Budapest, Hungary

Dominating the city skyline over the Danube, Castle Hill was settled in the 13th century. Despite 800 years of sieges, fires, earthquakes and more, this World Heritage Site remains stunningly beautiful, full of an eclectic blend of architectural

Dominating the city skyline over the Danube, Castle Hill was settled in the 13th century. Despite 800 years of sieges, fires, earthquakes and more, this World Heritage Site remains stunningly beautiful, full of an eclectic blend of architectural styles and important monuments.

Among the places of interest in the district is Trinity Square, home to the over 700-year-old Matthias Church. One of the most photographed sites in the city, the church is the final resting place of King Bela the 3rd and his wife. It also features an underground treasury where a replica of the Crown of St. Stephen is on display. Thanks to superb acoustics, the church also regularly hosts concerts and performances.

Castle Hill is also home to the Buda Castle Labyrinth, an underground, man-made maze formed from the hundreds of caves beneath Castle Hill. The public stretch features themed halls, such as the Labyrinth of Courage and the Labyrinth of Love.

Matthias Church is open to the public weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM, Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM and Sunday from 1 to 5 PM. Entrance fees, which includes a visit to the church, treasury and tour, is HUF 700 for adults.

The Buda Castle Labyrinth is open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Admission is HUF 2000 for adults. Group discounts are available.

The Fishermen's Bastion, or Halszbstya, is first and foremost a monument to the guild of fishermen who defended the city during the Middle Ages. The neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque terrace on the banks of the Danube was built between 1895 and 1902,

The Fishermen's Bastion, or Halszbstya, is first and foremost a monument to the guild of fishermen who defended the city during the Middle Ages. The neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque terrace on the banks of the Danube was built between 1895 and 1902, then subsequently restored in the late 1940s following World War II destruction.

Today, the historic Bastion features a viewing terrace, spiral staircases and several walking paths. Its recognizable turrets represent the seven Magyar tribe settlements that originally populated the city.

Guests can visit the Fishermen's Bastion to check out the enviable views of the city skyline and major Budapest attractions such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Chain Bridge. The Bastion is open 24 hours a day to explore, though there is a small fee of HUF 200 to reach the minarets peak.

A trip to Budapest would not be complete without a visit to the iconic Heroes' Square. Located at the end of the Andrssy Avenue in front of City Park, the square is dominated by the Millennium Memorial. Built to celebrate the country's 1000th

A trip to Budapest would not be complete without a visit to the iconic Heroes' Square. Located at the end of the Andrssy Avenue in front of City Park, the square is dominated by the Millennium Memorial. Built to celebrate the country's 1000th anniversary, the memorial is filled with statues of famous Hungarian historical and political figures. Flanking Heroes' Square are two popular Budapest attractions, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Art Gallery.

The Hungarian National Gallery is the largest public collection to document the rise and development of Hungarian fine arts. Its collections span periods and styles, from the Medieval and Renaissance Stone Carvings Collection to the collection of

The Hungarian National Gallery is the largest public collection to document the rise and development of Hungarian fine arts. Its collections span periods and styles, from the Medieval and Renaissance Stone Carvings Collection to the collection of 20th century art after 1945. Overall, it houses about 60,000 black-and-white negatives and roughly 1,000 slides. Temporary exhibitions, which range from The Legacy of King Matthias Late Renaissance Art to Female Nude Imagery in 19th Century Hungarian Art, add to the experience.

The Hungarian National Gallery is available for evening receptions. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Admission is HUF 900.

A self-described temple of science and arts, the Hungarian National Museum has spent over 200 years collecting artifacts and documents that focus on the history and geography of the country. Among its collections, the Coins Repository features over

A self-described temple of science and arts, the Hungarian National Museum has spent over 200 years collecting artifacts and documents that focus on the history and geography of the country. Among its collections, the Coins Repository features over 300,000 objects, including the private collection of Count Istvn Szchenyi. Its comprehensive historical repository includes everything from Medieval glassware to furniture that belonged to Queen Elisabeth. Also included are a number of whimsical collections, such as those for toys, music and smoking.

The Hungarian National Museum is rapidly becoming a top venue for private events in Budapest. Among its facility options, the second-floor Ceremonial Hall has room for up to 280 guests and offers excellent acoustics, while the beautiful second-floor Dome can accommodate up to 150 people.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Admission to the permanent exhibition is HUF 520 for students ages 6-26 and HUF 1040 for adults. Admission for children under 6 is free.

