Five Experiences in Central Europe's Hungary That You Must Have

City OverviewNo, it’s not food that I’m going to offer. It’s perhaps something even better.  Let’s take you to one of the most beautiful cities of Central Europe; let’s take you to Budapest, the capital of Hungary.

Forget a building or two; the city itself is an architectural marvel. From baroque and neoclassical to eclectic and art nouveau, you’ll find it all in Budapest. Also known as the Pearl of Danube, the second largest river in Europe, the name Budapest is the combination of two city names, Buda and Pest, which were united in 1873 to become one single city.

A fascinating metropolis where history and modernity combine marvelously, Budapest is home to many museums and enjoys a vivid nightlife like many of its European counterparts.

We suggest five different ways to make your Budapest experience a truly delightful one.

1. Try Some Goulash

Tasting local food at any destination should be on top of the must-do list. When in Budapest, do try some authentic Hungarian goulash. Goulash is basically a soup or stew made up of vegetables (mainly potatoes), meat and noodles and it is seasoned with paprika and other spices. One of Hungary’s national dishes, Goulash is easily available in most restaurants in Budapest.

2. Take a Cruise On The Danube River

Cruise on Danube River One of the best ways to explore and admire the beauty that is Budapest is by taking a boat cruise of River Danube. Budapest is basically two cities divided by the Danube and a boat cruise is a great way to enjoy stunning views of both sides of the city.

3. Visit One Of Budapest’s Famous Baths

When in Budapest, a visit to one of the baths in the city is a must. Budapest is famous for its bath houses like the Rudas Bath and Gellert Baths. Not only are the baths a good way to relax but also help de-stress after walking for hours or recuperating from a jet lag.

4. Visit The St. Stephen's Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture, is a Roman Catholic Basilica and one of the most important church buildings in Hungary. The church houses the mummified right hand of Hungary’s first King, Stephen. And as if its magnificence was not reason enough to visit, entry to the St. Stephen’s Basilica is free of cost making it a definite must-visit, when in Budapest.

5. Go shopping At The Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall or the Central Market Hall is the largest indoor market in Budapest spread across three floors. From souvenirs, Hungarian lace and linen and pottery items to spices, candies and caviar; the Great Market Hall is surely a shopper’s paradise. The market is at its vibrant best on Saturday mornings with local people shopping for the weekend. Visit the market on a Monday morning if you want to avoid crowds.

Of course, your trip won’t (and should not) be restricted to just the above five activities; there’s a lot more that this amazing city has to offer. Go on, discover Budapest and find out for yourself!