• Distance : 0.77
• Attraction : Entertainment

How about we begin with a super relaxing visit to one of Hungary's largest and most popular thermal baths, here at Szécheny? Lets slip out of your civvies, hoik up those swimmers and – ahhhhhhhhhh! – marinate your weary, work-wrought bones in one of the city’s great mineral springs.

Built in 1913 in a Neo-Baroque style, making it one of the oldest thermal baths in Budapest. The complex was named after Count István Széchenyi, a prominent Hungarian statesman and key figure in the country's development during the 19th century. More on what a ‘Count’ is and what ‘Baroque style’ is, but for now, let's soak in the mineral rich waters and find out what health benefits we may enjoy.

The thermal waters that feed the Széchenyi Bath are supplied by two thermal springs with temperatures ranging from 74°C (165°F) to 77°C (171°F). These mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties and are particularly beneficial for various health conditions, including joint problems and circulatory disorders, respiratory illnesses and the narrowing of blood vessels.

The outdoor section of the Bath is stunning – a daffodil-yellow wraparound of neo-renaissance architecture, but it gets quite busy. Iconic "sparties" with DJs and a bar, take place here on most Saturday nights. In the colder months (late December-February), enjoy little beats relaxing in the warmth of the Széchenyi Baths as snow flutters all around you

Budapest lies on a geological fault line, where the Buda Hills collide with the Great Plain. This topographical fender-bender causes more than 100 thermal springs to jet skyward, releasing some 40,000m3 of warm, mineral-rich water each day. 

The Széchenyi Bath is not just a place to soak in thermal waters but also a social hub where locals and tourists come to socialize, play chess, and relax in the sun. It's a great place to interact with people from various backgrounds. Attending the thermal baths has been part of the city's culture for centuries. The Eravisci tribe first chanced upon the springs calling the area Ak-ink (Abundant Water). But it wasn’t until the Romans marched in and built the regional capital of Aquincum here that the power of the waters was fully harnessed. 

The layout of most of Budapest’s baths is similar: a series of indoor thermal pools where temperatures range from warm to hot, steam rooms, saunas, ice-cold plunge pools and rooms for massage. Some have outdoor pools with fountains, sprays and whirlpools, and pools for swimming laps. 

Going to the thermal baths for some Hungarians is as arbitrary as meeting friends for coffee at the local shop or eating a bunch of caramels.

All done? Ok, let’s take a shower and get ready to head to our next point of interest on our tour.

• Distance : 0.00
• Attraction : Historical Landmark

We’re walking through the City Park, which has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it was established as a royal hunting ground. In the 19th century, it was transformed into a public park, and over the years, it has been expanded and developed into the green oasis it is today. We are now approaching the Vajdahunyad Castle.

By now you’ve noticed this picturesque and unique architectural gem situated within the City Park. The castle is a popular attraction and one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. Vajdahunyad Castle was originally constructed in 1896 as part of the Millennial Exhibition, which celebrated the 1,000th anniversary of Hungary. The castle's design is a medley of various architectural styles, showcasing a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Romanesque elements. It was intended to be a temporary structure, but its popularity led to its reconstruction using more permanent materials.

We said we would discuss Baroque architecture right? Told ya! 

Baroque style architecture is an artistic and architectural movement that originated in Europe during the 17th and early 18th centuries. It is known for its elaborate and ornate design, characterized by a dynamic use of space, dramatic effects, and an exuberant display of grandeur. Baroque architecture was a response to the Renaissance style, seeking to create a more emotional and theatrical experience for the viewer.

Baroque buildings often feature grand, sweeping facades with bold, curved lines and dramatic curves. The exteriors are characterized by a sense of movement, achieved through the use of concave and convex shapes. The Baroque style emphasizes a sense of motion and dynamism. Curved shapes, twisted columns, and oval windows are common features that give a feeling of movement and vitality to the buildings. Ok, back to the castle.

It was inspired by the Transylvanian Hunyad Castle (also known as Corvin Castle) located in present-day Romania. As such, Vajdahunyad Castle has a fairytale-like appearance, reminiscent of the medieval castles often depicted in fantasy stories. The castle is built around a central courtyard, which can be accessed through an impressive gate. Inside the courtyard, you'll find a lovely statue of Anonymus, the chronicler of early Hungarian history, and a picturesque fountain. 

