Budapest never held a spotlight in my European travel plans. I mean, the name’s been thrown around in pop culture settings here and there but, what exactly was it known for other than that? It just seemed to lack iconic landmarks that instantly conjure images in your mind of somewhere like Rome or Paris, such as the Colosseum and the Eiffel Tower respectively. Yet, a recent four-day escapade with Ciara has reshaped my perception entirely.
Budapest emerged as a surprise gem, quickly claiming a spot among my Top 5 European destinations. From the dazzling spectacle of the Parliament Building at night to the majestic presence of St. Stephen’s Basilica, Budapest revealed itself as a city brimming with captivating attractions. And, of course, I’ll have to tell you about the intriguing world of Budapest’s Ruin Bars; an original concept discovered by chance. The exquisite taste of craft beer in a laid-back setting was such a delightful departure from the bland brews of Stuttgart.
So, if you’re ready to uncover the enchantment of one of central Europe’s hidden treasures, join me as I unveil why Budapest is an essential stop for everyone stationed or living in Europe.
Top Things to See in Budapest
In its simplest terms, don’t leave Budapest without doing ~80% of this list:
- St Stephen’s Basilica
- Szechenyi Chain Bridge
- The Parliament Building at night
- Sunday Morning Farmer’s Market at Szimpla Kert
- Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church
- Buda Castle
- Craft Beer and Karaoke, in that order
- Central Market Hall
- Gellért Hill Cave Church
- Heroes’ Square
- Sunsets from the roof of the Museum of Ethnography
- Fashion Street
However, if you’ve followed my previous blog entries, you’re aware that I don’t simply compile generic “Top Ten” lists for destinations. With countless other blogs doing just that, some of which I consult for trip planning myself, I aim to offer something different. Instead, I prefer to share the narratives of my travels, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experiences and decide for yourself if a particular destination resonates with you.
So, with that, here are the places I recommend visiting based on my journey to Budapest.
Day One: Discovering Budapest’s Icons
St Stephen’s Basilica
Ciara and I touched down in Budapest on a beautiful, sunny afternoon, our excitement palpable as we embarked on our adventure. After a smooth journey (and a couple of complimentary drinks at the airport lounge thanks to the AmEx Platinum card), we used public transportation to make our way to our hotel in District V. I highly recommend the 100E express bus for getting into the city as fast as possible. It heads straight from the airport into the heart of the city, and only costs 6 euros!
It was no sooner after we dropped our bags off that we hit the pavement, exploring the town. My first realization was that Budapest has a real Prague-like feeling; church spires dotting the city, Gothic Revival along the river, and Neoclassical architectural feats peppered about the city.
As we traversed through a small courtyard, I felt that this place was almost certainly a hosting ground for a beautiful Christmas market during the holidays. Pausing at a marvelous ferris wheel for only a brief second, Ciara and I pressed on towards a rather large church off in the distance.
Rounding a corner, we were greeted with a flawless basilica standing some 200 feet tall. Because it was beginning to close, we didn’t go inside at that moment. Instead, we ended up going on the last day of our adventures.
As we admired the basilica from outside, it felt like entering a realm of divine grandeur and contrast. The neoclassical façade loomed overhead, its intricate details and towering dome commanded attention. Yet, surrounded by the bustling streets of Budapest, I couldn’t help but marvel at the contrast between the basilica’s majestic presence and the quaint charm of its surroundings.
As I stood in awe of its sheer size compared to the small coffee shops surrounding it, I felt transported back to the moment I first saw the Pantheon in Rome. Thanks to these buildings’ willingness to stand the test of time, they provide a fabulous juxtaposition between the old and the new. The dichotomy is something that simply needs to be experienced.
As we withdrew from the basilica, we noticed a beautiful bridge about 4-5 blocks away. Naturally, we began heading in its direction.
Szechenyi Chain Bridge
As we approached Szechenyi Chain Bridge, the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting hues of golden-orange across the sky. This is without a doubt the BEST time to visit this wonderful link between Buda and Pest. The mighty Danube River flowing below you, a stillness generated by the twilight hour, and the accompanying soft glow of streetlights; you’ll somehow discover peace as your attention is demanded from every direction.
Among Budapest’s eight bridges spanning the Danube, the Szechenyi Chain Bridge stood out as my favorite, and for good reason.
Its iconic stone lions governing everyone’s passage from Buda to Pest and vice versa, have an immense personality. Their watchful eyes staring down at each person, trolley, bus, and car as they traverse across the mighty Danube, stir a sense of paranoia in the common man who chooses to cross their path.
During the day, Szechenyi is a bustling arterial medium for civilization to move from one side to the other but by nightfall, it transforms into a spectacle of light and shadow. Each cable suspending the massive span is adorned with lights, and the massive, stone pillars are lit up like the 4th of July. For the best vantage point, we found ourselves just outside the Four Seasons on the Pest side. From here, you can see Szechenyi drenched in rays of artificial, incandescent light, shadowed by the overwhelming beauty of the Buda Castle on the opposite shore.
