Driving to Budapest

Country: Hungary Capital: Budapest Language: Hungarian Currency: Hungarian Forint

Picturesque Budapest contains a mixture of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance buildings, beautiful views, and spring waters – it’s no wonder it’s known as the ‘Pearl of the Danube’.

The central point of Budapest is the city’s oldest bridge, the Szechenyi Lanchid or Charles Bridge. West of here is Hilly Buda, where remainders from the days of the Turkish occupation can be found. Most sightseeing attractions are on Varhegy (Castle Hill), which contains a Unesco World Heritage site. The Budavari Palota (Buda Castle Palace) has several museums, amongst them the Hungarian National Gallery. Szentharomsah ter, or Trinity Square is worth a visit for its beauty.

The Halaszbastya, or Fisherman’s Bastion has some impressive views of the Orszaghaz (Houses of Parliament). They are similar in style to London’s Houses of Parliament, and overlook the river Danube.

Pest, located on the east bank of the Danube is less historical, but it contains Hosoek ter, or Heroes’ Square, and the 120 foot bronze Millenium Monument, which is situated on Andrassy Ut, Budapest’s grandest avenue.
Budapest’s zoo and an outdoor swimming pool are in the Varosliget (City Park). There are various other mineral baths throughout the city. Europe’s largest synagogue, called the Nagy Zsinagoga is also in the area. For a spot of shopping, head to Vaci utca, (Vaci Street), where you can purchase souvenirs as well as items from smart boutiques.

All of these places are within a few hours drive from Budapest