Holidays in Budapest

The pearl of the Danube, a city of contrasts, rich sights the Middle Ages and one of the most famous cities in Europe - Budapest. The capital of Hungary as an administrative unit arose relatively recently, in the 70s of the 19th century, as a result of the merger of three settlements - Buda, Obuda and Pest. It is not surprising that different parts of the city are not alike - hilly Buda enchants tourists with its ancient structures and winding quiet streets, while the political and business life of the country is concentrated in Pest, here you can take a leisurely stroll through large shopping centers, boulevards and squares. These two historical parts of Budapest are divided by amazingly beautiful bridges, without which the appearance of the city would not be so recognizable.

Attractions in Budapest

The parliament building is a symbol of the city and its visiting card, it is better to admire it from the opposite bank of the Danube, because it is from Buda that the most wonderful views open up. The majestic, pompous building took only 9 years to build, which is a record low for such an architectural masterpiece.

Numerous arches, spans, pointed turrets on the façade, stained glass windows and mosaics as an interior decoration of the building indicate that it was made in the neo-Gothic style. With about 600 rooms, numerous staircases and picturesque courtyards, this place is deservedly the most visited in the entire city.

The Szechenyi chain bridge over the Danube is a structure without which Budapest is simply impossible to imagine, because it was he who once connected the two historical parts of the city and became a symbol of their merger. The bridge was built in the middle of the 19th century, decorated with cast iron and spectacular sculptures of lions. After the war, the Chain Post was partially destroyed, but rebuilt at the expense of the citizens who were not indifferent. Nowadays, this romantic place is ideal for admiring the local views.

Fisherman's Bastion is a cult place in one of the districts of Budapest, located on the Castle Hill. Once a fishing market was located here, and then it was planned to build a bastion, timed to coincide with the anniversary of the creation of the Hungarian state, moreover, it would become a good backdrop for the local church. However, the construction of the architectural ensemble of white stone with 7 towers was postponed until 1905.
Buda Castle or Buda Castle is another architectural masterpiece of the city, it was built on the site of an old baroque castle, consists of a bastion with a gallery and a wine house. Now it houses a museum, a city library and a history museum.

Romantics will surely appreciate the beauty and mysterious charm of Vajdahunyad Castle, which was built on the largest lake in Budapest, in Varosliget Park. The history of the creation of the castle is very curious, because initially it was planned to build only a small wooden pavilion to celebrate the millennium of the acquisition of the homeland by the Hungarians. But this place was so fond of the locals that the authorities decided to build a real castle of stone, and the structure consisted of fragments of various buildings from all over the country.

Matthias Church on the Buda Hill actually bears the name in honor of the Holy Virgin Mary, but residents prefer to call it after one of the Hungarian kings. The architecture of the ensemble is not typical for Budapest, because the building was built in the Gothic style, according to its rules, the facade is decorated with arches, towers with pointed spiers and bright stained-glass windows.

The best hotels in Budapest

Boscolo Budapest, Autograph Collection 5 * not far from the opera house can hardly be mistaken for an ordinary hotel; this luxurious 19th century building is recognized as one of the best in all of Hungary. Previously, the no less luxurious New York Palace hotel was located here, after reconstruction it was given a new big name. Exquisitely furnished rooms of three categories, proximity to boulevards, restaurants and brand shops attract thousands of tourists to Boscolo Budapest, Autograph Collection 5 *.

Sofitel budapest chain bridge 5 * belongs to the luxury class and rightfully so, outwardly it is not distinguished by luxury, however, the zest is hidden inside - cozy rooms, the opportunity to relax on the summer terrace, swim in the pool, and most importantly, unusually beautiful views from the window to the Chain Bridge , Danube and Buda Castle. Hotel guests are pleased that the main attractions and the business district can be reached in minutes.

Hotel Palazzo Zichy received its 4 stars deservedly, because this is not just a hotel, but a real baroque castle, and even in the famous historic quarter of Budapest, which has long been chosen by loving couples who have visited the city. In the immediate vicinity of the hotel there is a market, the main pedestrian street, bars, restaurants, as well as the Hungarian National Museum. Rooms are equipped with everything you need, including TV and air conditioning.

Danubius Grand Hotel Margitsziget 4 * - a combination of elegance, harmony and a relatively low price. The atmosphere of the 19th century created here will make you feel like a real aristocrat and connoisseur of beauty. Rooms are stylishly furnished, each room has panoramic windows overlooking the Danube and Margaret Island. Near the Danubius Grand Hotel Margitsziget 4 * there is a center where you can experience the healing properties of thermal water from local sources.

The three-star Casati Budapest Hotel will certainly appeal to connoisseurs of comfort and European architecture, because it is located in an elegant old building of the 18th century, which was recently reconstructed. Another plus of the hotel is walking distance to famous city sights, shopping centers and restaurants.

The rooms are divided into several categories, among them there are budget options in a minimalist style, and exquisite apartments, furnished with taste and chic.

Prices in Budapest

Inexpensive apartments and rooms in guest houses in the central part cost at least 30-35 euros, a decent hotel - from 40 euros. Prices for a bed in a hostel start at 8 euros, the average price is 13-14 euros.

Going to Europe First of all, it is worth studying the prices for food, because even if you prefer to stay in a hotel, the system of most hotels only provides for breakfast. The prices for lunch and dinner in a restaurant or cafe are quite affordable compared to many European countries - about 10-15 euros without alcoholic beverages, for example, a large portion of meat will cost 5 euros per person. Also popular are the establishments in which for 20 euros you can gorge yourself, as they say, dozens of dishes and drinks are presented here, for two hours you can try everything without restrictions.

On average, a daily lunch at catering points can be 30 or 50 euros. If you prefer rented accommodation to hotels, it will not be difficult to purchase groceries in stores and prepare yourself, at least breakfasts.

Most tourists visiting the capital of Hungary for the first time prefer to buy excursions from the operator, but in this case, you can significantly overpay. Wishing to save money, knowledgeable travelers purchase the same excursions on the waterfront. For example, a ticket to the building of the Hungarian Parliament will cost about 1,350 rubles. It is more convenient to pay for it on the parliament's website and print it, it will save you from standing in queues.

Souvenirs will cost much less (about half) not in central markets or shops, but on the outskirts of the city. Check out the famous Hungarian sausage, paprika, wine and herbal liqueurs.

How much will it cost to stay in Budapest

Of course, do not forget about one of the most significant items of spending on holidays in Europe - air travel, round trip for two, it will cost about 350-370 euros, and prices decrease with the beginning of autumn, when the tourist excitement subsides.

It is quite convenient to get there by train (depending on the class, you will have to pay from 70 to 180 euros), and by bus (150-250 euros).

Ten-day the trip one tourist will cost about a thousand euros, of which:

• round-trip flight - 180 euros;
• meals - 170 euros:
• hotel - 220 euros;
• insurance and visa - 65 euros;
• moving around the city - 50 euros;
• shopping - 250 euros;
• excursion tickets - 50 euros.