As Ciara and I crossed the bridge, there was one monument that commanded more attention than any other building in the city…
The Parliament Building
By far, this building is the most impressive in Budapest. As someone who fancies Gothic architecture, I instantly fell in love with the Parliament Building as soon as I laid eyes on it.
As night fell over Budapest, the Parliament building emerged as a beacon of architectural splendor. Having made our way across the Szechenyi Chain Bridge, Ciara and I found a spot along the river to sit and take in the sights.
Standing proudly on the banks of the Danube, the Parliament Building’s Gothic Revival façade takes on a sempiternal glow, illuminated by a symphony of lights. Each intricate detail of its grandiose design, from the towering spires to the ornate embellishments, is accentuated by the soft radiance of the night.
As we gazed upon this majestic edifice framed against the darkened sky, we found ourselves captivated by the timeless beauty it exuded–for almost an hour! A true testament to Budapest’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Day Two: Immersing Yourself in Budapest’s Culture and Heritage
Sunday Morning Farmer’s Market at Szimpla Kert
After a restful night’s sleep, Ciara and I were eager to continue our Budapest adventure. Just a short walk from our hotel, we stumbled upon a bustling farmer’s market (a favorite haunt of Ciara’s) at a place called Szimpla Kert.
Upon entering, we were immediately struck by the eclectic atmosphere of this place. Little did we know, we had just stumbled upon Budapest’s top Ruin Bar, a hidden gem amidst the city’s vibrant nightlife scene!
Inside, the air was filled with a mix of chatter and music, while the walls were adorned with quirky decorations and vintage knick-knacks added to the bar’s charm. It was a sensory feast! Colorful graffiti adorned every surface, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the scent of exotic spices from numerous vendors’ stands.
Exploring further, each corner revealed new delights, from cozy seating areas fashioned out of repurposed furniture to quirky art installations hanging from the ceiling. I’d say it was creativity and eccentricity personified.
Leaving Szimpla Kert, we made our way back towards the Parliament Building so that we could see it up close. It was no surprise that this monumental structure was just as amazing during the day as it was during the night. Stopping only for a few photos, Ciara and I decided to press on to the other side of the river to experience another icon.
Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church
Perched atop Castle Hill, the panoramic views of the city from Fisherman’s Bastion are unparalleled. From here, you can see Margaret Island, St Stephen’s Basilica, the Buda Castle, and even Heroes’ Square off in the distance.
As we dodged hundreds of selfie takers, Ciara and I decided to make our way into Matthias Church for some peace and quiet.
As we entered Matthias Church, the majesty of its interior took center stage. Sunlight streamed through stained glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors on the ancient stone walls adorned with intricate frescoes. The vaulted ceilings soared overhead, embroidered with elaborate patterns and gilded details, while the gentle flicker of candlelight added a touch of mystique to the sacred ambiance.
Buda Castle
Having our fill of peace and quiet, we retreated from the hallowed walls of the church and back into the sun-kissed courtyard of Fisherman’s Bastion. With the golden hour approaching, Ciara and I pondered the perfect spot to catch the sunset from. We settled on Buda Castle, just a short 5-10 minute walk from the bustling grounds of Castle Hill district.
Buda Castle was practically Ciara and I’s for the taking as it greeted us with a serene emptiness. With the usual crowd all but gone, we were gifted with the ultimate feeling of connection between each other and the city around us. As the sun descended toward the skyline, Ciara and I nestled close, intertwined hands, and basked in the sheer beauty that surrounded us. We felt blessed. And in that moment, we found ourselves deeply grateful for the enchanting experiences Budapest had bestowed upon us in such a brief span of time.
Craft Beer and Karaoke!
The end of this day was my favorite part of Budapest: craft beer and karaoke! It’s hard to put into words but, when you go so long without a good, strong IPA, you really do cherish it once you finally find one. Thankfully, Budapest’s craft beer scene is strong, so Ciara and I began the night at First Craft Brewing Company for a delicious pint of hazy IPAs and some fries.
As the night rolled on, we found ourselves wandering down an amazing alley-like street that was lined with various bars and karaoke joints. We spent the night singing everything from John Denver’s Country Road to Kelly Clarkson’s Since You’ve Been Gone. A perfect ending to a perfect day.
Day Three: Exploring Budapest’s Cultural Treasures
Central Market Hall
Our final full day began at the Central Market Hall. After beginning at Szimpla Kert the day prior and now the Market Hall, I have to admit that I could get used to starting my days at a market.
