Budapest is the capital and most populous city of Hungary. The city is soaked in history, blessed with spa waters, and embellished with grandiose facades from the Habsburg days. Budapest has collections of classical fine art. The archaeological finds gathered over centuries, to sightseeing cruises on the Danube and narrow-gauge railway rides into the forests of the Buda Hills.
Here are the Best Things to Do in Budapest
1. Head to Memento Park
Memento Park is the first open-air museum in Budapest. It is dedicated to monumental statues and sculpted plaques from Hungary’s Communist period. The park was designed by Hungarian architect Akos Eleod. It is located in Budapest’s southern suburb. Memento Park has sculptures made from brass, bronze, stone, copper, marble, and limestone. The park is divided into two sections the first being the statue park titled A Sentence About Tyranny. Second is Witness Square, popularly known as Neverwas Square. This Witness Square contains the Stalin Boots sculpture on display for the Hungarian Revolution of 1956. It even has a few other sculptures like the Hungarian-Soviet Friendship Memorial, the Liberation Monument, and the Soviet-Hungarian Friendship. Which displays the historical importance of the communist era in Hungary.
2. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is an important art museum located on Heroes Square in Budapest toward the facade of the Palace of Art. Museum of Fine Arts was established in 1906. This museum exhibits a wide range of collections of European art, Egyptian antiques, and old sculpted paintings. The museum was built in the neoclassical style by Albert Schickedanz and Fulop Herzog. It houses over 1,00,000 artworks and pieces. The Museum of Fine Arts is divided into six major exhibits, including the Old Master Gallery, Graphics Exhibition, Modern Collection, Egyptian Antiques, and Old Sculpture Gallery. There are 1,000,000 graphic prints of sculptures and statues. Its collection even has 10,000 traditional drawings, including works by Leonardo Da Vinci, Goya, and French painters.
3. Head to Buda Castle
Buda Castle is also addressed as the Royal Palace. It is the historical castle and palace complex of the Hungarian Kings in Budapest. The castle was completed in 1265. This architectural wonder houses the Budapest Historical Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. The amazing fact about the castle is that the green dome is visible from anywhere in Budapest. Some major structures within the castle are The Matthias well and a few other statues of historic importance. Visitors can head to nearby attractions such as the Fishermen’s Bastion and Matthias Church.
4. Enjoy the Thermal Baths
Budapest is largely known for its beautiful thermal springs, it offers an opportunity for both locals and tourists to have fun. The city is often called the city of spas. One can choose the thermal bath according to your mood and preferences. The most famous are Szechenyi Bath, Gellert Bath, and Rudas Bath. Szachenyi is the largest medicinal bath. It is most popular amongst both, the locals and the tourists. They have the largest outdoor and indoor pools.
5. Visit Heroes Square
Heroes Square is situated between the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art. It is popularly known for its architecture. Built by Albert Schickedanz. This place is famous for its high-rise statues of Budapest freedom fighters and leaders. The purpose of Heroes Square was mainly to celebrate the millennial celebrations of Budapest. The main statue that is situated in between the circle is 40 meters high. These statues pay homage to the seven tribes of the Hungarian religion, who are known to be the founders of the country. Heroes Square hosts many major events.
6. Explore Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden
Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden is situated inside the city park. It is one of the oldest still-operating zoos in the world. This zoo park is home to over 9000 animals of 850 species. It is perfect for exploring the city’s natural reserve and fauna habitats. There is an art nouveau building in the zoo that represents the art and architecture of the city. Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden features seven major exhibits, the Magical Hill, America Tropicana, Savannah Zone, Australia Zone, India Zone, Janos Xantus House, and Primates. Visitors can find white rhinoceros, gazelles, exotic birds, reptiles, amphibians, Asiatic lions, striped hyenas, orangutans, and baboons here.
7. Enjoy at Budapest Andrassy Avenue
Budapest Andrassy Avenue is a boulevard in Budapest, Hungary. It dates back to 1872. This place is a significant historical site that tells the story of Budapest’s past. It is more than just a shopping and dining destination. Andrassy Avenue was the brainchild of Hungarian nobleman Count Gyula Andrassy. It was designed to be a grand thoroughfare that would connect the city center with the city park. Visitors can explore the avenue’s many historical landmarks such as the Hungarian State Opera House, the House of Terror Museum, and the Franz Liszt Academy of Music. There are also many benches and green spaces.