Viewing Budapest
Features
Essence
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Straddling the Danube with its nine bridges, Budapest has a bewildering array of architectural styles, a legacy of its turbulent history. Neo-classical, neo-Gothic, neo-Renaissance are just a few, and help create a skyline of astonishing grandeur. Budapest is not just a capital city, it is also a city of empire. Its soubriquet 'Queen of the Danube' is rightly deserved. But make no mistake - far from being regally remote and austere, this 'queen' dresses rather chicly, is modishly cosmopolitan, and is inclined to drive in the fast lane. To adapt a quotation: 'when you're tired of Budapest, you're tired of life.'
The 10 Essentials
If you only have a short time to visit Budapest, or would like to get a really complete picture of the city, here are the essentials:
Stand atop Gellért-hegy (Gellért Hill) for spectacular views of the city, as well as the Citadella, a fortress of white stone.
Muse, or be amused, by Halászbástya (Fishermen's Bastion), an architectural fantasy that wouldn't look out of place on a Disney set.
Admire Mátyás-templom (Matthias Church) in all its neo-Gothic magnificence in Trinity Square.
Wander the picturesque streets of Várhegy (Castle Hill), or just soak up the atmosphere at one of the many bars and cafés there.
Visit the Budavári Palota (Royal Palace) and the several museums in its confines.
Stroll down Andrássy ùt, at one time the most fashionable promenading route in Budapest.
Take a relaxing dip in one of the many gyógyfürdö (thermal baths) if foot-sore from trudging the streets.
Visit Vörösmarty tér, a pedestrianised and peaceful square, but only after you've browsed the most exclusive shopping street Váci utca.
Marvel at the architectural magnificence of Országház, the parliament building - you could almost be in London.
Take refuge from the hustle of the city on peaceful Margit-sziget (Margaret Island) in the middle of the Danube.
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