Budapest, the city of Hungary’s capital, is famous for its beautiful buildings, interesting history and lively culture. The city has been separated into 23 districts and every district is distinctive in both appearance and vibe. You can learn about the city’s best areas from this guide, whether you’re traveling there or just want to know more!
This area is named District I – Castle District.
You’ll find the beautiful Buda Castle in District I which is also known as the Castle District. The area features beautiful views of the Danube, along with small cobblestone streets, ancient buildings and interesting squares. It’s important to visit Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion, as they are favorite sights in the area. History is all around in this area, as many of its buildings go as far back as the Middle Ages. You can imagine the past in every street you walk through. Because the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum are here, anyone curious about history should make this district a point of interest.
District V is located in the city’s center.
The center of Budapest is the Inner City in District V. Csigin Tér is home to the Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica and Váci Street for anyone wanting to shop. The views of the Danube and the city’s beautiful bridges along the Danube Promenade make this an important part of the area. This place isn’t only interesting for sightseeing; it’s also a busy area full of cafes, restaurants and cultural hotspots. People here can take river cruises from the port, letting them see the city from above.
District VII is known as the Jewish Quarter.
District VII which is known as the Jewish Quarter, has many different cultures living there. You will find a huge synagogue, Great Synagogue, as well as multiple ruin bars, hip cafes and works of street art. Go down Kazinczy Street to enjoy the special ambiance of the district. There has been a big improvement here, with classic Jewish buildings now used as modern, diverse venues. The nearby Holocaust Memorial Center and many kosher restaurants increase the district’s importance in the community.
District XIII is the district formerly known as Újlipótváros.
District XIII is also named Újlipótváros and is famous for its modern housing and many parks. Many tourists and local people love visiting Margaret Island, a park set right on the Danube. Walk down the Grand Boulevard and explore the markets and eateries in this cute area. Újlipótváros is less hectic than the city in the center, so it’s a wonderful place to enjoy life as the locals do. You can also find cutting-edge art galleries and attractive shops for young adults in the district.
The fourteenth district is Zugló.
In the eastern part of the capital, the district known as Zugló or District XIV, is famous for its parks and many places of interest. City Park hosts some of the city’s biggest attractions, for example, Vajdahunyad Castle, Széchenyi Baths and the zoo. Enjoying the outdoors and seeing the city’s natural sights is easy in this district. City Park is among the biggest green spaces in Budapest and it is wonderful for picnics, walking or running. Zugló also includes the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture which celebrates the country’s farming roots.
District IX is known as Ferencváros.
Ferencváros, District IX, is one of the city’s oldest areas. Lying along the Danube River, it is famous for its historical industry and huge Great Market Hall. You can see this neighborhood by strolling down Ráday Street past the many restaurants and cafes. There is quick development going on in Ferencváros, mixing the history of old factories made into meeting places with the rise of new condos. Because the National Theatre and multiple art spaces are here, the district is a key attraction for culture and art.
Terézváros makes up District VI.
Terézváros or District VI, is well known for its exciting atmosphere and interesting cultural sights. Located here are the celebrated Andrássy Avenue and its surroundings, plus the Hungarian State Opera House and Heroes’ Square. There are many great shopping and dining places available in the district. It is often mentioned that Andrássy Avenue, with its mix of lovely mansions, fine shops and places to eat, looks much like the Champs-Élysées in Paris. If you want to explore Budapest’s art and architecture, Terézváros is the right place for you.
District II belongs to Hűvösvölgy.
The picturesque District II, Hűvösvölgy, is found in the Buda hills. From there, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the city and it’s regularly sought after by hikers and nature fans. You can find the Children’s Railway and Normafa which offers nice views, in this environmentally friendly and lovely part of the city. Escape the busy city at Hűvösvölgy with its forests and picnic places. If you’re a family or nature lover hoping for some quietness, it’s only a short trip from downtown Budapest.
Conclusion
The city of Budapest is so diverse and exciting because of these and other districts. All the districts have something special to offer and are not the same. If you enjoy learning about history, culture or just the lively city life, you will find something you like in any of Budapest’s districts. Go to areas away from the main tourist spots to experience the real city.
Because of its fascinating history, beautiful buildings and lively culture, Budapest should be visited by travel enthusiasts. Make sure to include the different districts of Budapest in your planning and enjoy being part of the amazing scenery this city has to offer.
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