BUDAPEST, THE CITY OF ARCHITECTURE & LITERATURE WATER & WINE

INTRO

Budapest is the largest and most exciting metropolis in (Central-Eastern) Europe. What you can visit depends on the length of your stay, your personal interests, the period of your stay and how many times you’ve already visited this city.

Most of the people we know start with a short 3-4 day visit and then they return again and again as they fall in love with the charms and limitless possibilities.

So we’ve decided to sort the sights per district and classify the highlights in different categories:

H Historical sight and/or architecture M Museum, memorial L Leisure N Nature V Views K Kids O Other T Top sights, the must-see’s A Aster recommends

You will find the full descriptions of the locations in every guide or on the internet.

If you want a guide with good knowledge of the city we can recommend two.

Runa is a journalist, author of a Budapest guide, she’s perfect for the classic walking tours, but also for specials (like the communist walking tour). She speaks English, German, Dutch and Hungarian. You can contact her: +36 30 620 9254, [email protected] or https://www.facebook.com/runa.hellinga

If you want to do something off the beaten track, contact our friend Julius, blogger and owner of the best Dutch website about Budapest architecture http://www.sziabudapest.nl/. He knows everything about Hungarian art nouveau architecture, and he’s also a specialist in de nightlive in the Jewish district. He can tell you where the free concerts are. He speaks English and Dutch. You can contact him: +36 30 7321269, [email protected] or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Szia- Budapest/381853081900553

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I.

Buda Castle (Budavári Palota) H V T A is the historical castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings in Budapest, and was first completed in 1265. Buda Castle was built on the southern tip of Castle Hill, bounded on the north by what is known as the Castle District (Várnegyed), which is famous for its Medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century houses, churches, and public buildings. It is linked to Clark Ádám Square and the Széchenyi Chain Bridge by the Castle Hill Funicular. The castle is a part of the Budapest World Heritage Site, which was declared a Heritage Site in 1987. http://www.budavar.hu/

Matthias Church (Mátyás templom) H T A is located on Holy Trinity Square. Its current form (resembling its earlier, Gothic design), on the basis of the plans of Frigyes Schulek, dates from 1874-1896. There has been a church on this site ever since the House of Árpád. During the Ottoman occupation it functioned as a mosque. From the reigns of Béla IV to Charles IV, every king of had some kind of connection to the church; some built extensions to it and some were crowned here. Look for concerts on the website. 1014 Szentharomsag ter 2. http://www.matyas-templom.hu/

Fishermen’s Bastion (Halászbástya) H V T Fishermen’s Bastion in the Buda Castle was similarly designed by Frigyes Schulek and was built on the site of the old city walls between 1895 and 1902 in neo-Romanesque style. The viewing terraces offer unparalleled views across Budapest. There is a lapidarium in St. Michael’s Chapel under Fishermen’s Bastion. 1014 Szentharomsag ter http://www.fishermansbastion.com/

Hungarian National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria) H M A This is the largest public collection presenting the past and present of fine arts in Hungary. It has operated as an independent institution since 1957. The Gallery moved to its present location, the former Royal Palace of Buda, in 1975. The permanent exhibitions provide a comprehensive picture of the history of Hungarian art from the founding of the state to the present, from the earliest Hungarian memories to contemporary works of art. 1014 Szent Gyorgy ter 2., Buda Castle http://www.mng.hu/

Hospital in the Rock Museum – secret nuclear bunker and hospital M Life-like waxwork figures, original furnishings and hospital equipment – this is the facility located deep under Buda Castle Hill and classified top secret until 2002. Here, we can experience events from the Second World War, the 1956 Revolution, the Cold War era, and – in the latest exhibition area – the lifesaving activities of specialized corps. Travel back in time on thrill-packed guided tours that depart every hour. 1012 Lovas ut 4./c http://www.sziklakorhaz.eu/

Budapest Castle Hill Funicular (Budavári Sikló) L V K T A The funicular, called Budavári Sikló in Hungarian, runs from the Adam Clarke square at the foot of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, connecting it to the Fisherman’s Bastion at the top of the hill. First opened in 1870, it was the second funicular railway operating in Europe. The funicular had been meticulously reconstructed after being completely destroyed in a World War II bombing raid. It features two tramcars, each made of three cabins stacked in a ziggurat-like fashion onto each other. The 50 meter ride takes only a couple of minutes. http://www.bkv.hu/en/funicular_tickets/funicular_tickets

Rudas Medicinal Baths and Swimming pool H L A The bath was built in 1550, and then reconstructed by Pasha Sokoli Mustafa in 1566. Some of the Turkish-period features are still used today: the octagonal pool, the four small corner pools, each with water of a different temperature, and the characteristic Turkish dome. 1013 Dobrentei ter 9. http://en.rudasfurdo.hu/

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Gül Baba’s tomb and rose garden H M A The tomb (türbe) of Gül Baba, a 16th century Turkish dervish poet, is the northernmost site of Islamic pilgrimage, and the only Muslim holy site in Christian Europe. According to legend, the dervish is said to have introduced roses to Hungary, hence the beautiful rose garden surrounding his tomb. 1023 Mecset utca 14. http://www.museum.hu/museum/index_hu.php?ID=27