The vibrant atmosphere here is palpable, with enthusiastic vendors selling everything from dried meats and fruits to hand-woven table runners and placemats. If you’re in need of something, anything, you can almost certainly find it at the Central Market Hall.
For about an hour, Ciara and I wandered through the bustling aisles filled with colorful displays of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. We engaged with local vendors, sampled a few traditional Hungarian dishes, and soaked in the sights and sounds.
Gellért Hill Cave Church
Venturing back onto the bustling streets of Budapest, we made our way toward the majestic Danube River. Opting for a different path this time, we traversed the Liberty Bridge, a striking contrast to the stone elegance of the Szechenyi Chain Bridge. Rather than massive stones, this bridge was entirely iron. I really began to appreciate the contrasting materials found in every inch of the city. That seemed to be continually telling a story of a city that’s endured for hundreds of years, and this bridge proved that point.
Venturing into Gellért Hill, Ciara and I discovered the hidden gem of the Gellért Hill Cave Church. Ripe with fascinating history, this unique church is carved directly into a hillside! The best part was the free audio-guided tour where we learned about its significance in Hungarian culture and religion. The intricate details of the interior architecture and the tranquil atmosphere within the cave were astounding. Furthermore, due to the natural hot springs directly under this church, the temperature remains at a comfortable 67 degrees year round!
Heroes’ Square
Departing from the Gellért Hill Cave Church, we noticed just how hungry we were! All this walking around had stirred up quite the appetite. Our footsteps led us to a cozy Greek deli where we indulged in savory gyros and delectable dolmas, fueling our bodies for the adventures that lay ahead.
As we savored the last bites of our meal, the allure of Heroes’ Square beckoned, probably thanks to its name found on signs all throughout the city. With satisfied appetites and eager spirits, we boarded a trolley bound for the eastern reaches of Budapest, eager to uncover the mysteries of this iconic landmark.
Arriving at Heroes’ Square, the first feat we admired was the grandiose plaza adorned with monumental statues and memorials honoring Hungary’s historic leaders and national heroes. It almost felt as though these were once parade grounds for knights passing their kings in a pass and review ceremony. We continued around the square at a leisurely stroll, admiring the imposing Millennium Monument and the intricate sculptures depicting scenes from Hungarian history.
As the day waned, casting a golden hue over the city, Ciara and I sought out a vantage point to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sunset.
Sunsets from the Museum of Ethnography
To this day, I have no idea what Ethnography is, nor do I care to Google it to give you an explanation. What’s important here is that the Museum of Ethnography offers one of most spectacular locations in all of Budapest for viewing a sunset.
Simply yet amazingly designed, this museum looks like a giant half-pipe coming straight out of the ground! Luckily, the massive green roofs on both “sides” of the half-pipe have stairs that gradually increase until you’re about 70-80 feet off the ground.
From this elevated vantage point, Ciara and I were fortunate enough to witness the city bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun, casting a magical glow over Budapest’s skyline. As we sat in the day’s final moments, we took a moment to reflect on our journey through the city and savored the tranquility of the evening, bidding farewell to another memorable day.
Final Day: Boutiques and Shops on Budapest’s Fashion Street
On our final day, with only a few hours before our mid-afternoon flight, we opted for a leisurely stroll along Budapest’s bustling Fashion Street, a vibrant avenue offering everything from luxury brands to charming thrift stores.
Amidst the eclectic array of shops, Ciara found herself drawn to a chic peacoat, a perfect addition to her wardrobe. Satisfied with our finds, we indulged in one last chimney cake, savoring the sweet treat as we bid farewell to the enchanting streets of Budapest and made our way back to the hotel to gather our belongings before heading to the airport.
In conclusion…
As I reflect on my whirlwind adventure in Budapest, I’m overwhelmed by the multitude of experiences and emotions that filled each moment of our journey. From the awe-inspiring grandeur of St. Stephen’s Basilica to the enchanting views atop Buda Castle, every step revealed a new layer of the city’s rich tapestry. Ciara and I are immensely grateful for the opportunity to explore such a captivating destination, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
To fellow expats and military members stationed in Europe, I urge you to seize the chance to discover Budapest for yourselves. Embrace the vibrant energy of the city, immerse yourselves in its history and culture, and indulge in its culinary delights. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling halls of the Central Market Hall or marveling at the intricate architecture of Heroes’ Square, Budapest offers something for everyone to enjoy.
As you embark on your own Budapest adventures, don’t hesitate to take recommendations from our journey. Whether it’s savoring a craft beer or soaking in the sunset from the roof of the Museum of Ethnography, let our experiences guide you to hidden gems and unforgettable moments.
And to those who have already explored Budapest or are planning to do so, I invite you to share your own stories and discoveries. Comment below and exchange tips, insights, and fond memories of this remarkable city. Because in the end, it’s these connections and shared experiences that truly enrich our travels and make them all the more meaningful.
