Budapest is the capital of Hungary, set in Central Hungary on the banks of the Danube River. The city is often called the Pearl of the Danube, a nickname that reflects its striking architecture and the river that shapes its layout. Its name is sometimes written as Buda-Pest, recalling the two sides of the river that were once separate towns.
What to see
- The Parliament building, one of the city's most recognisable landmarks, rising above the water.
- Fisherman's Bastion, a terrace with views across the river and its bridges.
- The thermal baths, a long-standing part of city life and one of the things Budapest is best known for.
Why visit
The city suits a visit built around its setting. The Danube divides the historic hills of Buda from the flatter streets of Pest, so walking along the river offers a steady succession of views. The mix of grand buildings and the slower pace of the baths gives a trip both sightseeing and rest.
Plan your days around the riverside, the hilltop viewpoints, and a visit to the baths, and leave time to wander the streets between them. Budapest rewards an unhurried stay.
