Budapest is a relatively young city, and its downtown area was meticulously planned using the skills of the best architects and advanced technologies.
Many of its turn-of-the-century buildings are true gems, and one can spend hours admiring and deciphering rich façade decorations. Take a look at some notable buildings in the central fifth district of Budapest.
Parisian Arcade (Párisi udvar) located at Petőfi Sándor utca 2 is one of the most impressive buildings the Hungarian capital is so famous for.
Jewish Quarter of Budapest, the 7th district stretching between Rákóczi út and Andrássy út is probably most famous for the Great Synagogue, the largest synagogue of Europe, and the second largest one in the world.
But there is much more to this most densely populated district of Budapest that used to be mostly Jewish before WWII and is predominantly Gypsy residential area today.
Boat service run by Budapest public transport company during summer months might be a good alternative to costly tourist boats.
Though you do not have a guide on board talking about Budapest, you can still enjoy the city views and the flow of the Danube.
Győr (pronounced Dior), the sixth largest in Hungary with population of about 128 000, lies halfway between Budapest and Vienna. The trip by train takes about an hour and a half.
This city known for its Baroque architecture, churches, palaces and corner balconies is also a university town and a popular tourist destination.
99% residential and very quiet part of 11th district spreading over Buda hills. It has both old villas now shared by several families, and housing of socialist times with spacious lawns.
It is a great place for peaceful weekend walks (but only if you are comfortable with quite steep slopes).
If you find Budapest winter too mild and miss the fun of winter sports head to WestEnd City Center (VI. Váci út 1-3 by Nyugati train station). The 2000 sq meter open-air skating rink located on the top of the shopping mall is a perfect pastime for adults and kids alike.
And there is no need to invest in the gear, because you can rent the skates at the skating rink (600 forints/hour).
Located 477 meters high in the Buda Hills, Normafa is a huge forest in the city, one of the most popular green spots of Budapest. Fresh air and the panoramic view make Normafa an attractive place for jogging, family outings, romantic walks and downhill biking.
