Europe has never ceased to be a favorite for hearts that love experiential travel. Roaming across Europe, from Germany, Italy, Austria... every corner unveils numerous intriguing facets. Yet, one cannot ignore the journey to Hungary, a captivating tourist destination in the world at large and Europe in particular.
A day exploring around Budapest – the most beautiful city in Europe
A picturesque corner of Hungary. Captured on Realme 5 Pro
Experience a day exploring the enchanting city of Budapest, where you can marvel at numerous beautiful sights and immerse yourself in its unique culture. From iconic architectural landmarks to unparalleled scenic views, it's no wonder Budapest is affectionately called the 'most beautiful city in Europe' or the 'pearl of the Danube River.'
A picturesque corner of Budapest's streets. Captured on Realme 5 Pro.
Discover the oldest suspension bridge in Budapest
The oldest suspension bridge in Budapest, named Széchenyi, is a hanging bridge spanning the Danube River, connecting Buda and Pest on the west and east sides of the capital Budapest. Designed by the British engineer William Tierney Clark and constructed by the Scottish engineer Adam Clark, it is also the first permanent bridge across the Danube River in Hungary.
Széchenyi Chain Bridge from the opposite side of the Parliament building. Captured using Realme 5 Pro.
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is considered a distinctive architectural marvel with two bridgeheads designed like triumphal arches separated by 202m and connected by a massive chain. The towers on the bridge are adorned with Hungary's national emblem. The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is referred to by locals and tourists alike as the 'symbol of Hungary.'
Széchenyi Chain Bridge from the perspective of a Budapest castle. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
Buda Castle – Witness to Hungary's History
Buda Castle (Hungarian: Budavári Palota) stands out as one of the most remarkable architectural structures in the capital city of Budapest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Buda Castle deserves protection for its profound cultural and historical significance.
Entrance to the Buda Palace. Captured using Realme 5 Pro.
Buda Castle, a testament to the history of Budapest. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
A tram ascending to Buda Palace on the hill. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
If you prefer not to take the tram, you can enjoy a scenic walk up to Buda Castle. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
You can admire the castle from the Pest side across the Danube River. This served as the residence of Hungarian kings since the 13th century, renovated in the 19th century. It was serendipitous and fascinating to visit Buda on the day of the Buda Castle Wine Festival, an annual event held right here at the castle.
The Buda Castle Wine Festival garners much attention from both locals and tourists. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
To enter the festival for sightseeing and shopping, you need to purchase a ticket for 3,900 HUF (Hungarian currency). Upon buying a ticket, you receive a complimentary glass of wine. If you wish to enjoy that glass, additional drink tokens or payment through Visa/MasterCard are accepted, cash transactions are not. The wine festival takes place in September each year to promote, honor, and preserve the renowned wine brands of Hungary.
Behind the castle, an array of wines from various stalls is elegantly displayed. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
Admire the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is likened to the gem of Budapest's capital. Glistening along the famous Danube River, it took 24 years to complete in celebration of Hungary's 1,000th anniversary. With Gothic-style arches, towers, and adorned with 88 decorative statues, the Hungarian Parliament Building stands as the most magnificent and scenic site in Hungary.
The Hungarian Parliament Building gleaming along the Danube River. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
For stunning, majestic photos showcasing the grandeur of this building, it's recommended to visit from late afternoon into the evening. The entire Parliament Building is bathed in a golden hue from sparkling and enchanting lights.
The Hungarian Parliament Building exudes magnificence when captured in long exposure mode by Realme 5 Pro.
Budapest's Largest Cathedral - St. Stephen’s Basilica
Not far from the Parliament Building is Budapest's largest Roman Catholic cathedral named St. Stephen’s Basilica. Renowned for housing the hand of St. Stephen, Hungary's first king, it stands as one of the nation's most significant landmarks.
The staircases leading up to the dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
Despite its age, St. Stephen’s Basilica boasts modern architecture, especially with its distinctive dome. The church stands at 96 meters tall, 55 meters wide, and 87 meters long. To take in the panoramic view of Budapest, you can ascend to the balcony of the dome using an elevator or climb 302 steps. From the balcony, you can see the Parliament Building and admire a miniature Budapest from above.
Artfully designed stairs leading to the dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
Budapest Architectural Masterpiece – Budapest Keleti Railway Station
Budapest Keleti Railway Station (Eastern) is Hungary's international and main inter-city railway station in Budapest. Opened in 1884, Keleti was once considered the most modern train station in Europe.
Budapest Keleti Railway Station. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
Even the railway station alone is beautifully designed with an entrance gate and intricate details comparable to any castle. Budapest Keleti Railway Station is globally ranked among the top 10 most beautiful train stations in Europe.
Inside Budapest Keleti Railway Station. Shot on Realme 5 Pro.
Experience New York Cafe – the world's most beautiful café
Situated in the heart of Budapest, this café is nestled within the premises of the New York Palace hotel, renowned as one of the most luxurious cafes in Budapest. With a history spanning over a century, the café has endured through significant historical transitions in Hungary and is acclaimed as the world's most beautiful café.
Designed as an opulent castle with lavish gold furnishings and intricate royal details, it's not just a café but also a hot tourist destination in Europe. If you wish to savor a cup of coffee and listen to perfect music here, you need to make reservations, patiently endure long queues, or stay at the New York Palace hotel.
Wandering through Europe, Hungary, and Budapest, one will find that Europe remains beautiful and enchanting alongside one of the world's most developed economies. Budapest, a dreamy, ancient, and splendid city built over a millennium of sustaining the Hungarian empire. A capital for those who love cultural and scenic travel experiences, a definite must-visit in a lifetime, nowhere else but Budapest – the 'pearl of the Danube River.'
Posted by: Chấn Huỳnh
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