Immersing guests in the exciting world of minerals, plants, animals and people, the Hungarian Natural History Museum houses the largest natural history collections in the country. Permanent exhibitions span topic and history, ranging from a

Immersing guests in the exciting world of minerals, plants, animals and people, the Hungarian Natural History Museum houses the largest natural history collections in the country. Permanent exhibitions span topic and history, ranging from a re-creation of an African papyrus swamp to a 22-piece rock and mineral collection that features a piece of the Sihote-Alin iron meteorite. Also popular are the two-ton fine whale skeleton that hangs in the main entrance hall and museums millennial exhibition, The Beloved Spheres: The Treasures of the Carpathian Basin, which brings to life the natural world and fairytales of the region.

The Hungarian Natural History Museum is available for private events. It is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Admission fees are HUF 250 for children under 18 and HUF 350 for adults. Admission of children under 6 is free. Admission for temporary exhibitions varies.

The seat of the National Assembly of Hungary, the Hungarian Parliament Building holds a number of impressive titles: it is one of the oldest such buildings in Europe, the 2nd largest parliament in Europe, and the largest building in Hungary.

The seat of the National Assembly of Hungary, the Hungarian Parliament Building holds a number of impressive titles: it is one of the oldest such buildings in Europe, the 2nd largest parliament in Europe, and the largest building in Hungary. Conjuring images of London's Palace of Westminster, the Gothic Revival-style building features a central dome that reaches a height of 96 meters and a faade covered with statues of Hungarian rulers and famous military figures. Inside, its sixteen-sided central hall and grand staircase that spans nearly the entire width of the interior room are just an introduction to the opulent decor, furnishings and style that mark every corner of the building.

Groups must book tours in advance in the opening hours of Parliament's Tourism Department, which are Monday and Tuesday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM and Friday from 8 AM to 2 PM. Individuals do not require advance booking; guests can purchase tickets from the ticket office Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 6 PM, Saturday from 8 AM to 4 PM and Sunday from 8 AM to 2 PM. Tour times vary based on language.

European Union citizens can visit the Parliament Building free of charge. Ticket costs for foreign visitors are HUF 1320 for students and HUF 2640 for adults.

Aiming for comprehensive coverage, the National Szechenyi Library collects all works published in Hungary, by Hungarian authors, or in Hungarian. It currently holds about seven million objects, including over two million books, 200,000 maps and

Aiming for comprehensive coverage, the National Szechenyi Library collects all works published in Hungary, by Hungarian authors, or in Hungarian. It currently holds about seven million objects, including over two million books, 200,000 maps and 310,000 pictures and engravings. Highlights of the library's astounding offerings are the first book printed in Hungary, the Chronica Hungarorum, and the oldest existing text in Hungarian, the Funeral Oration, 32 Corvinas from the library of King Matthias.

The National Szechenyi Library is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 8 PM. Opening hours for special collections vary. Guided tours are available for individuals and groups by appointment.

For a truly unique night out, don't hit the town, hit the water. The A38 Ship, a former Ukrainian stone carrier vessel, began its new life in 2003 as one of Budapest's most unique venues and coolest clubs. Moored in the Danube, the ship has hosted

For a truly unique night out, don't hit the town, hit the water. The A38 Ship, a former Ukrainian stone carrier vessel, began its new life in 2003 as one of Budapest's most unique venues and coolest clubs. Moored in the Danube, the ship has hosted thousands of concerts from acts that range from the Vienna Art Orchestra to DJ Krush.

When not catching a performance, guests can also lounge at the roof terrace or dine in the on-site restaurant. Serving modern Hungarian fare, the restaurant menu sections include homemade spinach tortellini filled with ricotta; roasted duck breast in port wine sauce; and Argentinean chateaubriand with potatoes and roasted vegetables.

A38 can accommodate up to 600 people and seat up to 250 people. It features high-quality sound, lighting and video equipment, as well as a backstage area, dressing rooms and studio.

Performance schedules vary. The restaurant is open daily from 11 AM to midnight. Entrees range from HUF 890 to HUF 5600.

