Budapest

Hungary

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Everyone from the Celts to the Ottoman Turks have called Hungary home at one point in history. And they all left their mark on the land, and the culture. This beautiful, fascinating Central European country boasts outdoor adventures, historical monuments, and the chance to discover something truly wonderful.

Everyone from the Celts to the Ottoman Turks have called Hungary home at one point in history. And they all left their mark on the land, her people, and their culture. This beautiful, fascinating Central European country boasts outdoor adventures, historical monuments, and the chance to discover something truly wonderful.
<h2>1. Shop the Great Market Hall</h2>
Budapest has long been a center for trade between East and West, a heritage the Great Market Hall flaunts proudly. Sitting on the banks of the Danube, this market has something for everyone. Local farmers sell their fresh fruit and produce daily on the first floor, while you'll find cafes and shops catering to visitors upstairs. If you're in the mood to explore more miscellaneous wares, the basement is full of a dizzying array of sellers.

[caption id="attachment_10219" align="alignnone" width="1500"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10219" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-484090038-1.jpg" alt="Wide-angle view of the ceiling of the public Great Market Hall in Budapest, Hungary." width="1500" height="1004" /> AndresGarciaM / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Bathe at the Miskolc-Tapoca Caves</h2>
Natural thermal vents keep the mineral water here in the mid-80s, and the pools have been a destination for centuries by pilgrims hoping to bathe in the reportedly healing waters. A few modern amenities have been added, including tiled floors and an area offering more traditional spa services. You still have to get here by wading through a cave complex, though!

[caption id="attachment_10223" align="alignnone" width="1500"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10223" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-1143482755-1.jpg" alt="Beautiful night scene with a wooden bridge over the lake illuminated by lights in Miskolctapolca town in Hungary" width="1500" height="1000" /> Cristian Mircea Balate / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Take a Trip on the Gyermekvasút Trains</h2>
This sight-seeing rail line has much to recommend it. The cars are comfortable, the trains run frequently enough to be convenient to most schedules, and the landscape is gorgeous. But what sets this railway apart from all others are the workers. They're all children! Every person running the train is between 10 and 14 years old. But don't worry, they're all well looked after and only work a few hours a week.

[caption id="attachment_10252" align="alignnone" width="1500"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10252" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-1067743262-1.jpg" alt="Beautiful autumn forest with foliage and old colorful train on the track in Hungarian woods of Huvosvolgy" width="1500" height="970" /> ZoltanGabor / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Visit Tengerszem Nature Preserve</h2>
Who would think that an abandoned stone quarry would one day be voted 'The Most Beautiful Place in Hungary'? Well, it's true! Abandoned in 1907, Mother Nature slowly reclaimed this land and restored it to its former beauty, causing the government to declare it a protected site in the 1970s. The gorge has become a natural lake, and lush forests promise many miles of rewarding hikes. Bring your camera and your hiking shoes; if you enjoy the outdoors, you won't want to miss this preserve!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10253" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1487860943-1.jpg" alt="Lake formed in former mining pit, Megyer-hegyi Tengerszem, Hungary" width="1500" height="1000" />


<h2>5. Explore Szentkirályszabadja, the Soviet Ghost Town</h2>
Originally built to house Soviet soldiers and their families stationed in Hungary, the town was gradually abandoned after the fall of the Soviet Union. The buildings remain, however, and can be freely explored by those with an interest in abandoned buildings. Delve into old barracks, restaurants, schools, and other spaces. But be careful! No one takes care of this place, and venture in only at your own risk.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10254" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_793546783-1.jpg" alt="Abandoned residential buildings in Hungary" width="1500" height="1125" />


<h2>6. Take a Selfie at the Dark Gate</h2>
Found in the nearby town Esztergom, the Dark Gate is a tunnel originally built to connect a seminary with student housing. Now, it leads from the seminary to the city proper. Though originally pitch black, the Dark Gate is now illuminated year-round with haunting light that makes it the perfect backdrop for selfies. And while you're there, don't forget to sample some of the area's wonderful wines!

[caption id="attachment_10255" align="alignnone" width="1500"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10255" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-1138419721-1.jpg" alt="Esztergom Basilica, Hungary aka Bakócz Chapel or The Primatial Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary Assumed Into Heaven and St Adalbert" width="1500" height="996" /> FroggyFrogg / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Hike Duna-Ipoly Preserve</h2>
If you're a lover of the great outdoors, don't pass up the chance to visit Duna-Ipoly, Hungary's largest and most biodiverse natural park. The local caving club conducts regular tours of Pilis Hills, a network of limestone caves. If you enjoy hiking, take the moderately difficult trail up to the summit of Prédikálószék. And if waterfalls are more your thing, visit the stunning volcanic formation of Rám-Szakadék.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10256" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1325228570-1.jpg" alt="Lonely tree standing on the rock and guarding the red trail from Prédikálószék peak to the village of Domos in Duna-Ipoly Nemzeti Park, Hungary" width="1500" height="1000" />


