BUDAPEST
Welcome to the jaw dropping, art inspiring city of Budapest. Before I came here, I had no idea about this city at all. But after getting to know Budapest three times this year, I can definitely say that I have fallen in love with this city, and if I had a chance, I would definitely grab the opportunity to live here.
What to do in Budapest
This city will definitely keep you busy. There are lots of tourist attractions, restaurants and bars, or you can just simply grab a drink from a convenience store and sit and relax by the Danube river. Whatever you choose to do, its almost certain that you will enjoy spending a few days here.
The Chain Bridge
Connecting Buda and Pest, the Chain Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attraction in Budapest. Built in 1849, it is the first and most iconic bridge connecting the separate towns of Buda and Pest.
As soon as you cross the Chain bridge, you will instantly find the Buda Castle. Also known in Hungary as Budavari Palota, this castle has once been the residence of Hungarian kings. No doubt it's also one of the most visited destinations in Budapest.
Fisherman’s Bastion/ Matthias Church
Lying atop the Buda Castle Hill, you will find the Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church.
With such a name as Fisherman's Bastion, you would expect that there would be some connection to a fishing village at this tourist attraction. Yet, this structure is far from what a typical fishing village looks like. It is so grand and decorative, for a reason. The Fisherman's Bastion was actually built in celebration of the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarian State. Designed by Frigyes Schulek, the intention is to build a structure that will help with the restoration of the church (hence the redesigning of the Matthias Church adjacent to the bastion) and connecting the Fish Town by the Danube river to the Castle Hill.
The bastion was actually built to become a viewing terrace for locals, and its' fairy tale like structure triggers a sense of nostalgia in lieu of the olden times.
With such a name as Fisherman's Bastion, you would expect that there would be some connection to a fishing village at this tourist attraction. Yet, this structure is far from what a typical fishing village looks like. It is so grand and decorative, for a reason. The Fisherman's Bastion was actually built in celebration of the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarian State. Designed by Frigyes Schulek, the intention is to build a structure that will help with the restoration of the church (hence the redesigning of the Matthias Church adjacent to the bastion) and connecting the Fish Town by the Danube river to the Castle Hill.
The bastion was actually built to become a viewing terrace for locals, and its' fairy tale like structure triggers a sense of nostalgia in lieu of the olden times.
The Fisherman Bastion's ceremonial stairs is like a welcome invitation offering everyone the amazing view of the Danube River and the Pest side that boasts one of its most magnificent structures-- the Parliament Building.
The Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament Building rests on the Pest side of Budapest which houses the National Assembly of the country. With its Neo-Gothic structure over a hundred years old, it is definitely a must see when you go to the city. It's equally beautiful at day time and during night time. This is my personal favorite spot in Budapest, and I never miss the chance to see it every time I come. I am definitely in awe with how perfect its structure is.
The Great Market Hall
Another favorite of mine on the Pest side is their central market hall or what is also known as the Great Market Hall. Personally, I believe that the way to really know a place is through its markets-- see how the local shop, and what they shop for.
Living up to its name, I have never seen a market as grand as this before. Even if you don't need to buy anything, just looking at this structure is an attraction by itself. But please do buy from the market as they offer fresh veggies and fruits, breads, cheeses, hungarian alcohol and of course their famous sausages. Do not also miss out the authentic hungarian dishes offered on the second floor which also houses different souvenir shops.
Living up to its name, I have never seen a market as grand as this before. Even if you don't need to buy anything, just looking at this structure is an attraction by itself. But please do buy from the market as they offer fresh veggies and fruits, breads, cheeses, hungarian alcohol and of course their famous sausages. Do not also miss out the authentic hungarian dishes offered on the second floor which also houses different souvenir shops.
Ruin Bars
One thing you must know and one of the many reasons why I love Budapest is their abundance of shops that sell cheap alcohol. And one of the many places you can hang and find affordable drinks resides at Kacinzky street. The most famous is Szimpla Kert, a hip place that attracts young folks with its bohemian and 'instagrammable" vibe. Szimpla is simply in a condemned but spruced up building housing different bars in every corner. Once night comes, young and creative crowd gathers in this place to enjoy music, drinks, and of course, the artistic vibe of the place. Don't be surprised if you enter a bar with a bath tub and a piano in one place, and random guests will just play to their hearts delight.
Even though the party goes on at night, they do have a wholesome event on Sundays with their Farmers Market event offering local products. To add to that, they also have a buffet brunch every Sunday from 9am to 2pm, offering a massive array of dishes and fresh produce from local producers.
Even though the party goes on at night, they do have a wholesome event on Sundays with their Farmers Market event offering local products. To add to that, they also have a buffet brunch every Sunday from 9am to 2pm, offering a massive array of dishes and fresh produce from local producers.
Budapest is known for its lively atmosphere, so definitely, there are more bars you can go to aside from Szimpla. They have Instant and Fogasz, both bar complexes where people who like to dance can come. It is just a few walks away from Szimpla. So if you're in the mood for bar hopping, don't think twice, just go! It's a good opportunity to meet new friends and enjoy the city.
In the three times that I’ve been to this city, I can definitely say that I have fallen in love-- or did I say that already? The heart cannot lie, and mine says Budapest has stolen it and I'm not complaining. I hope we cross paths again. There are still a lot of places to explore, people to meet and things to discover in this wonderful city.