Being lucky enough to spend my 18th birthday in this wonderful city whilst interrailing, it is safe to say that I made the most of my time here. Budapest remains my favourite place on the route that I took around Europe; there is so much to do whether you are travelling alone, with friends, as a couple or as a group. The possibilities and surprises are endless in this city.
Morning
Depending on where you are, a walk through the city is the most refreshing way to start your day. Although Budapest may be filled to the brim with gardens, parks and stunning nature spots such as City Park, Margaret Island and the Buda Hills, it also offers hundreds of shops! After all, it is nevertoo early to start shopping
Walking tours are offered in the city centre at 11am and 2pm, but most hostels also offer tours for free. Just donÔÇÖt forget to tip your tour guide, as they do not get paid and they volunteer to show you around.
After this, treat yourself to one of BudapestÔÇÖs many delicacies: a chimney cake. Shaped like a chimney, this pastry is rolled in sugar and filled with either chocolate or vanilla cream. TheyÔÇÖre sold at a lot of stalls around the city and you shouldnÔÇÖt leave without trying one.
Afternoon
My favourite part of Budapest was going to the famous Szechnenyi bath house. It costs around 5,400 HUF (┬ú15) for day entry, but if youÔÇÖre in a big group then there is usually a discount offered which is great for if youÔÇÖre travelling with friends or family.
There are 7 types of bath in Budapest, ranging from spa-like pools to ancient and archaic pools ÔÇô it depends entirely on the kind of vibe you are looking for. We chose the Szechenyi pool as it was popular with our age group; they put on club nights and lots of events but you also get a taste of its history and beautiful architecture. If thermal baths arenÔÇÖt for you, then just down the road you will find City Park where you can have a coffee in a caf├® or relax in the gardens.
After all that swimming you may fancy a bite to eat. About a 20 minute walk away is the Great Market Hall where you can taste and learn about BudapestÔÇÖs dishes. If you donÔÇÖt fancy the walk then take advantage of the amazing tram system in Budapest with a pack of 10 tickets costing only ┬ú8! Some of BudapestÔÇÖs best dishes include goulash (meat stew), chicken paprikash (chicken, paprika and sour cream) and stuffed cabbage. I would completely recommend trying some longos, a fried dough with cheese and toppings ranging from sausage, Greek yoghurt and other types of meat. BudapestÔÇÖs famous beer, Soproni, will undoubtedly be needed to quench your thirst after this busy day.
Evening
Finish and celebrate your time in Budapest with going to the renowned Ruin Bars. Ruin Bars are situated in the Jewish quarter of Budapest and are converted from abandoned shops and buildings. Budapest bursts with so many ruin bars, but the Szimpla ruin bar definitely made the end of our time in this wonderful city the best it could be. The interior is decorated with hanging plants, art, fairy lights, wooden benches and long tables, ideal for socialising. It will definitely be a night to remember (or not!)
Words by Molly Govus