Hungary Travel Guide: Explore the Colorful Jewel of Central Europe
Introduction
Hungary, a captivating country located in the heart of Central Europe, is renowned for its rich history,
magnificent architecture, thermal bath culture, and diverse natural landscapes, attracting countless travelers. Whether you prefer ancient castles, bustling cities, warm thermal baths, or charming lakes and rural scenery, Hungary offers an unforgettable experience. This guide will provide a detailed overview of Hungary's main attractions and travel itineraries, helping you plan an exciting Central European journey.
I. Hungary Overview
Capital: Budapest
Official Language: Hungarian
Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
Best Travel Season: Spring and Autumn (April-June, September-October), with mild weather and pleasant scenery.
Visa Information: Many countries are visa-free or offer visa-on-arrival; please confirm the latest policies in advance.
II. Introduction to Hungary's Main Attractions
1. Budapest – The "Colorful City" on the Danube
Széchenyi Chain Bridge: An iconic bridge connecting Buda and Pest, brilliantly lit at night.
Buda Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site, offering panoramic views of the Danube and the city.
Fisherman’s Bastion: Fairytale-like towers providing excellent photo opportunities.
St. Stephen’s Basilica: Hungary's religious symbol.
Danube River Cruise: Enjoy a night cruise on the Danube, admiring the illuminated banks.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Europe's largest thermal bath, perfect for relaxation.
2. Heroes' Square and City Park
Heroes' Square (Hősök tere): A square commemorating Hungary's historical heroes.
City Park (Városliget): A great place for leisure, walks, and boating; summer offers paddle boating on the lake.
3. Pest District – Modern Metropolis and Cultural Hub
Great Market Hall: Taste Hungarian specialties and buy handicrafts.
Jewish Quarter: A testament to Jewish culture and history, home to the famous Great Synagogue.
Andrássy Avenue: A UNESCO World Heritage street, a tree-lined boulevard filled with luxury shops and cafes.
4. Sunrise and Sunset on the Danube
Budapest Night View: Ascend Gellért Hill or Buda Hills for a panoramic view of the city's sparkling night lights.
5. Other Worthwhile Attractions
Hortobágy National Park: Europe's largest grassland protected area, experience Hungarian rural culture.
Tihany Peninsula: Famous for its abbey and beautiful lake views.
Eger: A renowned wine region, taste Hungarian wines and visit the castle.
III. Recommended Itineraries
Itinerary 1: Classic Budapest In-depth Tour (4 days)
Day 1: Buda Castle District (Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church), Chain Bridge.
Day 2: Heroes' Square, City Park, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Andrássy Avenue.
Day 3: Great Synagogue, Great Market Hall, Jewish Quarter, Gellért Hill night view.
Day 4: Danube River Cruise, free time for shopping or leisure.
Itinerary 2: Nature and Culture Combined Tour (7 days)
Days 1-2: Budapest city center, thermal bath relaxation, night cruise on the Danube.
Day 3: Travel to Hortobágy National Park, experience rural scenery and horseback riding.
Day 4: Drive to Tihany Peninsula, visit the abbey and enjoy lake views.
Day 5: Head to Eger, wine tasting, visit the castle and underground cellars.
Day 6: Return to Budapest, visit museums and cultural sites.
Day 7: Free arrangement, enjoy your last moments in Hungary.
Itinerary 3: Wine Region and History Exploration (5 days)
Day 1: Budapest, city tour.
Day 2: Drive to Eger, visit the castle and enjoy wine tasting.
Day 3: Continue to experience rural life and wineries in Eger.
Day 4: Head to Tihany Abbey, admire lake views and historical architecture.
Day 5: Return to Budapest, end of the trip.
IV. Travel Tips
Transportation: Budapest has a well-developed metro, bus, and tram system. For intercity travel, you can choose trains or long-distance buses; some routes offer tourist bus or private car bookings.
