Budapest is not at the top of the list when people think of European destinations, but it has so much to offer: castles, caves, Danube river, opera, shopping, food… Really everything you would want in a travel destination. Plus you’ll find that Budapest is a bargain compared to other European cities, because although Hungary is part of the European Union, it does not use the Euro as its currency, instead it uses Forint (Ft, HUF).
My expectations were definitely surpassed when I visited in 2009, and it still remains one of my favorite places in Europe to visit.
I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves:
Must Do – Taste the Hungarian Street Bread
In the picture above you can see a man making Kürtőskalács (I know, I don’t even attempt to pronounce it). In spite of its unfriendly name, this bread is a heavenly treat made from sweet, yeast dough (raised dough), of which a strip is spun and then wrapped around a truncated cone and rolled in granulated sugar. It is baked above charcoal cinders while lubricated with melted butter, until its surface gets a golden-brown color. During the baking process the sugar stuck on kürtőskalács becomes caramel and forms shiny, crispy crust on the bread. The surface can then be sprinkled with additional toppings such as ground walnut or cinnamon powder. DELICIOUS.
Budapest Attraction – The Underground Caves in the Buda Hills
Budapest is famous for its natural underground caves, which were formed by thermal waters over millions of years. There are two beautiful natural caves in the Buda Hills – the Pál-völgyi Stalactite Cave and the Szemlő-hegyi Cave. Filled with spectacular formations, both caves were discovered by accident, in the early 1900’s.
The Pál-völgyi Stalactite Cave is a multi-level labyrinth with amazing rock formations. It’s also the longest cave in the Buda Hills, stretching more than 7 km (4.3 miles). Guided tours take about 45 minutes, and expect to do some climbing and narrow passages.
The Szemlő-hegyi Cave is quite different. There are no stalactites, instead it’s filled with several beautiful crystal formations. The cave has exceptionally clean air, and its lowest level is used as a respiratory sanatorium. Expect a smooth walk, and this cave is great for kids as well.
Must See – Hungarian State Opera House
If you can’t afford to buy tickets to the opera, like me, definitely take the daytime tour. Although in size and capacity it is not among the greatest, in beauty and the quality of acoustics the Budapest Opera House is considered to be amongst the finest opera houses in the world.
Have you ever been? Did you enjoy it as much as I did?
A New Life Wandering 
Great photography 🙂 Budapest is so picturesque!!
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I absolutely adore Budapest! The kind people, the beautiful Buda hills and the rich culture. I would go back in a heartbeat.
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Amazing 😀
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The opera house looks fab! I have been to Budapest twice but missed this beautiful opera house! But I DID make it to the baths! Loved the thermal baths! Your pics are lovely!
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I didn’t make it to the thermal baths! Now we both have a reason to go back 😉
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I’ve always wanted to go the Hungary! Your photos are beautiful. I’m planning a trip at the end of the year and haven’t decided where to go -I think I will add Budapest to the list of contenders!
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Definitely at it to the contenders 😉 Budapest is way more beautiful than my pictures! 🙂 And there are so many other things to do that I didn’t mention.
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I have had Budapest on my list for about three years now and every year it gets pushed back. The pictures are beautiful, I’m hoping next year is the year!!
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Budapest is so beautiful! I’ve been there so many times and it is my favorite weekend destination because it offers everything that traveler need! Nice post 🙂
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Budapest is a lovely place and, as you’ve pointed out, a real bargain. In fact, most of Hungary is not hard on the wallet.
The Hungarian parliament building is also something not to miss if you go there. It’s the second largest parliament building in Europe and everything about it is huge. You have to be on the opposite side of the river to get the whole thing into your camera’s viewfinder.
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Certainly will check it out next time I’m there!
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