Kiraly Medicinal Bath H L It is believed that a start was made on building the bath by Pasha of Buda Arslan in 1565. It is one of the few remaining monuments from the Turkish times, receiving the visitor in all the original magnificence of a period Ottoman palace of bathing. 1027 Fo utca 82 - 84. http://en.kiralyfurdo.hu/

Lukacs Medical Bath and Swimming Pool H L A In addition to the medicinal bath section of the bathing complex built in th 19th century, the swimming pool is also very popular, attracting writers and artists among its regular clients. The 1800m² park with trees, many of wich are centuries old, is an ideal place for relaxing. 1023 Frankel Leo utca 25 - 29. http://en.lukacsfurdo.hu/

Veli Bej Bath H L Built during the Turkish occupation of Hungary, the bath, which is located on the site of the Hospital of Hospitaller Brothers of St. John of God, has reopened to the general public in a modernized form. The bath features five Turkish pools of different temperatures, a jacuzzi, two steam cabins, a Finnish and an infra sauna, massage showers and other wellness services. 1023 Arpad fejedelem utja 7. http://www.velibejfurdo.hu/

Children Train (Gyermekvasút) L N V K A Mainly for kids but also for people interested in trains, the Children Train is a half day tour that you can take in Budapest. It is a historical train that leaves at and comes back after half an hour which is (almost) fully operated by children. It is highly recommendable for a relaxing ride through the Buda hills. http://visitbudapest.travel/activities/budapest-sightseeing/childrens-railway-tour/ http://www.gyermekvasut.hu/english/chrw_home.php

Invisible exhibition at Millenáris K The Invisible Exhibition is a unique, interactive journey into the world of the blind, where you have to find your way in total darkness using touch, sounds and scent only. An hour-long adventure in complete darkness, accompanied by a blind guide. You can have dinner or a massage is the dark. 1024 Kis Rokus utca 16–20., Millenaris B http://www.lathatatlan.hu/en/

Caving under Budapest L N Budapest, the capital of Hungary is famous for its hot springs all over the world. Many people visit Hungary’s famous thermal baths, but only a few are aware of the fact that hot water rushing up from deep underground has created something else too. The capital is built on a limestone basis, in which the heated water formed a huge cave system, thought to be more than 120 km long. The spas and caves of Budapest are planned to be a declared part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Among the numerous caves of Budapest only two can be visited without previous caving experience.

The museum-like Szemlő-hegyi cave has a concrete path passable even by wheelchair, and it is lit by arfificial light. There is a 35-minutes long guided tour in the cave. 1025 Pusztaszeri ut 35. http://www.dunaipoly.hu/index.php?pg=menu_2079

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The other cave is the 29.1 km long Pál-völgyi cave system – the longest in Hungary - located in the Duna-Ipoly National Park. The cave is a real multi-level labyrinth system with most of its chambers under the residental districts of Budapest. 1025 Szepvolgyi ut 162. http://www.dunaipoly.hu/palvolgyibarlang

This cave system offers two types of tours: 1) 45–minutes long easy walk, built with artificial footway and lighting 2) Adventurous climbing-crawling tour for the most courageous. This other section of the cave system is left in its natural state. If you aren’t claustrophobic you can apply for the regularly scheduled cave tours which are guided by qualified caving guides. During the 2.5-3 hrs long tours you will often have to climb on walls and crawl through narrow passages so you have to be prepared for adventure. they provide you the caving equipment (overall, helmet and light). These tours start every Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the afternoon, every Tuesday and Thursday in the morning, and on Saturdays in the early afternoon. http://www.caving.hu/

III.

Aquincum Museum and Archaeological Park H M The 10-hectare Archaeological Park and exhibitions of the museum reveal the Roman past of Budapest. The world-famous Aquincum water organ and relics of the governor’s palace are showcased in a separate exhibition. The virtual experience space, the mythological playground and house furnished according to Roman design are the latest exciting tourist attractions. 1031 Szentendrei ut 135. http://www.aquincum.hu/

Óbuda island L N The shaded pathways and playground of Óbuda (more commonly known as Shipyard) Island are a great place for families and kids, while adults will enjoy the upmarket clubs here.

