Tag Archive for: budapest

12 Ideas for Souvenirs from Budapest

If you’re on a mission to bring back the coolest mementos from Budapest, you’ve hit the jackpot! Budapest is a treasure trove of quirky gifts that will have your friends saying, ‘Where on earth did you find that?’ All we love full-heartedly is eating and drinking, so most of the souvenirs from Budapest going to be consumable, but we have some great little inventions you wouldn’t even think that it comes from Hungary! So let’s get to it: 

 

1) Palinka: Liquid Courage, Hungarian Style: Need a boost of confidence? Take a sip of Palinka and conquer the world (or at least your next karaoke performance).

2) Paprika with an Attitude: Budapest’s paprika isn’t your average spice; it’s a spice with personality. Your bland dishes will thank you. The best source for the local paprika powder is the Great Market Hall.

3)Embroidered Towels: Now with Bonus Cabbage Design: Because nothing says ‘I had a blast in Budapest’ like drying off with a towel adorned with cabbage embroidery. It’s the vegetable chic everyone’s talking about.

4) Unicum: The Elixir of Instant Wisdom: Forget wisdom teeth; get instant wisdom with a shot of Unicum. It’s like a PhD in a bottle, minus the student loans.

5) Hungarian Playing Cards: Because Regular Cards are Boring: Add a touch of Hungarian flair to your card games. Warning: opponents may be distracted by the sheer awesomeness of your deck.

6) Spicy Sausage: Make Your Taste Buds Dance: This sausage is so spicy; it makes salsa look like mild ketchup. Challenge accepted!

7) Tokaji Wine:  The Grape Escape: Forget your standard grape juice; Tokaji Wine is the grape escape your taste buds have been dreaming of.

8) Hungarian Pottery and Porcelain: Breakable Art You Didn’t Know You Needed: Sure, it’s delicate, but so are dreams. Embrace the fragility with some beautiful Hungarian pottery.

9) Rubik’s Cube:  The OG Brain Teaser Because nothing says ‘I can solve complex problems’ like carrying around a Rubik’s Cube. Impress your friends and leave them in a colorful twist.

10) Bejgli: The Hungarian Roll of Delight: It’s not just a pastry; it’s a delicious cultural experience. Warning: may cause addiction.

11) Hungarian Dolls: Not Just for Kids: These dolls are so charming; that even adults will want to play pretend. Go ahead, have a doll tea party; we won’t judge.

12) Goulash Paste: because nothing says ‘I had a blast in Budapest’ like souvenirs that spice up both your trip memories and your kitchen adventures!

Seize the day in Budapest with our daily free guided tours! Discover the top spots for souvenir shopping, master the art of bargaining, and unlock a wealth of insider tips – all on us! Grab your wallet and get ready for a shopping spree that’ll have your suitcase begging for mercy. Budapest, you’ve outdone yourself in the souvenir department!” 

The Ultimate Neighborhood Guide to Budapest: The District XI.

The Buda side is generally known to be the more local side of the Danube. It’s less preferred by visitors, but exactly that is why the sights and hidden gems can be very pleasant surprises. If you want to hang out with some local students, artists, and intellectuals or you enjoy artist coffeehouses and nature Újbuda might be the perfect place for you to discover. In our neighborhood guide to Budapest, we discover the XI. district or so-called Újbuda. It is one of the 23 districts of Budapest, Hungary, and Kelenföld is a neighborhood located within this district. Újbuda, which translates to “New Buda” in English, is situated on the Buda side of the city. 

 

Why is worth visiting Újbuda?

 

Transportation Hub

 Újbuda, particularly the Kelenföld area, serves as a transportation hub in Budapest. Trams (47, 49, 18, 19, 41), buses (7), and the metro (M4)  pass through this neighborhood, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Local Life

Walking along Bartók Béla út offers a glimpse into the everyday life of Budapest. You can observe people going about their daily routines, providing an authentic experience of the city’s atmosphere. It is a pretty nice neighborhood to live or stay. It was just selected in the top 5 districts to live in Europe by TimeOut Magazine.

Gellért Hill

 A popular destination for hikers and picnickers, Gellért Hill is just a 15-minute uphill walk from the Liberty Bridge area. It offers panoramic views of Budapest and features attractions like the Cave Church (Sziklakápolna), a unique church built into the natural caves of the hill.

Bartók Béla Street

 Bartók Béla út has a lively and eclectic vibe with a mix of modernity and history. Along the street, you’ll discover numerous art galleries, adding to its artistic charm.

Feneketlen Tó

 The “Feneketlen” lake, despite its name, is not bottomless. While swimming is not allowed, you can enjoy picnicking, leisurely strolls around the lake, or simply relax on benches while taking in the scenic surroundings. It’s a popular spot for families and couples.

Allee Shopping Mall

Opened in 2009, Allee Shopping Mall boasts 150 outlets, 19 restaurants, and a 13-screen multiplex cinema. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Fehérvári úti Piac – Local Food Market

 This market features a variety of food vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, and other culinary delights. It’s an ideal place to find high-quality ingredients and grab a quick meal.

Saturday Organic Market

 Located next to Bikas Park Metro stop, this market showcases delicious meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and other organic products. It’s a must-visit for those interested in fresh, local goods.

Local Eateries

 Among the panel high-rises in the area, you’ll find local delicatessens and eateries. “4 Muskétás” is a favorite operating since 1994, known for its meat-heavy menu and the Musketeer Menu and Muskeeter Platter options.

