Budapest is the capital of Hungary. As the largest city of Hungary, It is the country's principal political, cultural, commercial, industrial, and transportation centre.
The name "Budapest" is a composite of the city names "Buda" and "Pest" since
they were united (together with Óbuda) to become a single city in 1873.
Budapest is rich in UNESCO World Heritage sites: the view of the Danube embankments, the Buda Castle District, Andrássy Avenue with Heroes’ Square and the Millennium Underground Railway are now internationally protected areas of the Hungarian capital.
Budapest is bisected by the River Danube. The city is
as much a natural geographical centre as it is the country’s transport hub. Budapest possesses a rich and fascinating history, as well as a vibrant cultural heritage. Recognizing the unique value of its traditions, it has managed to maintain its magic and charm, and is known as the "Queen of the Danube". It has also been called the "City of Spas", as there are a dozen thermal baths complexes served by over a hundred natural thermal springs.
The unique and beautiful baths were originally brought by the Turks around 1550 due to the many sources for natural water in the region. Many of them are very old and are not only relaxing and fun but also architectural attractions themsleves. The Szechenyi bath or the Gellert bath are often used as backdrops for tourist pictures and are famous spots to visit. Not only do these spas appeal to the retired population, but also to the young who seek for a social hub to relax and to party in the evenings along some elctronic music. There is really a little bit for everyone in these exquisite locations, who also feature extended services such as massages, face treatmnets, hair dressers and even dental services.
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Sites to see in Budapest
Budapest Cultural Avenue - An early form of the "Museum Mile" concept, popular in some U.S. cities, had been brought to life in Budapest. A massive, simultaneous construction boom allowed architects and decision makers to concentrate their efforts between 1860 and 1910. The acronym "Cultural Avenue" is used rather than Museum Mile because the cultural attractions that belong to it aren't all located within the same street or quarter, but rather are along a vertical axis comprising the Buda Castle District, Andrássy Avenue and the City Park.
Budapest City Park (városliget) - The City Park (Városliget in Hungarian) is packed with things to do and places to see. The park was the main venue of the millennium celebrations in 1896.
World heritage sites of Budapest - Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, its World Heritage Sites include the banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, Andrássy Avenue, and the Millennium Underground railway, the first on the European continent.
The Parliament and its treasures - Built between 1885 and 1904, the Parliament building soon became the symbol of the Hungarian capital. Not just because it’s sheer size – nearly 18000 square meters – but also because of its detailed decoration, inside splendor and eclectic diversity.
St Stephen's Basilica - Saint Stephen's Basilica is the largest Roman Catholic Church in Budapest. It has the second highest ecclesiastical status in Hungary.
The Castle District - With its narrow streets and old citizen houses the Castle district of Budapest reflects a medieval atmosphere. The Royal Palace houses different museums and exhibitions. Allow yourself time to walk around.
Szechenyi Bath - The Szechenyi Bath is probably the most famous among the baths in Budapest due to its stunning architecture and the location in the city park (see pictures below).
Gellert Bath - Gellert Bath is located in the famous Gellert hotel at the bottom of Gellert hill. It is one of the most photographed sights in Budapest and the bath is really good (last picture below).
Király Bath - The Király bath is one of the oldest baths in Budapest, its construction started in 1565 and the architecture is a masterpiece of the Turks.

Photos courtesy of: Hungarian National Tourist Office Photo Archives
