The capital of Hungary, Budapest, is also the hub and center for transportation, culture, politics, industry, and commerce in the country. The city began as a Celtic settlement that grew to become one city with its own personality, own culture, and own history. It is a city of many different nicknames, including as the “Capital City of Festivals” because of the numerous festivals and celebrations it hosts annually. It is a charming city full of green parks and open spaces so that visitors and residents can breathe in fresh air amidst its urban charm.
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Fast Facts
Source: Erasmusu.com
• The city of Budapest is the capital of Hungary.
• It has several nicknames: Heart of Europe, Capital City of Festivals, Pearl of Danube, Capital City of Spas and Thermal Baths, Little Paris of Central Europe, Capital of the Amazon Painters, and Capital City of Freedom.
• The city has a total area of 525.16 km2 (202.8 sq mi) but the metro has 7,626 km2 (2,944.4 sq mi) and the urban area has 2,538 km2 (979.9 sq mi).
• Budapest is unique in that as a city, it is actually comprised of two distinct cities with their own unique cultures and distinctions: Buda and Pest.
Exploring the City
Source: Daily News Hungary
Budapest is a great city to explore because one can find a variety of diverse attractions and can enjoy many facets of the life and culture of its people. Buda Castle is one of the nicest to places to see in Budapest. This historic palace complex, as well as many other places in the city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Large as the city is, it is best to explore it riding a vehicle. Check out the many sights to see in Buda and Pest as well as the ones on Castle Hill which is the oldest part of the city. In the season, accommodation is slightly difficult to find. If you are struggling to find where to stay at decent prices, visit Reservations.com.
Things to Do
Source: Time Out
Of course, the best thing to do in Budapest is to go out and explore as much of the city as possible. Start the tour with exploring the attractions at the Castle Hill district of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t forget to visit the Hungarian National Museum, Buda Castle, Heroes’ Square, and the Museum of Applied Arts. Religious or not, you can check out the religious structures whose architecture is clearly notable. Such include Matthias Church, Saint Stephen’s Basilica, The Great Synagogue, and Saint Elisabeth Church. Tourists can also enjoy various shows and performances at the Vigadó Concert Hall and the National Theatre.
Best Town Squares
Source: The Travel Hack
There are several town squares in Budapest. Many of these are named after important people or important places or important landmarks in the city. For instance, Astoria Budapest is named after the Grand Hotel Astoria while Nagyvárad tér is named after Nagyvárad, a former Hungarian city. Hősök tere, which is “Heroes’ Square” in English, is one of the most famous squares in Budapest. It holds political and historical importance to the people of the city, making it worth visiting. Statues of prominent leaders of tribes who played an essential part in the city’s history are displayed at the square.
