Did you know that Budapest was formed from two separate cities on either side of the Danube?
Buda, on the west bank is the “Imperial” side of the city. Built among the hills and former site of one of the Hapsburg palaces, it has a history of wealth and opulence.
Pest, the intellectual and political capital of Hungary became the bourgeoisie half of this historical merge. Flat and more populous, it houses many of the bars and cafes, as well as the city’s industry and business. Also popular are the public parks, bath houses and pools.
The cities were united into one metropolis after over-throw of the Hapsburgs and formation of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the mid-1800s.
I love this city. There is so much to see and do and the citizens are warm and friendly.
On the Buda side:
Castle Hill is where you’ll find Matthias Church, the Fisherman’s Bastion and the most stunning views of both sides of the Danube.
You can walk or drive to the top, but the most fun is the Funicular. In the spirit of capitalism, the cost is 1000 HUF to go down, 1700 HUF to go uphill! (roughly $4 and $6.50, respectively)
The Citadel, from where Soviet troops fired upon the citizens during the Hungarian Revolution.
On the Pest side:
Parliament, probably the most recognizable building of Budapest, built along the Pest embankment and the State Opera House are among the not to be missed.
The Great Synagogue – the largest Jewish Temple in Europe and the second largest in the world, boasts a unique Moorish architecture as well as a storied history. It also houses the Jewish Museum and Holocaust Memorial.
Fortunately, one can visit both sides with ease. The Chain Bridge is the most recognizable and first of eight bridges built to unite the city. Walk the bridge at least once to appreciate the sculptures and enjoy the views.
Night life in Budapest is abundant with bars, cafes, and street artists to entertain and the city skyline and bridges shine brightly.
During the day street vendors and markets are plenty with stalls packed full of embroidery, hand-made leather goods and linens, and of course – Paprika!
When you visit, don’t miss the Kürtőskalác. A sweet dough wrapped in strips around a spit and cooked over an open pit, served hot with cinnamon and honey. Delicious.
Now one thriving metropolis, Budapest is a fascinating city and a great destination for history, arts, and culinary groups. But, if you were an Austro-Hungarian before the merge would you be a Buda or a Pest?
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