Budapest was born from two cities Buda and Pest when they were united with Óbuda in 1873 to become a single city. Capital to one of the oldest countries of Europe, Budapest is all about healing baths, captivating skylines, stark architecture, and so much room for exploration.
Here’s where to explore the best of Budapest in just 24 hours:
HUNGARIAN PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Built in Neo-Gothic architecture, the Hungarian Parliament is one of the most prominent landmarks of the Hungarian capital. Lying on the banks of Danube river on the Pest side, the building is best viewed from the Buda side of Danube. The gigantic Gothic style façade and a symmetrical dome at the centre, the building is nothing but exquisite. The beauty of the Parliament accentuates as the sun sets and lights illuminate the structure.
ST. STEPHEN’S BASILICA
This Neo-Renaissance church is the largest church in Budapest. Dedicated to the first Hungarian Christian King, St. Stephen, its 96-meter-high dome can be viewed from all over the city. Frescoes, stained glass windows and stone columns adorn the Gothic-esque interiors of the Basilica. A congregation of 8,500 people can easily be accommodated inside the church. Visiting the church and you will find the mummified right hand of King St. Stephen, also known as the Holy Dexter.
FISHERMAN’S BASTION
Named after the fishermen that used guard the city in the Middle Ages, Fisherman’s Bastion is a viewing terrace in the district of Castle Hill. The building built by Frigyes Schulek, is a resemblance to the Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque style of architecture. The seven spired towers represent the seven Magyars tribes that controlled this land. You will also find the statue of St. Stephen in the middle of Halaszbastya.
SZÉCHENYI CHAIN BRIDGE
The Chain Bridge is one of the most important landmarks in Budapest. The Bridge opened in 1849 is the first link between Buda and Pest. The beauty of this bridges intensifies as the sun sets and there can be nothing more romantic than strolling across the bridge with your partner with a stunning view of the blue river Danube. The bridge hosts some of the largest festivals in summers on weekends.
HEROES SQUARE
Lying at the end of Andrássy Avenue, Heroes Square is Budapest’s largest public square in the city. The Square commemorates the great leaders in Hungary’s history. The impressive Millennium Memorial dominates the Square and is quite similar to Nelson Column, London.
