Budapest, a capital of Hungary, is the eight most-populated capital in Europe (1.7 million citizens in year 2014 according to Hungarian Central Statistical Office). Even though the city dates officially to years 1872-73 when three cities unified: Buda, Obuda and Pest (that’s how it got it’s current name) it’s foundations are from around year 89 A.D. and they officially became a town in 1244. The city contains many interesting monuments and museums. Some of the architecture has traces of communist concepts and design. Interesting is that one of the monuments is the metro. First (yellow) line has been launched in 1896 and it was the first underground urban train system in continental Europe. The line has 4,2 kilometres (11 stations) and it’s still fully functional.
The most pleasant time to visit Budapest is late spring and summer. It’s climate is quite similar to other continental regions of central Europe. If it comes to architecture and city layout it reminded me a little of Prague. I guess that people that liked the Prague will feel nice here as well. For „fast visitors” three full days of tour should be enough to see the most of the town. Accommodation is available in many various hotels and hostels. Hostels are quite expensive there and provide a low standard. They are mostly located in old rubbish tenement houses. People spending more time in the hotel room would want to pay extra for a hotel in newer building probably. It’s easy to move around the city using buses and trams. Groups of attractions can be easily walked by foot. While taking a walk there is also an opportunity to find a bar or restaurant that can serve one of the Hungarian specialities: goulash soup, the goulash itself, Halaszle (fish soup) or Tokaji (Hungarian wine).
Take a look at few pictures I did during my short visit in Budapest:
Above: chain bridge connecting what used to be Buda and Pest. Open in 1849 it counts 380 meters in length. Stone statues of lions are situated at both its ends. I don't know what happened to this guy's head on the picture. :)
Standard architecture of the city and characteristical placement of it on the hills. Enlarge picture
Macintosh church (from the outside and inside). Enlarge picture taken from the outside or the inside
Parliament. Enlarge picture
Fishing tower (also as an observation deck). Enlarge picture
Vajdahunyad castle is nicely enlightened at night. Walks near it are pleasant. Enlarge picture
Market hall. Enlarge picture
Basilica of saint Stefan. Enlarge picture
I encourage to visit the city and to travel in general. In my opinion it's one of the most pleasant way to broaden the horizons!