Sziget Festival L A Well, there is not much to say about the ,as it is THE festival of Budapest, the festival city. The Sziget takes place every August on Óbuda island and it hosts some hundred thousand visitors in 1 week. Many of them camping on the site, some coming just for the evenings but all of them are willing to party, non stop! It is a must do in Budapest, if you are here in that time. http://szigetfestival.com/

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Parliament H T The 17,745 m² neo-Gothic Parliament (built to the designs of Imre Steindl between 1885-1904) is the largest administrative building in the country and the second largest parliament in Europe. The symbol of Hungarian statehood, the Holy Crown and the royal regalia, are exhibited under the central dome of the building. This visionary synthesis of Hungarian architecture with its lavish gilded stucco, 242 statues, broad staircases, frescoes and paintings, is not only home to the National Assembly of Hungary but it is also a popular tourist attraction, which can be visited by anyone by prior arrangement and after undergoing a security check. 1055 Kossuth ter 1–3. http://www.parlament.hu/angol/angol.htm

Shoes on the Danube (Cipők a Duna-parton) M V T A The Shoes on the is a memorial concept by filmdirector Can Togay and was created by him and the sculptor Gyula Pauer on the bank of the Danube River in Budapest. The memorial was opened on April 16th 2005. It honors the Jews who were killed by fascist Arrow Cross militiamen in Budapest during World War II. They were ordered to take off their shoes, and were shot at the edge of the water so that their bodies fell into the river and were carried away. It represents their shoes left behind on the bank. Between Szechenyi ter and Kossuth ter http://www.greatsynagogue.hu/gallery_shoes.html

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Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) H T A Completed in 1849, this bridge was the first to be built across the Hungarian section of the Danube and is now considered to be one of the city's major landmarks.

Liberty Square (Szabadság tér) H A Many tourist pages and books do not write so much about this square, though it is one of the most beautiful places for some quietness, peace and a cup of coffee during the spring and summer. What make this square so special are the buildings surrounding it, and the size of the park that is in the middle of the square. Facing the Liberty Square you can find several buildings: the , the American Embassy, the Inter- Europe Bank and also the Hungarian State Television (MTV). In the middle of the Liberty Square you can find the last monument from communism left at its original place in Budapest (the rest has been moved to the Statue Park, just outside the city). At the monument you can see a text giving praise and thanks to the Communist troops for saving the Hungarians from the Germans.

Saint Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika) H V T The second tallest building in Budapest is not only much visited for its beauty but also because the mummified right hand of the founding king of Hungary, Saint Stephen, is preserved in a reliquary in the Holy Right Chapel. Built originally to the designs of József Hild between 1851-1905, but finished by Miklós Ybl, the Basilica has a lookout platform at 65 metres offering a breathtaking panorama over the city. Look on the website for concerts. The area around the Basilica is rated as a culinary hub with excellent restaurants, ice cream parlours, wine bars and souvenir shops. 1051 Szent Istvan ter 1. http://www.bazilika.biz/

Hotel President V A The rooftop restaurant has a 360° panoramic view. You can see the Basilica, the Parliament and the art nouveau postbank from architect Ödön Lechner. 1054 Hold utca 3-5. http://www.panoramaterrace.net/eng/

Sightseeing with tram No. 2 V O T A Tramline No. 2 is one of the most famous tramlines running on the bank of the Danube, between Közvágóhíd and Jászai Mari tér. At a price of only one single ticket you can see several sights which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. It was chosen by national geographic as the 7th most beautiful tramride in the world and the first of Europe. Jászai Mari tér: The northern terminus of tram No. 2. Szalay utca: On the right side you can see the Baroque, and neo-Gothic building of Parliament. This building is one of the most beautiful and famous architectural monuments of Budapest. Kossuth Lajos tér: This square with the House of Parliament is the symbolical centre of the Hungarian State. Roosevelt tér: You can see one of the capital symbols, the Chain Bridge and the panorama of Buda Castle. Another major sight is the Gresham-palace. Eötvös tér: The Duna promenade starts here, a popular walking area. Moreover, famous restaurants and cafes are situated here. Vigadó tér: The Vigadó building is home to to several prestigious events, balls and concerts. On the ironed bar near the Danube bank, you can see the bronze statue of the Little Princess. Március 15. tér: It played a huge role in the formation of the inner city. From the square, looking over the Danube, you can see the 140 meter high Gellért-mountain with the citadel. Fővám tér: Only some steps away and you can reach the Váci utca, the main pedestrianized shopping street of the capital. Boráros tér: It is an important trafffic junction where the southern section of Grand Boulevard crosses the Danube quay. Közvágóhíd – Millennium Cultural Centre: the new National Theatre and the Palace of Arts which provides room for a concert hall, a theatre and the famous Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art. By HÉV suburban railway from Közvágóhíd it is worth travelling to Ráckeve, which is situated 50 km away on the South from Budapest. This little town is a popular resort place providing several facilities for hiking and sightseeing. http://www.bkk.hu/en/timetables/

The Little Princess V K Walk the Danube corso. This is the most touristic place (along with the parallel 'Váci utca') of Budapest, so I'm sure you won't miss it. Amongst the scenic view of Buda Castle Hill, there are more things to find here, like the bronze sculpture of the little princess sitting on the fence.

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Váci utca O The best way to see the more posh side of the Inner Town is to walk up pedestrianised Váci utca, the capital’s premier – and most expensive – shopping street, with designer clothes, expensive jewellery shops, the odd pub and some bookshops for browsing. To gain access from , walk through Párisi Udvar, a gem of a Parisian-style arcade built in 1909, and into tiny Kigyó utca. Váci utca is straight ahead. Many of the buildings on Váci utca are worth closer inspection, but it’s a narrow street and you’ll have to crane your neck. Thonet House is a masterpiece built by Ödön Lechner in 1890, and a florist-cum-gift-shop called Philanthia has an original – and very rare – Art Nouveau interior.

