Top 10 dingen te doen in Boedapest
1. Discover why Budapest is “The Pearl of the Danube River”
Chain Bridge (Lánchid) was the first suspension bridge that connected the two sides of the city, Buda (Clark Ádám tér) and Pest (Széchenyi István tér). Beside that, it was the first bridge built on the Danube in Hungary. The bridge was built in 1849 and in that time it was one of the world’s wonders. Take a walk across the 375 meters long bridge, for a glorious view, and then you will know why this city is called “The Pearl of the Danube.” The bridge is all lit up during the evening which makes it even more glorious.
2. Explore the Historic Castle Hill
Buda Castle (Royal Palace) is the most fascinating and imposing building on the Budapest skyline, rising 48 meters above the river. The whole complex is referred to as Castle Hill in Buda. In 1987, the castle was declared to be a World Heritage Site. It is believed that the castle was built in 1265, having a double role of a castle and a palace complex. Today, the castle is home to the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum (Gothic chapel and the Knights' Hall). While walking around the castle you will see its most popular sights: the Habsburg Steps, Medieval Remnants, Statue of Prince Eugene of Savoy, Matthias Fountain (the most famous fountain), Lions Gate, many Courtyards, Fisherman’s bastion (favorite lookout) and the National Széchényi Library (more than 15,000 books).
3. Relax in a Bath in the Land of Thermal Springs
Bathe your worries and concerns away in a thermal bath in Budapest. There are over 120 natural springs in the city. The European largest public bath with 18 pools is in this city. Some baths offer Turkish bath as it was done in the 16th century. There also many SPA resorts which offer an exceptional experience of spa health treatments and massages therapies. Baths in Budapest are widely known for their healing qualities, the water is rich with minerals.
4. See the Parliament Building Interior
The most popular touristic attraction in Budapest is the Parliament building. It is notably one of the oldest governmental buildings in Europe and one of the largest buildings in Budapest. It is located on the bank of the Danube which makes it even more impressive. Guided tours inside the parliament are possible only when there are no parliamentary sessions. On the tour the visitors will see: the amazing Neo-Gothic architecture, the spectacular Main Staircase, the Upper House Hall, the Lounge and the most famous Coronation Jewels (the Holly Crown in the Dome Hall). The best way to see the building is by booking a tour in advance.
5. Get Lost in the Largest Square in the City
Heroes’ Square is the largest, the most visited and the most impressive square in Budapest. It is surrounded by the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art. In the middle of square, the Millennium Monument was erected to honor the time when Magyars tribe came to Hungary. The impressive monument and all the figures portray a 1000 years old story. It is worth for a visit. If you have time come during the evening, it is even more magnificent with all the lights around.
6. See the Largest bell in Budapest
St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church and home of the Hungary’s largest bell, less than 10 tones. The bell is in the south tower. The church interior is also fascinating with many pictures on the walls. The entrance to the church is free; however, you have to pay if you want to climb up to the dome’s observation desk for a panoramic view. The observation desk is open from April to October and you can either take the elevator or walk up the 364 steps. On the left side of the altar, a mummified hand from the Stephen king of Hungary is kept in a glass case.
7. Cruise the Danube River
Cruising is the most relaxing way to admire the immensely beautiful surrounding along the Danube River. You can take a cruise either during the day or during the evening. There are companies that offer a two hours romantic cruise with dinner. As the city light are turning on and gleaming in the night, sail along the most beautiful city on the Danube.
8. Panoramic view from Gellért Hill
The best place to compare the two parts of the town and discover why the Buda side is hilly and the Pest side is flat. Undoubtedly, the view from the hill is breathtaking, offering fascinating view of the whole city. Beside the view on the hill there are some famous sights including: Gellért Hill Cave Church (the most unique cave church), St. Gellért Monument, the Citadel (fortress) and the Budapest Statue of Liberty (it can be see from everywhere). There is a story how this hill got its name, which you’ll learn while enjoying the panoramic view of the city.
9. Ruin Pubs- New Trend in Budapest
Very popular hot spots located in a very unusual places such as: abandoned buildings, garages, cellars of old houses and top of departments stores. They are famous for recreating the atmosphere of the 70’s. It is a new type of entertainment in Budapest, a new trend. The contemporary artist revived the ruined places into something that will live for many more years to come.
10. Tour the Most Prestigious Musical Building
One of the world’s best opera houses is in Budapest. In front of the Opera House there are statues of Franz Liszt (Hungarian composer) and Ferenc Erkel (the first opera director). Many famous artists performed at the Budapest Opera house. Daily at 3pm and 4pm guided tours are offered for those interested in discovering the amazing interior, most excellent acoustics and the huge auditorium. During the evening you can enjoy a fantastic live performance.