We have been very lucky to have travelled all over the world, but one city that is a clear favourite with us is Budapest.
Budapest is one of the most interesting places I have ever been, with history sitting beside modernism, a real beauty and the beast story and it’s just as romantic.
Joined together by the Chain Bridge, Buda and Pest couldn’t be two world further apart. Buda is full of old character, and taking the old funicular to the top of Castle Hill is where it really hits you. With a view that takes your breath away, you can slowly meander through the old streets, with its unusual shops and cafes, watch the changing of the guard in the square outside the castle and explore the Fishermans Bastia. I would definitely recommend taking a refreshing G&T at the top of the tower for the most awesome uninterrupted views of the Parliament building across the river. If you want to soak up the history here, the Budapest History Museum and the Hospital in the Rock will fill you in on all there is to know about how these two cities joined. It is really fascinating.
Work your way down through the winding castle steps, past the ornate opera house and across the bridge you arrive in Pest. The Parliament Building was actually inspired by our Houses of Parliament and is a proud landmark of the city, walk along the Danube to see the moving memorial ” Shoes on the Danube Bank”. If you like to shop, this side of the bank is for you, with its boutiques and designer shops you’ll definitely be in awe. You can also walk into the Jewish quarter from here. The beautiful Great Synagogue, is actually the largest outside the city of New York and the ruin bars in the quarter offer a very unique experience. The old abandoned buildings left to decay after WWll have been turned into artsy, laid back bars and restaurants offering a fantastic night out.
If you’d like a bit of time out, head to one of the amazing outdoor thermal spas, jump on one of the river cruises and sail down the Danube, its a brilliant way so see the amazing buildings, or hop on a bike and cycle around the magical St Margaret’s island, be sure to stop at the dancing fountain on the hour, it’s a great experience.
By now I’m sure you know I love a great bite to eat so here are my top places to go.
Coffee and Cake, one of the highlights of going everywhere by foot was stumbling upon this amazing Cafe – Asztalka Cukrszda the homemade cakes are to die for, actually I think Nick had two, or maybe that was me!
Borbirosag, tucked away behind the central market was a great find. It gave us a great chance to try some traditional, if not of the wall food and some amazing Hungarian wine.
I could go on forever about this amazing city, but I want you to go and explore it and see the many other fantastic sites Budapest has to offer, you won’t be disappointed, I promise.
Ps. Don’t forget the Goulash, it’s served everywhere with paprika sauce, and believe me no matter where you eat it, they’ve got it right.
Helen x