Budapest Things to Do

Easily the equal of other European subterranean wonders (in Paris, Moscow, London, etc.), the labyrinth system beneath Castle Hill in Budapest originated as calcareous tufa caves resulting from hot water springs more than 350,000 years ago.  Since that time, the complex (the natural properties of which have been considerably improved by man over the years) has served many purposes, and today exists as one of the most curious and rewarding tourist attractions in Budapest.

Budapest is justly famous for its thermal baths. What better way to revitalize after a hard day’s sightseeing than in the bubbling waters of one of the city’s famous thermals baths? In all there are seven spa complexes, most open for mixed and single sex bathing, saunas, and spa treatments daily, and all renowned for the healing properties of their hot spring water. Towels, robes, slippers, and soap are available in most spas – just remember that in baths where mixed bathing is permitted, bathing costumes are obligatory.

Orient yourself with a walking tour of Budapest, Hungary’s capital and a city cleft in half by the mighty River Danube. Start in Pest, the left-bank city of wide boulevards and Jugendstil architecture.

Including rail bridges, Budapest boasts a total of 10 structures spanning the historic stretch of the River Danube. Whether you take an organized tour, rent a bicycle (easy to do), rent a car, or simply stroll, the city’s famous bridges are well worth exploring. The following are a few of the most iconic.

As is well known, the Hungarian capital city is the convergence of two formerly separate cities on the east and west banks of the River Danube. To get at the georgraphical and figurative heart of both banks (Buda and Pest) simultaneously, the obvious choice is Margaret Island (Margit-sziget).