Short Breaks in Budapest

Often referred to as the Paris of the East, Budapest is thoroughly deserving of this accolade. Made up of the districts of Buda and Pest which straddle each bank of the Danube, both are distinctly different in character but both offer magical historic buildings and imposing baroque monuments. A UNESCO world heritage site, Buda old town comprises a charming collection of palaces, churches and museums and is sure to be the main focus of a short break in Budapest. Set within a labyrinth of undulating cobblestone streets, it portrays a fairytale image of sleepy medieval life yet boasts a fabulous range of tourist friendly shops and stylish cafe bars.

 

On the opposite side of the river is the imposing Parliament building which is the city's most prominent landmark. The best views of the structure can be enjoyed from Castle Hill, itself a popular attraction housing several museums nearby. Art and history aficionados will find many priceless displays of priceless and unique works of art in the Museum of Fine Arts, the National Gallery and at the Budapest History Museum. The city nowadays has a very lively and liberal nightlife that continues to attract an ever increasing number of young revellers. It can boast fancy restaurants, vibrant bars and a pulsating club scene that will satisfy even the most enthusiastic partygoer. Cultural pursuits are also aplenty with vivid folklore performances, opera and classical music for a refined way to spend a short break in Budapest.

 

The soothing thermal hot springs of the city's public baths and luxury hotel spas are world famous and are for many the main focus of Budapest short breaks. Refreshing spa treatments are the ideal way to end a day of sightseeing or to reinvigorate oneself after a night on the town. The most prominent public facility is the Rudas Thermal Baths which dates back to the 16th century and boasts stunning byzantine architecture. Much less heralded but equally as enjoyable is the network of underground caves in the city. Palvolgyi Cave and the Castle Cave are two of the most accessible and attractive and reveal cavernous spaces filled with quirky rock formations and vivid colour. It makes for an interesting and adventurous day out with a difference.