TRAVEL BUDAPEST
GENERAL INFORMATION-It is the capital of Hungry. It is a one of the most delightful and enjoyable city and also called “Paris of the East”. It is divided into 23 numbered districts(in Roman Numerical).The tourists are about 27,00,000 per year .The Buda is on the west bank of the Danube River and Pest on the east bank of the river. In 1873 the unification of Buda, Pest and Obuda was done and Budapest was officially created.
The first settlement on the territory of Budapest was built by Celts before 1 AD. It was later occupied by the Roman. The Roman settlement - Aquincum - became the main city of Lower Pannonia in 106 AD. At first it was a military settlement and gradually the city rose around it becoming the focal point of the commercial life. Today this area corresponds to the Óbuda district within Budapest. The Romans constructed roads, amphitheatres, bathhouses with heated floors in this fortified military camp. Acquincum is the main and best-conserved of the Roman sights in Hungary. The archaeological site was turned into a museum with inside and open-air section. The city arose out of two Bulgarian military frontiers, fortresses Buda and Pest, situated on the two banks of Danube. Hungarians led by Árpád settled in the territory at the end of the 9th century and a century later officially founded the Kingdom of Hungary. The Ottomans pillaged Buda in 1526, besieged it in 1529 and finally occupied it in 1541. The Turkish occupation lasted for more than 140 years. The unoccupied western part of the country became part of the Habsburg Empire as Royal Hungary. In 1918 Austria-Hungary lost the war and collapsed, Hungary declared itself an independent republic. In 1920 the Treaty of Trianon finalized the country's partition, as a result, Hungary lost over two-thirds of its territory and about two-thirds of its inhabitants under the treaty, including 3.3 million out of 10 million ethnic Hungarians. Between 20% and 40% of Greater Budapest's 250,000 Jewish inhabitants died through Nazi and Arrow Cross Party genocide during 1944 and early 1945. In 1949, Hungary was declared a communist People's Republic. The new Communist government considered the buildings like the Buda Castle symbols of the former regime. In 1956, peaceful demonstrations in Budapest led to the outbreak of the Hungarian Revolution. This uprising was an anti-soviet revolt and became independent on the 23th of October 1989.
The first settlement on the territory of Budapest was built by Celts before 1 AD. It was later occupied by the Roman. The Roman settlement - Aquincum - became the main city of Lower Pannonia in 106 AD. At first it was a military settlement and gradually the city rose around it becoming the focal point of the commercial life. Today this area corresponds to the Óbuda district within Budapest. The Romans constructed roads, amphitheatres, bathhouses with heated floors in this fortified military camp. Acquincum is the main and best-conserved of the Roman sights in Hungary. The archaeological site was turned into a museum with inside and open-air section. The city arose out of two Bulgarian military frontiers, fortresses Buda and Pest, situated on the two banks of Danube. Hungarians led by Árpád settled in the territory at the end of the 9th century and a century later officially founded the Kingdom of Hungary. The Ottomans pillaged Buda in 1526, besieged it in 1529 and finally occupied it in 1541. The Turkish occupation lasted for more than 140 years. The unoccupied western part of the country became part of the Habsburg Empire as Royal Hungary. In 1918 Austria-Hungary lost the war and collapsed, Hungary declared itself an independent republic. In 1920 the Treaty of Trianon finalized the country's partition, as a result, Hungary lost over two-thirds of its territory and about two-thirds of its inhabitants under the treaty, including 3.3 million out of 10 million ethnic Hungarians. Between 20% and 40% of Greater Budapest's 250,000 Jewish inhabitants died through Nazi and Arrow Cross Party genocide during 1944 and early 1945. In 1949, Hungary was declared a communist People's Republic. The new Communist government considered the buildings like the Buda Castle symbols of the former regime. In 1956, peaceful demonstrations in Budapest led to the outbreak of the Hungarian Revolution. This uprising was an anti-soviet revolt and became independent on the 23th of October 1989.
GEOGRAPHY-Budapest is in 525 km2 area and lies in central Hungary surrounded by settlements of the agglomeration in Pest County. The capital extends 25kilometers and 29 kilometers in the north-south, east-west direction respectively. The Danube enters the city from the north, then it encircles two islands, Óbuda Island and Margaret Island. The third island Csepel Island is the largest of the Budapest Danube islands. The river that separates the two parts of the city is only 230 m wide at its narrowest point in Budapest. Pest lies on the flat terrain of the Great Plain while Buda is rather hilly. Pest's terrain rises with a slight eastward gradient, so the easternmost parts of the city lie at the same altitude as Buda's smallest hills, notably Gellért Hill and Castle Hill. The Buda hills consist mainly of limestone and dolomite, the water created speleothems, the most famous ones being the Pálvölgyi Cave and the Szemlőhegyi Cave. The highest point of the hills and of Budapest is János hill, at 527 meters above sea level. The lowest point is the line of the Danube which is 96 metres above sea level. The forests of Buda hills are environmentally protected.
AREA- 525.20Km2
POPULATION-17,40,000 (City)
CO-ORDINATES- 47°29′33″N 19°03′05″E
TIME ZONE- UTC+1Summer+2
CLIMATE-Temperature round the year is as follows-
POPULATION-17,40,000 (City)
CO-ORDINATES- 47°29′33″N 19°03′05″E
TIME ZONE- UTC+1Summer+2
CLIMATE-Temperature round the year is as follows-
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
MIN -4 -2 2 6 11 14 15 15 11 7 2 -2
MAX 1 4 10 16 21 24 26 26 22 16 8 3
MIN -4 -2 2 6 11 14 15 15 11 7 2 -2
MAX 1 4 10 16 21 24 26 26 22 16 8 3
BUDAPEST INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT-Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is the international airport of Budapest .The airport is 16 kilometres from the centre of Budapest .It is hub for Ryanair .The airport has three terminals-1,2A (gates 20-30),2B (gates 11-19).Schengen Flights came on terminal 2A.Terminal 1 is for low cost flights and closed .Terminal 2B serving non-Schegen Area destinations .Taxi takes about Euro21 to the central of Budapest.
BUDPEST SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS-
001-BUDA CASTLE- It is a historical castle and palace complex of Hungarian Kings in Budapest .In past it was called Royal Palace .It covers an area of 4.73km2. It is linked to Szechenyi Chain Bridge by Castle Hill Funicular and Clark Adam Square .The first royal residence was built by King Bela IV between 1247-1265.The medieval palace was destroyed in the great siege of 1686.The new palace was built between 1714-1723 by King Charles III of Habsburg .The castle was so many times damaged and restored .The present castle has 203 rooms and houses several museums and the best is Budapest Historical Museum and National Gallery.
002-CASTLE HILL- Castle Hill is recognized as a World Heritage Site and has many must-see attractions, Gothic arches, 18th century Baroque houses and cobblestone streets. Though Castle Hill has changed much since building began in the 13th century, its main streets still follow their medieval paths. Some houses date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, giving us an idea of what the Castle District may have looked like in old days. Practically every house has a plaque indicating the century in which it was built, and providing details of its history. A surprising number of the buildings are still private homes, as Castle Hill is also a residential area. Cars have been banned - only people who live and work here are allowed to drive, however, public transportation is available. The best option is to walk along the cobblestone streets and discover Castle Hill at own pace, as there is a lot to see and do, and exploring Castle Hill can take an entire day. Getting to Castle Hill- Take the Funicular from Chain Bridge, the public bus, called Várbusz, from Széll Kálmán tér (formerly Moszkva tér) or one of the many paths leading up to Castle Hill
003-CHAIN BRIDGE- It is the only permanent bridge in Budapest in that time and it was the only way to cross the river. The bridge is over Danube River and between Clark Ádám tér (Buda side) and Széchenyi István tér (Pest side) (old name Roosevelt Square) .The temporary bridges has to be dismantled due to drifting Ice. It is a 375 meter long and 16 meter wide bridge and opened on 20th November 1849.At the time of completion of this suspension bridge, it was the longest in Europe and one of the wonders of the world and marvel of engineering with just two towers supporting the spans with giant iron chains .The chains gave the bridge its name for the chain bridge. Chief Engineer Adam Clark, a master builder from Scotland, completed the span in 1849. Legend has it that he was so proud of his masterpiece he would challenge anyone to find any fault with his work. When it was discovered that the lions at either ends of the bridge didn't have tongues, he was so ashamed that he committed suicide. This of course is only an anecdote. By the way, the lions do have tongues, however, they are not visible from the street below. The bridge towers are decorated with stone lions as guards of bridge .The Bridge is also a symbol of independence and was the site of demonstration during the fall of Iron Curtain in 1989. The tunnel, which was built a few years later, is also the work of Adam Clark. The Chain Bridge is a large scale version of William Clark's earlier Marlow Bridge on the River Thames in Marlow, England. It's also well worth a visit in the evening, when the bridge is all lit up. In the summer, festivals are held on the bridge almost every weekend. The Buda-end of the bridge is at Clark Adam Square, where the Funicular takes you up to Castle Hill, and the Pest-end of the bridge is at Széchenyi István Square, a busy square in the city centre, named after the former U.S president (now changed). The Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Gresham Palace are also located in the square. Zrinyi Street, a pedestrian precinct, leads from Széchenyi István Square to St. Stephen's Basilica.
