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Η Βουδαπέστη είναι μαγικός προορισμός! Η αρχιτεκτονική της είναι τέτοιου επιπέδου που απλά δεν το πιστεύεις. Ας μην μιλήσω για το φαγητό, τα κτήρια και τα υπέροχα ζεστά λουτρά της! Αυτή η πόλη είναι το όνειρο κάθε ταξιδιώτη διότι τα συνδιάζει όλα και επιπλέον είναι φοβερά οικονομική! Έαν λοιπόν σχεδιάζετε να επισκεφθείτε το Διαμάντι του Δούναβη, είναι στο σωστό σημείο. Σήμερα θα μοιραστώ μαζί σας μερικά tips που θα κάνουν το ταξίδι σας αξέχαστο!

ΓΕΝΙΚΑ

#1.Οργανωθείτε
Υπάρχουν χιλιάδες (εκατομμύρια) πράγματα να κάνει και να δει κανείς στην Βουδαπέστη. Όσες ημέρες και να μείνετε, πιστέψτε με δεν θα είναι αρκετές. Επιπλέον, τα αξιοθέατα είναι διάσπαρτα σε όλη την πόλη, και στις δύο όχθες του Δούναβη και θέλει αρκετή οργάνωση. Μάθετε 1-2 πράγματα για τον προορισμό σας και επιλέξτε προσεκτικά που θα πάτε και τι θα δείτε. Εγώ έμεινα 4 ολόκληρες ημέρες και παρά το πολύ οργανωμένο πρόγραμμά μας δεν κατάφερα να τα δω όλα. Οργανωθείτε λοιπόν για να μην το μετανιώσετε!

#2. Καλύτερη εποχή του χρόνου
Πραγματικά δεν υπάρχει καλύτερη εποχή του χρόνου για να επισκεφθείτε τη Βουδαπέστη αλλά εάν θέλετε καλό καιρό προτιμήστε την περίοδο από το τέλος καλοκαιριού έως της αρχές του φθινοπώρου.


#3. Που να μείνετε
Το θέμα αυτό θέλει πολύ συζήτηση καθώς οι επιλογές είναι ατελειώτες και καλύπτουν όλα τα πορτοφόλια. Η Βούδα είναι γεμάτη υπέροχα κτήρια όπως τα Λουτρά Gellért, Το Κάστρο, ο Πύργος του Ψαρά (Fisherman’s Bastion) και η εκκλησία του Αγίου Ματθαίου. Η περιοχή είναι ήσυχη, ήρεμη και μπορείτε να δείτε τα πάντα σε μια ημέρα. Η Πέστη από την άλλη έχει έντονη νυχτερινή ζωή, είναι το κέντρο της πολιτιστικής και οικονομικής ζωής της Βουδαπέστης και έχει πολλά περισσότερα πράγματα να δεις όπως το Κοινοβούλιο, τη Βασιλική του Αγίου Στεφάνου αλλά και πάρα πολλά εστιατόρια και μουσεία. Με λίγα λόγια, είναι πιο ζωντανή.
Επιπλέον υπάρχουν πολλές Airbnb επιλογές (εμείς αυτό προτιμήσαμε). Τα περισσότερα από τα οποία είναι αρκετά οικονομικά και έχετε πολλές πιθανότητες να μείνετε σε κάποιο ιστορικό κτήριο, με ψηλά ταβάνια και μεγάλα παράθυρα. Σημειώστε ότι στη Βουδαπέστη (δεν ξέρω εάν ισχύει και σε άλλες πόλεις της Ευρώπης) στα παλιά διαμερισματα υπάρχουν 2 τουαλέτες, μια που έχει μόνο την λεκάνη ενώ η μπανιέρα και ο νηπτίρας βρίσκονται στην άλλη!

