Have you ever been on a trip where you planned nothing, excepted not much and got a really good surprise? Well, this is what happened to me in Budapest. I booked this weekend as a excuse for a reunion with my best friend, and we picked almost randomly a destination where we had never been before.Once arrived in Budapest, we found a pretty, clean, safe city with amazing weather, friendly locals and so much to see and do. I mean what more can you ask for ?
The city is divided by the into Buda and Pest. I would suggest staying in Pest which is more animated, but close to a bridge so that you can easily reach the other part of the city.
We decided to take a ticket for an hop on hop off bus to have a first overview of the city. Now this is something that I usually never do because I love walking, however since we had little time and wanted to save some for the baths, it turned out to be a great idea. The ticket costs 25€ for unlimited 48 hour use and gives you access do different bus routes across the city. It also includes a 1 hour boat tour, which gives you a perfect view on the beautiful Parliament building.
The diverse architecture of the city reflects its long history with a mix of Roman, Turkish, Gothic and Baroque styles. The impressive Parliament building is even a reminder of London’s Westminster Palace.
Budapest is also known as the « City of Spas », and for a good reason. It has a long tradition of thermal baths inherited from its roman and turkish past. During my stay I tried to of the most famous ones: the Szechenyi and the Gellert.
The Szechenyi Baths, founded in 1913, are for sure the most iconic with their large outdoor swimming pool and Neo-baroque palace. They also organize big pool parties on certain nights, check it out !
However, do not miss the Gellert Baths (located inside the Gellert Hotel). Built in 1918 in Art Nouveau style, they are just absolutely precious !
The spa experience was really one of the highlights of my stay, and I think it is was makes Budapest really original. I loved being able to alternate a morning of city exploration with a quiet afternoon relaxing in hot thermal waters.
Do not forget to bring your bathing suit, towel and flip flops. You can rent some at the baths, but having your own will save you some time and money. If you want more privacy, it is possible to rent a cabin with an extra fee. Massages and beauty treatments are also available, you can book it in advance or inquire directly once you are there.
Another place not be missed if the New York Cafe located inside the Boscolo Hotel. The self branded « most beautiful cafe in the world » does not disappoint and is the perfect place for a Sunday morning brunch.
I stayed at the Magazine Hotel & Apartments and was very happy about it. We got a nice size apartment with a kitchenette. The central location just nearby the Basilica was very convenient and I enjoyed this neighborhood. The place is simple but modern and clean and the staff was very helpful.
ADDRESS BOOK
The Magazine Hotel: I paid 90 € per night for a studio http://themagazinehotel.com/
Szechenyi Baths: Entrance around 16€ with a locker http://www.szechenyibath.hu/
Gellert Baths: Entrance around 16€ with a locker http://www.gellertbath.com/
New York Cafe: Buffet breakfast at 25€ http://www.newyorkcafe.hu/
The Consulting Traveller 
Nice! I never been to Budapest :(
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That is my premiere way to travel: with an open itinerary! This is why I do well without group tours. It seems everywhere I turn, I see more beautiful pictures of Budapest and its beginning to lure me on going. And the cost is ridiculously low!
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