004-PARLIAMENT HOUSE- In 1867 the Austro-Hungarian Compromise, gave more independence and the Emperor Franz Joseph decided to build a Parliament House .The construction of Parliament House was started in 1885 and the building was inaugurated on the 1000th anniversary of Hungary in 1896, and finally completed in 1902. It was the largest parliament building in the world with a length of 268 meters and 118 meters wide .The Parliament houses 10 central court yards and contains 20kms of staircase, as well as 691 room’s .The dome height is 96 meters, it is the same height as the St. Stephen's Basilica. The façade is magnificent and decorated with 88 statues of Hungarian rulers and gargoyles, spires and Gothic ornament .The interior at staircase Hall, Copula Hall are the best and worth visiting .The crown of St. Stephen of 1000AD is displayed here. Guided tours of the Parliament are available when the National Assembly is not in session. The tour takes about 45 minutes and is well worth the price, as it covers the main entrance stairs and hall, one of the lobbies, the old House of Lords and the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Tours are held in several languages. Admission is HUF 1,750 for EU citizens (HUF 3,500 for non-EU citizens), and the ticket office is at gate "X".
005-FISHERMAN’S BASTION- It is located behind the Matthias Church on Buda Bank of Danube on the Castle Hill .This is the place where in old times fisherman lived nearby and there was an old fish market in medieval times. The bastion was built to commemorate the fishermen who protected this part of the city and it was built between 1899-1905 with white stone. It is made up of seven towers-each symbolizing seven Magyar Tribes that settled in 896.There is a viewing platform and from here the view of the city is the best .There is a bronze statue of Stephen I of Hungry mounted on a horse, erected in 1906, between Mathias Church and Bastion. There is a fees to enter the lookout at the top level of Fishermen's Bastion, however you can enter the lower level lookout for free and the view is equally beautiful.
006-GELLERT HILL- This is a 140 meters high hill named after Bishop Gellert Sagredo. It is above the Danube River, offering visitors a panoramic view of the city of Budapest. The hill was named after Bishop Gellért (Gerard), who was thrown to death, from the hill by pagans, known for his mission to spread Christianity throughout Hungry in 1046. His statue, which faces Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsébet hid) and holds a cross, can be seen from many parts of Pest. At the top of the hill is the Citadel (Citadella), a fortress built by the Habsburgs after defeating Hungary's War of Independence in 1849. Now a residential area, private homes and embassies line the streets winding up the hill. Since 1987, Gellért Hill has been listed as a world heritage site, as part of "the Banks of the Danube" area. At the hill there are few places which are worth visiting-
i- HOTEL GELLÉRT AND THE GELLÉRT BATHS can be found in Gellért Square at the foot of the hill.
II-ST. GELLÉRT MONUMENT - A colonnade and the statue of St. Gellért commemorate the bishop, Gellért Hill was named after.
III- CITADEL (CITADELLA) - This fortress, built by the Habsburgs after 1849, has been a military checkpoint, prison, anti-aircraft missile launch pad, and is now a tourist attraction.
IV- STATUE OF LIBERTY (SZABADSÁG SZOBOR) - Budapest's Statue of Liberty stands on top of the hill, and she can be seen from all parts of the city. The statue (by Zsigmond Kisfaludi Strobl, 1947) was erected during the Communist era, commemorating the liberation from Nazi rule. As Liberty had already become a symbol of the city, she was not removed unlike other Communist icons.
V-GELLÉRT HILL CAVE CHURCH (SZIKLATEMPLOM) - A network of caves exists within Gellért Hill. The first modern entrance to the caves was built in the 1920s. The Gellért Hill Cave served as a chapel and a field hospital during World War II. Today it belongs to the Hungarian Paulite order and it continues to serve as a church, but its unique setting also makes it a favourite tourist attraction
i- HOTEL GELLÉRT AND THE GELLÉRT BATHS can be found in Gellért Square at the foot of the hill.
II-ST. GELLÉRT MONUMENT - A colonnade and the statue of St. Gellért commemorate the bishop, Gellért Hill was named after.
III- CITADEL (CITADELLA) - This fortress, built by the Habsburgs after 1849, has been a military checkpoint, prison, anti-aircraft missile launch pad, and is now a tourist attraction.
IV- STATUE OF LIBERTY (SZABADSÁG SZOBOR) - Budapest's Statue of Liberty stands on top of the hill, and she can be seen from all parts of the city. The statue (by Zsigmond Kisfaludi Strobl, 1947) was erected during the Communist era, commemorating the liberation from Nazi rule. As Liberty had already become a symbol of the city, she was not removed unlike other Communist icons.
V-GELLÉRT HILL CAVE CHURCH (SZIKLATEMPLOM) - A network of caves exists within Gellért Hill. The first modern entrance to the caves was built in the 1920s. The Gellért Hill Cave served as a chapel and a field hospital during World War II. Today it belongs to the Hungarian Paulite order and it continues to serve as a church, but its unique setting also makes it a favourite tourist attraction
007-HERO’S SQUARE- Laid out in 1896 to mark the 1000th anniversary of Magyar conquest of Hungary in 895, Heroes' Square (Hősök tere) is the largest and most impressive square of the city. Located at the end of Andrássy Avenue and next to City Park. Heroes’ Square is one of the most visited sites in Budapest. Surrounded by two important buildings, Museum of Fine Arts on the left and Kunsthalle (Hall of Art) on the right, Heroes’ Square is also a station of the Millennium Underground.
008-MILLENNIUM MONUMENT- The Millennium Monument is in the middle of the square and was erected to commemorate the 1000th -year-old history of the Magyars. Archangel Gabriel stands on top of the centre pillar, holding the holy crown and the double cross of Christianity. The seven chieftains who led the Magyar tribes to Hungary can be seen on the stand below. At the basement of the column is a group of Seven Hungarian chieftains led by Prince Arpad. Statues atop the colonnade symbolize War, Peace, Work, Welfare, Knowledge and Glory. When the monument was originally constructed, Hungary was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and thus the last five spaces for statues on the left of the colonnade were reserved for members of the ruling Habsburg dynasty. The Habsburg emperors were replaced with Hungarian freedom fighters when the monument was rebuilt after World War II.
009-ST. MATTHIAS CHURCH (Mátyás-templom)- It is officially known as The Church of Our lady, but named after King Matthias ruled between 1458-90.The church was built in 1255 along Trinity Square, it is in the heart of the Castle District and it was the first parish church. The church was the scene of several coronations, including that of Charles IV in 1916, the last Habsburg king. It was also the venue for the great Hungarian King Matthias' two weddings; hence its name .The eastern gate of the church was built in the 13th century, when Buda was founded following the Mongolian invasion. The central part of the church was built around 1400 and from as early as the 14th century. During the Turkish conquest, soon after Buda was captured, the church became the city’s main mosque. The walls were whitewashed and covered with carpets. After the Turkish occupation, Buda lay in ruins. Following the Austro-Hungarian Compromise in 1867, Matthias Church was the scene of a big coronation ceremony when Franz Joseph and his wife Elizabeth were crowned, and thus the Austro-Hungarian Empire was established. Towards the end of the 19th century, a major reconstruction took place, and the building was restored using many original parts and regained much of its former splendour. The roof is covered with the famous Zsolnay ceramic tiles, making the building even more beautiful. Today, Matthias Church remains one of the city’s most prominent buildings. During his stay in Hungary in 1991, Pope John Paul II visited the church. Matthias Church is one of the oldest buildings in Buda. It’s not only a church, but a museum as well. Its frescoes are the works of famous Hungarian painters. Every year, the church hosts several concerts featuring Hungarian and foreign musicians. One of the most popular concert series is called the “Sunday Organ Nights at the Matthias Church”.
010-ST. STEPHEN’S BASILICA-This is the most important church building in Hungary, one of the most significant tourist attractions and the third highest building in Hungary. The patron saint of the church is St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary. His mummified right hand is kept in a glass case in the chapel to the left of the main altar. Height is equal with the Hungarian Parliament Building, it is one of the two tallest buildings in Budapest at 96 meters (315 feet) - this equation symbolizes that worldly and spiritual thinking have the same importance. According to current regulations there cannot be taller building in Budapest than 96 meters (315 feet). It has a width of 55 meters (180 feet), and length of 87.4 meters (287feet). St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest and can hold up to 8,500 people .Building commenced in 1851 and the inauguration ceremony took place in 1906 and was attended by Emperor Franz Joseph. The façade is anchored by two large bell towers. In the southern tower is Hungary's biggest bell, weighing over 9 tones. Its predecessor had a weight of almost 8 tones, but it was used for military purposes during World War II. Visitors may access the dome by elevators or by climbing 364 stairs for a 360° view overlooking Budapest. The basilica has six bells: one in the south tower and five in the north tower. The spacious plaza in front of the basilica is flanked by cafes and restaurants.
