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Budapest Information
History & Geography
Hungary's capital straddles a gentle curve in the Danube. It's the administrative as
well as the business and cultural centre of Hungary, and virtually everything that happens
in the country starts, finishes or is taking place here. But the beauty of Budapest is
what really makes it stand apart. Its broad avenues, leafy parks and harmonious blend of
architectural styles has earned it the nickname the `Paris of Eastern Europe'. Budapest
also has a turn-of-the-century feel to it, for it was then - during the industrial boom
and the capital's heyday - that most of the city was built. The city is well laid-out,
rarely confusing, and ideal for walking.
Climate
Though it can be pretty wet in May, spring is just glorious
in Hungary. Typical May temperatures are 12–23ºC (53–73ºF).
Sightseeing & Entertainment
The walled Castle District is the premier destination for visitors, and contains some
of Budapest's most important monuments and museums. It consists of two distinct parts: the
Old Town, where commoners lived during medieval times; and the Royal Palace,
the original site of a castle built in the 13th century, that houses a number of museums,
including the National Gallery, which has an enormous collection devoted exclusively to
Hungarian art. The oldest and one of the most interesting parts of the city is Óbuda.
The area is remarkable for its Roman ruins, and its small, quiet neighborhoods which seem
unchanged since the turn of the century. It also has its fair share of museums, including
the Kiscelli Museum, which features an impressive art collection and rooms
furnished with Empire, Biedermeier and Art-Nouveau furniture. North of Óbuda is the Roman
civilian town of Aquincum, the most complete in Hungary. Established at the end of
the 1st century, it was among the most developed towns on the continent with sumptuous
single-storey houses, fountains and courtyards. Budapest's other highlights include a
cruise along the Danube, strolling along the riverfront or across romantic bridges,
browsing through antique bookshops and jewellery stores, or `taking the waters' at one of
the city's many spas.
Food & Wine
Hungary is known for its inimitable Goulash soup. And rightfully so. How-ever, there
are countless other delectables from the Hungarian kitchen that will tempt even the most
discerning taste buds. Venison with Forest Berries, Paprika Chicken and variations of the
Balatoni fogas - pike-perch from Lake Balaton - are just a few. And don’t forget the
sumptuous Dobostorta, a mocha and caramel cake, for dessert. Tokaji is undoubtedly the
most splendid drink of Hungary. Named after the village in the country’s north, Tokaj
wines, particularly the sweet Aszú, are perfection.
Other Information
Everyone entering Hungary must have a valid passport and in some cases also a visa.
Citizens of the USA, Canada, most European countries and South Africa do not require
visas. Central European Time, from March to the end of October daylight savings time
GMT+2h. Hungary’s currency is the ‘forint’, Exchange Rate : 1
USD = 260.83 HUF.
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