<h2>8. Spend the Day at Lake Balaton Resort</h2>
Hungary might be landlocked, but the country still enjoys playing along the shore of Lake Balaton. Lay out on the sandy shore and soak up some sun during the summer, or charter a boat to take you out fishing or sailing. Swimmers of all stripes enjoy splashing in the cool waters. And during the winter, the lake features ice skating and ice fishing.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10257" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1423683536-1.jpg" alt="Father with two children lies on jetty beneath pedal boats on Lake Balaton in Hungary" width="1500" height="1000" />


<h2>9. Go Wine Tasting</h2>
Though most people don't think of Hungary when they think wines, the region produces some truly exceptional varietals, including the sweet Tokaj. Many wineries hold regular tours and tastings, where visitors can sample the local specialties. Some of these tastings come complete with a historical or cultural exhibition related to the wine and the area, including traditional dance and music performances.

[caption id="attachment_10258" align="alignnone" width="1500"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10258" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-640836788-1.jpg" alt="Vineyard in Tokaj, Hungary" width="1500" height="1000" /> Eloi_Omella / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Visit the Gorsium Roman Ruins</h2>
Discovered in the 1950s, Gorsium is a remarkably well-preserved ruin of a Roman settlement, built thousands of years ago. The remains of roads, walls, and building foundations convey a sense of history, as many survive well enough to be recognized as shops, living spaces, or barracks. Visitors are welcome to wander through the space, soaking up the history and getting a feel for what life in a Roman settlement must have been like.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10260" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1090501928-1.jpg" alt="Gorsium, an ancient Roman fort and town in Hungary" width="1500" height="1001" />


<h2>11. Get Pampered at the Turkish Baths</h2>
When the Ottomans occupied parts of Hungary, they brought with them their hamans or Turkish baths. Many of these survive and are still in use today! While the most well-known bath-house is Szechenyi in Budapest, nearly every major city has their own. Visitors can swim in hot or cold pools, relax in a sauna, get a massage, or enjoy a variety of more modern spa treatments.

[caption id="attachment_10262" align="alignnone" width="1500"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10262" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-155674586-1.jpg" alt="Inside an old bathhouse steam rooms in Budapest, Hungary" width="1500" height="1000" /> DanielMirer / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>12. Get Spooked at the Sopianae Necropolis</h2>
This one isn't for the faint of heart or easily frightened. Dating from the 4th century, these tombs are some of the earliest examples of Christian artwork in the region. Nearby, Romans interred their own dead in a small cemetery. Visitors are welcome to wander respectfully through the crypts and mausoleums, studying the grave artwork worked loving into the walls. Though no bones are visible, this is definitely a place of the dead.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10265" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_275929178-1.jpg" alt="Unique Early Christian sepulchral art and architecture of the northern and western Roman provinces" width="1500" height="942" />


<h2>13. Go Beneath Hungary at the Panoptikum</h2>
Below Castle Hill in Budapest is a network of underground tunnels and caves, once used as dungeons by the ruling Ottomans. They imprisoned many Hungarian nobles, including Vlad Tepes, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. This very spooky cave is not for children or the claustrophobic, as you're left on your own to wander through the tunnels without a guide. Bring good shoes, and charge your phone in case you need a good flashlight.

[caption id="attachment_10268" align="alignnone" width="1500"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10268" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-490282872-1.jpg" alt="Budapest city hungary The Labyrinth of Buda Castle touristic attraction" width="1500" height="1001" /> tony4urban / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>14. Walk the Famous Gellert Hill</h2>
If you're looking for a nice romantic walk or an easy hike, Gellert Hill is here for you. At the summit is the Citadella, a fortress with historical significance due to its ability to observe both banks of the Danube. But if fortresses aren't your thing, wander a bit further into the sculpture garden, including the Garden of Philosophy piece.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10283" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_540032068-1.jpg" alt="The Cave Church on the Gellert Hill in Budapest, Hungary. It was founded in 1926 and was originally home to Saint Istvan." width="1500" height="1077" />


<h2>15. Appreciate the Delightful Oddness of Epreskert</h2>
Once a mulberry grove, this garden was home to Hungarian artists during the Belle Epoque. It's now full of whimsical sculptures, innovative architecture, and even a whole chapel transported stone by stone! Many of the mulberry trees remain, overgrown, and spilling into the art spaces. Visitors be advised, however, that the garden is only open a few times a year.

[caption id="attachment_10304" align="alignnone" width="1500"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10304" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/Epreskert-1.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="1125" /> Oguszt / Wikipedia[/caption]

Get Fascinated By Hungary

Budapest is one of Europe’s most glittering capital cities. Located in Hungary, Budapest straddles the Danube River and is full of old-world architecture and loads of cosmopolitan attractions. If you’re lucky enough to visit Budapest, there are many sites you won’t want to miss.

