Jul 26, 2024 | Pub Crawl Budapest

Is Buda the Old Part of Budapest?

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Understanding Buda and Pest

We should first know what Buda and Pest represent before we decide if Buda is the old half of Budapest.

From 1873 onwards, Buda and Pest together became the new city called Budapest. You will find Budapest’s Western half in Buda and its Eastern part in Pest, divided by the Danube River.

It still affects both the city’s design and the way people live here. Buda is usually seen as calm and mostly for residences, while Pest has a busy commercial and urban atmosphere. Even after unifying in 1873, each city kept its own identity and helped the city grow even stronger.

Budapest’s Old Town

In most cases, the old part of a city means its historical or original area. Buda is known as the older section in the city of Budapest.

In the past, Buda was the main part of the city with a rich medieval period and many famous attractions. The popular Buda Castle, Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion are found in the city. Charming streets decorated with pebbles and lovely buildings make Buda stand out for its history.

They not only have important histories but also look impressive architecturally. Buda Castle was built in the 13th century and has changed over the years, now home to the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. From its colorful roof tiles and Gothic design, Matthias Church stands out as a special piece of church architecture, while Fisherman’s Bastion gives a view of both the Danube and Pest.

Important Characteristics of Buda

  • The western part of the Danube River is where you find Buda.
  • Its history and impressive medieval landmarks are well known.
  • Visitors to Buda should consider seeing the Buda Castle, Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion.
  • The area is famous for its lovely views.

Thermal baths like Gellért and Rudas can be found in Buda, both fed by hot springs the Romans started using. They make the region more interesting by blending history and culture into wellness and cultural vacations.

Hikers can enjoy nature within the city on Buda’s hills such as Gellért and the Buda Hills. These parks complement the ancient architecture and turn Buda into a place perfect for tourists.

Modern Section in Budapest

From Buda, a short trip across the Danube brings us to Pest, the where modern Budapest is found. Pest took on commercial and residential character in the 19th century.

Lively Pest includes wide boulevards, long shopping streets and many cultural attractions. This city includes the Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica and Heroes’ Square, all of which are famous.

Changes in Pest started when he city was modernized and planned for development in the late nineteenth century. You’ll find excellent examples of Neo-Gothic, Art Nouveau and eclectic architecture in the area. The Buda area is much different from Pest, as its streets are curvy and its land is hilly instead of flat.

Important Points about Pest

  • Pest is found on the east side of the Danube River.
  • Growth in commerce and administration made it the key area within Budapest.
  • Important places to see in Pest include the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica and Heroes’ Square.
  • Southern District is recognized for its lively ambiance, plenty of shopping and exciting cultural attractions.
  • Other than its famous sights, Pest is home to Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO site with buildings from the past, luxury shops and restaurants. Heroes’ Square, with the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art on each side, concludes Andrassy Avenue and makes Pest a wealthy cultural center.
  • Many exciting ruin bars in Pest, like Szimpla Kert, give visitors a chance to explore old, transformed buildings. These places express the modern character of Budapest by linking history, creativity and fun.

What is Buda and Pest Today

The historic center is Buda, while Pest is modern—yet you can find history everywhere you go in Budapest.

Since every district is different, it’s a good idea to see what both Buda and Pest have to offer. Built as a key link between parts of the city, the Chain Bridge gives travelers easy access between Buda and Pest.

Budapest is renowned for being one of the most charming capitals in Europe because of its unique combination. No matter if you visit Buda’s ancient forts or consider Pest’s busy cafés and stores, you will notice the city’s different personalities. Besides, taking many river cruises on the Danube helps passengers enjoy the blend in contrast between Buda and Pest, especially as they are beautifully lit up at night.

Trains, trams and buses all work well to help people move from one area to another. Budapest’s infrastructure makes it easy for all visitors and residents to see what the city can offer.

Conclusion

In short, though Buda came first and is well-known, the city acquires its character from the contribution of both Buda and Pest. The medieval side of Budapest can be seen in Buda, but the more modern and lively district is Pest.

Go to both parts of the Danube to fully see how beautiful and diverse the city is.

Budapest has something for both lovers of peace and those who like lively crowds, because it combines the quiet and calm of Buda with the excitement of Pest. The merger of past and present in Florence creates a city full of history, art and memorable times.

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