Vajdahunyad Castle is a unique amalgamation of several famous historical buildings from different regions of Hungary. Its complex includes replicas of architectural landmarks such as the Matthias Church in Buda (which we will talk about later), the Hunyad Castle in Transylvania, and the Baroque-style Pauline Church in the village of Tihany. 

Follow your navigation as we walk around lake Varosligeti-to and make our way towards Heroe’s Square. 

• Distance : 1.07
• Attraction : Historical Landmark

The large public square we are now in is located at the end of Andrássy Avenue, a grand boulevard that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Heroes' Square holds great historical and cultural importance and serves as a symbol of national identity for Hungary.

Heroes' Square was built in 1896 to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin in 895 AD. The square's design was part of the grand plan for the Millennial Exhibition, which celebrated Hungary's thousand years of statehood. It was one of the major projects undertaken to showcase Hungary's history and achievements.

At the heart of Heroes' Square stands the impressive Millennium Monument. This grand column features a central 36-meter-tall pillar topped by the Archangel Gabriel, who holds the Hungarian crown in one hand and a double cross in the other, symbolizing the country's Christian roots. 

Heroes' Square is designed in a semi-circular form, with two colonnades flanking the Millennium Monument. Each colonnade features a row of statues representing significant historical figures from Hungary's past, including kings, princes, and military leaders. Spaces were left during construction for future members of the Habsburg dynasty, who at that point in time ruled Hungary. During the Second World War, the monument was damaged and during rebuilding, the Habsburg figures were replaced by contemporary political figures. Some of the other figures include Stephen I of Hungary who received the crown from the Pope at Christmas of 1000, and Andrew II of Hungary who led a crusade to liberate Jerusalem.

At the base of the monument, there is a cenotaph, which serves as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is a memorial dedicated to the memory of the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

Heroes' Square is surrounded by several notable landmarks, including the Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum) on one side and the Kunsthalle (Műcsarnok) on the other. These museums house impressive collections of art and cultural artifacts. Szepmuveszeti, you will see housed a comprehensive collection of 19th-century European art, representing various art movements, including Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, and Symbolism. The museum's Old Masters collection includes exceptional works by artists like Leonardo da Vinci, El Greco, Goya, and Bruegel the Elder.

Follow your navigation as we make our way down one of the main thoroughfares in Budapest.

• Distance : 1.35
• Attraction : Shopping and Dining

Andrássy Avenue is Budapest's most upscale shopping district, with luxury boutiques, high-end fashion stores, and renowned international brands. It is a paradise for fashion enthusiasts and those seeking designer goods. It stretches approximately 2.5 kilometers (about 1.5 miles) from Városliget to the city center. Andrássy Avenue is lined with elegant buildings, many of which showcase remarkable architectural styles. The avenue is a showcase of various architectural trends, including Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Baroque, Neo-Gothic, and Art Nouveau. The buildings' facades are adorned with intricate details, ornate balconies, and sculptures.

On your right is the The Ferenc Hopp Museum of Asiatic Arts. Here you will find works that showcase the beauty of Asian art and culture. The museum was founded in 1919 by Ferenc Hopp, after whom it is named. Hopp was a traveling enthusiast, who brought with him from his journeys many magnificent Asian works of art. Did you know that phonetically speaking, the language of Hungary is closest in dialect to Korean? Both Korean and Hungarian are known to originate in the Uralic language family. Despite their vast distance from each other, the only country that separates them is Russia.

We will be making our way around Kodály Körönd, one of the two squares on Andrássy (the other one is Oktogon). The four buildings on the square form a full circle, with Andrássy and Szinyei Merse intersecting in the middle. Each of the four buildings has a small garden with chestnut and sycamore trees and a statue of a famous Hungarian figure.

The original name of the square was Körönd, meaning "Circus". In 1938, it was dubbed Adolf Hitler Circus, which was changed back to Körönd in 1945. From 1971 it bears the name of Kodály Zoltán, who lived in one of the buildings adjacent to the circus. His apartment has since been converted into a memorial museum.

Along Andrássy Avenue, there are several other museums and cultural institutions, such as the House of Terror (Terror Háza), which commemorates the victims of the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary. The museum commemorates the victims of these oppressive regimes in Hungary's 20th-century history: the fascist Arrow Cross Party and the communist ÁVH (State Protection Authority). The museum is situated at 60 Andrássy Avenue, and the building itself holds historical significance, as it was the former headquarters of the ÁVH during the communist era.

