Budapest, the "pearl of the Danube", lies on the two banks of the legendary river Danube, which takes its source in the Black Forest in Germany, near to the French Vogesen mountains, and runs across 6 different countries in Central Europe with a total lenght of 2800 km before it flows into the Black Sea: it is the long connection between Western Europe and Central Asia.

Budapest, Hungary`s capital, is the city of Arts and Culture. Beyond doubt, it is one of the world`s most beautiful cities with its royalty and romantic tone which makes it so charming and fascinating. After a troubled century of war, Budapest resuscitates. It opens up to the world, develops its commercial connections, and attracts more and more visitors.

The Gellért Hill and the Castle Hill dominate the city, which is divided into two by the Danube from North to South. The Fishermen's Bastion's tower offers an impressive view over the city (on the west side or right bank).
Crossing the Lánchíd ("chain bridge") on the other side lies Pest, the center of commerce and administration.
To the North, one can admire the Parliament and the Margit island with its bridge.

The Danube vanishes in the distance of far lights under the bluish sky with pastel colors. In any season, at a particular time of the day, a particular bluish light dominates the landscape: some call it the "Blue Danube". Late in the day the region becomes splendid: golden facades and roofs, monuments and sculptures with touching relief etc.

This is a place where different cultures are mixed together and where you will find specific monuments. With their variegation and features they mostly hint at classical or baroque style: the Royal Palace (constructed in 1890, during the reign of Francis Joseph), the Parliament (in neo-gothic style), the Chain Bridge and the Liberty Bridge, the St. Stephen's Basilica, the Matthias Church, the State Opera House, the Nyugati railway station (constructed at Gustav Eiffel`s office), the Gellért and Széchenyi Bath, the New York Café.

Budapest is also home to countless museums. The most outstanding of them all is the Museum of Fine Arts, where the representatives of Europe`s biggest art schools can be found. Budapest is the city of culture; concerts, multiple performances and cultural, artistic programs define the whole year. (for further information click at our column "Events")

 

Visit the Budapest's official touristical homepage to perfectly organize your trip. It provides most useful information on the city, sights and excursions:
http://www.budapestinfo.hu/en

BUDAPEST CARD: "The whole city in your pocket" is the motto of the Budapest Card, introduced by the BUDAPEST TOURISM OFFICE in 1997. The Card offers its holder more than a hundred services: unlimited travel on public transport, free entry to 60 museums and to some sights, sightseeing tour for half price, reduced price tickets for cultural and folklore programs, discounts in restaurants and spas, discount for the airport minibus service, car rental, sports facilities, and in many other places.