Budapest is often referred to as the Paris of the east and the one major similarity is the history shared between the Castle in Buda and the world famous Palace of the Louvre. Both have had an incredulous amount of building, destruction, looting, refits and even more destruction. The current Palace atop the grand hill offers amazing views along both directions of the Danube as well as across the city itself.

 

Charge your camera batteries and lace up your shoes for the hill walk as the castle district offers visitors a range of opportunities and something for everyone. For the art lovers there are the galleries and exhibitions of the Budapest History Museum, The Hungarian National Gallery and the National Szechenyi Library. Tickets are very reasonably priced and it is worth popping in to get a feel for the eras and key events that Budapest has played host to in its turbulent history.

 

No visitor to The Castle can escape the amazing fountain sculpture of the Mátyás kútja. This is easily the most photographed sculpture in Budapest and you may have to wait your turn to capture it without the many tourists siting on the edge posing for their own photographs. The history told through this sculpture is worth reading up on, particularly about King Matthias Corvinus who is the namesake of the fountain.

Throughout the year the Castle plays host to a number of amazing seasonal festivals and events. It would be worth checking what is on whilst you are visiting and you should include a trip to one of the events should it coincide with your vacation. Examples of what you could experience include the Festival of Wine, the Summer Chocolate Festival, National Day with its art, craft and food stalls, the Hungarian Beer Festival and not forgetting the traditional Palinka Fest. Entry to these festivals is amazingly cheap and always includes free samples making it a truly enjoyable experience.

 

 

If you enjoy a walk then it is a lovely leafy stroll up to the castle from the Lanchid and Adam Clark Ter, but if you enjoy a little luxury and a unique experience it is worth joining the queue for the funicular that takes you up in classic tiered carriages to the very top and the famous mythological Turulmadár statue

 

 

Whilst exploring the district stop by the world famous Ruszwurm Cukraszda for a delicious traditional coffee and cake (or a cheese pogacsa). Be warned though that once you are surrounded by the array of sugary treats you will want to sample something of everything.... A bit like Budapest itself. (Photos and article by Phil Watkins)

 

We offer luxury apartments, Budapest accommodation for short term holidays and city breaks. We offer very high quality accommodation with more space and for far less than high end hotels, in the best location of Budapest.