Did you know that initially, Buda and Pest were two different towns that grew into each other? That’s where the name of this exciting Hungarian city comes from! On your next American Polish tour with added visits to neighboring countries, you can expect your time in Budapest to be full of the most awe-inspiring sites.
Budapest is a perfect balance of Eastern and Western European cultures, which is why it’s called the Paris of the East. With majestic boulevards and a magnificent castle complex, this city has seen its fair share of grandeur.
Here are our top picks for what to see in Hungary’s capital.
The Budapest Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is the largest in Hungary currently. Built in a neo-Gothic style, this building holds the royal crown of Hungary, dating back to the 12th century.
There’s also a memorialization of the 1956 uprising against the Soviets in Hungary in the Parliament building and the Stone Museum: both of which you’ll get to see on your guided tour.
Castle Hill Area
The castle hill area is probably the most exciting area of the city. Buda Castle has been built and rebuilt multiple times in its checkered history. The most recent reconstruction was after the carnage at the end of the Second World War. The Soviet army had blocked all escape routes and opened heavy fire onto the castle to defeat the German and Hungarian troops inside, which destroyed the castle.
The current castle finished construction in 1966, and the rest of the area has been preserved as well. You’ll find the fishermen’s bastion, Matthias Church, and Trinity Square in the same locale.
Hero’s Square
The hero’s square or Hősök Tere is known for its statues of Hungary’s most famous national figures. The seven chieftains of the Magyars, known as the de facto Hungarian conquerors, are featured in this square.
Walk around to see and read about the statues up close for an exciting insight into Hungarian history. There’s even a recently refurbished Museum of Fine Arts in the square for some bonus art experiences!
Ruins Clubs
There are plenty of options for nightlife as well, like the Ruin Pubs built in the remains of Jewish neighborhoods after World War II was over. People started underground establishments there at first, but these bars are now quaint parts of the city that locals love!
Often, film and music festivals are held in these bars, which you should check out if you have the time.
This is just the start of what you can explore in the city! Come aboard and enjoy the sights in Budapest on our escorted tours to Poland and other European countries. Our team at Pat Tours has been working as an American Polish travel company since 1972, perfecting all the arrangements we make for our clients.
Call us at 413-747-7702 or contact us online to get started on booking your next European tour!
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