Buda
We embarked on an epic road trip from Sarajevo to Budapest, and the drive was nothing short of breathtaking. We passed through winding roads and picturesque towns, taking in the stunning landscapes along the way. Upon arriving in Budapest, we settled into our Airbnb on the Buda side, which boasted an excellent location and easy access to local amenities. We explored the area on foot, stopping at local restaurants and coffee shops to indulge in the delectable local cuisine and specialty drinks.
One of our first stops was the Fisherman’s Bastion, a stunning lookout point that offers panoramic views of the city. We walked along the walls, marveling at the Gothic architecture and the stunning vista below. We then made our way to the nearby Matthias Church, where we learned about its storied history and admired its beautiful interior. We were fascinated to learn that the church was used as a stable during WWII, a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Hungarian people.
Another highlight of our trip was the eerie labyrinth of Buda Castle, a sprawling underground tunnel system that once held Count Dracula captive. We braved the darkness and fog, feeling a chill down our spines as we explored the labyrinth’s winding passages and chambers.
The next day, we rode the Buda Castle Funicular, a thrilling ride that took us up the hill to the castle. The views from the funicular were incredible, and we were awestruck by the beauty of the Szechenyi Chain Bridge and the glittering Danube River below. We spent the day touring the castle, learning about its fascinating history and admiring its beautiful architecture and gardens.
Throughout our trip, we were impressed by the richness and diversity of Budapest’s culture and cuisine. We indulged in delicious coffee and pastries at local cafes, and sampled traditional Hungarian dishes such as goulash and chimney cake. We were struck by the warmth and hospitality of the locals, and felt welcomed everywhere we went.
Pest
Budapest: A Romantic and Exciting Journey Through Pest
If you’re looking for a romantic and exciting destination, Budapest is a city that should definitely be on your list. The city is divided by the Danube River into two distinct parts: Buda and Pest. On the Pest side of the river, there are countless experiences that are sure to leave you enchanted.
One of the things that we enjoyed most about our trip to Budapest was the food. The local cuisine is delicious and diverse, with plenty of options to suit every taste. From traditional goulash to mouth-watering pastries, we found ourselves constantly indulging in the local fare. We highly recommend visiting one of the many street markets to sample some of the best local cuisine.
Aside from the food, the architecture in Budapest is truly breathtaking. The intricate designs and attention to detail are a testament to the city’s rich history. We spent hours wandering through the streets, admiring the stunning buildings and structures. We highly recommend taking a guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building, as the experience was both educational and fascinating.
Our trip to Budapest also included a visit to the Hungarian State Opera House, where we were able to witness our first ever opera. The grandeur of the building was truly awe-inspiring and the performance was nothing short of magnificent. It was an experience that we will never forget.
In addition to the cultural experiences, we also visited the Soviet War Memorial and had a chance encounter with a kind man from Vienna, with whom we shared lunch and conversation. The unexpected meeting was a reminder of the importance of human connection and the beauty of serendipity.
We made sure to visit St Stephen’s Basilica, an iconic landmark in Budapest. The impressive architecture and intricate details of the church were a sight to behold.
One of our favorite experiences in Budapest was spending a day at the Central Market Hall. The restored neogothic hall was a unique and charming setting for tasting local delicacies and shopping for souvenirs. We enjoyed a traditional lunch and listened to live music, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
At night, we ventured out to the famous ruin bars, where the city’s vibrant nightlife comes alive. Although we arrived early and the bars were still relatively quiet, we could feel the energy and excitement building. We can only imagine the lively scene that takes place once the night falls.
Our trip to Budapest would not have been complete without a visit to the Hot Baths. The architecture of the old bath house was truly impressive, but the crowds made it a bit overwhelming. In retrospect, we would have opted for a smaller and more private bath house.
Overall, our trip to Budapest was a memorable and romantic journey that left us with a deep appreciation for the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture. We highly recommend visiting the Pest side of the river to experience all that Budapest has to offer.
