The capital of Hungary, Budapest is an effortless blend of its storied history and current modernity. The area now known as Budapest was inhabited by Celtic tribes before the Romans conquered it in 89 AD. Subsequently, the Romans redubbed the location as Aquincum, which served as the foundation for modern Budapest. Post World War II, Budapest fell under Russian Soviet influence and remained a critical strategic urban area on the Eastern side of the Iron Curtain. Nowadays, Budapest is a cosmopolitan city with a broad array of historical landmarks, cultural activities, and one-of-a-kind attractions. To experience it in all its glory, travel with Gray Line Worldwide and book your guided tours today!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Budapest
Majestically perched on Castle Hill and overlooking the Danube River in Budapest, Buda Castle is a nationally revered symbol that is now a modern museum for tourists and locals alike to explore. The origins of the castle trace back to the 13th century when King Bela IV ordered the construction of a fortification to defend against Mongol invasions. The Renaissance period initiated the introduction of beautiful artwork and architecture into the structure. After several invasions and bombings, Buda Castle stands today as a symbol of Hungarian solidity and strength. Visit the Hungarian National Gallery to see art from the Middle Ages or examine the many artifacts on display in the Budapest History Museum. Finally, wander through the impressive Royal Palace and take pictures in front of the Matthias Fountain.
Fisherman’s Bastion is an architectural marvel located in Budapest’s Castle District. For a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, this destination is where you want to go. Built between 1895 and 1902, Fisherman’s Bastion celebrated the 1,000th anniversary of the Magyar conquest of the Carpathian Basin. This event directly spurred the creation of the Hungarian nation that exists today. The bastion features seven ornate turrets that symbolize the Magyar tribes that settled in the region in the 9th century. The name likely came from the fishermen’s guild that was responsible for defending this section of the city. Fisherman’s Bastion is also — unsurprisingly — located near Budapest’s thriving fish market on the Danube riverbank. Stop at each terrace and look out over the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Chain Bridge.
Pronounced “pesht,” Pest encompasses the eastern, flat part of Budapest. Divided by the Danube River, Budapest stretches into a variety of landscapes that, in some cases, differ significantly from each other. Unlike the hilly Buda, Pest is the vibrant heart of the city and is home to multiple cultural institutions, gorgeous architecture, and urban attractions. Attend a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House or take a sobering tour of the House of Terror Museum. Don’t forget to sample some authentic Hungarian cuisine in one of the many luxurious restaurants in the area.
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of Hungary’s national sovereignty. Situated on the eastern bank of the Danube River in the Pest side of the city, this architectural wonder stands as a testament to Hungary’s resilience and rich culture. Initially, the building was intended to be a reflection of Hungary’s status as a nation. Construction finally finished in 1904, and the structure included 90 statues of Hungarian rulers on its exterior, 10 courtyards, 13 elevators, and 691 rooms. The number 96 is also featured prominently throughout the building as a symbol of the nation’s millennium (based on the 896 AD arrival of the Magyars). A backdrop for several key events in Budapest’s timeline, the Parliament Building is a must-see for any history or social movement lover.
Located in the heart of Budapest on the Danube River, Margaret Island is a 2.5-kilometer-long island that serves as a favorite retreat for locals and tourists alike. With lush green spaces, historical landmarks, and recreational facilities, the island offers a unique respite from city life. The island has been inhabited since antiquity and was originally referred to as the Island of Rabbits because of the abundance of white rabbits in the area. During the Medieval period, the island became a prominent religious center for Dominicans, Franciscans, and Premonstratensians. Named after Saint Margaret of Hungary, Margaret Island represents the vow made by King Bela IV to send his daughter to a convent in exchange for protection against the Mongols. In 1908, Margaret Island was declared a public park, and the city undertook initiatives to enhance its natural beauty with promenades, gardens, and various facilities. Stroll through the island’s beautiful rose garden and visit several convent ruins. Take photos in front of the musical fountain that synchronizes with light shows.
Szechenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest and most iconic medicinal bath complexes in Europe. Located in the heart of Budapest’s City Park, this spa-like establishment treats guests to a Neo-Baroque setting where they can indulge in thermal bathing, wellness treatments, and a one-of-the-kind cultural experience. Known as the “City of Spas” for a reason, Budapest sits atop a network of over 120 hot springs. The therapeutic properties of these waters have been known since Roman times. A rich public bathing tradition developed during the Ottoman occupation in the 16th and 17th centuries. With 15 indoor pools, multiple saunas, and professional massages, the Szechenyi Thermal Bath is a great place to recharge during your adventures. Challenge a local to a floating game of chess in the water before you go!
Also known as the Central Market Hall, the Great Market Hall is the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest. Found at the end of Vaci Street — another popular shopping area — the hall is a veritable hub of commerce with a unique blend of historical architecture, traditional Hungarian products, and a lively atmosphere worthy of the Great Market Hall’s longstanding vitality. In the late 19th century, Budapest was undergoing significant urban development. City planners realized that a centralized market would improve food safety, organization, and supply for Budapest’s rapidly growing population. Budapest’s first mayor Karoly Kamermayer envisioned a network of central and district markets to streamline food distribution. In 1897, his idea came to fruition with the beautifully designed Neo-Gothic market. When you visit, purchase some Hungarian peppers, paprika, and mushrooms. Pickled vegetables are also a popular staple, and an array of Hungarian handicrafts includes everything from embroidery to Matryoshka dolls. If you visit during a festival, you may also be able to engage in some wine tasting (if you’re lucky).
The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a memorial located along the east bank of the Danube River in Budapest. The outdoor installation recognizes the thousands of Jews and other victims who were executed along the riverbank during World War II by the Arrow Cross Party, a fascist Hungarian militia aligned with Nazi Germany. Between December 1944 and January 1945, the Arrow Cross rounded up thousands of people and lined them up along the river. Victims were ordered to remove their shoes so their bodies would be more likely to fall in the freezing waters of the Danube. At the time, shoes were a valuable commodity during wartime shortages, and their forced removal was a final indignity for the already heavily persecuted individuals. Today, the memorial comprises 60 pairs of cast-iron shoes attached to the stone embankment. The realistic renditions of 1940s footwear appear on the ground as if their owners had just stepped out of them.
For a highly unique and immersive way to tour Budapest, plan an excursion in the iconic Trabant car. During the Cold War, the Duroplast-made Trabants were released as the Soviet’s answer to the automotive industry that was famously thriving in the West. The Trabant became an emblem of everyday life in East Germany and other Communist countries. In 1989, Trabants were driven into West Germany by East Germans seeking freedom after the Berlin Wall fell. Tours include a self-driving option (which can be a learning curve as the car machinery differs significantly from modern vehicles) and chauffeured tours. Key stops on the tours typically include a visit to Memento Park, the House of Terror Museum, and several historic districts in the city.
A picturesque region situated just north of Budapest, the Danube Bend is a spot on the river of the same name that curves sharply through the scenic Hungarian countryside. The area around this “knee” of the Danube is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, historical towns, and rich cultural heritage. On a tour of the region, guests can visit charming towns like Visegrad, Esztergom, and Szentendre that all offer engaging things to do, food to eat, and wares to purchase. The Danube River is Europe’s second largest river and flows through 10 countries. It historically served as a trade route and cultural conduit between Western and Eastern Europe. The sharp bend in the river created a natural defensive position and has attracted inhabitants since ancient times, including the Celts and Romans. Get ready to visit several landmarks during your tour along with enjoying the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Planning your next adventure? Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks in Europe, relaxing on tropical beaches, or embar[...]
Exploring London is a bucket-list experience for travelers from around the world. With its rich history, iconic landmarks[...]
Discover the Wonder of the Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon is one of the world's most iconic natural wonders. Carved ove[...]
Great brief tour of Dubai
Good experience.
Yosemite
Not a problem at all
Gray Line service review