Exploring Budapest

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Budapest was once two cities (Buda and Pest) on opposite sides of the Danube River.  In 1873 a bridge was finally built that joined the two cities together forming Budapest.  Even though the cities are now joined into one they still have their distinct personalities.  The Buda side is hilly, has more parks, is quieter and more expensive.  The Pest side is mostly flat, has a vibrant night life, lots of places to shop, and less expensive.  It doesn’t matter which side of the river you are on, it is all so beautiful!

 

Budapest was caught behind the Iron Curtain at the end of WWII.  During that time the Soviet regime built its normal statues celebrating the communistic way of life.  The people of Budapest did not have much love for these statues so when Hungary regained its independence from the Soviet Union, they rounded up all of the statues around Budapest and located them in a park far outside the city.  All but one statue was thus relocated.  The one that remains, ironically named The Liberty Statue, was actually started before the war and was intended to be a tribute to fallen pilots.  The Soviets finished the statue as something quite different – a solute to Communism and the “liberation” of Hungary.  The statue has become such an integral part of the Budapest skyline that they did not have the heart to remove it.  They do however refer to it as the world’s largest beer opener.  At least they have a sense of humor about the situation.

 

It’s hard to describe the beauty of this city.  The Parliament building is probably the most recognizable building.  Located on the banks of the Danube River it is one of the first sights you see as you round a bend in the Danube River entering the city from the north.  The Parliament building’s architect adorned it with 365 spires in all (both large and small together) indicating that the people needed to be served 365 days a year.  I didn’t take the time to actually count them all because it is so beautiful who cares if it truly has that many spires. 

 

If at all possible you should take the time to go to the top of Gellert Hill where the Liberty Statue is located at night.  The city is laid out below in beautiful lights.  You can see the many bridges that now unite the city.  The Parliament Building dominates the view along with the former Palace and the Cathedral complex.  Truly a sight to see.  Once up there you can still see some of the damage from WWII (bullet marks in the stone is easily seen).  If you are up for the challenge, you can take the stair down! 

 

A trip to Budapest should be on your bucket list.  If it isn't already, you need to add it soon.  When you are ready to visit stunning Budapest, contact us, your River Cruise Specialists and Budapest experts.  We can make your travel dreams come true.  If you would like to learn more about our experience on a river cruise on the Danube River with Avalon Waterways River Cruise, click here.  If you would like to see some of our favorite photos from Budapest, click here.