8 Reasons why Budapest is Europe’s Best Kept Secret

1) The People

The people in Budapest are incredibly warm and welcoming. It is impossible to stand on the street looking at a map for more than one minute before someone walks by and asks if they can help. They go above and beyond (And will even walk you to your destination!).

2) The Cheap Food

The food is dirt cheap and you get a lot for your buck! Sitting at an average cafe, you can have a three course meal equipped with goulash, Toltott Kaposzta which is stuffed cabbage with minced pork, and a delicious torte for desert. All for just under €12!

3) The Architecture

The buildings and castles are absolutely breathtaking. Be sure not to miss:

Széchenyi or Chain Bridge

Buda Castle

Parliament Building

Matthias Church
Fisherman’s Bastion

Or Heroes Square

4) The Lighting

I don’t know what the Hungarians do to their beautiful city, but they definitely do it well! It is incredible to stroll through at night and see the buildings beautifully lit up. They really make an effort to put their city on display and it doesn’t go unnoticed.

5) River Cruises

The Danube river cruises are quite perfect. Now the cruise itself is by no means amazing. It’s more of the experience that leaves it’s mark. There’s something about floating down such a historic river right inbetween Buda and Pest.

6) It’s Not Overly Crowded

Some cities can feel extremely touristy and crowded but in Budapest this is not the case. You are not weaving through crowds of people to enjoys all the sights, or fighting to hail taxis. It’s a more serene city, making falling in love with it that much easier.

7) The Baths

The thermal baths cannot be missed!! We first made the mistake of thinking we could just stop by for two hours and move on to the next activity but we were so wrong. We chose to go to the Szechenyi Spa Baths which has 15 different baths at all different temperatures and it’s a glorious experience! We ended up also getting facials and spent the whole day relaxing.

8) Ruin Bars

After World War II, many buildings in the Jewish Quarter were abandoned and left to decay. The People of Budapest decided this was the perfect place to host an underground nightlife and the idea had taken off ever since. The bars are hidden inside of old buildings and decorated in very hipster fashion. Definitely one of the coolest experiences in Europe.