"A Gem of a City" Budapest by AnnS

Budapest Travel Guide: 7,462 reviews and 17,197 photos

First Foray Into Eastern Europe

Eastern European countries has been on my list of places to visit for some time. However, until October 2004, they'd always been deferred in favour of cheaper flights or better deals to places in Western Europe.

Then one day I was scouring the Internet to see what was available and I spotted an EasyJet flight to Budapest for £44.98. Further investigation showed that hotels in Budapest were not prohibitively expensive and I soon sorted out 3 nights in a 4* hotel for £222, which made the trip within my total budget of £300.

First Impressions

Shops in Váci Utca

I don't really know what I'd expected. I was very excited to be going somewhere 'different'... but thought perhaps things might be a little more difficult or less advanced than in well-trodden tourist destinations.

How wrong I was! From the minute the plane landed, everything was efficient and the people very helpful. A minibus whisked me right to the door of my hotel... so no struggling with bags, I got a very friendly welcome when I checked in, my single room was lovely and I'd been very impressed with what I'd seen of Budapest so far from the bus window.

So I was settled... and feeling comfortable.

One Of The Best So Far

Budapest Opera House

I loved Budapest. I had three days there, filled with infusions of beautiful scenery, impressive architecture, fascinating history and the kind of helpfulness and friendliness from the people that makes any trip more enjoyable.

I must say that as a single traveller, I'd been just a tad apprehensive but there was no need and I would recommend people to visit this beautiful city, whatever their circumstances. They will not be disappointed.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Beautiful architecture, interesting history, lovely parks, helpful people, great for photography
In a nutshell:One of Europe's Great Cities

Last visit to Budapest: Oct 2004
Intro Updated Nov 1, 2006
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Reviews (21)

Musical Fountain on Margaret Island - Budapest

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Ministry of Agriculture Building - Budapest

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Hungarian Parliament Building - Budapest

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Comments (4)

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janetanne Feb 16, 2011 at 10:54 AM

How I'd love to spend a few days in Budapest and your hotel sounds like a perfect choice since I too travel alone. Thanks Ann for excellent tips. Janet
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magor65 Feb 13, 2007 at 12:41 PM

Your wonderful pictures and informative tips bring back many nice memories of the distant days, when I used to visit Budapest on regular basis. Well done.
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RickinDutch Jan 31, 2007 at 3:50 PM

Excellent tips! Just the right blend of information with a personal touch. You've helped us plan our next trip! Thanks!
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hojasdehierba Nov 1, 2006 at 11:36 AM

You are building a nice Budapest page! I have enjoyed it. Cheers.