011-BUDAPEST OPERA HOUSE- The opera house in Budapest stands as one of the most beautiful Neo-Renaissance buildings in Europe. When it was started in 1875 and opened in 1884, the city shared the administrative duties of the Austro-Hungarian Empire with Vienna. In fact, Emperor Franz Joseph commissioned its design. Construction included the use of marble and frescos by some of the best artisans, the Budapest Opera House quickly became one of the most prestigious musical institutions in Europe. Many important artists performed here, including Gustav Mahler, who was also the director for three seasons. The Budapest Opera House is considered to be amongst the best opera houses in the world in terms of its acoustics and has an auditorium that seats 1200 people. It is horseshoe-shaped and has the third best acoustics amongst similar European venues (after the Scala in Milan and the Paris Opera House). The statue of Ferenc Erkel stands in front of the Opera House. He was the composer of the Hungarian National Anthem and the first music director of the Opera. The other statue in front of the Budapest Opera is of Ferenc Liszt, the well-known Hungarian composer. One can tour the Opera House during the day and learn about its gorgeous architecture as well as enjoy a world-class performance in the evening. Guided tours are offered daily at 3 pm and 4 pm in English, François, Deutsch, Italiano and Español. Tickets are available in the Opera Shop and tours take about 45 minutes. Prices are HUF 2,900 for adults. A performance at the Budapest Opera is a fantastic experience one can get quality tickets for as little as USD$ 10.00.
012- LITZT ACADEMY OF MUSIC (Museum of Music History)-The Academy of Music (Zeneakadémia) in Budapest was founded in the 1870s, enabling talented music students to receive higher education in Hungary,which until then was possible only abroad. One of the biggest supporters of the conservatory was Ferenc Liszt, the famous Hungarian-born composer. In 1873, the Parliament decided to create the institute, and Ferenc Liszt was elected as president .The Academy opened its doors in 1875 and in a short period of time it became one of the most prestigious musical institutions in Europe. First the Academy was located at Ferenc Liszt's apartment, then it moved to a building on Andrássy Avenue and finally in 1907 it took in a new Art Nouveau building. At the same time the square in front of the building was named 'Liszt Ferenc tér' in honour of the great composer. Today, the square is packed with indoor and outdoor cafés and restaurants, creating the perfect atmosphere for lunch, laidback cocktails or dinner. It's a trendy and busy place.
013 -MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS (Szépművészeti Múzeum)- It is located near Hero’s Square .The Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum), founded in 1896 and opened in 1906, features the history of visual arts in Europe. Dedicated to paintings, drawings and sculptures of European origin, one of the highlights of its permanent exhibit is the horseman sculpture carved by Leonardo da Vinci. The museum also has an extensive collection of 19th and 20th century paintings and it has the second largest Spanish art collection outside Spain. Sculptures include Italian works dating back to the 4th century, as well as French, English, German, and Dutch artworks from the 13th century. Egyptian and ancient art, medieval drawings and Late Gothic paintings are also part of the collection.
014-HUNGARIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM(Museum of History of Hungary)- It is located at Múzeum körút 14-16, the building was built between 1837 and 1847,it is a temple like building .The museum is set in a garden and adorned with statues of Hungarians arts ,science and literature gallery includes paintings from the masters like-Rubens ,Raphael ,Monet ,Pissaro ,Gaugin.
015-HUNGARIAN NATIONAL GALLERY (Gallery of History of Hungary Art –at Castle Hill) (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria) -Exhibitions in the National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria) feature the history and development of Hungarian painting. The permanent collection also represents the past five hundred years of art in Hungary, including Medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wood sculptures and altarpieces. While many of the historic figures depicted on older works may be less recognizable for visitors, paintings from the late 19th century will be more familiar .The National Gallery was created in 1957 with the aim to have a separate museum dedicated to the history of visual arts in Hungary.
016- HALL OF ART (Art Exhibition Hall)(The Kunsthalle)- It is located near Hero’s Square and is an exhibition hall for the contemporary arts, featuring the works of local and international artists. Following the concept of the German Kunsthalles, the Neo-Renaissance building was erected in 1896,for the Millennium Celebrations. One of Kunsthalle's missions is to portray the latest trends in visual arts by exposing young talents, beside well-established artists. The Ernst Museum and Dorottya Gallery, both acquisitions of Kunsthalle, focus on the new occurrences in visual arts.
017- DOHANY STREET SYNAGOGUE/CENTRAL SYNAGOGUE-The Great Synagogue in Dohány Street (also known as Dohány Street Synagogue) is the largest Synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world, capable of accommodating 3,000 people. It was built between 1854 and 1859 in Neo-Moorish style. During World War II, the Great Synagogue served as a stable and as a radio communication centre for the Germans. Today, the compound serves as the main centre for the Jewish community .The buildings and the courtyards of the Synagogue include the Jewish Museum, the Heroes' Temple, the Jewish Cemetery and the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park. The complex, inaugurated in 2004, houses a synagogue, a museum and an inner courtyard with a glass memorial wall dedicated to the over 5,00,000 victims with their names inscribed on the wall.
i-Jewish Museum - The Jewish Museum was constructed on the site where Theodor Herzl's house once stood. The Museum is adjacent to the Great Synagogue and it features Jewish traditions, costumes, as well a detailed history of Hungarian Jews. ii- Heroes' Temple - The Heroes' Temple was added to the Great synagogue in 1931, and it serves as a memorial to Hungarian Jews who gave their lives during World War I. The museum's permanent exhibition tells the history of the Holocaust through the stories of individuals in an interactive way. iii- Jewish Cemetery - The cemetery is located in the backyard of the Heroes' Temple. There are over 2,000 people buried here who died in the Jewish ghetto during the winter of 1944-45. iv- Raul Wallenberg Memorial Park - The Raul Wallenberg Memorial Park, home to the Holocaust Memorial, is located in the backyard of the Great Synagogue. v- v-The Holocaust Memorial- It is also known as the Emanuel Tree, is a weeping willow tree with the names of Hungarian Jews killed during the Holocaust, inscribed on each leaf. The Memorial pays tribute to the victims of the Hungarian Holocaust.
i-Jewish Museum - The Jewish Museum was constructed on the site where Theodor Herzl's house once stood. The Museum is adjacent to the Great Synagogue and it features Jewish traditions, costumes, as well a detailed history of Hungarian Jews. ii- Heroes' Temple - The Heroes' Temple was added to the Great synagogue in 1931, and it serves as a memorial to Hungarian Jews who gave their lives during World War I. The museum's permanent exhibition tells the history of the Holocaust through the stories of individuals in an interactive way. iii- Jewish Cemetery - The cemetery is located in the backyard of the Heroes' Temple. There are over 2,000 people buried here who died in the Jewish ghetto during the winter of 1944-45. iv- Raul Wallenberg Memorial Park - The Raul Wallenberg Memorial Park, home to the Holocaust Memorial, is located in the backyard of the Great Synagogue. v- v-The Holocaust Memorial- It is also known as the Emanuel Tree, is a weeping willow tree with the names of Hungarian Jews killed during the Holocaust, inscribed on each leaf. The Memorial pays tribute to the victims of the Hungarian Holocaust.
018-CENTRAL MARKET HALL (Kozponti Vasarcsarnok)- It is the most impressive and largest market in Budapest, the construction was started in 1894 and was opened on 15.03.1897, so the building is more than 100 years old. The Central Market Hall is the largest indoor market in Budapest. Almost everything is there on its three levels. On the ground floor one find a large selection of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables. On the second floor, there are food stands and plenty of vendors selling handicrafts, clothing, embroidery, chessboards and other souvenirs. Paprika and Tokaji are also sold here. In the basement, there is a fish market, a small Asian grocery store, a supermarket, and a small drugstore. While focusing on Hungarian products, on International Gastro Days (held on Fridays and Saturdays), the Central Market Hall also features the food and cuisine of a foreign country. The building also has some architectural significance. The metal roof structure is still the original and the roof is covered with decorative Zsolnay tiles. There are four other markets like this in Budapest, which were all built in the same style (these are in Klauzál tér, Rákóczi tér, Hold utca and Hunyadi tér). An interesting fact is that all five buildings opened on the same day, on February 15th 1897.When it opened ships sailed right into the building using special docks. The old customs house across from the building is now part of the Corvinus University. Today, the Central Market Hall remains a wonderful food market and a must-see. It’s often visited by celebrities and foreign dignitaries. On the upper floor are the shops of Hungarian arts and crafts. It is closed on Sunday and opened from 06.00 to 17.00.