Fashion Street O After London, Paris, Milan and Vienna, in a charming little street in downtown Budapest you can find all the major global brands. The Fashion Street (Deák Ferenc Street) is simply a great venue of the city with its shops, great buildings and luxury hotels. 1052 Deak Ferenc utca 15. http://fashionstreet.hu/

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Andrassy út H O A Andrássy Avenue is an iconic boulevard in Budapest, dating back to 1872. It links Erzsébet Square with the Városliget. Lined with spectacular Neo-renaissance mansions and townhouses featuring fine facades and interiors, it was recognised as a World Heritage Site in 2002. It is also one of Budapest's main shopping streets, with fine cafes, restaurants, theatres, and luxury boutiques. It was decreed to be built in 1870, to discharge the parallel Király utca from heavy traffic and to connect the inner city parts with the . Its construction began in 1872 and the avenue was inaugurated on August 20 (a national holiday) 1876. Its realization was a blend of the plans proposed by the top 3 competitors Lajos Lechner, Frigyes Feszl and Klein & Fraser. Its palaces were built by the most distinguished architects of the time (led by Miklós Ybl), financed by Hungarian and other banking houses. These were mostly finished by 1884 and mostly aristocrats, bankers, landowners and historical families moved in. It was named in 1885 after the main supporter of the plan, Prime Minister Gyula Andrássy. The construction of the , the first underground railway in Continental Europe, was proposed in 1870, since the capital had always been opposed to surface transport on this road. Construction began in 1894 and was finished in 1896, so this new metro line could facilitate the transport to Városliget, the main venue of the millennium celebrations of Hungary. The boulevard was renamed three times in the 1950s; a testament to the rapid political changes of the period. It became Sztálin út ("Stalin Street") in 1950 during the Soviet occupation. During the 1956 uprising it was renamed to Magyar Ifjúság útja ("Avenue of Hungarian Youth"). The following year the governing communists changed the name to Népköztársaság út ("People's Republic Street"). The former name of Andrássy was restored in 1990, after the end of the communist era.

Drive with the historic underground (M1 - Földalatti) H O A Budapest currently has 4 Metro lines. The M1 is the oldest underground system in continental Europe, also known as the yellow line or Millennium line, has been running ever since. The trains have been changed over time but the stations have remained the same over the years and are really pretty and old fashioned. The yellow Metro runs between Vörösmarty tér and Mexikói út connecting the city center with the City Park. http://www.bkk.hu/en/timetables/

Hungarian State Opera House H L T A One of the most important historical buildings in the city, from architect Ybl, the Opera House is the premier institution of Hungarian opera performance, which boasts a history of 300 years. Its international prestige was established by Gustav Mahler, whose appointment in 1888 as director ushered in the institution’s golden age. It also ranks as a bastion of ballet thanks to the Hungarian National Ballet, who are based here. There are foreign language guided tours of the Opera House every day at 3 pm and 4 pm. If you want to attend one of the programs, book in advance. 1061 Andrassy ut 22. http://www.opera.hu/en

Book Café (Alexandra, Párizsi Nagyáruház) H O A Book Café is located on the second floor of the former Paris Department Store, which currently houses the Alexandra Bookstore. The café is decorated with beautiful chandeliers and a fresco-style ceiling, painted by Károly Lotz. His paintings also decorate the rooms of the Parliament building. The grandiose, palace-like interior makes visitors feel like they are in

6 the residence of an aristocrat who once used to live on Andrássy Avenue. What makes Alexandra Book Café particularly interesting is that both the building and its interior are fine examples of Art Nouveau, while the café is reminiscent of a renaissance-style ballroom. The menu contains small, gourmet meals, like salmon on a bagel or cheese platter and a large selection of pastries at reasonable prices. Free WiFi. It’s open every day 10-22h. 1061 Andrassy ut 39.

House of Terror Museum (Terror Háza) M The Museum, which opened in 2002, serves as a unique reminder of the half a century that preceded the political transition of 1989. It stands as a fitting tribute to those who suffered under either of the two terror regimes that afflicted Hungary. 1062 Andrássy ut 60. http://www.terrorhaza.hu/en/index_2.html

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Café New York H O T A It is like a precious jewelry box with four floors, it retains the decorations which made it famous all over the world. The ceiling is adorned with marvelous frescoes by Gusztav Mannheimer and Ferenc Eisenhut, dating from the mid-XIX century. Sumptuous Venetian chandeliers produce a magical light, and golden stucco work covers the twisted columns: the effect is enchanting. Entering the New York Café means taking a step back into the past: visitors are overwhelmed by the whim, opulence and refinement of the place. The more time spent in these rooms, the more one begins to appreciate the fascination of the Belle Époque. While outside the bronze Lucifers, symbols of artistic spirit, recall the many painters, actors and intellectuals who have always frequented the café, inside one can appreciate both the proverbial affability of the water and the delights offered by barmen or chefs. It is a precious piece of Budapest and of Hungarian literary life, once the offices of the magazine ‘Nyugat’. One anecdote tells of how the famous writer Ferenc Molnár, threw the keys to the café into the Danube on the day that it opened, opened so that it would never close. 1073 Erzsebet korut 9-11. http://budapest.boscolohotels.com/restaurant-and-bar/new-york-cafe/

