Budapest has much to offer beyond the city limits. To the north is the popular Danube Bend, the most beautiful stretch of the river in Hungary where it turns sharply between the Pilis and Börzsöny hills. Also north is the village of Hollókö, now on UNESCO's World Heritage list. Other picturesque towns and villages are within a short drive, like Esztergom, once the country's capital; or Szentendre, with its relaxed cultural atmosphere; and Visegrád, steeped in history and rural heritage. If you are in search of a day by the water, but away from the Danube, head southwest to the breathtaking Lake Balaton. Note that the traffic out of the city can be particularly heavy on Fridays, when many Pestians migrate to the countryside.