The Ultimate Guide to Budapest: The Perfect Starting Port for Your Danube River Cruise
- Lindsey Markwood
- Nov 13, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 18
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a fascinating city and my favorite in Europe. Having personally explored this incredible destination before embarking on multiple Danube River cruises, It is the ultimate starting point for a milestone celebration or romantic European vacation.
Divided by the sparkling Danube River, the city is a gorgeous merger of two distinct sides: the historic, hilly "Buda" and the vibrant, flat "Pest." Budapest is known for its architecture, healing springs, and history. While the official language of Hungary is Hungarian, you can easily converse in English in most tourist areas. Whether you are extending your stay pre- or post-river cruise, or visiting on a land tour, here are the must do experience.
Historical landmarks
The Hungarian Parliament Building
On the Pest side of the city, you will find The Parliament Building. It is home to the National Assembly of Hungary, which is the legislative branch of Hungary. Pro tip: The absolute best way to view the Parliament Building is not from the street, but at night fully illuminated from the top deck of your river cruise ship as you sail. This view
is a moment that leaves you breathless. If you want to visit the inside of the Parliament, get tickets in advance as they do sell out.
The Shoes on the Danube Bank
Just south of Parliament, you will find this deeply moving bronze shoe memorial. It serves as a solemn reminder of the Hungarian Jews who were tragically killed by the Arrow Cross militia at the river's edge during World War II.
Buda Castle
On the Buda side of the city is Buda Castle. Buda Castle is located on Castle Hill which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is perfect for an afternoon stroll. The castle was home to the Hungarian Kings and Queens. Today it is home to the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum (which showcases the city's history from the Middle Ages to today), and the National Széchényi Library. Fun fact: the Buda Castle is connected to the Szechenyi Chain Bridge.
Dohany Street Synagogue
Budapest is also home to the largest synagogue in Europe, Dohany Street Synagogue. It can seat almost 3000 congregants. The Hero’s Temple is a smaller synagogue that was built to honor Jewish soldiers who died during World War I. The graveyard is the final resting place to over 2000 people who died in the Budapest Ghetto during World War II. The weeping willow sculpture has the names of Hungarian Jews who were murdered during World War II.
Szechenyi Chain Bridge
is an iconic symbol of Budapest. It connects Buda and Pest and was built in 1849. William Clark designed this famous bridge. Pro tip: take a picture with the lions engravings on the bridge. The lions guard the city.
If you love ancient history, you can also visit the remains of the Aquincum Aqueduct, created by the Romans to provide water to the town centuries ago. Click here to learn more about its history from the Aquincum Museumor take a virtual tour here:
Thermal Springs
After a long day of travel you can shake off the jet lag before boarding your ship in a few days. here are 123 thermal water springs in Budapest which are natural sources of hot water that are warmed by geothermal energy. It is a big reason that the wellness and spa culture is deeply ingrained in the local lifestyle, making a visit to the popular Szechenyi Bath and Pool the perfect couples' retreat before your cruise begins. Hungary calls Budapest the Queen of bathing cities. Each thermal water spring has its own distinctive properties (temperature, mineral composition, etc.) As a result of having so many thermal springs, the wellness and spa culture are engrained into the Hungarian lifestyle. Szechenyi Bath and Pool is Budapest’s most popular thermal bath complex. Bonus: It is opened year-round.
Taste the Local Hungarian Culture
Food tours are a great way to explore what is offered in Budapest. You must try Lángos, a wildly popular street food consisting of a deep fried flat dough topped with sour cream, garlic, and cheese. For something more filling, try goulash. Goulash is a stew of beef, carrots, onions, peppers, potatoes and is cooked in a spicy sauce. It can be eaten as an appetizer or main meal. If you prefer dumplings, try Nokedli. They are often served alongside goulash.
Pro Tip for Souvenirs: Hungary is famous for its freshly grounded paprika. Picking up a beautiful tin of authentic Hungarian paprika makes the absolute perfect, easy-to-pack gift for friends, family, and neighbors back home. You can get it at the local grocery stores around the city. The cruise ships typically dock hear Central Market Hall where you have your choice of vendors selling paprika. When you go to the market, look around. It is a 19th century neo Gothic building.
When to visit
For the Ultimate Bucket-List Experience
If you want the ultimate bucket-list experience, book a late-November Danube cruise. The Budapest Christmas markets are world-renowned, and there is nothing like sipping hot mulled wine while wandering the illuminated stalls before walking right onto your festive ship.
For Warm Weather and Culture
Visit between May and September for sunny skies, or plan for April to catch the vibrant Spring Festival, which showcases Hungarian art, music, and gastronomy.
Ready to Plan Your Masterpiece?
You can easily spend a full week exploring Budapest, which is why it is the perfect city for a pre- or post-cruise extension. As a luxury travel advisor, I know exactly how to stitch together the perfect hotel stay, private tours, and river cruise itinerary so you can simply pack your bags and enjoy the journey. Click below to schedule a consultation.
