If you want to spend an enjoyable weekend by the Danube, head to Budapest for a memorable city break. Well connected by budgets flights, plus pan-European road and rail networks, Budapest city breaks offer a fascinating experience for couples, groups of friends and families.
Comprising three Hungarian cities that were unified in 1873 - Buda, Pest and Obuda - Budapest is perhaps most famous for its 118 thermal springs. The ruins of huge baths built by the Romans are still a big feature of the city. Some of the baths built later during the Turkish period of 1541-1686 are still used.
And, once you've rejuvenated yourself in the medicinal baths, why not take a sightseeing tour of the city to witness its heritage presented in both modern and ancient architecture? Unesco has recognized the embankment area of the Danube, Castle District and the Andr-ssy-t area as World Heritage Sites, and they are an unmissable part of your city break. During your tour you will also love the Fisherman's Bastion that gives a panoramic view of the entire city, while Pest also maintains continental Europe's oldest underground railway station.
Budapest is a museum lovers delight. More than 20 museums jostle for attention in this Jewish city. The Aquincum Museum includes murals, mosaic floors and even a re-constructed water organ dating back 2,000 years to the Roman period. The Budapest History Museum maintains an extensive archaeological collection including weaponry and Gothic statues, while the Military History Museum showcases uniforms, coins and flags from the period before the Turkish wars to World War II. The Museum of Applied Arts, Kisceli Museum (housed in a monastery), the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Transport Museum, also cannot be missed. The Hungarian National Gallery and National Museum are fascinating too.
One of the best ways to explore Budapest is by tram, and a great day out is to visit Buda Castle. This Royal Castle is a Unesco Heritage site and has stood witness to several battles dating back to the 13th Century. This popular tourist attraction also includes the Sz-chenyi Library, which is well worth including in your itinerary.
