Sunday, March 20, 2011

Budapest Travel Information

Budapest Travel Information



The heart and soul of Hungary, Budapest is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. With its famous bathing traditions, pleasant cityscapes, and sites of historical interest, this centrally located European capital attracts more than 20 million visitors yearly. Therefore, Budapest is widely regarded as one of the top travel destinations in Europe and the main attraction of Hungary.

Budapest, hilly city of river Danube and thermal spas

The cityscapes of Budapest are enchanted with River Danube flowing through the city, thanks to which Budapest is also known as the Queen of Danube. River Danube also divides the city into two separate districts; the west side is known as Buda, and the east side is called Pest. Buda is known as the place where most tourism attractions in Budapest are located, and Pest is the administrative center of Hungary.
A bathhouse in Budapest
A bathhouse in Budapest

Shopping and entertainment. On the east bank of the river Danube you will find the main commercial area with good possibilities for shopping in Budapest available. For those searching for cultural experiences, there are good concerts in Budapest available regularly. Nightlife in Budapest is very lively throughout the year, and the city offers a good variety of cultural entertainment possibilities from theatres to opera.

Historical sights. The Castle Hill located in Buda is the oldest part of Budapest and the home of the most famous tourist attractions in Budapest. This is the place where you can admire the Hungarian Royal Palace, explore the National Gallery art collections, or simply enjoy the wonderful views opening from the lookout terraces across the River Danube and over the roofs of the Hungarian capital. If you are in for historical buildings in Budapest, the 2,000 year old Roman ruins and the 400 year old Turkish monuments will also surely please your eye.
Details inside St Andrews church in Budapest
Details inside St Andrews church in Budapest

Turkish bath tradition. Another interesting historical remain left over from the Turkish occupation of Budapest is the rich Hungarian bathing tradition, which nowadays is regarded as the trademark of the city. The numerous spas in Budapest are built around thermal springs, and range from luxury spas to cheaper public baths where you can relax with local people. Most Budapest spas offer also a variety of wellness treatments.

Practical information for your trip to Budapest

Weather in Budapest is warm during the summer and cool during the winter. Summertime in Hungary lasts from May to September, with the high season and European summer holidays enjoyed in July and August. The best time to travel to Budapest is between April and October, but the city can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Although petty crime such as pick-pocketing does occur, Budapest is a safe travel destination suitable also for families with small children.
A view of Budapest city and Danube
A view of Budapest city and Danube

Shopping in Budapest is concentrated in Pest area. Here you can find massive shopping centers selling modern luxury goods, small shops offering fashionable clothing, and outdoor markets selling more traditional Hungarian shopping items like porcelain and folk embroidery. A good variety of delicious Hungarian wines is also available in the shops of Budapest. Price level in Budapest is relatively low by European standards, but prices tend to go up in the most touristy areas of the city.

Travelling to Budapest is easy in a variety of ways. Flights to Budapest are available from most major European airports. Thanks to its central location in Europe, there are also good land transport connections available, including regular international buses and trains to Budapest from many European countries.
Fisherman's Bastion, looking across the Danube to Pest.
Fisherman's Bastion, looking across the Danube to Pest.

Visitor services and touring. Restaurants in Budapest offer you a wide variety of choices, and there is also a large amount of hotels in Budapest available in many price categories. Renting a car in Budapest is a good idea if you want to explore the beautiful Hungarian countryside. If you plan to stay inside the city, you might find the services of public transport a better option. In Budapest there are three metro lines, trams, trolley buses, local trains and a dense bus network offering good possibilities for getting around in the city.

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