Sleek and sophisticated, Ba Bar is an ideal spot to enjoy casual conversation and creative cocktails. Patrons can grab a seat or bar stool in the dining area, where earth tones, gleaming wood floors and dim lighting create a welcoming vibe. The comfy

Sleek and sophisticated, Ba Bar is an ideal spot to enjoy casual conversation and creative cocktails. Patrons can grab a seat or bar stool in the dining area, where earth tones, gleaming wood floors and dim lighting create a welcoming vibe. The comfy bean bag chairs and low tables in the chill out nook are also a great alternative for guests looking to really kick back. It's not all low key at Ba Bar, however; a house DJ keeps the party pumping until the early morning.

Ba Bar is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 to 1 AM, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 to 2 AM and Sunday from 11:30 AM to midnight.

If such a thing as "the art of elegant alcohol consumption" does exist, Bar Domby is the place to practice it. Named the Best Cocktail Bar in Budapest by Horse & Hound, this chic cocktail bar oozes style with its gold and black interior and strategic

If such a thing as "the art of elegant alcohol consumption" does exist, Bar Domby is the place to practice it. Named the Best Cocktail Bar in Budapest by Horse & Hound, this chic cocktail bar oozes style with its gold and black interior and strategic lighting. The well-stocked bar has everything from famous brands to rare finds, and the knowledgeable bar staff is more than willing to whip up whatever one's heart desires.

Bar Domby is open daily from 6 PM to 2 AM.

Everything is served with a twist at this gourmet cocktail bar. With a well-stocked bar and impressive range of ingredients, Boutiq'Bar is the place for daring cocktail connoisseurs to go. Patrons can try the Crazy 88 of fresh cucumber mingled with

Everything is served with a twist at this gourmet cocktail bar. With a well-stocked bar and impressive range of ingredients, Boutiq'Bar is the place for daring cocktail connoisseurs to go. Patrons can try the Crazy 88 of fresh cucumber mingled with cranberry juice and vodka; the Left Bank of gin, elderflower cordial and white wine; or the Mango 'n Cacao Daiquiri of mango, rum and cocoa beans. After a few cocktails, guests can hit the spacious dance floor or just kick back on one of the sleek black banquettes.

Isadore "Izzy" Einstein and Moe Smith were quite the characters during American's Prohibition Era. Making over 4,000 arrests from 1920 to 1925, these two American police officers were known for their disguises, which included streetcar conductors,

Isadore "Izzy" Einstein and Moe Smith were quite the characters during American's Prohibition Era. Making over 4,000 arrests from 1920 to 1925, these two American police officers were known for their disguises, which included streetcar conductors, gravediggers, opera singers and even Democratic National Convention delegates. In Budapest, Fat Mo's Speakeasy and Music Club keeps these characters alive.

Among exposed brick, sleek hardwood accents and a massive bar, guests are transported back to the excitement and intrigue of the Roaring 20s. In addition to 11 beers on tap and an impressive wine list, Fat Mo's boasts an extensive cocktail list that surely even the real life counterpart would have found hard to resist. Bartender recommendations include the Mango Martini of vodka, mango puree, Chambord, sugar and lemon juice; Summer Fresh of bols vodka, passion fruit, apple juice, strawberry puree and lime; and Chili Smile of Captain Morgan's spiced rum, spice syrup, plum jam, zsalyalevel, lime and chili.

In addition to drinks, the speakeasy has a number of menu items including a list of creative steak dishes. Jazz, blues and R&B bands take the stage every night, and live DJs really get the party going every Friday and Saturday night at midnight.

Fat Mo's is available for celebrations, receptions, presentations and more for up to 200 guests. It is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 6 PM to 1 AM, Thursday from 6 PM to 2 AM, and Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 4 AM. Cocktails start at HUF 1000.

BudapestTours offers an exciting and unusual way to see the city. During a 20-minute helicopter flight, visitors can get a bird's eye view of the skyline as they listen to pleasant, relaxing music through BOSE headphones. Guests can rest assured

BudapestTours offers an exciting and unusual way to see the city. During a 20-minute helicopter flight, visitors can get a bird's eye view of the skyline as they listen to pleasant, relaxing music through BOSE headphones. Guests can rest assured during the trip, as the Robinson R44 Raven1 helicopter is one of the safest in its category.

Schedules are arranged by private appointment. Tickets are HUF 63000 with a maximum of three guests.

Offering guests a chance to get outside the city for a day, the nine-hour excursion explores the porcelain town of Herend and popular resort town Lake Balaton. Starting in Herend, guests first visit the Herend Porcelain Factory, founded in 1826.

