Budapest is one of Europe's most photogenic capitals — the neo-Gothic Parliament reflected in the Danube at night, the Buda Castle district rising above Chain Bridge, and the thermal baths (Széchenyi, Gellért, Lukács) providing one of the world's great aquatic pleasures in Art Nouveau splendour. The Jewish Quarter, centred on the Great Synagogue, is Europe's largest, and its ruin bars — particularly Szimpla Kert — have created a nightlife culture entirely their own. Hungarian cuisine is underrated: Costes and Costes Downtown hold Michelin stars, while the Great Market Hall overflows with paprika, goose liver and Tokaji wine. Cross between Buda and Pest as often as you can — each bank rewards a different afternoon.
- Suggested duration: 4–5 days
- Best time to visit: April to June and September to October for mild weather; the Budapest Festival Orchestra season runs October to June.