Szimpla L K O T A Szimpla Kert (Simple Garden) is the pioneer of our ruin pubs. It is really a cult place giving new trends. Undoubtedly the best known ruin pub among the locals and the tourists, as well. A little Szimpla-history: 2001: the beginning, the heroic age of ruin pubs; after the ’Little Szimpla’ in Kertész street, Szimpla Kert opens in Király street. Little Szimpla later moved to another place (where Tűzraktér can be found today), while Szimpla Kert has been in Kazinczy street 14 since 2004. Well, it can be anywhere, its atmosphere will always charm you (our favourite piece now is the table made from an old Trabant car). Its programs are as wide and unique as its atmosphere; there is room for the open-air cinema (which is the distributor of its films). On Sunday mornings there is a farmer’s market. 1075 Kazinczy utca 14. http://www.szimpla.hu/en

Dohány street Synagogue (Dohány utcai Zsinagóga) H M T A Europe’s largest functioning synagogue in Dohány Street was built between 1855 and 1859, to the plans of Frigyes Fessl and Ludwig Förster. Situated at what were the gates of the old Jewish quarter, it was part of the Budapest ghetto during World War II. The complex also includes the Jewish Museum, whose rich Judaica collection is renowned throughout Europe. 1074 Dohany utca 2. http://www.dohanystreetsynagogue.hu/

Kazinczy street Orthodox Synagogue (Kazinczy utcai Zsinagóga) M In the middle of the 7th district of Budapest, a modern capital of Europe today, lies the center of traditional orthodox Jewish life. Important institutions enrich the area enclosed by residential buildings, here we can find a synagogue, a prayer room, a kosher restaurant, a school and nearby is the only mikvah of Budapest. 1075 Budapest, Kazinczy utca 29-31., entrance from Dob utca http://www.greatsynagogue.hu/

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Claustrophilia L Exit game? Room escape? Puzzle solving game? Team building? Having fun with others? This is the transplantion of the well known adventure and point & click games into the reality, where the searching, the puzzle solving and the excitement remains, but the experience becomes touchable and the place is real. http://claustrophilia.hu/en/index.html

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Hungarian National Museum (Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum) H M 3,500,000 art objects, finds from a period stretching over 400,000 years and the nation’s history of 1000 years. The country’s premier museum boasts many world-famous exhibits, such as the Byzantine crown of Monomachos, the bodice of Queen Elisabeth (Sisi), the Hungarian Coronation Mantle and the Nobel Prize of Albert Szentgyörgyi. Permanent exhibitions: The History of Hungary from the Foundation of the State to 1990; Archaeology from Prehistory to the Fall of the Avar Empire. It is generally considered that the 1848 War of Independence was launched from the steps of the museum, and this moment is celebrated each 15 March. 1088 Muzeum korut 14–16. http://www.mnm.hu/

Urania National Cinema Palace H L A The Uránia National Film Theatre is unique among Hungarian cinemas as it is the only national film and cultural centre operating as an institute. It is the film profession’s counterpart of the National Theatre and the Opera House, its most important task is to present and show the treasures of contemporary and classical film art as well as organising film clubs, national and international film festivals, and other events (first nights). The 110 years old building is worth a visit, there is an elegant cafe inside. 1088 Rakoczi ut 21. http://www.urania-nf.hu/en

Kerepesi cemetery (Fiumei úti sírkert or Kerepesi temető) H M A About 500m southeast of Keleti station is the entrance to Budapest’s equivalent of Highgate or Père Lachaise cemeteries. Established in 1847, some of the 3000 gravestones and mausoleums in this 56-hectare necropolis, which is also called the National Graveyard (Nemzeti Sírkert), are worthy of a pharaoh – especially those of statesmen and national heroes such as Lajos Kossuth, Ferenc Deák and Lajos Batthyány. Other tombs are quite moving (eg those of the actress Lujza Blaha and the poet Endre Ady). Southeast of the main entrance, plot 21 contains the graves of many who died in the 1956 Uprising. Sitting uncomfortably close by is the huge mausoleum for party honchos, including the simple grave of János Kádár, who died in 1989. 1086 Fiumei ut 16. http://www.nemzetisirkert.hu/

IX.

Liberty bridge (Szabadság híd) H V T A Liberty Bridge is the third southernmost public road bridge in Budapest, located at the southern end of the City Centre. It is very near to our apartment and it is the most beautifull bridge of Budapest. It is 333.6 m in length and 20.1 m in width. The bridge was built between 1894 and 1896 to the plans of János Feketeházy. During the 2007-2009 complete reconstruction, all war damages of shape were repaired, furthermore the complete structure-reconstruction water discharge pipes held by the bridge were replaced, and noise and impulse-absorbing tramways were rebuilt.