Andrássy Avenue played a crucial role in shaping Budapest's history and identity. It was designed and constructed during the late 19th century to connect the city center with the City Park and served as a symbol of Hungary's aspirations and national pride.

Andrássy Avenue is well-connected to various parts of Budapest through public transportation. The Millennium Underground Railway, the oldest subway line on the European continent, runs beneath the avenue, offering a unique and historic way to travel along this iconic boulevard.

• Distance : 0.47
• Attraction : Entertainment

The next destination on our tour will be to your right, Magyar Állami Operaház, commonly known as the Hungarian State Opera House. It is one of the most prestigious and magnificent opera houses in Budapest. The Opera House was designed by renowned Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl and was inaugurated on the 27th of September 1884. It was built during a period when Budapest was flourishing culturally and economically, and the opera house was intended to showcase Hungary's artistic excellence. 

The opera house is a stunning example of Neo-Renaissance architecture, characterized by grand facades, ornate decorations, and a sense of elegance and symmetry. The building's exterior features statues and sculptures of prominent Hungarian historical figures and mythical characters.

The interior of the opera house is equally impressive. The main hall, known as the Golden Hall or the Auditorium, is adorned with gold leaf decorations, opulent chandeliers, and plush velvet seating. The horseshoe-shaped auditorium can accommodate around 1,300 spectators, offering excellent acoustics and clear sightlines from every seat.

The opera house includes a Royal Box, which was traditionally reserved for members of the Hungarian royal family. Today, the box is often used for special guests and dignitaries attending performances.

Amongst the famous artists and musicians to perform here include Plácido Domingo, one of the most celebrated tenors in the world, and Luciano Pavarotti, an iconic Italian tenor known for his powerful voice and expressive performances. Ballet performers such as Mikhail Baryshnikov, the Russian-American dancer known for his extraordinary technique and artistry have graced the stage here.

• Distance : 0.12
• Attraction : Historic Church

Here we are at St. Stephen’s Basilica, not only a place of worship but also an architectural masterpiece and an important cultural and historical symbol for Hungary. The basilica is dedicated to St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary and the country's patron saint. St. Stephen played a crucial role in the establishment of Hungary as a Christian kingdom in the early 11th century.

The basilica's architecture is a blend of neoclassical and neo-renaissance styles. It boasts an impressive dome that reaches a height of 96 meters (315 feet), making it one of the tallest buildings in Budapest. The dome is accessible to visitors, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The exterior of the basilica is adorned with sculptures, statues, and intricate carvings. The interior is equally awe-inspiring, with stunning marble altars, colorful stained glass windows, and beautiful frescoes.The exterior of the basilica is adorned with sculptures, statues, and intricate carvings. The interior is equally awe-inspiring, with stunning marble altars, colorful stained glass windows, and beautiful frescoes.

St. Stephen's Basilica is home to various religious relics, including the mummified right hand of St. Stephen, which is displayed in a reliquary in the chapel. The right hand is an important Christian relic and a significant symbol of Hungarian history. St. Stephen’s coronation took place around 1021 years ago, on Christmas Day in 1000 and it signified Hungary’s entry into the family of European Christian nations. Stephen treated the church as the principal pillar of his authority, dispatching missionaries throughout his realm, founding bishoprics and abbeys and making the building of churches mandatory. He died in 1038 and became Hungary’s patron saint.

The king’s naturally mummified right hand is one of the most significant Hungarian national relics, found when his stone grave was opened on August 20th, 1083, in Székesfehérvár. (The identification mark of the right hand was the king’s ring, which adorned the hand.) The relic saw a few adventures in its time. During the Turkish occupation, it ended up in Ragusa (today: Dubrovnik, Croatia), where it was guarded by Dominican friars, attracting a growing number of pilgrims to the city. During World War II, the Holy Right Hand was concealed – similarly to the coronation jewels – near Salzburg, in Austria. The relic arrived back to Hungary in 1945, and it has been on display in the Basilica in Budapest since 1987.

Ok, we're not in Egypt are we? Enough about mummified remains. It’s a cool story though!

We will be passing through Erzsebet Square featuring the Budapest Eye, a ferris wheel that has a giant observation wheel with enclosed passenger capsules. From the top of the Budapest Eye, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including the Danube River, Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament Building, and other notable landmarks. 

