The capital of Hungary, Budapest, truly is Europe's hidden gem. Many travelers flock to the surrounding cities or nearing countries to take in the beauty of Austria or Poland, meanwhile, Budapest is just as stunning. Filled with history and offering many travel-friendly opportunities to learn about what lies within its city walls, it's a unique place to visit and live.
It has even been considered one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe, which is high praise considering what it's up against. From neo-Gothic architecture to breathtaking views over the Danube, Budapest has something for every traveler. Between grand baths and thermal spas and the humbling, tragically beautiful remains of a country that has been through several wars, this city is deserving of the attention.
20 Gellert Baths: Soak The Stress Away
What's better than a giant bathtub? Not much, really. While you might be thinking of a giant pool, the Gellert Baths are elegant, relaxing, and the perfect spot to soak in the beauty of Budapest while receiving one of many spa offerings. Built prior to 1918, the architecture is gorgeous, too.
19 Fans Of Neo-Gothic Architecture Should Visit Fisherman's Bastion
Speaking of architecture, Fisherman's Bastion upstages nearly everything surrounding it. It was built solely with the intention of providing a proper viewing platform to preside over the Danube, and it was named after the Guild of Fishermen, responsible for defending the city during the Middle Ages.
18 Even From A Hotel Room, Waking Up To This Every Morning Is Breathtaking
There are several key spots in Budapest that provide views over the city like no other, but that doesn't mean sightseeing can't be achieved just by looking out your hotel window. The higher up the room, the more likely you are to get a view like this, straight across the Danube.
17 Heroes Square For The History Of A Legend
While it's not the most picturesque view in the city, it is quite humbling. This monument depicts the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars, who were responsible for leading the people of Hungary to the Carpathian Basin. It's quite a beautiful sight and one that's very important to the people of Budapest.
16 A View From The Citadella Is Never Disappointing
The Citadella is another popular spot for views but it also makes for a peaceful walk, as well. Even on a misty, cloudy day, the views are still just as beautiful as they would be if the sun was out at full strength. This viewing platform is the spot of many a sunset and sunrise watcher.
15 Sunsets Are Best Viewed From Danube Promenade
However, if catching the sunset is your goal, look no further than the Danube Promenade. This dock also serves as a monument to the 3,500 lives taken during WWII. Along your sunset walk, you'll find 60 pairs of cast iron shoes, all dedicated to those who fell fighting the Fascist regime. It's truly humbling and sadly beautiful at the same time.
14 Budapest During The Holidays Is Undeniably Magical
No one quite does Christmas like Budapest does. Their light displays are simple and classic, but that's what makes them so breathtakingly beautiful. The holiday markets in the winter are the perfect accompaniment to Budapest's traditional blue Christmas tree, perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
13 One Of The Most Important Locations In Hungary, St. Stephen's Basilica
St. Stephen's Basilica is a sight to behold before you even walk through the door. Visitors can come here to see the supposed right hand of the first King of Hungary, Stephen. The Basilica also holds regular organ concerts and allows tourists to head to the top level for panoramic city views.
12 Fan Of Wine? Check Out Faust Wine Cellars, It's Beneath A Castle
Okay, so the views from the wine cellar are basically nothing but... well, wine. But that's still a pretty good view, isn't it? We're reminded once again that Budapest has so much to offer rather than just pretty picture sights, and their wine is truly second to none.
11 Memento Park Is Humbling
For those who are keen on the history of their travel destinations, Memento Park is a must-visit. What you'll find here is nothing short of historical significance: It's filled with Communist symbols, statues, and monuments that were torn down in protest or forcibly removed post-Communist regime.
10 Shopping Is Easy At Ecseri Flea Market
If shopping is more your bag (literally), the Ecseri Market is yet another sight to behold. This traditional open-air market is full of hidden gems, and those who fancy themselves to be 'pickers' will undoubtedly find joy in shuffling through all the stalls located here - plan to spend a few hours at least.
9 A Trademark Of Budapest: 'Ruin Pubs'
'Ruin Pubs' are unique and unlike any other pub you've likely seen. It's not uncommon to find one of these in an abandoned building, filled with shabby furniture, decorated in an ostentatious, yet somehow still chic, way. The technical term to describe them is 'shabby chic', and they're often referred to by their decor theme.
8 The Largest Synagogue In The World Outside Of Israel, The Dohany Street Synagogue
Many of the views in Budapest that are worth seeing must be taken in from the inside of a location, as well as the outside. The Dohany Street Synagogue is one of those places, and it's truly humbling from the moment you step foot inside the doorway. The garden should be a stop on anyone's list, as it memorializes lives lost during WWII.
7 Local Delicacies Must Be Had At Central Market Hall, Budapest's Most Well-Known Market
We couldn't complete our list of places to visit-worthy places without adding the Central Market Hall. In the US, we have malls - in Budapest, they have grand market halls, full of things to be discovered, including food. For some of Budapest's most common street and market foods, this has to be a pit stop.
6 The Funicular At Buda Castle Hill Provides Panoramic Views Of The City
For those who'd rather ride than walk, the Funicular might be more your style. A fancier train than what we're used to, the Funicular, the second oldest in the world, glides along a steady decline, offering head-on views across the Danube. Travelers can also check out the same view from the overhead bridges.
5 The State Opera House Is One Of The Best In The World
Yet another breathtaking interior view, the State Opera House is worthy of visiting. Its combined history along with traditional architecture make it one of the grandest around, and those who love both music and architectural design will fall in love with its archway structure and ceiling murals.
4 Children's Railway In Buda Hills Is Run By Kids And Can Be Hiked As Well
Nature-lovers, rejoice! Buda Hills is open to hikers and bikers, and offer a bit of reprieve from the city for a while. The Children's Railway also runs through Buda Hills, offering a more relaxing view that doesn't even require you to leave your seat. It's run by kids (and overseen by adults, obviously) adding a bit of cuteness to this trip.
3 The Citadella Also Houses History And Functions As An Overnight Accommodation
Atop Gellert Hill, visitors to Budapest can find the Citadella, which was intended for use after the Hungarian Civil War of Independence. During the Hungarian Revolution, it held tanks that were used to fire down at the city. Now, tourists can find a restaurant, museum, and hotel, along with some more amazing aerial views.
2 Széchenyi Thermal Baths Are The Largest In Europe
Budapest is all about their baths (not really), and the Széchenyi Thermal Baths are some of the largest medicinal baths in Europe. Each pool is filled with a different combination of minerals, and it's also open at night for a relaxing, steamy soak as you take in the bright lights of the surrounding spa and city.
1 Take In The Views From An Igloo At 360 Bar
Lastly, sit down and unwind at the end of your trip with a view from 360 Bar. The magic continues atop the roof of this bar, complete with igloos filled with twinkle lights to keep you warm and toasty while you look out over the city. Best view at sunset and at night, it offers a different vantage point than the rest.