Central Market Hall (Nagy Vásárscarnok) H O T A This covered, multi-storey market decorated with Zsolnay tiles is a favourite with locals, and is the most beautiful market hall in Europe according to CNN. The selection ranges from fresh vegetables, fruit, meat and dairy products to gifts as well as special spices and ingredients. There is also a restaurant, and if you get tired after wandering around the stalls, take a few minutes out at the row of typical buffets upstairs, where you can sample Hungarian lángos and other solid market fare. The Central Market Hall won the 1st place among the five most vibrant city markets in Europe, followed by Mercat de San Josep de la Boqueira in Barcelona, The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, the Portobello Road market in London and Les Puces in Paris. (http://travel.cnn.com/europes-amazing-city-markets-354731)

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1093 Fovam ter 1–3. http://www.piaconline.hu/new/index.php?pageLang=angol

Museum of Applied Arts (Iparművészeti Múzeum) H M A The Museum of Applied Arts is a masterpiece of Hungarian Art Nouveau, built between 1893 and 1896 to plans by Ödön Lechner and Gyula Pártos. Budapest’s Museum of Applied Arts was the third such institution to be opened in Europe, after London and Vienna. From its earliest days, the museum collected applied art from both Hungary and abroad, historical and contemporary objects alike, and its treasures now include splendid works of art from the collection of one of the wealthiest aristocratic Hungarian families, the Esterházys. 1091 Ulloi ut 33–37. http://www.imm.hu/en/

Holocaust Memorial Center M A The Holocaust Memorial Center is a national institution established by the Government in 1999. In 2002, it decided to construct the building of the Center in Páva Street, outside of the traditional Jewish quarter, further emphasizing its national character. The Holocaust Memorial Center is one of the few institutions in the world, established by the state, that focuses entirely on Holocaust research and education. The visitors are welcomed into a unique space that was named as the most impressive in Budapest, beside the city’s panorama itself by Frank Owen Gehry, one of the leading architects in our time. The modern building is organically linked to the Páva Street Synagogue, an authentic venue that once used to be the second largest site for Jewish worship in Budapest. The Institution is a center for scientific research, education and culture. It welcomes visitors with interactive permanent and special periodic exhibitions, experience-based museum pedagogical programs and cultural performances. Guided tours are available in five languages and special, thematically focused tours are offered regularly. A bookshop and a cozy coffee shop contribute to a memorable visit. 1094 Pava utca 39. http://www.hdke.hu/en

Palace of Arts and Ludwig Museum (Művészetek Palotája) M A The building, which has been awarded the FIABCI Prix d’Excellence for architecture, is home to the Béla Bartók National Concert Hall, the Festival Theatre and the Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art. The Palace of Arts (Müpa) hosts international and Hungarian stars of classical, pop and world music, jazz and dance. The museum has both permanent and temporary exhibitions. 1095 Komor Marcell utca 1. http://mupa.hu/en/ http://www.ludwigmuseum.hu/

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Jewish cemetery (Kozma utcai izraelita temető) M This Jewish cemetery is the largest of its kind in Hungary. It was opened in 1893, next to the New Public Cemetery (Uj koztemeto). The memorial to the 600 000 Hungarian victims of the Holocaust is located in this cemetery. The graves, mausoleums and shrines are excellent imprints of the Jewish culture and the Hungarian Secession (Art Nouveau), the architecture of the turn of the XIXth, XXth century. The most well-known shrine is the Schmidl tomb, made for the family of Sandor Schmidl in 1903. Two famous architects of the time, Bela Lajta and Odon Lechner designed this beautiful tomb using Zsolnay ceramics. 1108 Kozma utca 6.

XI.

Statue of Liberty and Citadel (Szabadság-szobor és ) M V T A The Italian word citadel means fortress, and this was the original purpose of the building constructed by the Habsburgs in 1854. Today, the rondella is a popular lookout point since virtually the entire city can be viewed from the top of Gellért Hill. The Citadel houses restaurants and a museum. The 40-m-high Statue of Liberty is topped by a woman holding aloft a palm branch, visible from nearly everywhere in Pest. It was first erected in 1947 in remembrance of the Soviet occupation of Hungary during World War II, which ended the occupation by Nazi Germany. 1118 Citadella setany 1.

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Gellert Spa Baths H L T A One of most popular baths for tourists coming to Budapest. The medicinal spring here was already famed in the 13th century. The spa is decorated with a wealth of original Art Nouveau furnishings, artistic mosaics, stained glass windows and sculptures, although the interior of the hotel built alongside has lost many of these fittings over the years. 1118 Kelenhegyi ut 4-6. http://www.gellertbath.hu/

Kopaszi dam (Kopaszi gát) L N K The artificial lake in the leisure park located south of Rákóczi Bridge is great for kayaking and canoeing, and the green oasis around the water hides many restaurants, bars and clubs. Ideal for a romantic stroll, a bike tour or a picnic, it is also the perfect spot for families. http://www.obol.hu/home.html

