Weekend in Budapest
Considering a weekend in Hungary's vibrant capital? Book it.
On a whim, whilst scanning options for a long weekend, it came to mind that I have yet to visit Budapest, a city that has always been tossed around when booking a euro-trip, but I hadn't made the plunge. When googling to see if it was worth a precious vacation day, and a weekend reserved for city break, I was met with images of the lit up Hungarian Parliament building, meeting a very frozen Danube River, yes please.
I hardly knew anything about the country or Budapest itself, needless to say I learned a lot. Budapest is an architecturally beautiful city, known for culture, music, thermal baths, goulash, craft beer and so on. I found the city quite walkable
TO STAY:
I stayed on the east side of the river, just west of District VII. To me, it was super centrally located, and clearly had bunch of restaurants and night life going on. Its location made seeing tourist attractions & hitting many of the spots I had on my list super convenient. I would stay here again, but equally I am curious to check out the other side of the river, as it also look gorgeous and seemed to have a bunch of cool spots. If you stay in the city center, I really don't think you can go wrong.
TO DO:
In term of tourist attractions, I think you can get through the amazing sites in an extended weekend. However, there is so much more to Budapest, that will keep you here much longer!
Hungarian Parliament Building | Perhaps the most iconic building when you think of Budapest, and maybe even Hungary. Beautiful from afar and up close! Make sure you get to see this lit up at night, as it is a sight to behold.
Fisherman’s Bastion | A gorgeous fortress of a building, with light colored stone that really makes it stand out. Quite the trek up to this place, giving you some of the most amazing views of the city. My suggestion, go just before dusk, as you can see the parliament building and other sites really well at sunset and then lit up at night. To just access the view and the outside area is free, so take advantage!
Millennium Monument | A monument honoring important national leaders. I found this area super grand to visit, as it is in the center of a massive square, lined by museums and fine art collections.
Sándor Károlyi de Nagykároly szobor | a gorgeous castle, with all of the influences of Hungarian architecture, in the surrounding of a beautiful park. Wandering around the castle grounds from the outside is completely free of charge. A perk is, it is in the center of the park, which makes the journey a lovely escape from the city.
Buda Castle | I ‘chose’ to walk to the top, aka the funicular was under repairs the day I was there, but if you can catch a ride to the top via the funicular. The castle is beautiful from the outside, but also houses the national art gallery, making it super fun to visit.
Liberty Bridge | You will likely end up passing this naturally, as it connects the two sides of the city and is centrally located. The bride is really magnificent, day or night, so make sure you stop to take a moment and check it out.
St. Stephen’s Basilica | Magnificently preserved Catholic church, now serving many purposes. Even if you don’t have time to stop and check out the inside, it is worth admiring from the outside.
++ make sure you try some ruin bars and thermal baths, as these are a definite must is Budapest!
TO EAT:
Firstly, if you are going in the colder months, nothing warms the soul quite like a delicious bowl of goulash, in a bread bowl (trust me). Make sure you try some Hungarian, as well as local craft beers. Budapest clearly prides themselves on their array of craft beers available. Some of my favorite spots shortlisted to follow!
DOBLO Wine Bar | For a perfect glass (or bottle), with an intimate setting, a great spot if you are alone, with a date or the girlies, start here before your dinner plans!
Artizan Bakery | If you love a good bakery, this place is for you, and truly you cannot go wrong. We sampled some sweet and savory, and they were equally delicious. Major plus is that the coffee is actually really nice! Just be prepared to stand in the queue, though it moves!
Dose Espresso | For a delicious coffee, and equally delicious pastries + a cozy atmosphere.
Drum Café | Super casual eatery, specializing in Hungarian dishes, get some goulash and langosh to warm you up! Be prepared, there might be a bit of a line, but seemingly that goes fast.
Balagan | A take on middle eastern food, mixed with Hungarian tastes. Nice light bites and cocktails!
Mazel Tov | I saw this restaurant on so many guides, I had to try it. It has a beautiful atmosphere with really friendly service. Be prepared to wait in line, but truthfully get the reservation.
FIRST Craft Beer | I came to try some craft beer, which was great. It’s a great atmosphere, very friendly people work there, it has clearly had visitors from so many countries, per their wall of currency used as a decoration. I was actually upset that I had already eaten elsewhere, and the barbeque coming out of the kitchen looked out of this world, I will be back!
BONUS: During my trip, I started noticing mini statues randomly scattered around the city. After noticing a couple, I had a google, and apparently there is a whole meaning behind it- check it out here for an added little excitement to your trip!
What else is to not be missed Budapest?
Xx Samantha