#4. Χρησιμοποιείστε τα δημόσια μέσα μεταφοράς
Παρόλο που η Βουδαπέστη είναι αρκετά "απλωμένη", είναι πολύ εύκολο να μετακινηθείτε από το ένα άκρο στο άλλο, καθώς διαθέτει ένα καλά οργανωμένο σύστημα μετρό. Με 4 υπόγειες γραμμές, οι οποίες συναντούνται σε πολλά σημεία, μπορείτε να πάτε παντού. Η πρώτη γραμμή εγκαινιάσθηκε το 1896 ενώ η πιο πρόσφατη προστέθηκε το 2014. Η μετακίνηση με τη γραμμή 1 είναι από μόνη της μια μαγική εμπειρία καθώς σε γυρίζει πίσω στο χρόνο, χρησιμοποιήστε την οπωσδήποτε για μια ρέτρο εμπειρία. Προσέξτε όμως γιατί οι κυλιόμενες κινούνται σε απίστευτα γρήγορη ταχύτητα, καμία σχέση με τα δικά μας δεδομένα και εάν δεν προσέξετε ίσως δυσκολευτείτε να μετακινηθείτε με αυτές. Επιπλόν σημειώστε για κάθε χρήση δημόσιου μέσου μεταφοράς θα χρειαστείτε οπωσδήποτε εισητήριο και μην ξεχάσετε να το ακυρώσετε. Υπάρχει πολύ συχνός και αυστηρός έλεγχος εισητηρίων συνεπώς μην τολμήστε καν να τα χρησιμοποιήσετε χωρίς εισητήριο, εκτός και αν θέλετε να σας τσακώσει κάποιος Ούγγρος υπάλληλος που δεν μιλάει αγγλικά. Συνίσταται να αγοράσετε εισητήριο είτε 24ωρο είτε για πολλές ημέρες.

Budapest is an amazing destination! The architecture is on a level that you simply can believe. Not to mention the food, the design, and the historic thermal baths, this city truly is any traveler’s dream, and it’s also super affordable! If you are planning to visit Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube, you are in the right place. I’m here with some tips that will help you have a great time in this iconic city.

GENERAL TIPS

#1. Do your planning
There is a ton to do and see in Budapest and many of the main sites are spread out among several neighborhoods making it confusing. Do your research and prioritize what are the most important things to see and how to maximize your time. I spend 4 days there and despite our detailed plan, I missed out a lot of sights.


#2. Best Time of Year
There isn’t really a bad time of year to visit Budapest but for the best weather, plan your trip toward the end of Summer or beginning of Fall.

#3. Where To Stay
Hotel options in Budapest are endless from budget o world-class properties. Hilly Buda is full of elegant architecture such as Gellért Bath, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church. The area is calm and serene, and you can see everything in less than a day. Pest has a thriving nightlife, business and culture scene and a whole lot of sights. The most important being the Hungarian Parliament Building, but it also hosts tons of churches, vibrant restaurants, thermal baths and other interesting landmarks.
Also there is a plenty of Airbnb options in Budapest. Some of them are quite affordable and chances are you may end up renting an Instagram perfect high-ceiling apartment in an old historic building. Keep in mind that some apartments have 2 WC, one with a sink and a bathtub and another with just a toilet!

#4. Use the public transportation system
Although Budapest is quite spread out, it’s a very easy city to get around in, mostly due to its well made metro system. With 4 crisscrossing underground subway lines, you can get pretty much anywhere you need to go. The first line was opened in 1896 and the newest was added in 2014. Traveling with Line 1, is quite an experience itself, it's very retro. Keep in mind that the escalators move very, very quickly and you have to be careful stepping on and off. Note that there are no free transfers, you need a new ticket if you are going from the train to the bus or the tram and always validate your ticket. Budapest public transport runs on the honor system for validating tickets, however there are frequent spot checks by security officers and you don’t want to get busted by a Hungarian officer who won't speak much English. It is better if you get a 24h ticket or multi day pass. 

#5. Use a navigator with your map
Budapest used to be much smaller city and it grew by gradually adding surrounding villages to the capital as it was growing. Hungarians are pretty proud of their country, so in most of the cities, you will find streets and squares bearing the same name. For example, almost every Hungarian city has Andrássy út. Also there are many more popular streets that are multiple times on the map of Budapest. The only way you can differentiate between them is putting the address to your navigation by ZIP code (the one in the city center is 1055). Make sure always enter the correct name of the street where you are headed to. There is a difference between út (way), utca (street), tér (square), etc.