Offering guests a chance to get outside the city for a day, the nine-hour excursion explores the porcelain town of Herend and popular resort town Lake Balaton. Starting in Herend, guests first visit the Herend Porcelain Factory, founded in 1826. Here, visitors learn about the traditions of this art, stop for coffee, and take some time to purchase some of the world-famous, hand-painted porcelain pieces.

The next stop is Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in central Europe located at the foothills of the Balaton Uplands. In addition to a three-course wine lunch, guests will also see the oldest spa in Hungary, Balatonfured.

Offered through Viator, the English-guided tour departs from centrally-located Budapest hotels at 9 AM and returns at around 6 PM. Dates vary. Tickets, which include entrance fees, coffee in Herend, hotel transport, and lunch in Balaton, vary in price.

Offered by MAHART PassNave, this pleasure cruise ferries guests slowly up the Danube. Boats make four stops, so guests can hop on and off at any destination, though visitors will certainly not want to miss the visit to Margaret Island. This popular

Offered by MAHART PassNave, this pleasure cruise ferries guests slowly up the Danube. Boats make four stops, so guests can hop on and off at any destination, though visitors will certainly not want to miss the visit to Margaret Island. This popular escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Budapest is lined with romantic walkways and ancient ruins. A small zoo, swimming pools and restaurants are among the island's attractions.

MAHART PassNave offers several charter boats for groups and events. Its MS Budapest Conference Boat can accommodate up to 500 passengers and boasts elegant crimson carpeting and curtains, a spacious restaurant, open terrace and exclusive bar areas on both levels.

Cruises run Saturday and Sunday, May, September and October, and daily, June to August. Boats begin departure at 10:45 AM from Vigado Square, with the last departing at 4:45 PM. One-way tickets are HUF 250 for children ages 6-15 and HUF 500 for adults. Round-trip tickets are HUF 450 for children and HUF 990 for adults.

Merlin International Theatre is considered one of the most creative and forward-thinking arts groups in Budapest. With three resident companies, diversity combined with a focus on bringing a flavor of the international arts scene to Hungary is

Merlin International Theatre is considered one of the most creative and forward-thinking arts groups in Budapest. With three resident companies, diversity combined with a focus on bringing a flavor of the international arts scene to Hungary is paramount at Merlin International. Puppetry acts, contemporary dance performances and even circus shows have all appeared at Merlin International. Perhaps even more notable, the venue is the first in the city to offer English-language performances.

The box office is open weekdays from noon to 7 PM and weekends from 2 to 7 PM.

Thalia Szinhaz delights visitors with its unstuffy approach to stage entertainment. Recently refurbished, this historic 522-seat theater now features a much-appreciated air conditioning system and a renovated lobby area. From operatic singers to

Thalia Szinhaz delights visitors with its unstuffy approach to stage entertainment. Recently refurbished, this historic 522-seat theater now features a much-appreciated air conditioning system and a renovated lobby area. From operatic singers to comedians, Thlia Sznhz offers shows throughout the year to suit all tastes, both modern and traditional.

The box office is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. Schedules and ticket prices vary based on performance.

First becoming popular at the end of the 18th century, Vaci Utca has transitioned into the 21st century as one of the most fashionable streets in the city. At the northern end, guests are met with high-end boutiques by fashionable brands such as

First becoming popular at the end of the 18th century, Vaci Utca has transitioned into the 21st century as one of the most fashionable streets in the city. At the northern end, guests are met with high-end boutiques by fashionable brands such as Benetton and H&M, as well as a number of smaller shops on the side streets where shoppers can pick up food items and souvenirs.

On the southern end, guests will find some smaller outlets as well as Central Market Hall, a stunning wrought-iron-and-glass creation. Here, visitors can purchase fresh produce and meats, Hungarian folk art and more. In addition to retail therapy, guests to Vci Utca can also indulge at one of the several restaurants in the area, including popular Fatl.

Located next to the Opera House, Belcanto Restaurant is more than just a meal, but a complete dining experience. Among a stately ambiance of crystal chandeliers, high ceilings and rich red accents, diners are treated to Hungarian meats and hearty

Located next to the Opera House, Belcanto Restaurant is more than just a meal, but a complete dining experience. Among a stately ambiance of crystal chandeliers, high ceilings and rich red accents, diners are treated to Hungarian meats and hearty dishes such as crispy goose leg with onion potato souffl and Hungarian veal stew with strapatchka. A number of international selections are also offered, including fried turkey breast with Marsala sauce and chicken breast stuffed with spinach and ricotta cheese.