 

Enjoy your exploration of this vibrant neighborhood in Budapest! 

Remember,  visiting the outer neighborhoods of Budapest, rather than just staying in the city center, can provide a more well-rounded and authentic experience of the city. 

Ask your Free Budapest Tour guides for further activities. 

Everything to Know about the Holidays in Budapest: Exploring the City on 20th of August

 

Welcome back, fellow travelers and adventure enthusiasts.-) This time I share with you all the important information about one of our most important holidays in Budapest, the birthday of Hungary, the 20th of August. 

As August unfolds, we find ourselves on the brink of a captivating celebration in Hungary’s vibrant capital – Budapest. On August 20th, Hungary commemorates its national holiday, a day that not only honors the foundation of the state but also showcases the city’s rich culture, heritage, and artistic flair. 

Let’s start with our own important note: This holiday is so important that even the Trip to Budapest crew takes a half day off, which means it is definitely worth joining our FREE BUDAPEST TOUR, starting at 10.30 am, because we won’t have any afternoon tours that day

Why is this date one of the most important Holidays in Budapest?

August 20th: A Day of Splendor and Heritage Marked as St. Stephen’s Day, August 20th is a public holiday in Hungary that pays homage to the founding of the state by King Stephen I. As you step onto the bustling streets of Budapest, you’ll be enveloped in an air of anticipation, as locals and visitors alike come together to revel in the festivities. The city takes on an enchanting aura, with grand parades, concerts, and breathtaking fireworks illuminating the night sky. 

The fireworks are an integral part of the celebrations during Hungary’s national holiday.

The display typically takes place over the Danube River, providing a stunning backdrop of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Parliament building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. The fireworks light up the night sky with an array of vibrant colors, patterns, and designs, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle that leaves spectators in awe.

 

Exploring the Opening Hours 

Must-Visit Sites While the city comes alive with the celebrations, planning your day around the adjusted opening hours is essential. Here’s a glimpse of the opening hours for some of Budapest’s renowned attractions on August 20th:

  • Hungarian National Gallery in Buda Castle: A timeless symbol of Budapest’s history, the Buda Castle complex offers stunning panoramic views of the city. On August 20th, the castle’s museums and exhibitions are open. Free entrance all day: 10 am-5.30 pm.
  • Fisherman’s Bastion: This architectural masterpiece offers a fairy-tale-like atmosphere with its turrets and neo-Gothic details. Enjoy panoramic views of the Danube River and the Parliament Building. Free entrance all day.
  • Hungarian Parliament Building: A true marvel of architecture, the Parliament Building stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Its sheer grandeur is a sight to behold, especially during the holiday when the area is adorned with colorful decorations. Free entrance all day: 10 am-6 pm.
  • Thermal Baths: Budapest’s thermal baths are the epitome of relaxation. The Széchenyi, Gellért, Lukács, and Rudas Thermal baths will all be open as normal.
  • Museum of Fine Arts on Heroes’ Square: A significant historic and cultural site, Heroes’ Square stands as a tribute to Hungary’s leaders. The square and its nearby attractions might have slightly modified hours to accommodate the celebrations. Free Entry to this museum all day: 10 am-5.30 pm

August 20th in Budapest is more than just a bank holiday; it’s a celebration of heritage, culture, and unity. As you traverse the streets of this captivating city, take in the joyous ambiance, vibrant parades, and spectacular fireworks that adorn the sky. Remember to plan your visits to Budapest’s landmarks by checking their adjusted opening hours, ensuring you make the most of this splendid day.

 

Join our free tour at 10.30 am as we embark on a journey through the heart of Budapest’s August 20th festivities, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. We anticipate larger-than-usual crowds for the national holiday fireworks and afternoon festivals, so prepare yourself for a very exciting but also very busy afternoon and evening. For further program recommendations and schedules check out the government’s website dedicated to this day

Renovation of Metro 3 finished

Renovation of Metro line 3  is finished!

It has been quite a long time, the renovation of metro line 3 (or blue line) started almost 6 years ago. But You know the saying, good things come to those who wait! :)) From the 22nd of March 2023 the whole line is in operation after the renovation project. Budapesters and travelers can now travel without having to use replacement buses, which is a big ease finally.

Metro lines of Budapest

Let us, the Free Budapest Walking Tours Team / Triptobudapest.hu Team share a quick history of the metro lines of the Hungarian capital.

  • in 1896 Hungary celebrated the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarian tribes land taking in Europe (which happened in 896 AD). There were a lot of constructions in Budapest for the celebrations, they build the Heroes’ square, the Fishermen’s Bastion, and the Metro line 1 (yellow line) as well, which makes it the first metro line of continental Europe and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is definitely worth a ride!
  • Metro line 2 (red line) was built after World War 2. The construction started in 1950 and finished in 1972.
  • Metro line 3 (blue line) is the longest and busiest. They started building it in 1970.
  • Metro line 4 (green line) they started planning it already in the 1970s, but started the construction only in the 2000s. Finally finished the first part of it in 2014.

That is it, only 4 metro lines are in Budapest, nothing difficult to figure out! Budapest is not a huge city, the city center is quite walkable, but if you are using public transport, it is worth to buy the 24 hour pass, which is about 6,5 euros (2500 Hungarian forint) and you can use buses, trams, metro, every vehicle with it.

We wish you an easy and happy travel and nice free tours with our company in the Hungarian capital city!