Budapest is the perfect mix of charm, grit, coolness, and history. It’s not as polished as Prague and it outdoes Vienna with its energy and ambiance. The city feels comfortable in its own skin, giving off a casual confidence.
The silvery Danube River cuts through the city, dividing Buda and Pest and leaving enough space for separate identities that have learned to coexist and even complement one another over the years.
Simply wander along Budapest’s streets and let it surprise you with its crumbling mansions and stunning architecture, its old-world appeal and trendy neighborhoods, all tucked away behind dark corners and cobblestone streets. Just when you’re feeling confident that Budapest has fully revealed itself, the city will make you marvel at something you least expected.
Think you can resist? I doubt it. Test your will with these 15 tempting photos calling you to Budapest. They’ll capture you before you ever know what’s happened…
15 Tempting Photos Calling You to Budapest
Walk or take the funicular up to Castle Hill. There’s a city unto itself up there to explore, replete with castles, museums, and spectacular views. Budapest from above tempts you from every angle. Just try to take your eyes off the city.
The majestic Buda Castle shines over the city from atop Castle Hill.
Connecting the Buda and Pest side, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge is particularly striking when lit up at night.
The Neo-Romanesque terrace and pointed turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion offer some of the most impressive views of the Danube stretched out below.
No matter where you are in the city, your eyes will be drawn toward the Parliament Building. Even a dramatic sky can’t outdo the rounded dome and pointed spires. They are the gems in Budapest’s crown.
Breathtaking at any time of day, the Parliament Building truly stuns at night. A boat ride on the Danube reveals unparalleled views of the city sparkling after dark.
Lavish design and ornate details decorate the inside, as well. Parliament’s grand staircase, with its domed mural ceiling, shows the finest Hungarian craftsmanship.
The facade of the Hungarian State Opera House charms with statues of muses and opera greats.
Budapest surprises with the unexpected warmth of its natural thermal hot springs. Soak in the heat and take in the water, as Budapest seeps further into your skin.
The dome atop the Basilica of St. Stephen in Pest affords some of the best views in Budapest.
Budapest’s Great Market Hall, located on the Pest side of the city, offers a grand selection of meats, cheeses, produce, and bread. You won’t want to leave the 2nd-floor restaurant counters serving Hungarian classics like Goulash and Langos.
The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a poignant memorial for the thousands of Jewish residents who were executed along the river just before Hungary was liberated during World War II.
It’s hard to take your eyes off of breath-taking Budapest, right? Why not use my cheat sheet to plan your trip? After all, Budapest is calling you, too. I’ll see you there.
Have you been to Budapest? What did you think? Which city has captivated you?
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I visited Budapest several times in the 80’s. Your article brought back memories of great meals, long strolls along the Danube and the spectacular view of the bridges when the lights are all aglow. I would love to go back and see how things have changed and how they have stayed the same.
So glad the article brought back happy Budapest memories, Annita! I can’t say how the city has changed, but I can attest to also enjoying great meals, taking long strolls along the Danube, and seeing the bridges and the city sparkle at night! 🙂
Budapest is one of my favorite travel destination. I have heard lot about it and wanted to go when I was in Europe but somehow I couldn’t but after reading your post I missing it more… Surely I will have to go here once.
I hope you can make it to Budapest, Sumti! It’s such a gem with so much to see and do.
You definitely have me convinced of visiting Budapest! Such stunning images, especially Budapest at night!
You’re sure to love Budapest, Samiya! It has such a great vibe and is so gritty and gorgeous. 🙂
We visited Budapest way back in 2006 when they still had their own money and were not yet part of the EU. We have great memories of Budapest and our subsequent trips just have not allowed us to visit again yet, but Budapest is always on my must see again list. Great pictures
Thanks, Mark. Budapest is one of those places that wants you to return. The country may have transitioned to the EU, but, for now, they’re still using their Hungarian Forint. It’s a solid budget travel destination with the exchange rate favorable compared to the Euro.
What a bright and energetic post about Budapest! I haven’t been but you’ve led me into that desire with your pictures and descriptions.
Thanks, Elaine! Hope that feeling gets you to Budapest soon. It’s a city with such a good vibe, great food, and tons to see and do!
Hi! I really like this post, it’s really interesting.
You’ve included the essential things to see and to do in Budapest.
You’ve convinced me 😉
Hi and thanks for checking out the post! Glad you hear Budapest calling your name, too. 😉