Journey to the heart of Europe 10 plans to live Budapest to the fullest

Crossing the Danube

From the Chain Bridge, one of the most beautiful in Europe, you can contemplate the most breathtaking image of the night in Budapest. Its imposing 350-meter-tall structure, with two lions on both banks, is illuminated at sunset and unites Buda, the upper city, with Pest, the lower city, across the Danube.

By the Margaret Bridge, 637 meters, you will reach the island of the same name. Here you can get lost among its lush flowers and plants and visit a small zoo. The Liberty Bridge, from the 19th century, invites you to walk at night when its entire structure is illuminated with a striking green color.

A renaissance bath

Did you know that the Romans discovered Budapest’s hot springs? And that in the 16th century the Turks transformed them into authentic palaces?

Live this relaxing experience in the thermal springs of Rudas and Kiraly, under its beautiful domes, as well as in the elegant Gellért baths with its columns, statues and classic mosaics, and in Veli Bej, one of the best-preserved spas from the Ottoman Empire.

Iconic Budapest

Over Buda, an area of mountains and forests, the Royal Palace rises majestically, a neo-baroque building of the twentieth century that occupies what was formerly Buda Castle, destroyed and renovated several times. Ride to the top in a funicular from 1870 and discover the magical medieval citadel.

Back in the city center, cross the Fisherman's Bastion and fall in love with Budapest with the beautiful views of the place. Then, cross the Danube to Parliament, a symbol of independence and one of the most lavish neo-Gothic buildings in Pest, decorated in marble and gold.

Navigate the illuminated Danube

Sailing at night across the calm waters of the Danube, enjoying illuminated Budapest, is a spectacle of light and color. The excitement will envelop you as you pass under the Petőfi Bridge, the Chain Bridge, the Elisabeth Bridge and the Liberty Bridge. From your seat you can contemplate some of the main buildings of the city, such as the Parliament, Buda Castle, Matthias church or the Fisherman's Bastion.

An unforgettable night at the opera

The Budapest Opera House was built between 1875 and 1884, and is located on Andrássy Avenue, near several cabarets, cinemas and theaters. A guided tour will take you around its corners and vaults and will allow you to learn about its exciting history. In addition to being surprised by its murals, lamps and frescoes painted on the ceiling with representations of Olympic gods.

And after a night at the opera, what better plan than to have a delicious goulash: the quintessential Hungarian dish, a stew of primitive origins?

Shopping along Andrássy Avenue

Next to the Iberostar Grand Budapest, one of the best 5-star hotels in Hungary, is Andrassy Avenue, an extensive boulevard built in 1872 and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This recognition is mostly due to the beautiful house facades and Renaissance palaces.

Enjoy some of the city's most famous restaurants and cafes on this avenue, such as the elegant Luckacs. Treat yourself to the most exclusive fashion boutiques and get a traditional tea set from Herend, the famous Hungarian hand-painted fine porcelain factory.

On board tram number 2

Do you want to know one of the best kept secrets in Budapest? Take tram number 2 and marvel from its interior with the unbeatable views of the Royal Palace and the Danube.

The route that this tram takes daily has been chosen among the 10 most beautiful tram routes in the world by National Geographic magazine. Moreover, you can take it by using public transport tickets.

Flavors, scents and colors in the Central Market

Budapest Central Market occupies one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Opened in 1897, it was once one of the most modern indoor markets in Europe.

Most of the enclosure works as a local market where residents stock up on all kinds of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats and fish. However, you can also enjoy the specialties of one of its traditional Hungarian food stalls. And purchase all kinds of cakes and local spirits, in addition to the famous paprika.

Feel the magic of the classic cafes of Budapest

Budapest is known for its cafes and patisseries, which are decorated in a classic style. Most of them date back to the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. After years of abandonment, many of these establishments were restored. This is the case of the New York Café, chosen by its visitors as one of the most beautiful and elegant. Or the Gerbeaud, an entire institution for more than 160 years, which features a terrace where you can enjoy the famous cake that gives this place its name.

Discover the ruin bars of the city

Ruin bars, literally ‘ruined bars’, are centuries-old buildings in the Jewish quarter that have been rehabilitated and turned into bars with original and creative designs. Most of the ruin bars have outdoor patios, and among them Szimpla Kert, For Sale, Púder or Élesztő are the most well-known, with a great variety of craft beers and an authentic, festive and original atmosphere.