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Budapest is one of my favorites cities that I have ever been to! I was not prepared for how breathtakingly beautiful Budapest is. There are so many dazzling sites that made me feel like a real life Cinderella. Matt and I went for a romantic weekend getaway and it was absolutely perfect. It would have also been great for a longer trip, since there is no shortage of things to see and do!
Things To Do
Fisherman’s Bastion
Address: Budapest, Szentháromság tér, 1014 Hungary
Fisherman’s Bastion is definitely the top Budapest attraction for me! I felt like I walked right into a fairy tale. It has a gorgeous panoramic view of Budapest. I suggest going to the castle for sunrise. You get the beautiful morning glow and there is no sight like it! The castle is open all year round, day and night.
Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Address: Budapest, Széchenyi Lánchíd, 1051 Hungary
Széchenyi Chain Bridge spans the Danube river and connects the western and eastern sides of Budapest. It is known as connecting the Buda and the Pest. It was built in 1839 and has much history if you are interested. If not, it just makes for a gorgeous walk over the river!
Buda Castle
Address: Budapest, Szent György tér 2, 1014 Hungary
Historically, the Buda Castle is the home of the Hungarian Kings in Budapest. Today, Buda Castle sits atop Castle Hill (great views of the city) and is the home of the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Library of Hungary. The building displays a wide range of architectural styles from the Middle Ages, Baroque, and Art Nouveau. It is an art history buffs dream (aka myself)! Walk across the Szechenyi Chain Bridge for a gorgeous view of the Buda Castle.
Parliament Building
Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary
Definitely a sight you don’t want to miss! The Parliament building is a domed Neo-Gothic building that was inspired by the House of Parliament in England. If you want, you can pay to enter the building. Guided tours are also available.
Faust Wine Cellar
Address: Budapest, (inside the Hilton at the Dominican Cloister), Hess András tér 1, 1014 Hungary
My husband absolutely loves wine and is a certified (self-certified by himself) wine connoisseur! To surprise him, I booked a wine tasting at the Faust Wine Cellar. The wine cellar is located under the Hilton hotel, but don’t let this deceive you! This cellar was there long before the Hilton was built. The stairs leading down to the cellar are the remains of a 13th century Dominican Cloister. The wine cellar is a part of a huge underground system underneath Castle Hill. In the middle ages, it was an escape route… like yes please, let me drink some wine in this creepy old cellar woot woot!
You can email them ahead of time to make a reservation or you can just walk in. I highly recommend emailing them beforehand, since they have limited seating and high demand. There are two ways to do the tasting, you can either choose from the wine list or follow their recommendations. I suggest the second option. You are exposed to 6-9 tastings of Hungarian wine. You learn about different wines and the regions they come from. It is a one of a kind experience!
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Hungary
One of the biggest tourist attractions in Budapest is the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. We however, did not go in the public baths… no thank you, I don’t want to swim in a hot bath full of germs with a bunch of strangers! If that’s your thing, don’t let me stop you! The baths are located in a gorgeous park. Spend an hour or more roaming the park and take in the scenery. While you are at it, rent a scooter for a guaranteed fun time!
Other Recommendations: Heroe’s Square, Gellért Hill, Shoes on the Danube River, Museum of Fine Arts, and the Hungarian National Gallery
Food
Dobrumba
Address: Budapest, Dob u. 5, 1074 Hungary
When in Budapest, head over to Dobrumba for lunch or dinner. Do yourself a favor and order hummus as an appetizer. They have many different hummus options from traditional chickpea to butternut squash. Dobrumba is primarily a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurant that prides itself on having influence from all over the world. There is no shortage of delicious and distinctive dishes.
What to Order: Hummus and the Labneh and Spinach Fatoush Salad (Feta, dates, baby spinach, marinated onion, pita crisps, and pumpkin seeds). The most delicious fatoush salad I have ever had hands down!
Stika
Address: Budapest, Dob u. 46/a, 1072 Hungary
A delicious breakfast and brunch spot in the Jewish quarter. They are known for their wide selection of Benny’s. If you are looking for a traditional Hungarian breakfast, they have that as well.
What to Order: Any of their Benny’s
Mátka
Address: 1075 Budapest, Holló Utca 12-14
Mátka is a Hungarian restaurant with a modern twist located in Gozsdu Udvar, which is an area that combines entertainment, food, and culture. There are so many restaurants here, but Mátka is one of the best! As a pescatarian, the world of interesting Hungarian meats can be intimidating, but there is something for all diets at this restaurant. Mátka is at a slightly higher price point, so head here if you want fine dining. Total side note, when Matt and I were here, I accidentally made a really loud clucking sound with my mouth and everyone looked at me like I was a psycho… good times!
What to Order: Their menu changes based on the season. When we went, I ordered a goat cheese salad and a fish dish. But you know what doesn’t change… Martinis! So order yourself any flavor of their refreshing martinis!
Street Food
There is an abundance of street foot in Budapest and it all looks delicious! I got this tasty Oreo cone. I am not sure of the proper name, but all I can say is that you must get one when you visit Budapest!
Shopping
Szputnyik Shop D20
Address: Budapest, Dohány u. 20, 1074 Hungary
Budapest has an abundance of vintage shops around every corner. I think Budapest has one of the best selections of vintage goods out of any city I have ever been to! My favorite vintage shop is Szputnyik Shop D20. This shop has carefully selected merchandise at a great price. Can we just talk about that colorful leather jacket in the picture!? Yes please, I want it!
Nanuska
Address: Budapest, Bécsi u. 3, 1052 Hungary
Nanuska is a Budapest clothing brand that showcases a confident woman that is feminine and at ease. The founder, Sandra Sandor, draws inspiration for her brand from the spiritual journey through culture and time. The brand is at a higher price point, but even if you aren’t looking to purchase, head over to the flagship store to admire the gorgeous clothing. The flagship also features a coffee shop, so sit and enjoy a nice cup of joe!
I would return to Budapest in a heartbeat! A dazzling and vibrant city that combines tasty food, culture, and Cinderella moments. A must go for your next adventure!
Xo Haley Jean
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