Accommodation: Options range from budget hostels to luxury hotels; it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Cuisine: Taste classic Hungarian dishes such as "Gulyás" (Goulash), "Paprika Stewed Beef," "Danube Fish," and local desserts like "Danube Cake."
Language: Hungarian is the official language; English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning some basic phrases will be helpful.
Safety: Generally safe, but be mindful of personal belongings in busy areas and avoid walking alone in remote areas at night.
V. Conclusion
Hungary is a captivating country that blends ancient and modern, nature and culture. Whether you are enchanted by Budapest's romantic nights or exploring the tranquility and simplicity of the countryside, Hungary offers a rich sensory experience and spiritual enjoyment. Plan your trip to Hungary now and embark on an unforgettable Central European adventure!
Wishing you a pleasant journey and a fruitful trip to Hungary!
Buda Castle in Budapest, Hungary, is a majestic historical complex that crowns Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River. Once the royal palace of Hungarian kings, it now houses the Budapest History Museum, the Hungarian National Gallery, and the Széchenyi Library. The castle’s grand architecture, cobblestone courtyards, and panoramic views of the city and Chain Bridge make it a must-visit attraction. At night, the illuminated castle creates a breathtaking scene across the river. Visitors can explore its rich history, art collections, and nearby attractions like Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion. Buda Castle perfectly embodies Hungary’s royal and cultural heritage.
The castle is magnificent, easy to defend and difficult to attack, and it is the throat of the Danube. It is said that before the end of World War II, the Soviet Red Army and the German Nazis fought a desperate battle here. The German Nazis once tried to blow up the Budapest Chain Bridge, but were stopped by the Hungarians. This was also where the king once lived, and it is also where Chen Peisi got his name. You can see the Budapest Chain Bridge next to it, and there is a museum exhibition hall.
Castle District is the historical center of Budapest and a World Heritage Site. There are many ancient buildings in the Castle District, including Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman's Bastion.
I am writing this comment to remind you that when you arrive at the Palace of Buda, you should not miss the scenery behind the Palace of Buda, except for the Pace and the Capitol Building overlooking the other side. Behind the Palace of Buda, you can see Buda, a small mountain city, with a feeling of mountains. Especially, if you come here in spring, there are cherry blossoms behind the Grand Palace, and it's eight-fold cherry blossoms! Very bright and beautiful! Cherry blossoms are not inferior to those seen in Japan.
Buda Castle, also known as the "Royal Palace" or "Royal Castle", is located on the south side of the Castle Hill in Budapest, Hungary, and is adjacent to the famous Castle District in the north. It is said that the Castle District is famous for its ancient and spectacular medieval buildings, Baroque buildings, and houses and churches built in the 19th century, attracting tourists and architects from all over the world to visit. In 1987, Buda Castle was listed as a World Cultural Heritage as part of the Budapest landscape, and is widely known as the Forbidden City of Hungary.
The Palace of Buda is a landmark attraction in Budapest. The palace is situated on the castle hill on the side of Buda. At present, the interior of the Buda Palace has been transformed into the National Gallery of Art. Unless you have a special study of art, you don't mind visiting it because they don't have a Chinese tour guide. The most beautiful time of Buda Palace is in the evening, looking from the other side, the whole palace's appearance is set off by lights into golden color! __________ Very beautiful and poetic.~
From a high vantage point, you can overlook the entire city. The museum is worth a visit.
The Hungarian King's Palace is on the Buda side. It is said to have been built in the 13th century, more than 800 years old, and then destroyed by war. It was rebuilt in the 18th century and is a magnificent and huge building complex. The building is huge, and the main building has a huge green dome that can be seen from a distance. The huge columns and majestic statues are impressive. On a clear day, you can overlook the Danube from the square, and the whole picture of the ancient city is unobstructed. The buildings on the opposite bank are in full view, the Danube is blue, and the bridge across the river is clearly visible. It is said that part of the building was blown up during World War II, and the current palace can only show part of the style of the year.