019-VACI UTCA- Váci Street, located in the city centre and designated as a pedestrian precinct, runs from Vörösmarty Square to Vámház körút. The northern part is the busy and fashionable shopping street everyone refers to as Váci Street, while the southern part is lined with restaurants and over-prized souvenir shops. While Váci Street is great for a stroll, unfortunately most of the restaurants are expensive and geared towards tourists and there is little in the way of quality souvenirs for sale. It is better to start your walk from the famous Gerbeaud Café on Vörösmarty Square and end it at the Central Market Hall on Vámház körút. Must see the Philanthia flower shop at No 9. Some of the most interesting buildings facing Vaci utca can be found near Vorosmarty Square. Several fountains are at the street .The most famous is the Fishing Girl fountain at Kristof Square. A bit further is bronze statue of Greek God Hermes .A third fountain the Little Boy Fountain, features a nude boy.
020-VOROSMARTY SQUARE -It is one of the busiest places in the downtown .This area is a activity place, antique shops, pastry shops .It is also the starts of famous shopping street Vaci Utca . It was named after the renowned Hungarian poet Mihály Vörösmarty, whose statue can be seen in the middle of the square. This is where the Millennium Underground begins and this is where every year the Christmas Market is held. The main attraction here is however the famous Gerbeaud Café, a tenant since 1870, an old-fashioned pastry shop. Gerbeaud became famous for his cakes and pastry. The newest addition to the square is a high-tech, glass-covered mall/office building.
021-ANDRASSY AVENUE (Andrassy ut)- It is an iconic avenue in Budapest. Andrássy Avenue, recognized as a World Heritage Site, was built to connect the City Center with City Park (Városliget). Construction began in 1872, and the avenue was inaugurated in 1885. Its Neo-Renaissance palaces and houses were built by the most distinguished architects of the time. Aristocrats, bankers, landowners and noble families moved in. The iconic avenue was named after Prime Minister Gyula Andrássy, a key advocate of the project. Andrássy Avenue was considered a masterpiece of city planning and even public transport was prohibited to preserve its character. This brought about the idea to build a railroad beneath it. The Millennium Underground Railway, the first subway line in continental Europe, opened in 1896. The line transported people from the city centre to City Park (Városliget), the main venue of the Millennium celebrations. Andrássy Avenue has become increasingly chic, attracting some of the world's leading designers including Louis Vuitton, Ermenegildo Zegna, Burberry and Gucci and to several other attractions. On this street Hungarian State Opera House is located. The intersection of Andrássy Avenue and the Grand Boulevard (Nagykörút) is shaped like an octagon, hence its name: Oktogon. Today Oktogon is a busy square, giving home to the world's largest Burger King. The Millennium Underground (M1) also stops at the Oktogon. Andrássy Avenue has four distinct parts:-
i- Elizabeth Square to Oktogon – mainly commercial buildings, shops, Opera House, Liszt Ferenc Square
ii-Oktogon to Kodály Körönd – a widened part with residential and office buildings, House of Terror Museum
iii- Kodály Körönd to Bajza Utca – an even wider part with residential villas
iv-Bajza Utca to Heroes' Square – villas and palaces with gardens, some are used as embassies.
i- Elizabeth Square to Oktogon – mainly commercial buildings, shops, Opera House, Liszt Ferenc Square
ii-Oktogon to Kodály Körönd – a widened part with residential and office buildings, House of Terror Museum
iii- Kodály Körönd to Bajza Utca – an even wider part with residential villas
iv-Bajza Utca to Heroes' Square – villas and palaces with gardens, some are used as embassies.
022-BUDAPEST BATHS- Budapest holds the title “City of Spas”, as it has more thermal and medicinal water springs than any other capital city in the world .There are 118 springs in Budapest, providing over 70 million litters of thermal water a day. The temperature of water is 210 C .During the Turkish occupation of Hungary in the 16th century that the bath culture was flourished .Budapest and the whole Hungary abound in thermal springs with healing qualities .Budapest Spas and Thermal Baths are perfect for therapeutic and recreation purposes .The land under abounds in natural springs and wells that contain several beneficial minerals .They supply the warm, healing waters for nearly 50 Budapest Spas, Baths and Public Pools. The steamy hot water will melt the tired muscles and driving away fatigue and depression. The thermal baths of Budapest can be divided into two categories-i-the older Turkish Baths (Kiraly and Rudas Baths) , ii-The 19th & 20th century Baths-Gellert and Szechenyi Baths. There are 15 public thermal baths in Budapest.
SZECHENYI BATH -The Szechenyi Bath at 1146, Budapest, Allatkeeti korut 11, it is situated in the City Park. Although it may look like a Baroque Palace, Széchenyi Baths (Széchenyi fürdő) is the largest medicinal bath and one of the largest public baths in Europe. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the healing waters. The first thermal bath in Pest opened here as a temporary establishment in 1881.The medicinal baths were built in 1913, and the northern wing, with a beautiful Neo-Baroque interior, was completed in 1927.It is been completed in 1999.The water is provided by Well from hot spring and the water with calcium, magnesium, hydro-carbonate, sodium, chloride-sulphate and also contains some fluoride. The waters are recommended to cure degenerative illnesses of joints, chronic and semi-acute arthritis, and spinal problems. Today, there are 18 pools, of which 15 are spring fed. There's more than one entrance. The grandiose main entrance beneath the baroque dome (facing City Park), leads to the indoor thermal baths, the side entrance leads to the steam baths and the rear entrance (opposite the circus) leads to the outdoor pools. Although everything is interconnected and visitors will have access to all areas once inside, the rear entrance, from Állatkerti körút, where the private changing cabins are located. Only thing one has to decide is whether he would like to opt for a private changing cabin (ideal for couples, as two people can share one cabin) or for a locker, which costs HUF 400 less. Upon paying the entrance fee you'll receive a plastic armband (it's called a 'proxy armband') that grants you access to your cabin or locker and all of the indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and steam baths. The armband opens and closes your cabin and/or locker by simply touching the lock with it. Once you have donned your bathing suit (the Széchenyi is coed and swimsuits are mandatory) check out the outdoor pools first. The large, rectangular pool in the middle is the swimming pool (swim caps are required) with a water temperature of 27°C. At one end of the swimming pool is a warm pool with a lazy river and a large Jacuzzi in the centre. The water temperature here is 30°C. At the other end of the swimming pool is another warm pool with steaming 38°C waters. After 20 minutes or so head inside and check out the 15 indoor pools, several steam baths and saunas. These are located in the Baroque wing, beneath the domes. A light smell of sulphur chloride permeates the rooms. The indoor pools vary in size and range in temperature from 40°C down to 20°C. Each pool, sauna and steam bath has a sign showing the temperature 70°C and there are showers everywhere to cool down and refresh. So head to the steam room 40°C-50°C or one of the saunas 60°C-80°C, then take a cold plunge 19°C followed by a dip in the warm water once again, then repeat. It is better to take two towels with you (towels are not provided, so bring your own or buy them in the lobby), leave one in the cabin or locker to use at the end and take the other one with you as it will come in handy when you go from pool to pool. If you visit in the summer, be sure to take some sunscreen with you. Bring flip-flops, towels and a bottle of water and make sure you drink plenty of fluids. Visitors can also purchase basic swimsuits and bath towels in the lobby. There's a cafeteria overlooking the outdoor pools that serves some light snacks and sandwiches. Its charming terrace is a favourite throughout the summer, especially on the weekends, when breakfast is served. Throughout the summer Széchenyi Baths offers a popular Saturday night party series called Szecska. Swimming pools - Monday-Sunday: 6 am to 10 pm, Thermal pools - Monday-Sunday- 6 am to 7 pm. Pool parties with plenty of great music run every Saturday from 10:30 pm to 3:00 am between Jun 30 and Aug 25, 2012. For a full day, admission is very affordable and includes a locker and access to all of the indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam baths and the gym. If you stay less than two hours, a small refund is given. The attendants speak very little English, but this shouldn't deter anyone from visiting as it is not difficult to find your way around and you can always follow the signs. Admission:-A day pass with a locker is HUF 3,400 during the week and HUF 3,550 on the weekends. A day pass with a cabin is HUF 3,800 during the week and HUF 3,950 on the weekends. A 30-minute aroma massage is HUF 4,000 and a refreshing 15-minute massage is HUF 3,000.