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Margaret Island (Margitsziget) L N K A The is an island of peace, located between Buda and Pest. During the summer the citizens of Budapest always “escape” to the island for some peace in a very stressful life. Car traffic is not allowed on the island (except from those travelling to the hotels), and there is only one bus crossing over the island. The Margaret Island can be reached from the and from the Arpad Bridge. It has had many names throughout history, the most famous probably the “Island of the Rabbits.” It received its name from Saint Margaret, the daughter of King Béla IV. She lived in a Dominician monastary there, the ruins of which can still be found on the Island. Among the attractions at the Margaret Island, the most popular tend to be the music fountain (near the Margaret Bridge). Here the water in the fountain and the music follow each other in strength and height). The Palatinus bath is very popular in the summer, the little Japanese garden (with an artifical waterfall) has its own charm and the Water Tower buit in Art Nouveau style is worth a visit. During the summer there are also many concerts at the Margaret Island Open Stage, just by the Water Tower. For those who would like some running during their stay in Budapest, there is a very popular running track around the island, which is more han 5km long. http://margitsziget.info/

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City Park (Városliget) L N K T A The City Park in Budapest or as it is called in Hungarian Városliget is a large park which is situated behind Heroes’ Square and serves as a inner city recreation area with many possible activities . In the City Park you can find many attractions from museums over recreation facilities to family friendly possibilities to spend the day. Within Városliget you can find the Városligeti Tó (City Park Lake) which can be used to go around with a boat in summer or to go ice skating in winter time. http://varosliget.info/

Heroes’ square (Hősök tere) H T A Much of Hungary’s history is recounted in the huge square that was built to mark the 1000th anniversary of the country, in 1896. Archangel Gabriel protects the city from atop a 36-metre column. At the base, you’ll find the seven chieftains of the conquering Magyar tribes and the 14 statues in the colonnades are of Hungarian kings and representative figures. In front of the column is the grave of the unknown soldier.

Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum) H M The Museum of Fine Arts, home to Hungary’s largest collection of fine art, overlooks Heroes’ Square. Opened 100 years ago, it offers a comprehensive overview of the development of European painting and sculpture, from the beginning to the present day. Today it is the country’s most visited museum thanks in large part to important temporary exhibitions it has staged (for instance, Cézanne and Van Gogh). 1146 Dozsa Gyorgy ut 41. http://www.szepmuveszeti.hu/

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Kunsthalle (Art Hall, Műcsarnok) H M Standing opposite the Museum of Fine Arts, the Kunsthalle is one of the largest centres of contemporary art in the country. Leading contemporary artists from Hungary and abroad present solo and group shows over an exhibition floor space of 2,300 m². 1146 Dozsa Gyorgy ut 37. http://www.mucsarnok.hu/new_site/index.php?lang=en

Vajdahunyad Castle (Vajdahunyadvár) H M This striking fairytale castle housing the Museum of Agriculture showcases elements of major architectural periods from Romanesque to Baroque. Beyond the history of agriculture, the museum also displays a collection of hunting trophies and hunting weapons. The Millennium historical grouping displays copies of the finest of Hungarian architecture in miniature. 1146 Varosliget www.mezogazdasagimuzeum.hu

Szechenyi Bath and Spa H L K T A Budapest can rightly be called the city of spas, and the Szechenyi Bath and Spa was its first thermal baths on the Pest side. At the time, back in 1881, it was called "Artesian Bath", and was only a temporary establishment. In 1913, it was converted into a permanent bath, and received its present name and most parts of its pretty yellow building complex. In 1927, beach sites, as well as public bathing departments for gentlemen and ladies were added. In 1960, another expansion added a group thermal section (for use in bathing suites), and a daytime outpatient hospital. The year of 1999 saw a complete reconstruction of the swimming pools. Water filtering and circulation devices were added, and the fancy bath received high standard equipment and modern elements. The bath receives its thermal water from the 2nd St. Stephan’s Well. It is now one of the largest bathing complexes in Europe. 1146 Allatkerti korut 9-11. http://www.szechenyibath.hu/

Budapest Zoo and Botanical garden (Állatkert) H L K Opened nearly 150 years ago, Budapest Zoo has one of the richest collections in Europe. A thousand animal species, including Asha the baby elephant and the quadruplet Asian tiger cubs, Musical Zoo evenings and the exciting programmes on “Enchanted Mountain” guarantee pleasurable entertainment for all the family. 1146 Allatkerti korut 6-12. www.zoobudapest.com/en

Budapest Amusement Park (Vidámpark) L K A This Luna Park on 2.5 hectares dates back to the mid-19th century. A total 38 rides include the heart-stopping Ikarus Space Needle, a vintage wooden roller-coaster dating from 1922, the Hip-Hop freefall tower, as well as go-karts, dodgem cars, a carousel built in 1906 and a cave railway from 1912. Good old-fashioned fun. It is temperary closed. 1146 Allatkerti korut 14-16. http://www.vidampark.hu/