In addition to fine food, guests at Belcanto are treated to music from the Blue Danube salon orchestra, professional singers and singing waiters. Later in the evening, the orchestra kicks things up a notch with a selection of dance music to get guests moving.

Evening service begins at 5 PM. A number of group menus are available. Entrees range from HUF 2200 to HUF 6200.

With a history that dates back to 1910, Gundel Restaurant was restored to its early grandeur in 1992 by restaurateur George Lange and partner Ronald S. Lauder. Today, Hungary's most recommended restaurant by Michelin Guide carries on the culinary

With a history that dates back to 1910, Gundel Restaurant was restored to its early grandeur in 1992 by restaurateur George Lange and partner Ronald S. Lauder. Today, Hungary's most recommended restaurant by Michelin Guide carries on the culinary traditions of its forerunner in an elegant, palatial ambiance adorned by paintings from Hungarian masters.

Though generally lighter and healthier than in the past, Gundel's menu selections focus on traditional Hungarian fare and options frequently seen on the tables of East European aristocracy. Its cuisine is, in fact, fit for royalty, as its recipes have pleased the palate of Queen Elizabeth II and Pope John Paul II, among others. Included in the menu are crisp-baked duck breast and drumstick served with mushroom pudding and cherry sauce; grilled veal and beef filet with green asparagus and Bearnaise sauce; and baked sea bass with grilled vegetables and fennel.

Gundel has several private rooms for anything from intimate dinners to black-tie balls. Spaces range from the century-old St. Orban and Zsuzsanna Wine Cellar to the grand Queen Elisabeth Ballroom.

Gundel Restaurant serves lunch from noon to 4 PM and dinner from 7:30 PM to midnight. Sunday brunch is served from 11:30 AM to 3 PM. Course menus start at HUF 22000. A la carte menu items are also available.

Opened in 1877, Krptia Restaurant & Brasserie is one of the oldest and most decadent restaurants in Budapest. Today, the restaurant mixes past and present with its menu of traditional and contemporary Hungarian selections, from stuffed cabbage with

Opened in 1877, Krptia Restaurant & Brasserie is one of the oldest and most decadent restaurants in Budapest. Today, the restaurant mixes past and present with its menu of traditional and contemporary Hungarian selections, from stuffed cabbage with homemade fried sausage to the Mangalica, or pork filet mignon with cottage cheese-semolina gnocchi souffl. Even the dcor is a journey into history, with hand-painted walls, colorful stained glass, and evening performances by Hungarian gypsy musicians.

Krptia is happy to accommodate parties and events of all kinds. Counting the president of the Hungarian Republic and his office among its clients, the restaurant can assist in designing dcor, flower arraignments, lighting services, hostess hire and more. Aside from its main hall, Krptia has four private rooms for 24 to 40 guests each.

The restaurant is open daily from 11 AM to 11 PM. Main courses range from HUF 2400 to HUF 6900.

Meaning both "golden apple" and "tomato" (when written as one word), Pomo D'Oro is meant to celebrate the tomato's prominent role in Italian cuisine. This key ingredient is used to craft both traditional Italian favorites and creations from Chef

Meaning both "golden apple" and "tomato" (when written as one word), Pomo D'Oro is meant to celebrate the tomato's prominent role in Italian cuisine. This key ingredient is used to craft both traditional Italian favorites and creations from Chef Rosario's own collection of recipes, from the homemade black spaghetti with calamari and fresh mussels to the pasta Bolognese.

Cooked in a wood-burning oven, Pomo D'Oro's pizza dishes are also crowd-pleasers, ranging from the traditional Margherita to the Amalfitana of tomato, mozzarella, onions, capers, anchovies and tuna. Befitting its Italian cuisine, Pomo D'Oro also keeps about 30 different kinds of wine open from its variety of over 100 types.

Pomo D'Oro is open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 11 PM and Saturday and Sunday from noon to midnight. Pasta dishes start at HUF 1990. Main dishes start at HUF 1750.

