"Budapest: A Great European City" a Budapest Travel Page by Mitre

Budapest is definitely one of my favourite cities that I have visited. Split into two parts by the Danube, it has historical Buda and bustling Pest on either riverbank.

There is so much to do in this lively city of 2 million inhibitants that there is something for everyone. The castle district & citadella are beautiful and offer some stunning views of the river and Pest.

There are many museums, art galleries and churches to explore if thats your thing and a look at the stunning parliament building is a must. There are also numerous Turkish baths, a legacy of the Ottomans who were here. Although I didn't go to any, they are apparently recommended.

Budapest is a great city to walk in. The hilly Buda side is worth exploring. The pedestrianised Margaret Island is great in the summer. Pest is flat and has some excellent shopping in the area around Vaci Utca. The tree-lined Andrassy ut and Liszt Ferenc Ter are magic in the spring. With its pavement cafes you could easily be in Montmartre or Barcelona. The city is rather spread out though so a walking tour or a pub crawl could give you blisters.

Budapest is architecturally beautiful and one of the highlights is Heroes Square (Hosok Tere). Its impressive statues are a testament to the founding forefathers of the Hungarian nation. Also worth a mention is the Chain Bridge over the Danube (which I believe was designed by a Scot).

The transport system in Budapest is aging and a bit tatty but very punctual. Most Hungarians seem to moan about it but I found it to be very good. There is a cheap Metro which has 3 different lines and spreads out all over the city. These all converge at Deak Ferenc Ter in the heart of Pest. Connections to and from the airport are good by bus (the Metro stops short of here) and taxi. It is around 10 miles outside central Pest.

Nightlife in Budapest is also excellent. Bars & clubs open very late into the night and I will list some of my favourites in my travel tips later. Beware for touts trying to get you into Strip joints as these tend to be a rip off.

If you get fed up of the city there are numerous excursions you can take. Lake Balaton is only 50 miles down the M7. Pretty towns like Szentendre, Visegrad & Esztergom are all a short drive away (you can also take a ferry to these places).

Overall, a top city which I would thoroughly recommend to everyone.