You have heard much about Budapest, but don’t know any other places to visit in Hungary?

Hungary is the European Union and Schengen area member state. Its landscape is mainly known for the Balaton Lake, one of the largest lakes in Central Europe. Still, Hungary attracts many tourists with its splendid capital and its romantic history.

Hungarians are proud of their country and language. They might speak English or German (especially near the Austrian border). Check the travel conditions before you go. Even if Hungary is a European Union country, sometimes they act independently and take their own decisions.

If you are seeking for places to visit in Hungary, you have to know that many cultural events can complete your journey even in a small town. Thermal baths have been a favorite destination since the Romans. There are over 1,000 thermal springs in Hungary. 

Because traveling requires a lot of energy, you have to try the local food and drinks. Hungarian cuisine is rich, with heavy sauces, a lot of meat, and strong drinks (ask for Pálinka).

Budapest, the capital of Hungary

The list of places to visit in Hungary must begin with its capital. Budapest is considered one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. Many tourists come here all year long.

Situated on the Danube River, Budapest is comprised of two cities (Buda and Pest) separated by the river. For its architectural beauty, Budapest was added on UNESCO World Heritage List. 

A long history sculpted this beauty. The story begins with the Celts, continues with the Romans, and then with the Magyar tribes which founded the Kingdom of Hungary. The Ottomans also have a long history here. But the heaviest footstep belongs to the Habsburg Empire.

Since the Danube divides the city in two, many bridges can help you visit both parts. And if bridges were needed, why not build them in style. Chain Bridge is the oldest one, completed in 1849. At this time, it was the second largest suspended bridge in the world. Liberty Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge, Margaret Bridge, Petőfi Bridge, and others claim the title of the most beautiful bridge in Budapest.

Read more: My Journey Through the Habsburg Empire

The Hungarian capital is also famous for its classical music concert halls, for its love for music. Book a cruise on the Danube and admire the city on classical chords. Budapest offers so much for everyone's taste and it's hard to explore it all. I've found that 4 days in Budapest gives you a nice balance between exploring the history, traditional cuisine, and of course have some fun in ruin pubs. 

Buda, the imperial side of the capital

Buda and Pest are quite different. In Buda, you can find all the old palaces and romantic Habsburg air. Here is the imperial atmosphere, the glamour of the 19th century. Here you can visit the Fisherman's Bastion, Buda Castle, and the impressive Matthias Church. 

Buda is spectacular even underground. Don't miss a visit to Buda's caves to find out more about Hungarian history.

From the Ottomans times, Buda kept the Tomb of Gül Baba, a 16th-century poet, and soldier. His tomb is beautiful as it is and it became a pilgrimage destination. A Turkish bath is the oldest bath in Budapest that can still be used. It is called Rudas Bath.

You can view an exquisite panorama of the city from Gellért Hill. It is a residential area but is 235 meters high from the Danube and part of the “Banks of the Danube” World Heritage Site. Besides, a walk up here will reveal the local’s life, their day to day habits and perspective.

Pest, the modern side of the capital

The Pest part of Budapest can be itself a place on the list of places to visit in Hungary. Younger than its Buda friend, Pest is modern, full of life and nightlife. 

Here you can visit the Hungarian Parliament, but also the Central Market Hall, and the Hungarian State Opera House. In Pest, there are a lot of restaurants and bars, excellent if you want to try the local cuisine.

Thermal baths are in Pest as well. Visit Széchenyi Baths and its indoor and outdoor pools. It is situated in the Central Park for the perfect atmosphere.

Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton is the most popular Hungarian destination. Some named it the “Hungarian Sea” because it became a place for summer resorts, with beaches, boats, and swimmers.

It is full of restaurants and cafes, but it is also full of Hungarians. If you aren't looking for a seaside experience, avoid exploring Lake Balaton in the summertime. 

Spring is excellent for trekking on the hills around the lake or for enjoying the thermal water. Lake Balaton is a place for relaxation and spa, where a day playing golf is the maximum excitement needed.

Read more: The Lake Balaton Experience

As Budapest, Lake Balaton is a great place to experience the local cuisine. And if Budapest is full of foreign tourists, Lake Balaton is mainly full of locals, so the authenticity of the food isn't disturbed by international influences.

So many exciting places to visit in Hungary!

People are hardworking and very proud of their country. They built one of the most known touristic destinations in the world, and you can see they put their soul in everything that is connected with their country. Blessed with the Danube River and the Lake Balaton, Hungary is an excellent European destination.