Nine things to do in Budapest

Labelled the Paris of the East, Budapest captivates with its steep history and rich culture. Originally a Celtic settlement, it was later infused with Roman culture, and afterwards, the Ottomans when the Hungarians arrived. I breezed in and out of the city in 48 hours, coming in from Krakow and on my way to Salzburg. Here are my top nine things to do in Budapest when you only have two days.

Visit Heroes Square

If there’s one thing you have to do in Budapest, it’s to visit the Heroes Square. The Square makes an imposing sight- an expansive clearing with the tall Millennium Monument in the centre, flanked by two colonnades, each lined up with seven statues representing great figures of Hungarian history. Development began in 1896 to commemorate the one thousandth anniversary of the conquest of the Carpathian Basin by Hungary. The memorial is dedicated to those perished for the quest of Hungary’s Independence.

Explore Fisherman’s Bastion

There are a few attractions up on the Castle Hill. But don’t worry, you needn’t climb up if you’re not up for it. You can take the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular up, which itself is like an attraction.

Started operations in 1870, it was destroyed during the World War II and resurrected in 1986. It was Europe’s second funicular to be erected, the first one was in Lyon, France. Once you’re at the top, head to the Fisherman’s Bastion and its lookout terrace. Here, you can admire the neo-Gothic construction of seven towers, symbolizing the seven clan leaders of Magyar origins that settled in the Carpathian Basin during the IX century. The structure was named after the once nearby medieval fish market and the Guild of Fisherman who defended this region during the wars. After you’re done admiring the Bastion, head to the lookout and drink in the sights of the Danube River and the arresting view of the buildings on the Pest side.

 

Visit the Matthias Church

Just behind the Fisherman’s Bastian is the Matthias Church that crowns the Castle Hill, overlooking the city. Pay attention to the roof, tiled with colored shingles, uncommon for a church design. Originally a German Parish church, the façade of the now Roman Catholic Church looks like an eclectic mix of influences. It was built in the Romanesque style but having undergone a few influences through the years, including the French and the Turks, it has evolved into a more neo-Gothic style. You can step inside for a look, I read the glass walls are lined with stain-glass paintings. I visited during summer, which unfortunately was a popular period for upgrading works. Scaffolding decorated the church’s exterior, killing my desire to explore the church. It also put a crimp on my photos.

 

Explore the Buda Castle and lounge at the Savoyai Terrace

On the Southern tip of the Castle Hill is the Buda Castle, a historical Castle and Palace of the Hungarian Kings since 1256. A World Heritage Site since 1987, the castle has gone under an extensive modernization process and is now a cultural center, with three museums and a library. You can admire the castle from the outside, but the highlight of coming to the Buda Castle is really to laze at the Savoyai Terrace. The terrace claims the best views of the city. You can see the gleaming Danube slicing the two sides of the city, with the majestic Parliament overlooking the river. There are deckchairs and stalls selling drinks and snacks at the Terrace. Take some time to soak in the atmosphere.

Walk across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge

This is one of the most beautiful bridges that spans the Danube. A suspension bridge that links Buda and Pest, this bridge was designed in 1839 and opened a decade later. The first bridge in the city, it was also one of the largest bridges in the world, stretching an impressive 202 meters. The fearsome lion sculptures you see at the end of the bridge were only added in 1852.

Did you know: Take a closer look at this magnificent stone lions- they have no tongues!

 

Take a picture of House of Parliament

This is one of the most popular images to represent Budapest- a striking stark white expanse of a structure with soaring spikes. You have a good view of the Parliament House from the Fisherman’s Bastion, but you may also wish to look at this neo-Gothic structure up close. At almost 270 meters in length, this is the largest building in Hungary. But to get in, you’ll need to have a guided tour. It goes for 2000 HUF for inhabitants of European Union and 4000 HUF otherwise.

If you really want to visit, grab tickets daily from 8 am onwards. Get them early because they get sold out fast, and are available at the front of the Parliament House. There are touters outside selling tickets, but ignore them. You can also get tickets online in advance to secure your visit.

Tip: Avoid visiting on Mondays and Tuesdays, Parliamentary sessions are usually in session on these days.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

This is Budapest’s main church, renovated in recent years. A display of neoclassical architecture, the chapel’s almost 100 meter high dome is visible from all corners of the city. Word is that the mummified right hand of the first Hungarian King- St Stephen, is placed in the chapel.

Tip: While details of the Basilica can be admired in gleaming white under the sun’s rays, the night view of the chapel gives it an almost romantic feel. So you might want to make a visit both day and night.

Try the Local food

Hungarian food largely revolves around meats, seasonal vegetables, bread fruits and dairy products, and are pretty appetizing. Schnitzels are a must. I was at a mini music festival and came across a roadside stall selling local fare. The potatoes are absolutely divine. So don’t be afraid to be adventurous. Ice cream is really cheap in Budapest, so if you’re into desserts, knock yourself out. They even come in pretty designs.

 

Take a stroll at night

Budapest comes alive at night, with shimmering lights that dance and illuminate the city’s most priceless. Take a walk through the city’s main sights along the Danube with a cup of coffee. During your stroll, you’ll chance upon a busker or two, drawing you in with their music and charm. Don’t forget to thank them for their efforts.

With an unforgettable night time stroll, I ended my Budapest jaunt with the loveliest memories of a dreamy Buda Castle, a dancing party of lights that lined the Chain Bridge and a hauntingly beautiful St. Stephen’s Basilica.

I’ve also realized that while Hungarians mostly wear stoic expressions, they are helpful when need be. I’ve asked for directions and sought assistance with handling bus fares, both times stern faced locals attended to me. While they looked like they wanted nothing more than to be left alone, they helpfully pointed me to the right place and patiently taught me how to pay for my fare.

What are your best memories of Budapest?