Budapest is one of Europe’s most glittering capital cities. Located in Hungary, Budapest straddles the Danube River and is full of old-world architecture and loads of cosmopolitan attractions. If you’re lucky enough to visit Budapest, there are many sites you won’t want to miss. Budapest's 23 districts feature a myriad of revered attractions you should definitely add to your must-see list.
<h2>1. Parliament Buildings</h2>
The Parliament Buildings of Budapest are easily some of the most recognizable structures of the city. Inaugurated in 1886, the Parliament features more than 690 rooms and is the third-largest complex of its kind in the world. Budapest’s Parliament faces a beautiful stretch of the Danube River. When visiting, be sure to take some photos of Parliament and sign up for one of the guided tours.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/531715552-1024x670.jpg" alt="531715552" width="1024" height="670" /><span class="image-caption">vasiliki / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Chain Bridge</h2>
Budapest’s Chain Bridge is one of its most iconic features. Linking one side of the city to the other and spanning the Danube, the bridge opened in 1849 and is the oldest permanent bridge on the river in Hungary. Stone lions famously guard the bridge, and whether you walk along its pedestrian way or drive over it, this is a feature of the city you’ll certainly want to see up close.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/952337046-1024x512.jpg" alt="952337046" width="1024" height="512" /><span class="image-caption">Claire Tuner / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. Matthias Church</h2>
Located in the Castle District on the Buda side of the city, Matthias Church was constructed during the latter half of the 14th century; an early church that existed on the spot in 1014 is said to have been founded by King Stephen of Hungary but was destroyed by Mongol invaders in 1241. Today, many visitors come to see the church, which is distinctively gothic and painstakingly restored. If you’re touring the Castle District, visit this remarkable structure.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/871247238-1024x706.jpg" alt="871247238" width="1024" height="706" /><span class="image-caption">tunart / Getty Images</span>
<h2>4. Buda Castle</h2>
Located on the aptly named Castle Hill, Buda Castle was constructed in 1259 to be the residence of Hungarian kings, but much of the structure we see today was added in the mid-18th century. Today, the castle houses the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. The building, along with much of Castle Hill, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With so much to see inside, you’ll want to devote an entire day to its perusal.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/685009858-1024x680.jpg" alt="685009858" width="1024" height="680" /><span class="image-caption">Peter_Horvath / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Margaret Island</h2>
Visitors and city residents alike love to visit Margaret Island, in the middle of the Danube. The island is about 1.6 miles long and is a major recreation destination, boasting several thermal springs that feed into medicinal baths. The Palatinus Baths cover 17 acres of the island and remain one of its most popular highlights. Concerts, dances, and special events regularly take place on this scenic isle.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10697" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_1286831764.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" />

<h2>6. Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden</h2>
The oldest zoo in Hungary, Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden lies in the heart of the city, in Varosliget Park. Founded in 1866 and home to more than 1,000 animals, the zoo features many historic structures that have been renovated over time to accommodate the zoo’s growing collection. When visiting, expect to see celebrated residents like ring-tailed lemurs, lowland gorillas, Indian lions, giraffes, and kangaroos.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/865512628-1024x683.jpg" alt="865512628" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">ivkuzmin / Getty Images</span>
<h2>7. Gellert Hill</h2>
Gellert Hill is a popular part of Budapest, with its extraordinary views of the city and Danube River. A citadel sits at the top of the hill, and there’s also a cave within the hill that enhances its tourist-worthy appeal. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gellert Hill is celebrated for its beauty as well as its palatial embassies and ambassador residences.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/933126216-1024x683.jpg" alt="933126216" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">GoodLifeStudio / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. Fisherman's Bastion</h2>
Completed in 1902, Fisherman’s Bastion is an architectural icon of the city. This picturesque structure is a neo-Gothic/neo-Romanesque terrace that features breathtaking views of the city from its perch on Castle Hill. Fisherman’s Bastion includes seven towers to represent the seven Magyar tribes. The structure boasts many stairs and walking paths, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes when you visit.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/956361278-1024x576.jpg" alt="956361278" width="1024" height="576" /><span class="image-caption">Jose Carlos Serrano Ruiz / Getty Images</span>
<h2>9. Cafe Gerbeaud</h2>
As one of Europe’s oldest and most beloved coffeehouses, Café Gerbeaud should not be missed on any visit to Budapest. The iconic cafe brims with old-world elegance, from its exotic wood paneling to its sparkling chandeliers. Be sure to visit to enjoy the coffeehouse’s rich coffees, pastries, and confections. It’s a great place to relax after a morning of sightseeing around the city.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/535680363-1024x678.jpg" alt="535680363" width="1024" height="678" /><span class="image-caption">titoslack / Getty Images</span>
<h2>10. Traditional Hungarian Restaurants</h2>
The food of Budapest is worthy of destination status. You’ll find the city is brimming with cafes, bistros, and white tablecloth-clad restaurants. For an authentic Hungarian dining experience, you’ll want to visit eateries that feature made-from-scratch specialties like chicken paprikash and goulash. Many of the traditional dining establishments feature musicians that serenade you while you dine. Be sure to find an establishment that serves the renowned Dobos Torte for dessert.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/982396338-1024x683.jpg" alt="982396338" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">ALLEKO / Getty Images</span>

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Get Fascinated By Hungary

10 Things You Don't Want to Miss in Budapest