We loved Budapest, Hungary for so many reasons. First, it is truly a beautiful city steeped in a rich, complex history. The country has been through many wars and freed from communism just a few decades ago. As such, you will find interesting generational perspectives that vary greatly between the senior citizens that lived through and survived wars, the mid generation who were raised under communism and then had to unlearn, then adapt to the new concept of democracy, and finally the younger generation raised in an entirely different culture as their predecessors. The city has a gritty, heartfelt and authentic feel which really resonated with us.
Second, the city itself is truly breathtaking and extremely easy to navigate. Trains, buses and trams are easy to follow and inexpensive, convenient ways to get around. There are a few trams that run along the Danube river which are a gorgeous way to see the city and fun to do in either the daytime or evening. You can walk across a few bridges to cross over to the other side or just take a leisurely tram ride to offer an alternative view. You have the Buda side which is quieter, historic district that is more family oriented and then the Pest side which where the nightlife prevails. When you walk around the city itself, the architecture is amazing and in fact, the government mandates that all new construction account for 20% of their budget to ensure the exterior is consistent with the neighboring facades.
Third, food is fresh, inexpensive and the portions are huge! You can easily share an entree to save room for more beer or dessert.
Lastly, the people are friendly and pretty much keep to themselves. I like visiting cities where people just go about their day and you feel like you meld right in.
Second, the city itself is truly breathtaking and extremely easy to navigate. Trains, buses and trams are easy to follow and inexpensive, convenient ways to get around. There are a few trams that run along the Danube river which are a gorgeous way to see the city and fun to do in either the daytime or evening. You can walk across a few bridges to cross over to the other side or just take a leisurely tram ride to offer an alternative view. You have the Buda side which is quieter, historic district that is more family oriented and then the Pest side which where the nightlife prevails. When you walk around the city itself, the architecture is amazing and in fact, the government mandates that all new construction account for 20% of their budget to ensure the exterior is consistent with the neighboring facades.
Third, food is fresh, inexpensive and the portions are huge! You can easily share an entree to save room for more beer or dessert.
Lastly, the people are friendly and pretty much keep to themselves. I like visiting cities where people just go about their day and you feel like you meld right in.