Weekend in Budapest, visits and activities

Budapest was born from the fusion of two cities: the aristocratic Buda, on the right bank of the Danube, and the industrious Pest, which developed in the 19th century on the south bank of the river. Buda is home to magnificent Baroque architecture, which can be admired as you stroll along the cobbled streets. The Castle district is a delightful sight with its colourful facades, and is an ideal preamble to the elegant castle built at the end of the 17th century on top of the hill. You can also take the funicular, whose wooden carriages have an inimitable style.

At the top, there is a spectacular view of the entire city of Budapest. A walk along the city walls offers further views.

The oldest bridge in Budapest was inaugurated in 1849, after two decades of construction. It connected the cities of Buda and Pest, creating the city we know today.

The present bridge is not the original structure. It was destroyed during the Second World War and rebuilt in 1949. The Chain Bridge is open to car traffic and also has a pedestrian bridge. The lookouts on Buda Hill offer spectacular views of the bridge.

One of the largest squares in Budapest is adorned with magnificent statues representing the seven founding tribes of Hungary. This unique architectural ensemble has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. 

You can visit the square in the early morning, and complete your walk by strolling through the alleys of the Városlige Park, where you can find thermal baths, a zoo, and the Vajdahunyad Castle.

Known to the Celts and Romans, the thermal springs of Budapest have been exploited for several thousand years. Even today, they remain a must-see tourist attraction. There are many places to choose from, depending on your budget or your desires.

The Gellert Centre, one of the most prestigious thermal baths, has several pools and saunas. The Kiraly Spa, built by the Ottomans, has remarkable architecture. You can also visit the Széchenyi Spa, located in Varosliget Park. To avoid long queues, several establishments offer online booking of tickets.
 

Designed by the architect Samu Pecz, the largest of the five markets built at the end of the 19th century has an original architecture, combining art nouveau and neo-gothic styles. Completely renovated in the 1990s, it hosts a market from Monday to Saturday. You will discover a lively place, where the numerous stalls present a wide choice of Hungarian specialities.

On the first floor, there are stalls inviting you to have a snack on the go. The prices are affordable and the atmosphere is friendly.