Budapest

The roots of what is now Budapest can be traced back to the Roman age, while the districts that comprise the modern city were united from three settlements (Buda, Old Buda and Pest) in 1873. The two halves of the Hungarian capital are now generally called Buda and Pest and are characteristically separated by the Danube flowing between them.

This is a working river; it plays a significant role in allowing visitors to appreciate the city’s beauty on a boat ride through the middle. It is also essential in commerce. The two sides have very different characteristics, showing the marks history left on them. Buda is commonly considered the more upmarket region; it boasts the wealthiest areas, with the homes of the rich often found among its lavish hillside residences. Buda will be your likely destination if you’re after some hiking, forest exploration, or even thinking of indulging your passion for paragliding. This side of the river is also home to the Castle District and within it, among many other treasures, the Széchenyi Library, which essentially functions as the country’s national archives, and the National Gallery, displaying some of the masterpieces of the most significant Hungarian artists. The Pest side is considered the flatter, more urban part of the capital; it is accordingly more densely populated and is more vibrant in terms of its nightlife. This side of the river is the location for some of Budapest’s best hotels, offering a view of the magnificent cityscape, spa services, and great brunch options.