SZECHENYI BATH -The Szechenyi Bath at 1146, Budapest, Allatkeeti korut 11, it is situated in the City Park. Although it may look like a Baroque Palace, Széchenyi Baths (Széchenyi fürdő) is the largest medicinal bath and one of the largest public baths in Europe. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the healing waters. The first thermal bath in Pest opened here as a temporary establishment in 1881.The medicinal baths were built in 1913, and the northern wing, with a beautiful Neo-Baroque interior, was completed in 1927.It is been completed in 1999.The water is provided by Well from hot spring and the water with calcium, magnesium, hydro-carbonate, sodium, chloride-sulphate and also contains some fluoride. The waters are recommended to cure degenerative illnesses of joints, chronic and semi-acute arthritis, and spinal problems. Today, there are 18 pools, of which 15 are spring fed. There's more than one entrance. The grandiose main entrance beneath the baroque dome (facing City Park), leads to the indoor thermal baths, the side entrance leads to the steam baths and the rear entrance (opposite the circus) leads to the outdoor pools. Although everything is interconnected and visitors will have access to all areas once inside, the rear entrance, from Állatkerti körút, where the private changing cabins are located. Only thing one has to decide is whether he would like to opt for a private changing cabin (ideal for couples, as two people can share one cabin) or for a locker, which costs HUF 400 less. Upon paying the entrance fee you'll receive a plastic armband (it's called a 'proxy armband') that grants you access to your cabin or locker and all of the indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and steam baths. The armband opens and closes your cabin and/or locker by simply touching the lock with it. Once you have donned your bathing suit (the Széchenyi is coed and swimsuits are mandatory) check out the outdoor pools first. The large, rectangular pool in the middle is the swimming pool (swim caps are required) with a water temperature of 27°C. At one end of the swimming pool is a warm pool with a lazy river and a large Jacuzzi in the centre. The water temperature here is 30°C. At the other end of the swimming pool is another warm pool with steaming 38°C waters. After 20 minutes or so head inside and check out the 15 indoor pools, several steam baths and saunas. These are located in the Baroque wing, beneath the domes. A light smell of sulphur chloride permeates the rooms. The indoor pools vary in size and range in temperature from 40°C down to 20°C. Each pool, sauna and steam bath has a sign showing the temperature 70°C and there are showers everywhere to cool down and refresh. So head to the steam room 40°C-50°C or one of the saunas 60°C-80°C, then take a cold plunge 19°C followed by a dip in the warm water once again, then repeat. It is better to take two towels with you (towels are not provided, so bring your own or buy them in the lobby), leave one in the cabin or locker to use at the end and take the other one with you as it will come in handy when you go from pool to pool. If you visit in the summer, be sure to take some sunscreen with you. Bring flip-flops, towels and a bottle of water and make sure you drink plenty of fluids. Visitors can also purchase basic swimsuits and bath towels in the lobby. There's a cafeteria overlooking the outdoor pools that serves some light snacks and sandwiches. Its charming terrace is a favourite throughout the summer, especially on the weekends, when breakfast is served. Throughout the summer Széchenyi Baths offers a popular Saturday night party series called Szecska. Swimming pools - Monday-Sunday: 6 am to 10 pm, Thermal pools - Monday-Sunday- 6 am to 7 pm. Pool parties with plenty of great music run every Saturday from 10:30 pm to 3:00 am between Jun 30 and Aug 25, 2012. For a full day, admission is very affordable and includes a locker and access to all of the indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam baths and the gym. If you stay less than two hours, a small refund is given. The attendants speak very little English, but this shouldn't deter anyone from visiting as it is not difficult to find your way around and you can always follow the signs. Admission:-A day pass with a locker is HUF 3,400 during the week and HUF 3,550 on the weekends. A day pass with a cabin is HUF 3,800 during the week and HUF 3,950 on the weekends. A 30-minute aroma massage is HUF 4,000 and a refreshing 15-minute massage is HUF 3,000.
023-BUDAPEST CAVE- Budapest is the only capital in the world that has natural caves in the middle of the city and it is famous for its natural underground caves, which were formed by thermal waters over millions of years. The city has about 170 smaller and bigger caves .The same thermal springs formed the supply of water to thermal spas and baths. In Budapest 3 are open to public. The most two beautiful natural caves in the Buda Hills just can be explored - the Pál-völgyi Stalactite Cave and the Szemlő-hegyi Cave. Filled with spectacular formations, both caves were discovered by accident, in the early 1900’s. The Pál-völgyi Stalactite Cave (Pál-völgyi Cseppkőbarlang) is a multi-level labyrinth with amazing rock formations. It’s also the longest cave in the Buda Hills, stretching more than 7 km (4.3 miles). Guided tours take about 45 minutes, and expect to do some climbing and narrow passages. The Szemlő-hegyi Cave (Szemlő-hegyi Barlang) is quite different. There are no stalactites instead it’s filled with several beautiful crystal formations. The cave has exceptionally clean air, and its lowest level is used as a respiratory sanatorium. Expect a smooth walk, and this cave is great for kids as well. The temperature is around 80C, so in the cave one has to put warm clothes.
024-MARGARET ISLAND (MARGITSZIGET))-The 2.5kms long and 500 meters Wide Island is between Arpad Bridge and Margaret Bridge in the centre of Danube.The Island is most beautiful in April-May when the nature is green. The island received its current name after Saint Margaret (1242–1270), the daughter of King Béla IV, who lived in the Dominican convent on the island. King Béla IV vowed to raise his daughter as a nun if Hungary survived the Mongol invasion. Ruins of this 13th century Dominican church and convent can still be seen .Churches and cloisters dominated the island until the 16th century. During the Turkish occupation, the monks and nuns fled and the island was turned into a harem. In the 18th century, the island was chosen to be the resort of the palatines. Palatines were the highest dignitaries after the king. It was declared a public garden in 1908. Since then, Margaret Island serves as a recreational park. The island houses various sports establishments, like the Palatinus Water Park, the Alfréd Hajós sports pool, tennis courts and an athletic centre. Vehicles are prohibited, so the island is a great place to rent a bike, walking the length of the island takes about 20 minutes, but most visitors spend time at the Hajós Alfréd and the Palatinus outdoor pools. The Palatinus water park is a popular place in the summer, especially on the weekends. The 11 outdoor pools, including two for children, are in a beautiful setting. Other attractions on the island include the Centennial Memorial which commemorates the 100th anniversary of Budapest, a Japanese Garden, a tiny zoo, a music fountain, and an octagonal water tower, built in Art Nouveau style in 1911. The outdoor theatre hosts operas, concerts and plays during summer. The thermal water on Margaret Island is famous for its healing effects. The natural, thermal water running beneath the island was first brought to the surface in 1886.
025-1.5 HOUR HUNGARIAN FOLK PERFORMANCE- (Performances in Budai Vigadó Hall,Corvin ter 8)- Hungry is a country known for the art of folk dancing .The Hungarian State Folk Ensemble and Hungaria Folk Ensemble & Orchestra-3 are the best and most professional folk troupes perform at I- Duna Palota Theatre (Duna Palot-Danube Palace),Zrinyi utca 5, II- Budai Vigado Theatre (Budai Vigado hall,Corvin ter 8,district I), III- Rajko Folk Ensembles (Duna Palota (Danube Palace),Zrinyi utca 5,district V. The Ensemble consists of 34 dancers, 14 members of the Gipsy Orchestra and 5 members of the Hungarian Folk Orchestra. The 5 members of the Folk Orchestra play authentic, traditional instruments and perform Hungarian folk music at its highest artistic level. The choreographies are all based on authentic dances; some of them were collected in isolated villages with dance elements dating back hundreds of years. During more than five decades of its existence, the Ensemble has achieved its aim by revitalizing the culture of the Hungarian people .The extraordinary folk music that inspired Hungarian and international classical composers such as Liszt, Brahms, Kodály and Bartók is put on stage by both the Folk Orchestra and the world-famous Gipsy Orchestra, guided by the artistic director Oláh Jenő. Their rich and colourful repertoire entitled the Ensemble to be regarded as one of the top touring groups in the world. It has performed in 44 countries across four continents and won the admiration of an audience of more than seven and a half million people. Aside from its performances around the country and abroad, the Ensemble gives approximately 90-100 annually performances in its Corvin tér theatre, in the Budai Vigadó. The stage in the Budai Vigadó is 1 meter (approx. 3 feet) higher than the front rows. For this reason the seats in the front rows are 2nd category. Seating rows rise gradually, so from row 5 you can have the best view of the stage.