#6. Currency
Hungary is part of the EU but not yet on the Euro. This means you’ll need to use Hungarian Forint. 300 Ft equals just over 1E. The smallest bill is the 500 FT so be prepare to carry a lot of coins! When receiving money back, make sure to count the zeros. It’s new currency to you and if you are slightly buzzed the 2,000 and 20,000 can look very similar. So be especially cautious at bars or in taxis. There are people that prey on tourists' ignorance. On a money related note, be sure not to exchange a lot of money at the airport, as they don't have a good exchange rate. Search for the best currency exchange in the center. I've found that the one across the street from New York Cafe has the best rate (at least when I was in Budapest). How much Forint should you carry in your wallet? 10,000 Ft. are enough!


#7. Hungarian Language Tips
Although Budapest is a very popural travel destination, not everyone speaks English and sometimes is hard to communicate in stores, restaurants etc. Besides that, it’s always nice when visiting a foreign country to know some language basics.

Hello is Helló (Hell-oh) or Szia (SEE-a)
Good Morning is Jó Reggelt (Yo Reg-gaet)
Good Day is Jó Nap (Yo KNap)
Good Evening is Jó Estét (Yo Est-Ate)
Goodbye is Viszontlátásra (VEE-sont-la-tash-ra)
Informal Goodbye is Viszlát (VEES-lat)
Thank You is Köszönöm (KO-so-nom)
Do you speak English is Beszél angolul? (BE-seyl AN-go-loul?)

#8. Photograph Budapest at night is a must
Budapest might just be one of the most popular places for night photography. Whether you’re a photographer or not, Budapest really lights up at night and it’s particularly stunning at the Danube where you have the best view of the landmarks.

#9. What to Bring
The weather in Budapest can get chilly, so make sure you bring a warm jacket and don't forget your swimsuit. You really can’t miss the thermal baths!

#10. Buying alcohol after 22:00 is forbidden
If you want (need) to buy alcohol, do it before 10 pm, because it is forbidden to sell alcohol after 22:00 in shops in the central districts of Budapest. There are some shops that have a special license, but try to avoid it.

WHAT TO DO

#1. Hungarian Parliament
Right next to the Shoes on the Danube is the magnificent Hungarian Parliament, the third largest parliament building in the world. This Neo-Gothic building is open to visitors for a 45-50 minute tour at specific times every day, but only when the assembly is not in session.

#2. State Opera House
The State Opera House offers tours during the day. The interior is very up-scale and beautiful and it's worth the visit. Before you go, take a look at the Opera Programme, chances are you might find an interesting performance to attend to.

#3. St. Stephens Basilica
St. Stephens Basilica (also known as Szent István-bazilika), is a Roman Catholic church and the largest church in Budapest. If you wish to have a panoramic view over Budapest city, don’t just visit the Basilica, you should visit its panoramic tower as well. You will have to climb a few hundred steps, but the view will be very rewarding.

#4. Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion (aka The Halászbástya in Hungarian) is a terrace in neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque style situated on Castle hill on the Buda side and looks straight out of a fairytale. The seven towers of this monument represent the seven Hungarian tribes that founded the country in 895. Besides that, it also has the best views of Budapest.

 

#5. Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Buda and Pest are separated by Danube river, and no less than eight bridges link the two city parts. The most well-known of these bridges is the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, where you can get a really good view of Budapest from the bridge, including the Castle district and the Hungarian Parliament. Two incredible stone lions guard the bridge at both sides.

#6. Shoes on the Danube Memorial
The shoes on the Danube banks tell the horrific war story of the many jews who, during 1944-1945, were forced to line on the banks of the Danube, strip naked, shot to death and thrown into the river. The shoes are a fitting tribute to all those who lost their lives, but also a sad reminder of a very dark period. You can find it along the river on the Pest side, near the Parliament.


