Budapest Highlights and a Journey through WWII and Communist Eras

Stroll across a beautiful landmark 19th-century suspension bridge which is a symbol of Budapest.

This was Budapest's first permanent bridge over the Danube, enabling the cities of Buda and Pest to merge. Named after Count István Széchenyi, it hangs from iron chains (hence, the Chain Bridge) anchored by two towering river piers. These piers were the only elements to survive WWII fighting. The rest was rebuilt.

Enjoy a leisurely coffee and cake in one of Budapest's most storied cafes.

Over 160 years old, with a grand, high-ceilinged dining room, the cafe is deservedly one of Budapest's most popular attractions. It serves coffee, mouthwatering Hungarian pastries, and traditional bistro dishes. It retains the elegance and sophistication of its 19th century origins, and the terrace sits on the lively Vörösmarty Square.

Take a peak at this pearl of art nouveau architecture, which now houses a Four Seasons Hotel.

The hotel doesn't mind tourists exploring the lavish arcade on the first floor, as it is lined by shops and a café. Be sure to note the organic themes of the façade and the beautiful wrought iron peacock gate on the north side of the building.

Central Pest

In Central Pest you will discover the beating heart of the city, with grand apartment houses and art nouveau architectural gems. No visit to Budapest is complete without seeing its highlights, including St. Stephen's Basilica, which dramatically rises above the city, and the Chain Bridge, which regally spans the Danube.

Enjoy an awe-inspiring visit to this vast cupola-topped church; the most famous in Budapest.

Completed in 1905, the construction of the neo-classical Catholic church took over 50 years. The mummified hand of Hungary's first king, St. Stephen, is kept in a small chapel in the rear. Take a lift to the dome to enjoy one of Budapest's most interesting panoramic views. The church hosts frequent concerts.

Stroll across a beautiful landmark 19th-century suspension bridge which is a symbol of Budapest.

This was Budapest's first permanent bridge over the Danube, enabling the cities of Buda and Pest to merge. Named after Count István Széchenyi, it hangs from iron chains (hence, the Chain Bridge) anchored by two towering river piers. These piers were the only elements to survive WWII fighting. The rest was rebuilt.

Guided Walk in Budapest

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Guided Walk in Budapest

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Guided Walk in Budapest

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Guided Walk in Budapest

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Guided WWII Terror Walking Tour

On this tour, your guide will uncover the history hidden by the passage of time and progress. You will hear the stories of war and repression, and learn how the past still affects the present day reality. You will also discover how people lived their daily lives under Communist rule from a first-hand perspective. The tour concludes with a visit to the superb Terror Museum.

Experience a chilling museum documenting the terrors of Fascism & Communism in Hungary .

This somber and foreboding interactive museum tells the tragic story of Hungary's totalitarian experiences under Fascism and Communism. It is located in the headquarters building of the Arrow Cross Party (Hungarian fascists), and later the Communist secret police after WWII. Hear stories of those who suffered as well as their oppressors, and wander the dank cells where victims were tortured and interrogated.

Guided WWII Terror Walking Tour

On this tour, your guide will uncover the history hidden by the passage of time and progress. You will hear the stories of war and repression, and learn how the past still affects the present day reality. You will also discover how people lived their daily lives under Communist rule from a first-hand perspective. The tour concludes with a visit to the superb Terror Museum.

Experience a chilling museum documenting the terrors of Fascism & Communism in Hungary .

This somber and foreboding interactive museum tells the tragic story of Hungary's totalitarian experiences under Fascism and Communism. It is located in the headquarters building of the Arrow Cross Party (Hungarian fascists), and later the Communist secret police after WWII. Hear stories of those who suffered as well as their oppressors, and wander the dank cells where victims were tortured and interrogated.

Discover why this pedestrian walkway along the Danube River, with it's beautiful views of the river and castle, is a favorite of both locals and visitors alike.

This promenade above the river embankment was the place to see-and-be-seen in 19th century Budapest. Cafes and luxury hotels lined the promenade, taking advantage of stunning views of the castle. They were destroyed in WWII and replaced with large modern hotels, eliminating some of the charm. The view, however, is still incredible.

Shop in a huge market hall built in the late 19th century.

This restored neo-gothic Market Hall is a favorite with visitors but also still visited by locals for its outstanding food stands and grocery stalls on the ground floor. On the upper levels, you can shop for souvenirs and traditional Hungarian goods & crafts.

Central Market & Váci Street

The Central Market Hall is a mezzanine shopping arcade first opened in 1897. Today the Central Market teems with activity like small shops and stands offer a remarkable assortment of goods, including fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, fish, flowers, and Hungarian specialties. There are also many souvenirs available on the second floor of the market.

Walk one of Budapest's main pedestrian thoroughfares, which is very popular with shoppers and tourists.

The street is lined by shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. Many elegant buildings line the street, most dating to the late19th century. Numerous courtyards and passageways branch off from the street. Although touristy, it is an integral part of the city and an interesting place to stroll.