The capital of Hungary, Budapest actually consists of three unified cities, with Buda and Óbuda on the west bank of the Danube and Pest on its east bank. The city is well-known for having its main area designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which proves its unique and inimitable beauty. Many visitors consider this city to be one of the most exciting places in Europe, a favorite destination for numerous visitors and a place with its own history, glory and beauty.
1. Parliament Building
Heroes Square Budapest in morning-Hungary. Photo: depositphotos.com
One of the largest and most famous buildings in Hungary, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a must-see place for tourists coming here year-round to see the world famous building and take a picture in front of it. The Parliament Building was originally designed and built in the Gothic Revival style and right now it is one of the biggest buildings in Hungary, and is home to hundreds of parliamentary offices. Although the impressive building looks fantastic from every angle, to see the whole building in its full glory, it is worth viewing it from the other side of the Danube. Tours of certain areas of the building are available daily, and available in different languages. You will need identification to get in, and your bag may be searched on entry.
2. Danube River Cruise
Photo: depositphotos.com
The city of Budapest is absolutely stunning at night, when evening comes. The banks of the Danube amazingly reflect on the dark water of the river. So if you have a chance to take a cruise in the evening, don’t miss it. That doesn’t mean that day-time cruises are less beautiful or impressive, but the evening brings out a special atmosphere and ambiance of romantic Budapest. Evening sightseeing cruises are offered with audio headsets and give interesting facts about the history of Budapest, its cultural heritage, architecture and historical buildings. You can also receive information about trivia related to the city: for instance, did you know that the Rubik’s Cube was invented by a Hungarian in Budapest in 1974? Longer and more romantic buffet-style dinner cruises are also available.
3. Heroes’ Square
Budapest parliament. Photo: depositphotos.com
Heroes’ Square (Hosök tere), which marks the end of Andrássy Avenue, is home to an iconic monument which features depictions of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars, who are believed to have led the Hungarian people from Central Asia to the Carpathian Basin. Atop the central pillar is the Archangel Gabriel, who is holding the Hungarian crown. On either side of the central column are two matching colonnades, which depict a variety of other historical Hungarian figures. The impressive buildings at either side of the square are art galleries. Take care when crossing the street over to the statue, because traffic around the monument can be difficult.
4.Hungarian State Opera House
Photo: depositphotos.com
This Neo-Renaissance building was first opened in 1884, following a commission from Emperor Franz Joseph. Outside of the building, you can see statues dedicated to Ferenc Erkel (composer of the Hungarian National Anthem) and Ferenc Liszt (Hungarian composer).
The 1,200 seat auditorium is considered to be one of the best in the world for operatic performances, and it is well worth it to buy a ticket to a show.
Ticket prices start from as low as 500ft. If you cannot find time to see a show, guided tours of the Opera House are available during the day, although these usually need to be booked in advance.
5. Invisible Exhibition
Photo: depositphotos.com
The Invisible Exhibition aims to give visitors the chance to experience what life is like for people who are completely blind. A registered blind guide will take you on a tour through various different artificially created environments (garden, supermarket, bar etc.) which are in completely dark rooms.
On arrival, you will be asked to turn off any potential light sources, such as mobile phones or digital watches, so that there will no light at all in the rooms.
After the exhibition, you can enjoy dinner in the dark, served by blind waiters, who will help you find your way around your dinner plate.
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