#7. River Danube
The Danube is Europe’s second-longest river and its banks in Budapest are a part of Unesco World Heritage sites. A very popular way to explore the city and watch the top sights is by taking a river cruise during the day or the evening.

#8. Visit the Jewish Quarter
During World War II, it was a walled ghetto, but today it’s home to a vibrant Jewish culture including the grand Dohány Street Synagogue. The Grand Synagogue is the largest in Europe and second largest in the world. The area around it is interesting with a lot of history.

 

#9. Watch the Show on the Fountain at Margaret Island
Just like as New York has the famous Central Park, Budapest has Margaret Island (or Margitsziget). This park is huge and it´s perfect to spend an afternoon around here. One of the things on the Island that I strongly advise you not to miss is the free show with lights and music that takes place near the fountain, at the end of the afternoon between March and October. Get yourself a snack and/or a drink, find a spot near the fountain and enjoy a unique show. The music and the lights create a magical and romantic atmosphere. Getting to the park is quite easy and you can even go there on foot. Just keep an eye on the yellow bridge, it will lead you to Margaret Island.

#10. Try the famous thermal baths
Budapest is known as the city of thermal baths. You won´t regret spending some time on this activity. There are several places where you can experience these baths, the most famous is the Szechenyi Baths. There is no need to spend an entire day at the baths. You can go sightseeing and book the visit to the baths to the end of the day, around 17.00-19.00. It’s the perfect way to relax after a busy day. On the Buda side, you can find the Gellért Bath with its famous Art Nouveau entrance hall and architecture. Many of Budapest’s thermal baths lie on the Buda side, and while the baths in Buda tend to be more upscale and luxurious, those in Pest are more popular.

#11. Visit New York Café
This Café prides itself of being the most beautiful café in the world, and I'll have to agree with that. New York Café had a glorious past and was attended by writers and editors, however, after World War II it began to be neglected and to serve as a sports goods store. Fortunately, years later the place was restored recovering its former charm. It’s located inside Boscolo Budapest Hotel and basically looks like the place a Queen would sip her afternoon tea.

#12. Visit the famous Ruin Pubs
One of the main attractions in Budapest are the Ruin Pubs. These so-called ruin pubs are abandoned spaces turned into clubs by locals with second-hand furniture and lots of creativity. The most famous is the Szimpla Kert. If you don´t have the opportunity to visit several ruin pubs, I recommend go visit at least this one. I love the concept of these bars, their atmosphere is unique. You can stay on the first floor if you like to party and dance or go on the second floor, if you want to chat and hang out with some friends. You don’t even have to pay an entry fee so it’s nice to check it out. 

# 13. Indulge in the food
The food scene in Budapest is huge. Budapest is a foodie town and you choices you have are unlimited. If you love paprika, soups and sausages you are going to love the local cuisine. Don’t miss the Kürtőskalács, a classic Chimney Cake. Just look for a stand with a line (so you know they are being made fresh!).

WHERE TO SHOP

#1. Andrassy Avenue
This avenue features the big brands as well as some smaller boutiques once you venture down the side streets.

#2. Váci Utca
The most famous shopping street in Budapest is great for an afternoon stroll and a bite to eat.

#3. Central Market Hall
This indoor market hall features local produce, food stalls, souvenirs, gifts and more.

WHAT TO BRING HOME

#1. Hungarian Paprika
Dried, packed in bags, pretty little cans, ceramic jars or in a tube as a paste it’s cheap and appropriable souvenir. You can use it at home when you will be cooking a goulash soup or gift your family and friends.

#2. Palinka
A traditional fruit brandy made of plums, apricots, apples, pears or cherries.

#3. Handmade Hungarian Lace and Embroidery
For those who like traditional folk souvenirs.

#4. Unicum
A Hungarian herbal liqueur that is made of a mixture of over 40 different kinds of medicinal herbs and spices.

Budapest is the perfect combo of cheap and luxe, the food is awesome and there’s lots of history and beautiful things to do in Budapest. I don’t know about you, but I’m definitely going back.

Read also 

Budapest - What we saw

Budapest - What & Where to Eat