026-WALK AROUND DANUBE PROMENADE- A walk along the promenade or known as “Duna Korzo” offers wonderful views of the Danube and Budha side with the Gellert and Castle Hills .Trame 2 runs along the stretch of the river bank .The Danube Promenade (Dunakorzó) extends between the Elizabeth Bridge and the Chain Bridge in Pest along the banks of the Danube. This location was always popular for promenading, especially in the 19th century. The Promenade was home to several famous hotels such as the Ritz, the Bristol and the Carlton. Their cafés, overlooking the Danube and the Buda Castle were immensely popular. Things to see when walking from Elizabeth Bridge towards Chain Bridge:-
i-Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd)- Probably the most elegant bridge in Budapest was named in honour of Queen Elisabeth, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph. The original suspension bridge was built at the end of the 19th century, but the damage sustained in World War II left the bridge beyond repair. Using the old pillars, a new bridge was built in the 1960s.
ii-Vigadó Concert Hall- The Romantic building of the Vigadó Concert Hall was inaugurated in 1865. It is located on Vigadó tér, a small square next to the Marriott Hotel. The Vigadó hosted performances by Liszt, Mahler, Wagner and Von Karajan. The building was badly damaged during the war and it didn't reopen until 1980. Most Danube cruises depart from Vigadó tér.
iii-Little Princess- The statue of the Little Princess on the Promenade, sitting on the railings by the embankment; she is one of Budapest's newest attractions.
iv-Széchenyi István Square (Széchenyi István tér) - The Pest End of Chain Bridge (formerly known Roosevelt Square, named after the former U.S. president), was recently renamed to Széchenyi István tér as a tribute to the founder of Chain Bridge. The Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Art Nouveau-style Gresham Palace are located in the square.
i-Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd)- Probably the most elegant bridge in Budapest was named in honour of Queen Elisabeth, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph. The original suspension bridge was built at the end of the 19th century, but the damage sustained in World War II left the bridge beyond repair. Using the old pillars, a new bridge was built in the 1960s.
ii-Vigadó Concert Hall- The Romantic building of the Vigadó Concert Hall was inaugurated in 1865. It is located on Vigadó tér, a small square next to the Marriott Hotel. The Vigadó hosted performances by Liszt, Mahler, Wagner and Von Karajan. The building was badly damaged during the war and it didn't reopen until 1980. Most Danube cruises depart from Vigadó tér.
iii-Little Princess- The statue of the Little Princess on the Promenade, sitting on the railings by the embankment; she is one of Budapest's newest attractions.
iv-Széchenyi István Square (Széchenyi István tér) - The Pest End of Chain Bridge (formerly known Roosevelt Square, named after the former U.S. president), was recently renamed to Széchenyi István tér as a tribute to the founder of Chain Bridge. The Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Art Nouveau-style Gresham Palace are located in the square.
027-SIGHTSEEING ON TRAM NO-2-Most notable Budapest attractions and breath-taking panorama can be seeing by riding the Tram No-2. It costs only ticket for 320HUF.The tram rides between Jaszai Mari ter and Kozvagohid Terminous. After departing from Jaszai Mari ter one will pass the Budapest Parliament ,then Castle Hill .Fishermen’s Bastion and Matthias Church and Budapest Castle District .Starting with the oldest one ,the Chain Bridge (Szechenyi Lanchid) then Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsebet hid) and Liberty Bridge (Szabadsag hid),Petofi Bridge and the last one is the red Rakoczi Bridge .Roosevelt Square at the Pest end of the Chain Bridge are Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Gresham Palace then Vigado Concert Hall at Vigado ter.
028-BRIDGES-In Budapest City area there are many bridges across the Danube River they are-
i-Árpád Bridge (Árpád híd) - A modern bridge linking to Northern Margaret Island. The longest bridge in Budapest at 973 meters. It is the north most bridge in Budapest. ii-Margaret Bridge (Margit híd) - It is the second north most bridge and second oldest bridge after Chain Bridge, built between 1872-1876. Its two parts makes an approximately 150 degree turn half way across, at the southern tip of Margaret Island. It was done to connect the Margaret Island and built afterwards. Trams 4 and 6 cross the Danube here. iii- Chain Bridge (Széchenyi lánchíd) - Completed in 1849, the oldest, and most beautiful and certainly the most photographed of Budapest's bridges, floodlit at night. It is anchored on the Pest side of the river to Széchenyi (formerly Roosevelt) Square, adjacent to the Gresham Palace and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and on the Buda side to Adam Clark Square, near the Zero Kilometer Stone and the lower end of the Castle Hill Funicular, leading to Buda Castle. The bridge was opened in 1849, and thus became the first permanent bridge in the Hungarian capital, after the Hungarian Revolution of 1848
iv-Elisabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd) - Completed in 1903. Its original chain structure was destroyed in World War II and was eventually substituted by a modern cable bridge opened in 1964. Elisabeth Bridge (Hungarian: Erzsébet híd) is the third newest bridge of Budapest, connecting Buda and Pest across the River Danube. The bridge is situated at the narrowest part of the Danube in the Budapest area, spanning only 290 m. It is named after Elisabeth of Bavaria, a popular queen and empress of Austria-Hungary, who was assassinated in 1898. Today, her large bronze statue sits by the bridge's Buda side connection in the middle of a small garden. The Buda end of Erzsébet bridge runs directly into the massive foot of Gellért Hill, necessitating a complicated arrangement of roads to connect to the bridge.
v- Liberty Bridge (Szabadság híd) - Elegant but simple, opened in 1896, located at the southern end of the City Centre and it connects the Gellért Baths (Gellért fürdő) in Buda with the Great Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok) in Pest. The top of the four masts are decorated with four bronze statues of the Turul, a falcon like bird, prominent in Hungarian mythology. It is the third southernmost public road bridge in Budapest, located at the southern end of the City Centre. The bridge imitates the general outline of a chain-type bridge, which was considered an aesthetically preferable form at the time of construction.
vi- Petőfi Bridge (Petőfi híd) - For a long time the southernmost bridge, it links the inner ring road (Nagykörút) of Pest with Buda. vii- Lágymányosi Bridge (Lágymányosi híd) - The newest bridge in Budapest, with modern architecture and a spectacular lighting system where mirrors reflect the beam of the upward facing floodlights. viii- Magyeri Bridge-It is a cable-stayed bridge serving M0 motorway and it was completed in 30.09.1908. It passes through the Szentendre Island in the middle of the Danube. It is four lane and 590 m cable stayed part with 300m span and the total length of the bridge is 1862 meters.
029- BUDAPEST BROADWAY- The theatre district in Pest is nicknamed Budapest's Broadway. The intersection of Nagymező utca and Andrássy Avenue (a block north of the Budapest Opera) is nicknamed as Budapest's Broadway. Some exquisite theatres, as well as the Moulin Rouge nightclub, the Manó Mai House of Photography, the Ernst Gallery, and some very good restaurants, are all located here. Theatres in Nagymező utca - Thália and Radnóti are both traditional theatres. Operett features musicals, and Mikroszkóp is famous for its stand-up comedy. The most famous Hungarian stand-up comedian, Géza Hofi (1936-2002), was the star here for years. His statue stands in front of the building.
030-TRINITY COLUMN, TRINITY SQUARE-The Square is named after the Trinity Column (Szentháromság oszlop), a large plague column that was built between 1710 and 1713 to a Baroque design by Philipp Ungleich. The column was built to celebrate the end of the plague and citizens hoped that it would protect them from another epidemic. The sculpture at the top represents the Holy Trinity. It sits on a sturdy pillar decorated with statues of little angels and - below - large statues of saints. The column rests on a large pedestal adorned with bas-reliefs and the Hungarian crest.
031-BUDAPEST GREAT CIRCUS (Fővárosi Nagycirkusz)-The Grand City Circus is located in Budapest’s City Park at the end of Andrássy Avenue and its entrance way is through Heroes’ Square a monument to the 12 Kings of Hungary. The Fővárosi Nagycirkusz or Grand City Circus has been entertaining people for 115 years. The quality of work from the performers was among the finest in the field, travelling the world sharing their talents. They had the entire circus ring filled with water, fountains and waterfalls. It had a ‘Circ Du Soleil’ feel to it. Synchronized swimmers, dancers, and acrobats, swam, danced and entertained for 2 hours. The end acts were seals, crocodiles and a huge python. They all swim in turn in the giant pool with their handlers. They had trained cats and doves and of course the high wire acts, gymnasts, and contortionists. The singer was perched high above our heads and sang beautifully throughout the show.
032-CITY PARK- City Park is the largest park in Budapest. The first trees and walkways were established here in 1751. In the first decades of the 19th century a park was created, which became the first public park in the world. In 1896 the Millennium Celebrations took place here, leaving many attractions behind. Vajdahunyad Castle, a replica of a Transylvanian castle of that name, was built to show the various architectural styles found in Hungary and has Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque parts. In the courtyard is the statue of Anonymus, the nameless medieval chronicler to King Béla .The castle is surrounded by an artificial lake that's used for boating in the summer and turns into an impressive ice skating rink in the winter, which is a local favorite. The history of the City Park Ice Rink (Városligeti Műjégpálya) goes back to the 19th century, when skating was considered a favorite winter pass time by the elite. It first opened on January 29th 1870 and Rudolf, Crown Prince of Austria, was present for the inauguration ceremonies. In the park are-i-The Budapest Zoo, ii- the Amusement Park, iii- the Municipal Circus, iv-the Museum of Transport, v-the legendary Gundel Restaurant vi- the famous Széchenyi Baths vii-Gundel Restaurent viii-Petofi Hall. It also has endless food and souvenir vendors, restaurants and playground areas for kids to play in. Trees provide shade; walkways throughout make a great day trip for tourists travelling around Hungary. In addition, there are playgrounds, slides, wooden castles and monkey bars in the park to keep the small ones entertained. For treasurer hunters, there's a flea market held every weekend by Petőfi Csarnok (open Saturdays and Sundays from 8 am to 2 pm).
