14 Mar 10 Things To Do And See In Budapest
Hello readers, it’s been a while! Feels like we need to have a good ol’ catch-up over a cuppa, but maybe a quick summary will do just before we get into this post about the best things to do and see in Budapest.
So a quick update on us (and why we’ve been so quiet here). For one, I, Chanel, am pregnant. We’ve also recently set up a base in Prague, with an apartment made of dreams. It’s taken us a lot longer to feel “settled” than we thought it might, and we don’t know how long we’ll call Prague home…but it has allowed us the opportunity to explore more of Europe.
Hence today’s post – a feature on one of Europe’s best cities – still can’t believe we waited nearly 8 years to see it (silly us!)
Budapest is the capital of Hungary, but in our humble opinion, it probably has more clout than the country. A truly magical city, coincidentally made up of TWO cities (Buda and Pest), it honestly surprised us in many ways. I found myself comparing it to so many other grand cities in Europe, and Budapest felt like the perfect mash up of the beauty of Paris, the breathing space of Barcelona, the charm of Prague, and the class of Vienna.
It felt, after our few days’ visit, like Budapest has it all.
But what’s there to do and see? Well, that’s why you’re here, so let me get straight into it!
10 Things To Do And See In Budapest
Gellért Thermal Baths
Without a doubt, this was our highlight experience, and we’re sure if we had more time (and I wasn’t pregnant), we probably would’ve spent a lot more time here. There’s many other thermal baths in Budapest, seeing that its abound with 118 natural thermal springs, (and we’ll be sure to visit them next time), but these Wes-Anderson-esque baths definitely proved why this gorgeous city is so highly influenced by the spa culture.
Parliament Building at Sunset
Ok, you don’t have to see it at sunset, but it makes for the most spectacular backdrop. This iconic building complex is symbolic of the city, and it stands proudly along the river, so there’s many options to view it up close on the Pest side, from a river cruise, or from this photo spot across the way on the Buda side.
Great Market Hall
Built in 1897, this is Budapest’s largest market hall, and offers everything from fresh produce and paprika souvenirs (because you need those), to local dishes like Lángos (which, yes, we did try and will highly recommend).
New York Cafe
Claiming to be “the world’s most beautiful cafe”, this opulent location will really widen your eyes when you enter. Serving afternoon tea and an assortment of other dishes and treats – even 24ct gold cappuccinos – it’ll definitely be something you’ll want to see with your own eyes (just don’t be surprised if you have to wait in line to get a seat).
Parisi Passage Cafe and Brasserie
Keeping with the foodie theme, another gorgeous cafe to visit, is the Parisi Passage Cafe and Brasserie. Once again, the interiors will completely blow you away, but in a different way this time (not to say the exterior of the building isn’t gorgeous too). Serving a fusion of traditional Hungarian, French and international cuisine, you certainly won’t leave disappointed.
River Cruise on the Danube
Another highlight experience for me – a sunset voyage along one of Europe’s most famous rivers, viewing the gorgeous city from both sides. I also highly enjoyed the audio guide on our cruise for a truly submersive experience.
Szimpla Kert Ruin Bar
A trend that started in the early 2000s – transforming derelict buildings and unused outdoor spaces into chaotic bars where you can get a large beer for less than $2 – Szimpla Kert is the OG and definitely worth a visit.
Fisherman’s Bastion
As our friends from The Common Wanderer put it, this is where you’ll get “the best view of Budapest”…and we couldn’t agree more. Explore the surrounding buildings and take in the views because this is one stop on the Buda side that you cannot miss.
Funicular to Buda Castle
Ok, you technically don’t have to take the Funicular, but it’s an easy (and scenic) way to get to the top from the river…and it’s free with the 72hr Plus Budapest card. Whichever way you get there, a visit to the famed Buda Castle (now home to the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum) is a must-see. First completed in 1265, it’s a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, should be on everyone’s list.
Try Goulash
You cannot come to the home of Goulash and not try it! We had three servings at three different establishments, and cannot fault any of them, so I guess you can’t go wrong no matter where you go! Parisi Passage Cafe and Brasserie (see above) serves up a spicy Goulash soup, and Frici Papa (with over 7000+ reviews) is where the locals go for a big helping of Goulash stew with noodles…but like we said, you can’t go wrong no matter where you try it.
Now for a bonus experience (which we didn’t get to, but will be doing on our next visit):
The House of Music
This unique (and practically brand new) complex institution, is the venue for the country’s first comprehensive exhibition presenting the history of music. Designed by Japanese star architect Sou Fujimoto, it’s definitely a gorgeous piece of architecture we need to photograph next time.
We hope this little post has inspired you to add Budapest to your bucket list. For a more immersive journey of our trip, make sure to check out our Budapest highlight bubble on Instagram, and to have a look at the hashtag #HFFHinHungary on Instagram too.
Here’s to more adventures for all of us soon (although we’re off to have a baby soon ~ so wish us luck for that as we switch from a twosome to a threesome in the next few months 🙂
C
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