – Buda Castle Beer Festival
One of Budapest’s top festivals is not just for beer buffs. In the gorgeous castle courtyards, you’ll find food stalls, comedy sets and, of course, beer!
27-29 July 2018 – Hungarian Grand Prix
20km north of the stunning city, the Hungaroring comes to life with F1. Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes – cheer on your team as you admire this buzzing circuit.
08-15 August 2018 – Sziget Festival
Dance around the Danube and catch hundreds of acts as they take over Budapest’s pretty-as-a-picture Óbuda Island for a week-long music extravaganza.
Please note, the event dates above are just a guide and could be subject to change.
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