My Favorite Places in Budapest
Budapest took me by surprise.
Upon arriving, I had only heard people sing its praises. On paper, it's awesome- especially if you're young. Its value for money is some of the best on the continent and its small size allows for more relaxation and less hustle. Its tourist attractions are mainly catered towards those with a distinct interest in political-leaning history and Ashkenazi Judaism but are nonetheless fascinating.
But to be completely honest, I’m not sure I would have enjoyed my time here as much had I not gotten so lucky with the circle I was surrounded by. I stayed in the Jewish quarter, and although I was still recommend it for its “hipsterness” and proximity to nightlife, I was taken aback by how “unpretty” it was. At least not by standards of what I have seen in Europe. It’s grungy. And definitely cool. But by no means what I had expected upon hearing that so many movies which were based in Paris were actually shot in there.
But from other people I've talked to, my opinion doesn't seem to be that popular, so take it all with a grain of salt! If you want to experience classic Eastern Europe, are interested in nightlife, and/or are traveling with a group, Budapest is perfect. If you DO end up going, here are my recommendations...
Cafes, Coffee Shops, and Bakeries
Restaurants and Non-Cafe Food
Parts of the City/ Things to Do
(Besides the Parliament building and Fisherman's Bastion...)
Notice how I specifically DIDN'T mention the thermal baths. That was intentional because I don't recommend them. If you're with a group and everyone else wants to go, but all means, go experience it. But I found it to be incredibly unsanitary, uncomfortably tempered water (none of the pools got hot enough), and a waste of money. Everyone I was with agreed.
If you have extra time or are looking for a different daytime activity, Consider looking into a hiking or caving excursion instead (Budapest is known as the capital of caves)!
My Favorite Places in Budapest
Budapest took me by surprise.
Upon arriving, I had only heard people sing its praises. On paper, it's awesome- especially if you're young. Its value for money is some of the best on the continent and its small size allows for more relaxation and less hustle. Its tourist attractions are mainly catered towards those with a distinct interest in political-leaning history and Ashkenazi Judaism but are nonetheless fascinating.
But to be completely honest, I’m not sure I would have enjoyed my time here as much had I not gotten so lucky with the circle I was surrounded by. I stayed in the Jewish quarter, and although I was still recommend it for its “hipsterness” and proximity to nightlife, I was taken aback by how “unpretty” it was. At least not by standards of what I have seen in Europe. It’s grungy. And definitely cool. But by no means what I had expected upon hearing that so many movies which were based in Paris were actually shot in there.
But from other people I've talked to, my opinion doesn't seem to be that popular, so take it all with a grain of salt! If you want to experience classic Eastern Europe, are interested in nightlife, and/or are traveling with a group, Budapest is perfect. If you DO end up going, here are my recommendations...
Cafes, Coffee Shops, and Bakeries
Restaurants and Non-Cafe Food
Parts of the City/ Things to Do
(Besides the Parliament building and Fisherman's Bastion...)
Notice how I specifically DIDN'T mention the thermal baths. That was intentional because I don't recommend them. If you're with a group and everyone else wants to go, but all means, go experience it. But I found it to be incredibly unsanitary, uncomfortably tempered water (none of the pools got hot enough), and a waste of money. Everyone I was with agreed.
If you have extra time or are looking for a different daytime activity, Consider looking into a hiking or caving excursion instead (Budapest is known as the capital of caves)!