033-CLARK ADAM SQUARE- Clark Adam square at the Buda side of the Chain Bridge. There is a 3 m high limestone sculpture at the square, which is the zero kilometer stone of Budapest. In the communist era, the square was known for the flowers planted here in the shape of a red star. (This red star has also been commemorated by a popular Hungarian curse). Today, flowers are still planted in the middle of the roundabout in the summer in various artistic shapes.
034- ELIZABETH STATUE-The statue of Queen Elizabeth was made by György Zala and Rezső Hikish and originally the statue was introduced in 1932 to the public. It is located on the background the Elizabeth Bridge.
035- THE LIBERTY STATUE-The Liberty Statue or Freedom Statue (Hungarian: Szabadság Szobor) is a monument on the Gellért Hill in Budapest. It commemorates those who sacrificed their lives for the independence, freedom, and prosperity of Hungary. It was first elected in 1947 in remembrance of the Soviet occupation of Hungary during World War II, which ended the occupation by Nazi Germany. Its location upon Gellért Hill makes it a prominent feature of Budapest's cityscape. The 14 m tall bronze statue stands atop a 26 m pedestal and holds a palm leaf. Two smaller statues are also present around the base, but the original monument consisted of two more originally that have since been removed from the site and relocated to Statue Park. At the time of the monument's construction, the defeat of Axis forces by the Red Army was officially proclaimed “liberation”—leading to the original inscription upon the memorial (both in Hungarian and Russian) .
036-MOMENTO PARK- Memento Park is an open air museum in Budapest, dedicated to monumental statues from Hungary's Communist period (1949–1989). There are statues of Lenin, Marx, and Engels and several Hungarian Communist leaders. After the fall of the Communist regime in Hungary in 1989, many of the Communist statues and monuments were immediately removed. These formed the basis for the current collection in statue park. On June 29, 1993, the second anniversary of the withdrawal of the Soviet troops from Hungarian territory, the park celebrated a ribbon cutting and grand opening as a public outdoor museum. In 2006 marks a new chapter in the history of Memento Park. A life-sized copy of the tribune of the Stalin Monument in Budapest was built in the Statue Park with the broken bronze shoes on top of the pedestal.
037-MILLENNIUM UNDERGROUND- At the time of its completion in 1885 the Andrássy Avenue was considered a masterpiece of city planning and even public transport was prohibited to preserve its character. This brought about the idea to build a railroad beneath it. The first subway line in continental Europe opened in 1896 and is still in use as the M1 or the yellow line. Like many other buildings in Budapest, the Millennium Underground Railway was commissioned to celebrate the Millennium in 1896. Trains ran along Andrássy Avenue, from Gizella Square (today Vörösmarty Square) to the Zoo in City Park, in a northeast-southwest direction. There were eleven stations, nine were underground and two were above the ground. The length of the line was 3.7 km (2.3 miles) at that time, trains started in every two minutes. It was able to carry as many as 35,000 people a day (today, about 1,00,000 people travel on it on a workday).
038-PUPPET THEATRE- Budapest has a long tradition in puppetry. The Puppet Theatre (Bábszínház) on Andrássy Avenue is 60 years old, and is famous for both its children's productions and its artistic performances for adult audiences. Morning and matinee performances are for kids; evening performances are intended for adults. Morning performances usually start at 10 am, afternoon performances at 2:30 pm or 3 pm and evening performances at 7 pm
039-ROYAL PALACE- The first royal residence on Castle Hill was built in the 13th century, after the Mongolian invasion. It was extended in the 14th century, becoming probably the largest Gothic palace of the late Middle Ages. Construction continued in the 15th century, following the marriage of King Matthias Corvinus and Beatrix of Naples in 1476. Many Italian artists and craftsmen accompanied the new queen, bringing the Renaissance style to Buda. The palace was completely destroyed when liberating Buda from the Turks. In the 18th century, a small Baroque palace was built, which is identical with the core structure of the present-day palace. During the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the palace gave home to lavish ceremonies symbolizing peace between the dynasty and the nation. The process of rebuilding the Royal Palace continued in the 19th century, and it was finished in 1904. At the end of World War II, the palace was badly damaged. It was rebuilt once again, in Neo-Baroque style, using many original parts .Today, Buda Castle is home to the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum and the National Library. Other attractions include the Lion Courtyard; the Matthias Well, a bronze statue of King Matthias; and the statue of the Turul Bird, the mythological bird of the Magyars.
040-SHOES ON THE DANUBE EMBANKMENT-This world-famous composition, which comprises 60 pairs of metal shoes set in concrete on the Danube embankment, was set up in the year 2005. It commemorates the Hungarian Jewish victims of the killings committed by the Arrow Cross militiamen, the pro-German, anti-Semitic, national socialist party members of Hungary in 1944-1945. The killings usually took place en masse - the victims were lined up at the embankment, and shot into the Danube, execution-style. At three separate places of the memorial, cast iron signs read in Hungarian, English and Hebrew: "To the memory of victims shot into the Danube by Arrow Cross militiamen in 1944-45". This is a very simple but very moving memorial.
041-TIME WHEEL- The Time wheel (Hungarian: Időkerék) is one of the world's largest hour glasses, situated in Budapest, next to City Park, right of Heroes' Square and behind the Palace of Art (Műcsarnok). ), the Timewheel's primary function is not to measure time as much as to portray it. A visually striking, ageless symbol, the Timewheel will depict Time's monumentality, its infinite movement, a streaming, unbroken continuity. A unique work of art, the Timewheel is built of enduring materials such as granite, stainless steel and glass, so that it can function for decades, even centuries, to come. It’s weighs 60 tons. The "sand" (actually glass granules) flows from the upper to the lower glass chamber for one year. The sand runs out on New Year's Eve and the Time wheel is then turned 180 degrees so the flow of the sand can resume for the next year. The turning is done by manual power using steel cables , it is only to remind us of the many thousands of years past when moving objects of large size involved only human strength and ingenuity and it takes roughly 45 minutes for 4 people to complete the half turn. A fusion of an ancient time-measuring method and 21st century technology (including a computer-aided mechanism that precisely controls the flow of sand. Hungary joined the European Union on April 30, 2004, at 00:00 and it was commemorated by the Timewheel unveilinged by the Prime Minister. It marks the beginning of a new era in the country's history, the beginning of a new chronology. In Japan there is a The Nima Sand Museum, which opened in 1991, also has a 1-year hourglass ("The Sandtimer") in Nima, Shimane Prefecture, Japan which was also inspired by the Time wheel idea.
042- ROMAN CITY OF AQUINCUM- The first Roman ruins were found in 1778 by a wine maker and the remains were shortly identified as the Roman town of Aquincum. Aquincum is located in the oldest part of Buda, called Óbuda, which literally means Old Buda, Óbuda was united with Buda and Pest in 1873. From the first century BC to the fifth century AD, western Hungary was part of the Roman Empire. It was called Pannonia and its largest town was Aquincum, the ancestor of Budapest. As the centre of Pannonia, Aquincum played an important leading role. The excavated ruins date back to the second century, when the city had around 15,000 inhabitants. Remains of an amphitheatre, mosaic floors, tombstones, statues and a reconstructed water-organ are the main attractions. Besides Aquincum, Hercules Villa and Thermae Maiores (Big Bath, a former Roman bath complex) are open to the public. In addition to the several excavated Roman ruins, Óbuda also has a Baroque and a modern side. Its centre, Fő tér (Main Square), is one of the most charming squares in the city.
043-CASTLE HILL FUNIULAR- The funicular brings passengers to the upper station at Szent György tér (St. George Square), between the Buda and Sándor Palaces. The lower station stands at Clark Ádám tér, a square near the Chain Bridge. Construction started in 1868 and the line officially opened in early March, 1870. At the time it was only the second funicular in Europe. Steam engines powered the wooden carriages more than 50 meters up the hill at an inclination of 48%.The carriages have a peculiar stepped shape, designed to give as many people as possible a panoramic view over the river and Pest. There are two different tracks leading up the hill
044-PUSZTA GREAT PLAINS AND KECSKEMET- A DAY TRIP-It is 85 kilometres from Budapest and M5 freeway connects to Budapest. It offers an insight into rural Hungary .Take a tour on a horse drawn carriage, and see the control of horse rider on their power full horses in an open arena.
