Budapest, the dazzling capital and Hungary’s pièce de résistance, gracefully sprawls along the mighty Danube River. Picture this: a city divided by the Danube, with Buda perched high on terraces and hills, playing the refined older sibling, while Pest flaunts its considerable expanse on a flat and featureless sand plain. It’s a tale of two sides, each with its own personality, but together they form the irresistible charm that is Budapest, but what does all of this mean in modern times? Let’s see what to expect when you travel to Budapest in 2024:

 

Population:

Budapest is a bustling metropolis, home to approximately 1.774 million people. Magyars, or Hungarians, dominate the demographic landscape as the largest ethnic group.

 

Language:

Hungarian, or Magyar, takes center stage as the official language, adding a touch of linguistic flair to the city. Fun fact: Hungarian belongs to the Finno-Ugrian group of the Uralic language family, a linguistic sibling to Finnish and Estonian. Don’t be surprised by the 44 letters in their alphabet – it’s a linguistic rollercoaster!

Regarding foreign languages, German and English share the spotlight, spoken by 13% of Budapest’s residents. So, brush up on your greetings and pleasantries in multiple tongues!

 

Currency:

Hold onto your Forints! Budapest’s official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF), and while Euros, Dollars, or Sterling might occasionally be accepted, the exchange rate might not be your best friend. Credit cards are like VIP passes, but not every joint rolls out the red carpet. 

Pro tip: Exchange your money wisely, and avoid the Orange ‘InterChange’ spots – they’re like the distant relatives at a family reunion.

 

Cuisine:

Hungarian cuisine, a culinary symphony influenced by Central European flavors, beckons food enthusiasts. Imagine the siren call of Goulash, a hearty concoction of tender beef, onions, paprika, and spice – Hungary’s culinary rockstar. Paprika, the spice MVP, plays a crucial role in many dishes, including the thick and flavorful Pörkölt.

Stir your taste buds with the spicy Fisherman’s Soup (Halászlé) enjoyed by the Danube, or dive into the comfort of Túrós Csusza, a pasta dish with a cottage cheese-based sauce. Street food takes the spotlight with the mouthwatering Lángos – deep-fried flatbread with toppings that make it a dance of flavors.

 

Getting Around:

Budapest is a strollable city, but the public transport system is a well-orchestrated ballet for those who prefer a grand entrance. The metro, boasting the title of Europe’s second-oldest after London, connects you to all the hotspots. Trams, buses, and taxis are the reliable supporting cast members, always ready for their cue. For the eco-conscious adventurer, Mol Bubi, the public bike-sharing system, adds a touch of green to your exploration.

Remember the golden rule: Validate and guard your ticket! A single ticket costs 450 HUF, but if you’re rolling with a fab five, snag the “Budapest 24-hour group travel card” for 5000 HUF. Mind the name; imposter travel cards are lurking about.

 

So, What to Expect in Budapest?

• Breathtaking Architecture:
  • Immerse yourself in the grandeur of landmarks like the Parliament Building and Buda Castle, Budapest City Park.
  • Marvel at the city’s unique architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque and Art Nouveau.
• Relaxing Thermal Baths:
  • Dive into Budapest’s status as the “City of Spas,” with a nod to our favorite, Lukacs Thermal Baths. Experience clean changing rooms, outdoor pools, and rejuvenating indoor baths here!
• Cultural Scene:
  • Embark on a cultural journey with visits to the National Museum, Rock Hospital Museum, and House of Terror.
  • Let the acoustics of the State Opera House and Franz Liszt Academy of Music serenade you.
• Thriving Nightlife:
  • Navigate the lively nightlife, explore “ruin bars”, and enjoy free entry to most in District VII (the Jewish Quarter).
  • Dance the night away, Budapest-style!

 

Join our daily free Budapest tours to discover the history of Hungary, explore major landmarks, pick up basic Hungarian words and phrases, find authentic local eateries, learn how to bargain at markets, and much, much more.