You may not need any particular reason to visit Budapest, the Hungarian capital. However, if you are weighing a visit to Budapest versus a visit to another European destination, consider the following reasons why Budapest is a good choice:
Architecture
Many travelers speak of the “faded beauty” of Budapest, which is present in its multi-story buildings that have not undergone continuous renovation or recent restoration. Various architectural styles are represented. For example, the Parliament Building is an elegant example of Neo-Gothic architecture, while Budapest’s Art Nouveau examples add to its turn-of-the-century charm.
Food and drink
If you like Hungarian food (or any other kind of food), Budapest offers you the opportunity to feast on. Try goulash soup and other traditional national dishes. Also, don’t forget about Hungarian wine and spirits. Palinka is the fruit brandy that Hungarians raved about and produced in a variety of flavors. If you prefer wine, the variants of the wine regions surrounding Budapest, offered in restaurants, pubs and wine bars will keep your taste buds occupied.
Festivals
Budapest hosts a wide variety of festivals throughout the year, from festivals celebrating traditional food and drink, to music festivals, cultural festivals, film festivals, and more. The Summer Festival acts as a major attraction during the hottest months of the year, while a Christmas market receives visits from Santa Claus and Christmas decorations, food, and gifts.
Souvenir shopping
Hungary knows how to capitalize on its beautiful and colorful artisan and traditional products. Hungarian embroidery is one of the most popular souvenirs with its colorful flowers on a plain background. But visitors frequently leave Hungary with bags full of paprika, porcelain, marzipan, fashion accessories, or handcrafted jewelry.
Monuments
The main sights of Budapest are really impressive. From the lavish interior of the State Opera House, to the understated superb of the Parliament Building, the grandeur of St. Stephen’s Basilica, the whimsical and elegant Art Nouveau structures, even on a rainy day, Budapest can offer spectacular opportunities to take photos.
Thermal baths
If you need to relax but can’t combine your city trip with a stay in a spa town, consider a visit to one of Budapest’s many thermal baths. These baths have a long tradition and many offer additional services such as massages and wellness treatments.
Story
Budapest is steeped in history, and you can feel it right from the start. This sprawling city has several centers, and Buda and Pest (which came together to form the contemporary city) have countless stories to tell. You can visit the Roman ruins, the top of Castle Hill, or the Jewish Quarter to learn about the history of the area and its people. Or spend a few hours in one of Budapest’s historic cafes.
Weather
Protected by mountains, Budapest offers good weather even when other parts of Europe are less pleasant. The temperature here is warmer, precipitation softer. Although Budapest can be hot in the summer, in the shoulder seasons it is nice and pleasant, especially if you visit a place that is generally colder!
Price
Hungary is not the cheapest destination in Eastern Europe, but it does not have Western European prices either. Enjoy good food and drink, admission to attractions, and affordable lodging and food that will allow you to maximize your budget for the best experience.
Proximity to other parts of Hungary
Other regions of Hungary can be visited on a day trip from Budapest. For example, Lake Balaton is just an hour’s drive south of the capital. You can visit wine regions, small towns, castles, parks, and other attractions while maintaining a base in the capital city.