We just happen to be approaching one of those landmarks now, the Danube River and Promenade. 

• Distance : 0.81
• Attraction : Garden Park

The Danube Promenade in Budapest is a scenic waterfront area along the banks of the Danube River, offering stunning views of some of the city's most iconic landmarks. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely walks, sightseeing, and enjoying the beauty of the Hungarian capital.

The Danube Promenade stretches between the Chain Bridge (Lánchíd) and the Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd) on the Pest side of Budapest. We will be crossing the Chain Bridge shortly. 

As you stroll along the promenade, you'll come across the poignant "Shoes on the Danube Bank" memorial. This touching tribute honors the Jewish victims who were shot and thrown into the river during World War II. The shoes represent the shoes left behind on the riverbank. If you look more closely, you see that the shoes are rusted, made of iron and set into the concrete of the embankment. People who visit the memorial sometimes light candles or leave behind flowers, placing them inside a particular shoe that touches them or reminds them of someone.

Continuing on the promenade, you'll pass by several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Gresham Palace (now the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace), both architectural masterpieces. The promenade offers unobstructed views of Buda Castle and the picturesque Castle Hill on the opposite side of the river. Especially during the evening when the castle is illuminated, the view becomes particularly captivating.

The River itself  is the second-longest river in Europe, flowing through several countries, including Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania. It serves as a major waterway, connecting various regions and cities along its course. 

The Danube River played a crucial role as a natural barrier, separating the hilly Buda side from the flat Pest side of Budapest. The river was also an essential trade and transportation route, facilitating commerce and cultural exchange between different regions.

The cities of Buda and Pest, situated on opposite sides of the Danube, were separate entities until the unification of Budapest in 1873. The unification was a significant event that transformed Budapest into the vibrant and culturally rich capital it is today.

Now may be a good time to take some refreshment and soak in the views along the river. Pontoon Budapest on your left is a great place to relax and enjoy a nice cocktail while dangling your legs over the Danube. Törley is perhaps the most famous Hungarian wine, a very refreshing sparkling wine, known as the ‘champagne of Hungary.’ You could also try a Fröccs. Simply a Hungarian wine spritzer – a white or Rose Hungarian wine mixed with soda water.

Ok, let’s cross the bridge and make our way to the Buda side.

• Distance : 1.87
• Attraction : Historical Landmark

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, commonly known as the Chain Bridge (Lánchíd) in Budapest, is one of the most iconic landmarks and a symbol of the city's history and development. It was the first permanent bridge to span the Danube River, connecting the western (Buda) and eastern (Pest) sides of Budapest.

The Chain Bridge was designed by the English engineer William Tierney Clark and constructed between 1839 and 1849. It was named after Count István Széchenyi, a prominent Hungarian politician and reformer, who played a significant role in advocating for its construction. During World War II, the retreating German forces blew up the Chain Bridge and other bridges in Budapest to hinder the advancement of the Soviet Red Army. After the war, the bridge was reconstructed and reopened in 1949.

The Chain Bridge is a stunning example of 19th-century engineering and architecture. It is a suspension bridge with two massive stone lions guarding each end of the structure. The lions you see were sculpted by János Marschalkó and added to the bridge later during its construction. These iconic lions have since become one of the most recognizable symbols of Budapest.

The architectural style of the Chain Bridge is Neoclassical, which was popular during the 19th century. Neoclassical architecture drew inspiration from classical Greek and Roman designs, emphasizing simplicity, symmetry, and grandeur. The bridge features two large stone arches that provide clearance for river traffic to pass underneath. The arches are supported by Doric columns, a characteristic feature of Neoclassical design, known for their simple and sturdy appearance.

The superstructure of the Chain Bridge is made of wrought iron, a cutting-edge material of the time. The iron framework, along with the chains, gave the bridge the strength and flexibility needed to withstand the weight of traffic and river currents. The Chain Bridge is beautifully illuminated at night, showcasing its architectural elegance and enhancing the city's nighttime skyline.

As the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest, the Chain Bridge played a crucial role in the unification and development of Budapest. It fostered economic growth and cultural exchange between the two previously separate cities.

Ok, here we are on the other side of the river. Let’s check it out.

