Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is the pearl of the Danube and one of the most spectacular metropolises in Eastern Europe. The city is divided by the Danube River, with the hilly ‘Buda’ on one side, and the flat ‘Pest’ on the other. Continue reading for my recommendations for the 15 top things to see and do in this majestic city…

1) Watch the sunrise from Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion looks like Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle and is unquestionably my favourite spot in the city!

It is a fairytale structure in the heart of the Buda side of the city, offering gorgeous views over the Danube, Budapest and beyond. Fisherman’s Bastion was designed in 1905 in a neighbourhood once known as Fisherman’s Town, where there was a fish market during medieval times. The Guild of Fishermen once defended the city from this enchanting spot. It has since become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chasing the sunrise is one of the best things to do whilst in Budapest. For a unique and memorable experience, and to make a 04.30 venture worth it, this is definitely the spot to be…

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2) Cruise along the Danube River

Many of Budapest’s famous landmarks line the Danube River, so taking a cruise along one of Europe’s most enchanting rivers should definitely be high-up your itinerary. You can choose between a day or night panoramic sightseeing cruise, giving you the chance to sail past the city’s breathtaking historical architecture, sights, islands, and bridges, in style.

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3) Admire the magnificent Hungarian Parliament building

Budapest’s iconic neo-gothic Parliament building is the city’s main landmark and dominates the curve of the Danube River. It houses royal jewels, including the Holy Crown, which you can see by booking a tour in advance.

For the perfect Instagrammable shots, admire the building from the opposite side of the river. I would recommend visiting during the day and also at night, when the building is illuminated in majestic golden lights…

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4) Stroll along the Danube promenade

The Danube promenade stretches from the Elizabeth Bridge to the Chain Bridge, and is a great walk to take in many of the main sights of Budapest by foot. Looking towards the Buda side of the river, you will be able to see the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Liberty Statue on Gellert Hill. On the Pest side, you will be in very close proximity to the Hungarian Parliament Building, providing the perfect opportunity for those close-up shots!

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5) Visit the Shoes on the Danube bank memorial

The Shoes on the Danube bank memorial is a solemn reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II, where people were told to take their shoes off before being horribly killed and thrown into the river. 60 pairs of iron shoes are lined up across the Danube promenade to form the memorial – it is a really simple, yet poignant and touching memorial.

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6) Climb to the top of St.Stephen’s Basilica

St.Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest and one of the most important religious buildings in Hungary, dominating the city’s skyline at 96m high. Inside St.Stephen’s Basilica, admire the gorgeous Hungarian Art and design that adorns the walls. For some of the best views in the city, climb 364 steps or take a lift to the panoramic viewpoint.

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7) Ride on the Zugliget Chairlift

Venture out of the city centre to the Buda Hills, by riding on the Zugliget Chairlift. This is by far the most exciting way I have ever been transported up a mountain, gliding through the trees, whilst providing impressive views of the Buda surroundings. The Zugliget Chairlift takes you calmly up János Hill in 15 minutes.

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8) Admire Budapest from the Elizabeth Lookout Tower

Once you have reached the top of János Hill and after a 15 minute hike, you will be greeted to the Elizabeth Lookout Tower. From the base, a 100-step spiral staircase will take you 23.5m high, to the top of the tower. The trek to get here is definitely worth it and I cannot recommend it enough – from this vantage point, you can see across the country and the Great Hungarian Plain, with views stretching as far as 80km. Even the Tatra Mountains in Slovakia are in sight!

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9) Ride on the historic Tram 2

National Geographic has declared Budapest’s historic Tram 2 as one of the top 10 tram rides in the world, and it has been frequently cited as one of the most panoramic tram journeys the world has to offer. Hop on the tram which follows the path of the Danube River and past the city’s famous landmarks including the Chain Bridge and Parliament Building.

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10) Take a dip in a thermal bath

Budapest is located within a patchwork of thermal springs, which are known to have impressive calming and healing powers. The world-famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest spa complex in Europe. Its water is supplied by two thermal springs, with their temperature ranging between 74 °C and 77 °C. The amazing architecture also makes this a must-visit spot when in the city.

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11) Visit McDonald’s Nyugati

McDonald’s Nyugati is famously known as being one of the most elegant McDonald’s in the world, thanks to its mesmerising architecture and historic charm. It is one of the oldest branches, located in a former railway station serving domestic and international trains.

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12) Roam around Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square is one of the country’s most famous squares, with Millenary Monument at the centre, and the Tomb of the Unknown Solider at the base. The square also marks the end of Andrássy Avenue and has a backdrop of City Park behind.

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13) Visit Buda Castle and the Hungarian National Gallery

The hilly Buda side of the capital is dominated by the stunning Buda Castle, also known as the Royal Palace, which you will be able to see from almost any point in the city. It houses the Hungarian National Gallery, which encompasses a grand collection of Hungarian art from the 11th century to the present day. The largest collections include medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wooden sculptures and panel paintings.

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14) Visit the Budapest Castle Museum

The Castle Museum is located next to Buda Castle. It explores the city’s 2000-year history. From entering restored palace rooms dating back to the 15th century, to exploring an exhibition showcasing Budapest during the Middle Ages, you will be immersed in the history of Hungary’s capital.

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15) Ride on the Budapest Eye

The Budapest Eye, otherwise known as the Ferris Wheel of Budapest, is one of Hungary’s newest attractions. It is located on Erzsébet Square, in the heart of the city centre, offering panoramic views from 65m high.