Budapest Top 10 for newcomers
Posted by Budnews · Jan 24, 2017

Is this the first time you come to the Hungarian capital? We collected the 10 basic things you should do in your first trip.

There are so many things to do in a new city. You don’t even know where to start, right? These are the 10 basic things you should do at you very first trip in Budapest. By doing so, you’ll get the essence of the city, and there will be a lot to talk about at home.

1. Visit Hungary's Parliament building, because it’s one on the most mesmerizing building in the country. It is currently the largest building in Hungary and still the tallest building in Budapest. You should watch the guard of honor and see the Hungarian Crown Jewels.

2. Discover the historic Castle Hill with a walking tour. Buda Castle and its surrounding is a part of the Budapest World Heritage since 1987. It’s one of the most beautiful part of the city. Perfect for a romantic sight-seeing and for history fans, and being there you can also see the Fisherman’s bastion, the Hospital in the Rock and try the Funicular. Oh, and the view is amazing.

3. Take a Danube cruise! Danube is the main “artery” of the city, it’s an integral element to the city's image. You can admire the beautiful panoramic views of Buda and Pest from the river, and as the ships stop at every major attraction, you can continue the city tour whenever you want.

4. Relax in one of Budapest's famous baths. Baths are something you shouldn’t miss even in winter! Did you know that Budapest sits on a patchwork of almost 125 thermal springs?! ’Taking the waters’ has been a part of everyday life here, so try the thermal water at Széchenyi, Gellért or Rudas bath. They are not only for older people!

5. Try the authentic Hungarian dishes paired with vintage Hungarian wine. It’s the best if you chose a small, cozy restaurant with checkered tablecloth. Although we have several Michelin restaurants by now, but the original Hungarian spirit is in the small eating places. Be sure to try the Goulash soup, Stuffed Cabbage, Hungarian strudel and chimney cake!

6. Let’s go shopping! Start your tour in Váci street (but don’t buy anything, just watch!) and continue on Andrássy Avenue. It’s a nice one-hour long tour and you’ll reach Heroes’ Square, where Museum of Fine Arts and Kunsthalle is, and be sure to view the iconic statue complex of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important national leaders.

7. Being at Heroes’ Square, don’t forget about the City Park either! It’s the oldest public park of the city, and has several great facilities: Budapest Circus, the Zoo, Vajdahunyad Castle City Park boating lake and skating rink… so make an active day and have fun!

8. Walk across Chain Bridge, the first bridge to connect Buda and Pest. And on Elizabeth Bridge. Or Margaret Bridge. Bridges are integral part of the city! I think you can make the best selfies from a bridge with other sights in the background. And if you chose Margaret Bridge, don’t forget to make a detour, and see the Margaret Island as well. It’s the most popular park of the city (next to City park), and the best place to feel the Budapest lifestyle.

9. Explore the famous Ruin Pubs. In the last years Budapest become famous because of its nightlife. Gozsdu court and downtown of the city has vibrant night life, and ruin bars are the top of the city’s nightlife. It’s hard to describe what to expect because every place is different, but don’t imagine some run-down, dirty places. “Ruin” means style, not neglected state.

10. Go hiking! Budapest has some really cool places to visit in its close proximity. Try out the children railway in the Buda hills and admire the beautiful panorama from Elisabeth Lookout on János Hill. If you don’t have acrophobia (you’re not afraid of heights), be sure to try chairlift as well.

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