Europe’s largest thermal baths, Széchenyi, are located in Budapest’s City Park. Come here to soak in the healing waters and sweat it out in the saunas and steam rooms. There is also a zoo, a castle, a boating lake and even a weekend flea market on the grounds.
Anchored by Krúdy Gyula utca, the Palace Quarter is an up-and-coming fun neighborhood that is home to a lot of quirky bars, cafes and art galleries plus some cool sculptures like the one pictured here. Dedicate a few hours to strolling this central street and the ones jutting off from it.
Budapest’s Central Market is where locals come to stock up on fresh meat and produce. Visit to experience this city’s hallowed food shrine.
In Erzsebet Park pay a visit to the Gödör Klub. A cultural center inside a park, it hosts concerts and dance performances among other events. There is also an outdoor movie theater, art gallery and nightclub on the grounds. If possible, catch a Roma or Hungarian folk performance at the venue — these are truly top notch.
Unique Budapest is a tour company offering fun and informative themed city-walking tours. These include après-dark walks around the city and a tour of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter.
Sitting pretty on the Danube River, Budapest has been called Queen of the Danube in many a tourism brochure. One way to experience the river that has played such a pivotal role in Budapest’s history is to take a cruise. It is especially impressive at sunset.
Stroll down the elegant Andrássy Avenue for an essentially Budapest experience. The tree-lined boulevard is home to villas, boutiques and hip restaurants and leads straight into the city center.
For a mid-price-range slumber try staying at the Mamaison Hotel Andrassy in a middle-of-everything location. Constructed in 1937, it has hip Bauhaus style, comfortable rooms and gourmet dining on-site in Baraka restaurant.
Don’t miss a visit to the historic Central Kavezo Café, which is famed for its traditional Hungarian pastries and strong Viennese coffee.
After dark, head to Liszt Ferenc Square for a happening bar scene. There are a number of trendy spots to grab a cocktail as well as some good restaurants to soak up — or prepare your stomach for — the onslaught of booze.