Located in the historic Buda Castle district, this award-winning restaurant has been a favorite since its opening in May 2000. Recalling the serene yet sophisticated atmosphere of the 18th century monastery in which it is located, Rivalda boasts a

Located in the historic Buda Castle district, this award-winning restaurant has been a favorite since its opening in May 2000. Recalling the serene yet sophisticated atmosphere of the 18th century monastery in which it is located, Rivalda boasts a seasonal menu of modern European selections, infused with Mediterranean and French accents. Bringing knowledge from his travels around the globe, the head chef has in the past crafted entrees such as seared tuna steak with three-tomato risotto and orange-caper compote; rack of lamb with chive gnocchi and roasted beets; and a veal, lamb and beef medallion trio with sauteed potatoes.

Rivalda Caf & Restaurant offers a full range of catering services. Its new private banquet hall can accommodate up to 150 guests and is divisible for smaller events of 50 or 30 guests. During the summer, its inner courtyard can host up to 300 people.

The restaurant is open daily from 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Located beside Heroes' Square in the city park, the Budapest Zoo is the 2nd oldest zoo in Europe and a favorite of visitors and locals alike. Significant not just for its exhibits but also its architecture, many of the zoo's animal houses were

Located beside Heroes' Square in the city park, the Budapest Zoo is the 2nd oldest zoo in Europe and a favorite of visitors and locals alike. Significant not just for its exhibits but also its architecture, many of the zoo's animal houses were grandly rebuilt in 1912. It now features many stunning Art Nouveau structures.

Today, the zoo is well-known for its successful breeding and conservation program. Among the many new arrivals born at the zoo, the Southern white rhinoceros Lisimba was born in January 2009.

Budapest Zoo opens daily at 9 AM year-round, with closing hours varying based on time of year. Admission is HUF 1290 for children ages 2-14 and HUF 1850 for adults. Group rates are available.

A fascinating and educational day trip awaits the family at the Children's Railway. Located on the west side of Budapest, the railway is often referred to as "the greatest child toy in the world," seeing as how it's not only for children, but run by

A fascinating and educational day trip awaits the family at the Children's Railway. Located on the west side of Budapest, the railway is often referred to as "the greatest child toy in the world," seeing as how it's not only for children, but run by children. Kids ages 10 to 14 operate signals, drive the trains, work in the cabs, print tickets and provide information to passengers, though adult engineers provide constant supervision.

The 11-kilometer line travels through the woody hills and past several notable spots including the Normafa ski resort, the Budakeszi Game Preserve and the ruins of a monastery. Long-eared owls, blackbirds, squirrels, foxes and deer are among the wildlife that may be spotted along the way.

The Children's Railway runs year-round from 9 AM until 5 PM in the winter and until 7 PM in the summer. Ticket prices vary based on length of travel, with prices starting at HUF 300 for children and HUF 600 for adults.

A combination school, playhouse and theme park, the Palace of Wonders began in 1994 and met with such popularity that it gained a permanent spot at Millenris museum. The attraction continues to enchant hundreds of guests each year with its

A combination school, playhouse and theme park, the Palace of Wonders began in 1994 and met with such popularity that it gained a permanent spot at Millenris museum. The attraction continues to enchant hundreds of guests each year with its interactive displays, from the whispering mirrors to the Moonwalk. Palace of Wonders renews its focus exhibit every autumn, so guests can expect something different whenever they visit.

The Palace of Wonders is open Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Special exhibition hours may vary. Admission is HUF 1000 for children and HUF 1200 for adults.

The gateway to several major attractions and a World Heritage Site in and of itself, the City Park is 1.2 square kilometers of lush green space right the city center. Guests can take a stroll among the many paths to enjoy the immaculately-designed

The gateway to several major attractions and a World Heritage Site in and of itself, the City Park is 1.2 square kilometers of lush green space right the city center. Guests can take a stroll among the many paths to enjoy the immaculately-designed garden areas, or settle in for a picnic on the lawn. During the winter, the City Park Pond transforms into a large skating rink.

Other attractions include the Millennium Monument at Heroes' Square, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Palace of Art, the famed Gundel Restaurant, and the Transport Museum of Budapest, just to name a few.

City Park is open year-round. Admission to the park is free, though fees apply to many attractions.

