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, with castles, museums, and spectacular views. Budapest from above tempts you from every angle. From up here, I couldn’t take my eyes off the city!
The majestic Buda Castle shines over the city from atop Castle Hill. It’s best seen from the water. So when you visit Budapest, be sure to take even a short sightseeing night cruise to get the best photos of the city at night. It was a highlight of my time in Budapest!
Connecting the Buda and Pest side, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge is particularly striking when lit up at night. If you can, walk across it to see the city from a different perspective.
The Neo-Romanesque terrace and pointed turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion offer some of the most impressive views of the Danube stretched out below. I was in awe of the architecture up here!
Visit during the day (hopefully one with blue skies!) for incredible views of the city, the Danube, and the iconic Parliament building across the river.
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. I wanted my boat to linger in front for the rest of the night because it was such a beautiful sight to see!
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. Throughout the city, you’ll find stunning architecture especially along Andrassy Avenue.
Budapest’s natural thermal hot springs are one of the most popular things to do when you visit. I loved soaking in the hot thermal waters. It was a great way to unwind after walking around the city.
The dome atop the Basilica of St. Stephen in Pest affords some of the best views in Budapest. It’s worth climbing the 300+ steps! But if that’s not possible, don’t worry. Use the elevator to get near the top and climb from there.
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. We loved everything we tasted!
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.
The memorial is haunting. I can only imagine what those poor souls were thinking as they faced their awful deaths.
Budapest is a city with a rich history. As with most places, not all of it is happy. However, its resilience and beauty will leave you fascinated and swooning.
It’s hard to take your eyes off of breath-taking Budapest! Why not use my cheat sheet to plan your trip?
After all, Budapest is calling you, too. I’ll see you there.
So, have you started planning your trip to Budapest yet?
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