Beautiful Budapest

The beauty of the Hungarian capital

By Farah Amin

What to See
Castle Hill (Varhegy)
The Castle Hill is a must see district for any visitor, placed on the west side of the Danube, the castle walls and cobbled street has a medieval atmosphere to it. You can access it by a taxi, public transport or walking, where around it you’ll also find it full of cafes and shops. On the neighborhood’s Southern tip, you’ll also find Buda Castle. Make time to explore Castle Hill’s Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion.

Also near by, found in Buda Castle in Castle Hill is, The Hungarian National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria) where the art there is mainly Hungarian art dating from the Middle ages through today. It’s the perfect balance to the Museum of Fine Arts (Szépmuvészeti Múzeum) also in Castle Hill, where it features non-Hungarian international art. Between both museums you’ll get your does of art and culture at its best from the city.
Don’t miss passing by the Parliament, as it’s an icon of Budapest. It has breath taking neo-Gothic parliament, which is modeled on London’s own seat of government. It was almost suspended by the Soviets, however the building is once again the heart of the Hungarian state. There you could visit the crown jewels worn by Hungarian monarchs since the Middle Ages.
Also to see is Heroes’ Square
is the monumental square that was built in 1896 to celebrate 1,000 years since the Hungarian (Magyar) nomads settled on the Danube.
You cannot visit Budapest and not get the thermal bath since it’s a quintessential experience. It’s the Turkish influence on Hungary; these baths are heated by natural thermal springs and is a perfect way to end a day of wandering about the city all day where you can relax and ease your muscles. Better yet, some of the venues host night bath parties at night. Széchenyi Baths in City Park stands as the largest thermal bath in Europe, and the perfect place to take part in a long game of water chess with some locals. Be sure to also check Gellért Baths, since it’s one of the most photographed spas in Budapest, and with its grand Art Nouveau architecture and art deco details, it’s not hard to see why.

Where to Shop
Many options are there for anyone’s liking when it comes to shopping. Weather you’re a mall rat or a thrifty shopper you are covered. Belvaros is where many shoppers begin their marathon, where Vaci street is the main shopping strip and attracts many tourists. There is a big scene of thrift shops and flea markets. Be sure to check out Ecseri flea market; it’s loaded with antiques, treasures and full of food vendors to keep your energy up while you bargain.

Where to Eat
Head for Liszt Ferenc Square near the opera house on Andrássy Avenue and enjoy Budapest’s bar and café scene. Whether it’s hearty goulash or a cool beer you’re after, there are numerous places to choose from but there’s no better place to relax than the sunny terrace at Café Vian.

If you’re a foodie you will appreciate the Central Market Hall (‘Központi Vásárcsarnok’) in Hungarian. Built at the end of 19th century, this indoor food market will not disappoint of food choices. On the ground floor you’ll find a large selection of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables. On the second floor, there are food stands and plenty of vendors selling handicrafts, clothing, embroidery, chessboards and other souvenirs. and In the basement, there is a fish market, a small Asian grocery store, a supermarket, and a small drugstore.