In fact, Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is divided into two main areas called Buda and Pest. Besides geography, this group is divided by history, as these areas are famous for their specific qualities, sights and importance. Let’s take a look at the split that makes Budapest both beautiful and full of charm.

1. Buda

Buda lies on the west bank of the Danube River that flows into the center of Budapest. Here, the city is marked by hills that give visitors awesome views of everything around them. Historical value, medieval buildings and a peaceful feeling make Buda well known.

Because Buda is hilly, it has a distinct feel from busy, flat Pest. Highland is a marvelous spot for those hoping to leave the city and discover nature around beautiful ancient sites. Because the streets are calm and the city is leafy, Buda is perfect for walking around and discovering places.

1.1 Places to Visit

Buda Castle is one of the city’s most important landmarks and is very hard to overlook because of how high and bright it stands over the rest of the area. You can find many museums in it, for example, the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum which help you explore Hungary’s history and culture.

The Fisherman’s Bastion is an important sight due to its interesting design and amazing views. After that, you can see the Parliament Building and the Danube River in a way that’s hard to match. The unusual terraces, towers and steps at the Bastion attract both those taking pictures and admirers of romance.

Just a short walk from the Fisherman’s Bastion is the Matthias Church, famous for its beautiful Gothic design and vibrantly colored tiled roof inside. It also welcomes concerts, imparting some local culture to your visit.

1.2 Different neighborhoods and districts

Buda includes several separate districts and each one has something unique to offer. Among the most notable neighborhoods are:

• In District I, you’ll find the Buda Castle and the Matthias Church which are important sights and have earned the area a place in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Bright cobblestone roads and historic buildings make York an ideal place for those who like history.
• Offering great views, Gellért Hill (District XI) is also the area where you can visit the famous spa called Gellért Baths. The area is also famous for hiking and it holds the Citadella fortress and the Liberty Statue to honor those who won Hungary’s independence.
• In Újbuda (District XI), you can find lively markets, plenty of green space and the Millennium City Center. In this district, you’ll find both places to live and places to go for shopping, reflecting a modern face of Buda.

2. Pest

Pest is the lively partner city on the east bank of the Danube to the more medieval Buda. Pest is the heart of Budapest, thanks to its many busy streets, impressive boulevards and vibrant life.

Because Pest lacks hills while Buda is covered with them, wide streets in Pest are common and make room for plenty of cafés, shops and historic sites. Pest is alive with energy, so it’s where people go for nightlife, shopping and social events.

2.1 Things to Visit

• Many well-known sights in Budapest, including several monuments, can be found in Pest. No trip to India would be complete without checking out the Parliament Building which is a marvelous building. You can easily recognize the neo-Gothic style of the building and it is lit up beautifully each evening.
• St. Stephen’s Basilica which bears the name of the country’s first king, is a famous landmark. People are drawn to the unfolding city views possible from the dome’s outside. People often hike to the top of the dome for fantastic views of the two sides of Budapest.
• Nearby City Park is Heroes’ Square and like faithful guardians, it pays tribute to Hungary’s legends in Pest. Everything near the City Park is built around cultural institutions and the lovely Vajdahunyad Castle.

2.2 include neighborhoods and districts

• Pest consists of several districts and each one is different in its character and feel. A few of the famous neighborhoods are mentioned below.
• In the middle of Pest, District V is filled with many shops, numerous restaurants and famous streets like Váci Street. People love coming here to find great shops, restaurants and enjoy the urban energy of the city.
• In Jewish Quarter (District VII), you’ll find bustling nightlife, ruins and the Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe. You’ll find plenty of lively bars and cafés inside ancient buildings here, all sharing stories about Budapest’s Jewish past.
• City Park (District XIV) is where you’ll find Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Vajdahunyad Castle and the Budapest Zoo. This large park gives the city a green spot for peace, sports and culture.

3. The Bridge Between: Bridges and Islands

Several bridges on the Danube link the two sides of Budapest, Buda and Pest. The Chain Bridge is the most distinguished among Budapest’s bridges and represents the city.

Completely finished in the 19th century, the Chain Bridge was the first enduring structure connecting Buda to Pest and was crucial for both cities’ union. Even now, it is a main road and a favorite place for visitors to see both the river and the city.

Besides the Chain Bridge, important bridges in Buda and Pest are the Liberty Bridge, Margaret Bridge and Elizabeth Bridge, each with their own story and design.

Besides its bridges, the city of Budapest also includes a number of islands in the Danube, providing places for everyone to relax. Many people go to Margaret Island, found between Buda and Pest, for a nice walk, some cycling or outdoor activities. Due to all the parks, gardens and fountains, along with a small zoo, the island acts as a green “escape” in the heart of New York City.

4. Conclusion

Buda and Pest each having their own sections helps make Budapest a different and interesting city. The historical and architectural sites of Buda are matched by the busy modern feel of Pest. Looking into both areas will give you a clear picture of this beautiful city.