Budapest

Budapest is prepared for tourists with sightseeing tours, attractions and restaurants that only give visitors a little slice of Budapest life. As a local, I think several things can be done the ‘local way’ with just a little bit of know-how. So in this post, I’ll talk about my favourite places as a local, attractions you shouldn’t miss even if they’re a bit too ‘touristy’ and mistakes you should avoid.

When getting around the city, it’s probably easier to just get an all-day hop on hop off bus ticket and listen to the soulless audio commentary. Still, there are a few public transport routes in Budapest that will let you not just explore Budapest but also take you back in time. 

Metro Line 1 – the oldest subway line in mainland Europe opened in 1896 with Austrian Emperor and King of Hungary Franz Joseph I being one of the first passengers. It is known as the tourist line, but it’s something you shouldn’t miss. Travelling on Metro line 1 feels like you’re in a different century. This line will also take you to the most well-known parts of Budapest. It starts its journey at Vörösmarty Square, travels up the UNESCO-listed Andrássy Avenue, past the Opera House to Hero’s Square and City Park where you can disembark right outside Széchenyi Baths one of the most famous thermal baths in Budapest.

In the castle district, my favourite building is the Matthias Church in front of the Fisherman’s Bastion.  Built-in the 14th century this building has a colourful hand-painted porcelain tile roof which gives away the fact that this church doesn’t follow the usual Gothic church style. Entering inside the church, you will experience one of the most astonishing combinations of warm lights, shadows and colours. Golden frescos are reaching from floor to ceiling, beautiful stained glass windows, far-reaching arches. It’s breathtaking… It’s a must-see. 

Food. Who doesn’t love food and trying new dishes?! As a tourist, it’s easy to fall for a ‘tourist menu’ for lunch after a long day exploring the city. You’ll see plenty of these advertised on and around the major tourist streets like Váci Street. While these ‘tourist menus’ are secure options, I would encourage everyone to seek more local options instead. ‘Daily menus’ are what city workers love and live on – it’s usually a soup, and a main course served hot and fresh in canteen-style. 

If you’re visiting, there are two things you must try. Lángos (fried flatbread) and Kürtőskalács (chimney cake).  Lángos is Budapest’s kebab, while Kürtőskalács is a sweet treat. If you fancy trying Hungary’s iconic Goulash soup try the Gulyás Tunkoló Büfé on Kazincy street. Other than the traditional Goulash soup, you’ll find various traditional stews on the menu, along with a selection of pickled vegetables. Get a slice of white bread to dip into the creamy paprika sauce to enjoy the traditional meal. 

Markets/market halls are popular among tourists to find souvenirs and fresh produce. The Great Market Hall is big and bold, but it’s definitely not the only market hall in Budapest. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to seek a more local experience and visit Hunyadi Square Market.

Ruin pubs are incredibly famous in Budapest with Szimpla Kert being the most well known. It’s a really cool place but sometimes way too busy for a decent night out. Check out Kisüzem that has live music or Fekete Kutya, a place with unique brews and a lively atmosphere.

I’ve visited many countries and cities, but Budapest remains my favourite. The city is vibrant, and there’s always something new to see or try. If you want to get a feel of how vibrant and alive the city is, walk across Margaret Bride at night, pause mid-bridge and enjoy the views.