Description
The Pearl of the Danube, Budapest is a remarkable destination for any cruise adventure and one port of call you’re not going to forget. Capital city of Hungary, Budapest boasts a remarkable city centre steeped in history, unforgettable cultural experiences, and a unique cuisine – blending French, Germanic, Italian, and Slavic foods with its own original Magyar foods and flavours. While here, you’ll have the chance to marvel at some sensational classical architecture, with the Hungarian Parliament Building a particular highlight among the impressive landmarks littering this city, and visit a host of unique museums exploring this city’s – and this nation’s – history. Budapest also has a reputation as a city of spas, with thermal waters in the region making the historic public baths here an unmissable attraction; although, you’ll find plenty of places for sumptuous treatments beyond those. A breathtakingly beautiful, exciting city bisected by the Danube, Budapest is an adventure for every type of traveller and one destination you’ll want to return to, over and over again.
Read more
Read less
Things to do
Hungarian Parliament Building
Opened in 1902, and constructed in a dramatic neo-Gothic style somewhat resembling the Palace of Westminster in London, the Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest is one of this city’s most impressive and iconic landmarks. It’s over 300 ft tall at its highest point, and almost 900 ft long, making it one of the city’s largest buildings. With an incredible façade facing the Danube River, this four-floor building houses 691 rooms and acts as the seat for the National Assembly of Hungary.
St. Stephen’s Basilica
Named in honour of Stephen I, the first King of Hungary, St. Stephen’s Basilica is an impressive 19th century cathedral constructed in a neo-classical architectural style. The nation’s third-largest church, this structure interestingly houses King Saint Stephen’s mummified right hand in a reliquary, signifying its importance as a national relic and symbol of faith. Throughout the Second World War, the site was significantly damaged, but the cellar provided an important shelter for refugees and the Hungarian National Archives.
Aquincum Museum
The Aquincum Museum in Budapest is an archaeological museum housing the findings and remains of Aquincum, an ancient Roman city founded circa 47 AD. Opened in 1894, this site tells the unique story of Budapest’s origins and early history, while also offering visitors an insight into life around 2,000 years ago. While here, you’ll also be able to explore the ruins of Aquincum’s Mithraeum – a former temple to the Roman god Mithras.