• Distance : 0.12
• Attraction : Historic Landmark

We are now in The Castle District (Várnegyed) in Budapest, a historic and picturesque neighborhood situated on the Buda side of the city. It is known for its charming medieval streets, ancient architecture, and numerous cultural and historical landmarks. The Castle District features charming cobbled streets and historic buildings, preserving the ambiance of a medieval European town. Wandering through these streets, such as Táncsics Mihály Street and Fortuna Street, offers a delightful experience. 

The Castle District is also the starting point of the Children's Railway (Gyermekvasút), a unique narrow-gauge railway operated by children under adult supervision. It offers a scenic ride through the Buda hills and is a popular attraction for families.

Up ahead is Buda Castle, also known as the Royal Palace (Királyi Palota) or the Budapest Castle. It is a historic fortress and palace complex situated on Castle Hill (Várhegy). It is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The history of Buda Castle dates back to the 13th century when it was originally built as a fortress to protect the capital of the medieval Kingdom of Hungary. Over the centuries, the castle underwent several expansions, renovations, and architectural changes under various rulers.

Throughout history, Buda Castle served as the residence for various Hungarian kings, queens, and other nobility. It was the principal royal palace of the Hungarian kings until the Ottoman invasion in the 16th century. The castle fell to Ottoman forces in the mid-16th century and remained under Ottoman rule for around 150 years. During this period, the castle suffered significant damage and was modified to suit Ottoman architectural styles. 

The Castle exhibits a mix of architectural styles due to its long history and multiple reconstructions. The castle complex features elements of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture. 

After the Ottoman occupation, Buda Castle was rebuilt and expanded under Habsburg rule, and it became a symbol of the Habsburg monarchy's power and control over Hungary.

The Hungarian National Guard performs the changing of the guard ceremony in front of the main entrance to Buda Castle, adding to the castle's historical charm.

Let’s keep moving north and see if we can perform a magic trick or two.

• Distance : 0.51
• Attraction : Museum

The House of Houdini here in Budapest is a small museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the world-famous magician and escape artist, Harry Houdini. The museum is a tribute to Houdini's Hungarian heritage, as he was born as Erik Weisz in Budapest in 1874 before later becoming a renowned illusionist in the United States.

The museum features a collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive displays related to Harry Houdini's life and career. Visitors can explore Houdini's iconic escape tricks, illusions, and the stories behind some of his most famous performances.

The House of Houdini pays homage to Houdini's impact on the world of magic and illusion. It celebrates his ingenuity, showmanship, and the enduring mystique surrounding his ability to escape from seemingly impossible situations.

In addition to the exhibitions, the museum offers live magic performances and demonstrations by contemporary magicians, adding to the overall experience and capturing the spirit of Houdini's mesmerizing acts.

Among his specialty tricks were escaping handcuffs, straightjackets, and being buried alive. His most famous trick was perhaps The Chinese Water Torture escape where Houdini had to escape from a glass pond full of water. He was immersed into the pond suspended upside down, and with his feet chained. A system of pulleys had to be used to enable the safe dropping of the magician. Houdini would then be dropped into the tank and left for two minutes to free himself. A curtain would be drawn over the tank, and after two minutes, the curtain would be lifted, revealing a free Houdini. This stunt was so dangerous, that a man with an ax always stood beside the glass tank, to break the tank if Houdini was unable to break free.

Houdini died on Halloween in 1926 at the age of 52 from a ruptured appendix. Why does the cause of death matter? Because at the time of his death, Houdini was on an anti-Spiritualist crusade. He was spending about half his time debunking Spiritualism (the idea that the living can communicate with the dead) and exposing spirit mediums as frauds. Angry Spiritualists had prophesied his death—and when he died on Halloween, they quickly claimed credit for his demise.

Ok, let’s move on to the next destination on our tour and discuss another famous figure who spent time in Hungary.

• Distance : 0.47
• Attraction : Museum

Approaching on your right is the Buda Castle Labyrinth and the one time holding place of Vlad the Impaler, otherwise known as Count Dracula. 

The Labyrinth is situated beneath Buda Castle Hill, which is part of the Castle District. It can be accessed from the Buda Castle courtyards. The Labyrinth's history dates back centuries, and the tunnels were initially created by natural caves and man-made constructions. Over time, the caves and cellars were used for various purposes, including wine storage, military defense, and during World War II, as air-raid shelters.

Today, the Labyrinth serves as a tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore its mysterious underground passages and chambers. The labyrinthine network covers a considerable area and can be quite fascinating to navigate. The Labyrinth is also used for escape room experiences, where visitors can participate in interactive puzzles and challenges set within the underground maze.

