Poppy’s Travel Diary – Budapest – Nestled along the majestic banks of the Danube River, Budapest stands as a testament to centuries of rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural marvels. This enchanting city, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Danube,” captivates visitors with its stunning landmarks, thermal baths, and dynamic culinary scene.
A Tale of Two Cities: Buda and Pest
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is uniquely divided by the Danube River, with the historic districts of Buda and Pest on either side. Buda, characterised by its rolling hills and medieval architecture, is home to the iconic Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, offering panoramic views of the city.
Across the river, we stayed in Pest at the newly furbished Dorothea Hotel, Autograph Collection. Inspired by the captivating lives of Archduchess Dorothea and Palatine Joseph in 19th century Budapest, Dorothea Hotel seamlessly blends the vibrant energies of a modern-day metropolis with the city’s timeless splendour. The food was exceptional as well as the staff and attention to details to make our stay a memorable one.
Pest boasts a vibrant urban landscape, with bustling boulevards, grand buildings, and cultural landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica.
One of the most striking features of Budapest is its architectural diversity, reflecting influences from various periods and styles. Gothic, Baroque, Art Nouveau, and Neoclassical buildings coexist harmoniously, creating a visually captivating cityscape. From the majestic Parliament Building to the ornate Dohány Street Synagogue, Budapest’s architecture tells a story of its rich and complex past.
Thermal Baths and Wellness
Budapest is renowned for its abundance of natural thermal springs, which have been revered for their healing properties for centuries. The city is dotted with historic thermal baths, offering a tranquil retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether soaking in the thermal pools of Széchenyi or indulging in a traditional Turkish bath experience at Rudas, Budapest’s thermal baths provide a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Culinary Delights
No visit to Budapest would be complete without sampling the city’s delectable culinary offerings. Hungarian cuisine is characterised by its hearty and flavourful dishes, with staples such as goulash, lángos (fried dough), and chimney cake delighting the taste buds of visitors and locals alike.
Borkonyha Winekitchen should be high on your list of culinary restaurants to try, awarded with a Michelin Star for 10 years, the meal, wine and service was excellent.
Cultural Hub
As a cultural hub of Central Europe, Budapest offers a wealth of artistic and cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy. From world-class museums and galleries to vibrant street art and performances, there’s no shortage of cultural attractions to explore. Be sure to catch a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House or immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art, as well as The Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum, and the Hungarian National Gallery, to name just a few.
The Museum of Ethnography once part of the Hungarian National Museum, has been a separate institution since 1947. Its current award-winning building, designed by NAPUR Architect, opened in 2022. It houses the museum’s extensive collection of 250,000 items and has a garden on the roof. The collections focus on Hungary and other parts of Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, and America. Visitors can explore textiles, costumes, tools, furniture, valuable manuscripts, and books.
Budapest, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, beckons travellers from around the globe to explore its enchanting streets and discover its hidden treasures. Budapest was an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Poppy Watt