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Memento park – Statue park museum M A The biggest statues and the darkest ghosts of the communist dictatorship. Soviet model made gigantic sculptures from the Cold War, from behind the Iron Curtain. Gigantism, waving comrades, Stalin’s boots, and the Red Army soldiers. The barrack- documentary explains the political secret service. Vintage gift shop and Trabant. The is one of the most unique tourist attractions in Budapest, and also it has great photo opportunities. 1223 Balatoni ut - Szabadkai utca http://www.mementopark.hu/

Tropicarium L K See huge sharks, stingrays, alligators, marmosets leaping around, exotic birds, snakes, insects, reptiles, and hundreds of colourful freshwater and sea fish at Tropicarium. Witness the awesome sharks’ feeding time on Thursdays, at 3 pm. 1222 Nagytetenyi ut 37. http://www.tropicarium.hu/

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Csopa – Centre of scientific wonders L K CSOPA is the first interactive science exhibition in Hungary, which offers to all ages the experience of learning while playing. More than 100 exciting devices over 1500 sqm and mind-blowing presentations every two hours introduce us to the wonderful world of physics. A packed day of fun for the whole family. 1222 Nagytetenyi ut 37-43. http://www.csopa.hu/eng/

BUDAPEST BEACHES

Palatinus L K A On Margit sziget (Island). With 11 pools, one of the biggest open air water complexes in Europe. Its 11 pools spread across a 750 km2 park with water slides, a wave pool, an adventure pool, a children’s pool, and several spa pools fed by thermal springs found under the Island, as well as a football field, volleyball court and a children’s playground. Needless to say snack bars are dotted about for a complete beach experience. 1138 Matgitsziget http://en.palatinusstrand.hu/

Pünkösdfürdői Strand L K The Punkosdfurdo Bath is, it too, more of a seasonal leisure opportunity than a spa center as such. Here, visitors can swim in one of the three pools and, on top of that, they can admire the Danube, since the venue is located on the very bank of the river, in Buda. 1039 Kiralyok utja 272. http://en.punkosdfurdo.hu/

Csillaghegyi Strand L N K The Chillaghegyi is the oldest swimming complex in Budapest. It is located in the northern part of the Buda Hills making it a perfect „country” get-away from the inner city, surrounded by green hillsides decorated by romantic little wooden chalets. Because its 90 km2 park is built into the hillside, the pools are divided along terrace steps. Guest can soak and relax in the large thermal pool, swim laps in the large 100m pool, and let it all hang out (and I mean literally) in the separate nudist beach! The pools are covered by a large canvas in colder months meaning the complex is open throughout winter. 1038 Pusztakuti ut 2-6. http://en.csillaghegyistrand.hu/

Paskál Strand L The Paskal Bath is located in district XIV of Budapest, and it is one of the newest seasonal baths in the capital of Hungary. Built no sooner than 1989, the Paskal Bath is a smaller venue, consisting of two pools only, and it chiefly stands out as a leisure opportunity, rather than a proper spa. It is open May to August. 1149 Egressy ut 178/f. http://en.paskalstrand.hu/

Római Strandfürdő L K The Római is one of the most entertaining swimming complexes in Budapest with a whole load of classic beach fun and more, including multiple water slides, whirlpools, sprinklers, water cannons and steam-oozing lava rocks. A sauna and steam room also cater for the pampering needs of guests. It is located near the Roman Embankment in Óbuda, a popular destination for cycle rides out of the city. Why not make a day of it and cycle down along the embankment, enjoy the atmosphere of the river bank whilst sipping on a lemonade, then take that well-deserved splash in the fun-filled pools of the Római – the perfect summer day in Budapest! 1031 Rozgonyi Piroska utca 2. http://en.romaistrand.hu/

Dagály L The Dagály is one of the largest swimming complexes of the city, the largest on the Pest side. It has 10 pools of various shapes, sizes and temperatures in the facility’s pleasant, picturesque park area. It is also a thermal spa fed by the same spring that feeds the famous Széchényi Bath. It offers great view of the Danube and is a lot less crowded than the Palatinus. 1138 Nepfurdo utca 36. http://en.dagalyfurdo.hu/

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OUTSIDE BUDAPEST

Szentendre M L K O T A Szentendre is a really nice destination for a day trip. Right next to the Danube in the north of Budapest you find the small viallage Szentendre which is year by year visited by thousands of tourists from all around the world. It is a very good place to get out of Budapest and enjoy the village life for a day and to see something else than only sights of Budapest. Szentendre is a small town with many museums, galleries, a very nice old town including castle and of course as it is located next to the Danube it has a nice river side with small cafés, restaurants and bars. http://www.iranyszentendre.hu/en/ http://www.bkk.hu/en/timetables/#H5

Gödöllő H M Gödöllő is located in the northeast of Budapest approxiamtely 30 km among the highway M3. The city has approximately 21.000 inhabitants and is very popular among tourists because of its history. Gödöllő used to be the residenz of Franz Josef , emperor of Austria, and his wife Sisi. Their residence, the Gödöllő palace, is one of the reasons so many tourists are going there. http://godollo.hu/tourism/greeting/index.php http://www.bkk.hu/en/timetables/#H8

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