Though historical records of these "miraculous" springs date back to the 15th century, it was not until 1918 that the Gellrt Thermal Bath and Hotel opened and quickly became a favorite of travelers. Expanded in 1927 and 1934, the gorgeous Art Nouveau

Though historical records of these "miraculous" springs date back to the 15th century, it was not until 1918 that the Gellrt Thermal Bath and Hotel opened and quickly became a favorite of travelers. Expanded in 1927 and 1934, the gorgeous Art Nouveau complex features thermal baths, saunas, plunge pools, and both an open-air and an effervescent swimming pool.

Guests can also indulge in a number of spa services at Gellrt. The Kleopatra Bath is a 20-minute immersion in milk and honey, while the Chocolate Spa includes a sugar peel and 30-minute chocolate massage.

Part of the Gellrt Baths complex, the Danubius Hotel Gellrt features 221 rooms and 13 suites. It also offers six function rooms for events of up to 250 guests. Its Gellrt Bath Hall can host up to 300 people.

Hours for Gellrt facilities vary, with most operating daily from 6 AM to 7 PM. Ticket prices vary.

Margaret Island has a reputation for a laid-back approach to city life. Positioned on the Danube, the island is considered a "playground" and weekend retreat for the locals. The sports stadium, complete with tennis courts and jogging track, is a

Margaret Island has a reputation for a laid-back approach to city life. Positioned on the Danube, the island is considered a "playground" and weekend retreat for the locals. The sports stadium, complete with tennis courts and jogging track, is a great choice for tourists who want to stay active.

For a more relaxing afternoon, guests can take a stroll through the Japanese and Rose gardens or visit the various ancient ruins found across the island. Margaret Island is also home to one of Budapest's popular thermal baths, the seasonal Palatinus Strandfrdo.

For an authentic experience in Hungarian culture, guests can visit Palatinus Strandfrdo, the open-air bath on Margaret Island. Open since the 1920s, the swimming pool complex features a large, 100-meter outdoor pool, sunbathing areas, a mini-aqua

For an authentic experience in Hungarian culture, guests can visit Palatinus Strandfrdo, the open-air bath on Margaret Island. Open since the 1920s, the swimming pool complex features a large, 100-meter outdoor pool, sunbathing areas, a mini-aqua park and an artificial wave pool. The highlight of Palatinus Strandfrdo is the thermal pool, which is set to a temperature of 36C. The thermal pool contains hydrogen carbonate, sodium, calcium and magnesium, which is said to clean and repair the skin and is also good for breathing and relaxation.

Palatinus Strandfrdo is a seasonal bath open daily May to September, with hours varying based on month. The full-day entrance ticket plus locker is HUF 1300 per child and HUF 1500 per adult.

Built during Turkish occupation during the 16th century, the Rudas Baths retain a traditional Turkish design, noted by the vast dome supported by eight pillars that overlooks its large octagonal pool. In addition to relaxing in its thermal baths,

Built during Turkish occupation during the 16th century, the Rudas Baths retain a traditional Turkish design, noted by the vast dome supported by eight pillars that overlooks its large octagonal pool. In addition to relaxing in its thermal baths, swimming pool, sauna and more, guests to Rudas can drink water from the springs of Hungria, Attila and Juventus, believed to have healing powers.

The swimming pool at Rudas Baths is open Monday through Friday from 6 AM to 6 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 6 AM to 5 PM. The tub bath is open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM. Ticket prices vary based on facility, duration and services desired. All-day adult pool tickets with a cabin are HUF 2100.

The Szechenyi Bath & Spa was the first thermal baths on the Pest side of the city. Starting as just a temporary artesian bath, Szchenyi was expanded and modernized over time to incorporate beach sites, public bathing areas, swimming pools and modern

The Szechenyi Bath & Spa was the first thermal baths on the Pest side of the city. Starting as just a temporary artesian bath, Szchenyi was expanded and modernized over time to incorporate beach sites, public bathing areas, swimming pools and modern water filtering and circulation devices. Today, it is one of the premier baths in both Hungary and all of Europe. Guests can enjoy the deepest and hottest thermal wells in Budapest here at its large pools, swimming pool, effervescent bath, thermal sitting pool and more.

The Szechenyi Bath & Spa is open daily during the summer from 6 AM to 7 PM and daily October to April from 6 AM to 5 PM. Tickets to the swimming pool are HUF 2500 for a stay of fewer than two hours and HUF 2800 for a whole day. Tub tickets start at HUF 1500 for a full day at the thermal tub. Medicinal service packages and massages are available.