Now, about that famous vampire. Vlad was born in 1431 in the Transylvanian town of Sighișoara, which was part of the Kingdom of Hungary at the time. His father, Vlad II Dracul, was a member of the Order of the Dragon, a chivalric order aimed at defending Christianity against the Ottoman Empire.

Vlad III's rule was characterized by his efforts to maintain the independence of Wallachia amid conflicts with the Ottoman Empire and Hungary. In 1442, after his father was assassinated, Vlad and his younger brother, Radu the Handsome, were taken hostage by the Ottoman Sultan Murad II as a guarantee of his father's loyalty.

During his time in captivity in present day Budapest, Vlad was exposed to the Ottoman court and military, which had a lasting impact on his military strategies and tactics. It is believed that he learned brutal techniques from the Ottomans, including impalement, which became infamous during his reign. Vlad's brutal tactics earned him the epithet "Vlad the Impaler." His cruelty and ruthless methods were used to instill fear in his enemies and maintain control over his territory.

It's important to note that while Vlad the Impaler was a historical figure, his association with vampirism and the fictional character of Count Dracula is a product of Bram Stoker's imagination in his 1897 novel "Dracula." The novel popularized the vampire myth and created the enduring legend of Count Dracula, based loosely on Vlad's historical persona.

What does it mean to be a “Count” anyway? To be a Count meant being a member of the nobility, and the title was often hereditary, passing from generation to generation within a noble family. Counts were part of the aristocracy and held a higher social status than commoners. They were typically granted large estates and were responsible for governing and protecting their territories. Counts often served as military leaders, administrators, and advisors to the monarch or ruling authority.

Ok, no bloody or teary eyes, but we're now at our final destinations on the tour.

• Distance : 0.06
• Attraction : Historic Church

Up ahead is Matthias Church which is not only a religious site but also an essential historical and architectural gem of Budapest. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and strategic location within the Castle District make it a must-visit destination for tourists and a cherished part of Hungary's cultural heritage.

The church is named after King Matthias Corvinus of Hungary, who ruled during the 15th century. King Matthias played an instrumental role in the church's reconstruction and embellishment during his reign.

The history of Matthias Church dates back to the 13th century when the original church was built on the same site. Over the centuries, the church underwent multiple reconstructions and expansions, resulting in its present-day Gothic and Neo-Gothic architectural elements. The church's façade features ornate stone carvings and colorful tiles, making it a visually striking sight.

According to historians a church called Church of Mary stood on the site of the current building founded by Saint Stephen, the first king of Hungary in 1015.

The church's bell tower offers a panoramic view of Budapest, including the Danube River, Buda Castle, and the Pest side of the city. Climbing the tower is a must-do activity for those seeking picturesque vistas of Budapest. The interior of Matthias Church is adorned with beautiful frescoes, intricate stained glass windows, and impressive statues. The colorful and intricate details create a captivating and reverent atmosphere. 

Throughout history, Matthias Church was the venue for numerous royal events, including coronations, weddings, and other ceremonies of Hungarian kings and queens. Matthias Church is not only one of the most romantic places to see in Budapest, but a perfect venue for classical concerts as well, featuring the Hungarian Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra.

• Distance : 0.00
• Attraction : Castle

Ahead is Fisherman’s Bastion or Castle, which was built between 1895 and 1902 as part of the celebrations of Hungary's 1000th anniversary. It was designed by architect Frigyes Schulek and features a Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque architectural style.

The Fisherman's Bastion served as both a lookout tower and a decorative fortification. Its design was inspired by the old city walls and was intended to evoke a romanticized, fairy-tale image of medieval Hungary.

The name "Fisherman's Bastion" is derived from the fact that the area nearby was once defended by the Fishermen's Guild during the Middle Ages. The guild was responsible for the defense of this section of the city walls.

The Bastion consists of seven towers, each representing one of the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin and founded the Hungarian nation in the 9th century.

The Fisherman's Bastion features elegant terraces, arcades, and decorative parapets. It is adorned with ornamental details and statues of Hungarian historical figures, including King Stephen I and other important rulers.

Well that about wraps it up. We hope you have enjoyed this UCPlaces Tour of Budapest. Once again my name is Dave, and it was a pleasure showing you around. Have a wonderful day!