Budapest, pronounced Bu-da-pesth by Hungarians, is a vastly underrated city in Europe. Founded in 895, Hungarians came as Pagans from the Ural region that is known today as Russia. Today, Hungary has around 10 million people and 2 million of them live in the capital city of Budapest. Therefore, it is a capital centered country and I can see why as there is so much it has to offer.
First off, the capital is divided into halves Buda and Pest – yes they are different areas with two different personalities.
Divided by the Danube River, the Pest side is most likely where you are staying if you’re a tourist. It is a flatter region, therefore more buildings could be built there- so you will see bars, hotels, restaurants, markets, malls, and so much more. The younger people gravitate towards here as it is where all the action and liveliness usually happens.
Whereas Buda is more hilly and is much more residential so it offers a peaceful life with mountains and room for houses and families. It is also considered the richer and more expensive side. You will see the Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and many other beautiful medieval castles.
Here are the top 5 Things to do in Budapest, Hungary
1. Thermal Baths
Hungary is home to dozens thermal baths from the natural hot spring water. They are actually a part of the heath care system. The warm water is said to improve circulation and muscle relaxation.
Rudas Baths is where I went, which is a beautiful Turkish era bathhouse. It has two parts, the restored Turkish thermal baths and then a swimming section with a rooftop jacuzzi that has views of the Danube River. You pay for one or both parts, I personally only did the thermal baths and didn’t feel like I missed out on anything.
Just look up thermal baths wherever you are staying and there will probably be one close by.
2. Eat Traditional Hungarian Foods
Hungary is known for so many traditional dishes that are hard to find elsewhere. As you’ll find out too, they are huge into paprika, so try all the interesting paprika flavored foods.
Here are some of the most popular and must try’s, but this list will give you more context:
- Goulash is a hearty beef and vegetable stew that is seasoned with paprika. It’s probably the most popular dish.
- Chimney cake – fried dough wrapped into a chimney shape. Get the classic flavors like cinnamon sugar or vanilla
- Lángos – a fried flatbread pizza with sour cream and cheese
- Wine – There are 22 wine regions in Hungry, making it great for wine tastings
3. Get a Thai Massage
Thai massage in Hungary??? I know I know, but there are a surprising amount of Thai massage places here from the larger Asian population.
They are fairly cheap (~40 euro for an hour). So book into one of the many Thai massages and relax for an hour in the busy city.
4. Go to Buda/Pest border
There are 8 bridges that connect Buda and Pest over the Danube River with the Chain Bridge is the most popular. Cross over into the other part of the capital and explore the different sights and attractions on the other side.
5. The Parliament Building
This is one of the prettiest Parliament buildings I’ve seen and it’s massive. Even though Hungary only has a population of 10 million people, it was actually supposed to be 3x its size, which explains the construction of this large Parliament.
You can book a tour or simply see it from the outside.