I-PUSZTA-It is a grassland biome on the Great Hungarian Plain(Alfold) in the eastern part of Hungary around the river Tisza .The characteristic landscape is composed of treeless plains, saline steppes and salt lakes and scattered sand dunes .Here cattle’s ,stud horses ,Racka Sheep with spiral horn and buffalo herds graze on open pastures.
II-KECKEMET- Kecskemét is pretty much equidistant from the capital metropolis Budapest (in the northwest) and about 90 km from both cities. It is a baroque city. Stop and walk around the beautiful downtown. The Cifra Palota, Old Synagogue and Town Hall and theater, churches are worth seeing buildings for Hungarian architecture. An air show takes place in August every two years on 7-8th day.
III-LAJOSMIZSE -It is a town in Bacs-Kiskun county .It is located at the end of a railway line from Budapest .It is situated on a road crossing –in all directions .Here is a very big grassland for the grazing of livestock. This town is next to the Keckemet town and where one will see the performances by famous horseman of the region in the Hungarian Farm, carriage ride through Puszta and typical steppe landscape. After arrival at the farm and receiving the greetings of the horse men, have the taste of famous Hungarian welcome drink, “Barack Pálinka” (Apricot Schnapps) and the “Pogácsa” (salty scone). Horsemen will then take you around and through the Puszta. The program continues with a traditional horse show, which includes several breath-taking field performances.
I-PUSZTA-It is a grassland biome on the Great Hungarian Plain(Alfold) in the eastern part of Hungary around the river Tisza .The characteristic landscape is composed of treeless plains, saline steppes and salt lakes and scattered sand dunes .Here cattle’s ,stud horses ,Racka Sheep with spiral horn and buffalo herds graze on open pastures.
II-KECKEMET- Kecskemét is pretty much equidistant from the capital metropolis Budapest (in the northwest) and about 90 km from both cities. It is a baroque city. Stop and walk around the beautiful downtown. The Cifra Palota, Old Synagogue and Town Hall and theater, churches are worth seeing buildings for Hungarian architecture. An air show takes place in August every two years on 7-8th day.
III-LAJOSMIZSE -It is a town in Bacs-Kiskun county .It is located at the end of a railway line from Budapest .It is situated on a road crossing –in all directions .Here is a very big grassland for the grazing of livestock. This town is next to the Keckemet town and where one will see the performances by famous horseman of the region in the Hungarian Farm, carriage ride through Puszta and typical steppe landscape. After arrival at the farm and receiving the greetings of the horse men, have the taste of famous Hungarian welcome drink, “Barack Pálinka” (Apricot Schnapps) and the “Pogácsa” (salty scone). Horsemen will then take you around and through the Puszta. The program continues with a traditional horse show, which includes several breath-taking field performances.
045-BARADLA CAVES IN HUNGARY/AGGTELE KKARST-A DAY TRIP-Hungary shares one of the largest cave systems in Europe crossing the Slovakian border. In Budapest, there is an extensive cave system beneath the city. Budapest is often referred to as the city of spas. It is not as widely known that it can be called as a city of caves as well, because approximately 200 smaller and bigger caves can be found under the capital. These caves were formed by the same springs that today supply the thermal baths. The majority of the caves were discovered at the beginning of the 20th century, when house buildings and drainage construction works were carried out. Budapest has 9 strictly protected caves and 3 are open to the public.
I-THE AGGTELEK KARST- The Aggtelek Karst is located in the north-eastern corner of Hungary. It is a famous classical karstic region that became part of UNESCO's "World Heritage List" in September of 1996. Karst Cave are Triassic limestone and 230 million years old. It is 26 km long, of which 8 km is in Slovakia, known under the name of Domica. It is situated in Aggtelek National Park (Hungarian: Aggteleki Nemzeti Park) in Northern Hungary. It was founded in 1985. It contains 198.92 km². It has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 1995.
II- THE BARADLA CAVE- Which is the longest in Hungary and about 240 kilometres from Budapest, and it used to be the longest known and surveyed cave system of the world for a long time, until the early decades of the 20th century. Its activity, its length, and its stalactites and stalagmites make it the most prominent cave in the temperate zone. The first major construction project was carried out in 1806, when Palatine Joseph visited the cave. The number of visitors increased due to the photographs and picture postcards issued from the end of the last century on. The cave was managed by the Magyar Kárpát Egyesület (Hungarian Carpathian Society) at this time. Further attempts to enhance tourism were initiated in the 1920s. The Jósvafõ exit, and the inside bridges were completed. These are still used. The most impressive change happened when the electric system was built, and the visited sections were illuminated .Since 1985 the Directorate of the Aggtelek National Park has been managing the Baradla Cave. It has three entrances: the natural entrance near Aggtelek and two artificial entrances are, one entrance is near Jósvafõ and the other one between Aggtelek and Jósvafõ, near Vörös-tó (Red Lake). a-Aggtelek, short tour: Length=1,000m, Duration=60min.Aggtelek, b-long tour: Length=7,000m, Duration=5hour.Aggtelek, c-Radish Branch tour: L=9,000m, Duration=7hour. Several of the caves have different specialties. For example, the Peace Cave has a sanatorium which helps treating people suffering from asthma .The Aggtelek branch of the cave shows the Concert Hall. This huge chamber is used for concerts for many years. This part of the cave offers speleothems in extraordinary colours, blackish stalactites protruding from a red and green coloured ceiling. The Jósvafõ branch has the Giant's Hall. This chamber is used for a musical experience during the tour. The tour is impressive, but following stream passages, climbing through dolly tubs, is strenuous and includes getting wet. This tour is possible after appointment, but it requires the physical ability and appropriate gear like wellingtons, caver's overall, helmet, water proof lamps, and gloves.
I-THE AGGTELEK KARST- The Aggtelek Karst is located in the north-eastern corner of Hungary. It is a famous classical karstic region that became part of UNESCO's "World Heritage List" in September of 1996. Karst Cave are Triassic limestone and 230 million years old. It is 26 km long, of which 8 km is in Slovakia, known under the name of Domica. It is situated in Aggtelek National Park (Hungarian: Aggteleki Nemzeti Park) in Northern Hungary. It was founded in 1985. It contains 198.92 km². It has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 1995.
II- THE BARADLA CAVE- Which is the longest in Hungary and about 240 kilometres from Budapest, and it used to be the longest known and surveyed cave system of the world for a long time, until the early decades of the 20th century. Its activity, its length, and its stalactites and stalagmites make it the most prominent cave in the temperate zone. The first major construction project was carried out in 1806, when Palatine Joseph visited the cave. The number of visitors increased due to the photographs and picture postcards issued from the end of the last century on. The cave was managed by the Magyar Kárpát Egyesület (Hungarian Carpathian Society) at this time. Further attempts to enhance tourism were initiated in the 1920s. The Jósvafõ exit, and the inside bridges were completed. These are still used. The most impressive change happened when the electric system was built, and the visited sections were illuminated .Since 1985 the Directorate of the Aggtelek National Park has been managing the Baradla Cave. It has three entrances: the natural entrance near Aggtelek and two artificial entrances are, one entrance is near Jósvafõ and the other one between Aggtelek and Jósvafõ, near Vörös-tó (Red Lake). a-Aggtelek, short tour: Length=1,000m, Duration=60min.Aggtelek, b-long tour: Length=7,000m, Duration=5hour.Aggtelek, c-Radish Branch tour: L=9,000m, Duration=7hour. Several of the caves have different specialties. For example, the Peace Cave has a sanatorium which helps treating people suffering from asthma .The Aggtelek branch of the cave shows the Concert Hall. This huge chamber is used for concerts for many years. This part of the cave offers speleothems in extraordinary colours, blackish stalactites protruding from a red and green coloured ceiling. The Jósvafõ branch has the Giant's Hall. This chamber is used for a musical experience during the tour. The tour is impressive, but following stream passages, climbing through dolly tubs, is strenuous and includes getting wet. This tour is possible after appointment, but it requires the physical ability and appropriate gear like wellingtons, caver's overall, helmet, water proof lamps, and gloves.
046-GRAND BOULEVARD-The Grand Boulevard (Nagykörút) is a giant circular road - the longest road in Budapest, with its length of 4.11Kms. and constant width of 45 meters. Running through five districts of the city, it bears five different names (Margit, Szt. István, Teréz, Erzsébet, and József), named after Habsburg Queens and kings, with the exception of Szt. István. Today, the most important tram line of Budapest (4/6) runs in the middle of the road on its entire length. Two of Budapest's deluxe hotels are located along the road, the Corinthia Royal and the Boscolo New York Palace, both on Erzsébet körút. Most shops on the Grand Boulevard are individual units, with small to mid-sized floor space, but in the neighborhood of the two luxury hotels, new vendors have opened shop, catering to the higher quality needs of tourists.