Budapest is the capital city of Hungary, a country in the central region of Europe. The city contains relics and artifacts of ancient times, as well as more modern traditions and buildings. This blend of old and new is appealing to many travelers, and the city attracts over four million visitors each year, most of them being Europeans. Budapest makes a great vacation destination, particularly if you are planning to be in this region of Europe. Here are some things to do while you are there:
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Take a bath. The thermal baths of Budapest are famous, and some say that they improve the health of those who visit them. Hungary is home to many thermal springs, and some of the baths will give you the traditional Turkish experience. Some to check out include Rudas, Kiraly and Veli Bej. Gellert has been compared to taking a bath in a cathedral, so that might be a good option if you are interested in history and architecture. If you really want to reap the maximum benefits of the spas, consider staying in one of the health spa resorts in the city, such as Danubius Health Spa Resort Margitsziget or the Royal Spa in the Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal.
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Take in some culture. If you’ll be in Budapest in the fall or the spring, you won’t want to miss the two largest festivals of the year, which are the Budapest Spring Festival and the Budapest Autumn Festival. While you are in the city at any time of year, visit the Hungarian Opera House, which is architecturally stunning. There are Hungarian folk dance shows held in the city center, if you are interested in the country’s folk heritage. If the macabre is more your style, you might appreciate the House of Terror, which pays homage to the suffering and torture that went on during the country’s fascist and Stalinist regimes.
- Cruise the Danube. There are many options available for those who would like a tour of the Danube. Take a two-hour daytime cruise that includes a walk on Margaret Island, a popular recreational area. Another option is to have dinner and dancing under the stars on an evening cruise. If you would like to experience some of the tastes of Hungary, consider the Danube Wine and Sightseeing Cruise.
While you are in Budapest, you’ll also want to try some Hungarian food! The Menza provides perfectly cooked Hungarian classic fare. If you want to try your hand at cooking your own, take a class at Chefparade.
No matter where you go in Budapest, you’ll be able to savor the romance and history of the region. Have you been to the city? Is there a site that you would recommend to our readers?
