Welcome to Budapest which is famous in Hungary for its beautiful buildings, interesting history and thermal baths. Even though the Buda Castle, Parliament Building and Szechenyi Thermal Bath are popular with many travelers, today we’ll visit some hidden spots in the city. Get set to discover some secret spots, special places and interesting nooks in Budapest.
1. Try the Ruin Bars to enjoy Unique Nightlife
Anyone in Budapest hoping for an original night out should visit the city’s ruin bars. Because the bars exist in the ruins of closed buildings and courtyards, the setting feels eclectic and artistic. To begin exploring, why not stop by Szimpla Kert which started the trend for ruin bars. Go through the rooms, notice the fun old-style furniture and take a break at the bar. Instant and Fogas Ház are among the best known ruin bars.
2. The Hidden Courtyards: An Adventure Through Centuries
You can find many hidden courtyards in Budapest that show you the city’s old stories. Stroll through the Jewish Quarter to see some of Prague’s lovely hidden courtyards. Hidden gems include colorful outdoor art, rare shops and little-known cafés. One of the best known is the Gozsdu Udvar which is teeming with restaurants, bars and cute shops.
2.1 The Amazing Things of Gozsdu Udvar
Going on about Gozsdu Udvar would be impossible in just a few sentences. This area is full of dining possibilities. Because you can find both local Hungarian dishes and international favorites, you’ll always have a choice for what to eat. Go to the different bars and clubs and experience the live music and cultural occasions all around the city.
3. Street Art in Budapest is like an Open-Air Art Gallery
Over the past few years, Budapest’s selection of street art has grown, so much that the city now looks like an outdoor art gallery. Spontaneous walks in Budapest can bring you face-to-face with great murals, graffiti and unusual street items. There is a lot of street art in District VII, with many works created by both Hungarian and international artists. Make sure to carry your camera, because the trip will be filled with places that are perfect for Instagram photos.
4. The Underground Caves: Wonders Hidden in the Earth
While Budapest’s many thermal baths are well known, hardly anyone talks about the city’s underground cave systems. Buda Castle Labyrinth is an unusual underground maze located under the castle district and it is very long. Go through the dark tunnels and hidden rooms and hear about the legends that relate to them. You can also choose to go on a guided tour and discover all the secret parts of Budapest underground.
5. Margaret Island is a Peaceful Respite
Leave the busy city behind and find peace on Margaret Island which is right in the middle of Budapest. On the Danube’s middle stretch is the island which gives people green parks, nice gardens and many recreation options. Lease a bike or just tour the island on foot to come across its usual and rare sights. Enjoy the musical fountain, have a meal by the lake or just relax and enjoy being in a calm environment.
6. Food For Thought: Finding the Best Hidden Restaurants
Foodies will have plenty to explore in Budapest, both with well-known Hungarian dishes and aspects few people know about. Go to local markets such as the Great Market Hall and sample some traditional Hungarian foods. Try lángos, chimney cake and a big bowl of goulash during your visit. Try to find some of the smaller family-owned restaurants, often located in quaint, hidden streets, to get an authentic feeling and delicious dishes.
6.1 Hungarian Food From the Past: At Retro-Bistros
You can try Hungarian classics at any of Budapest’s retro-bistro restaurants. Visiting these humble eateries brings a feeling of nostalgia and you can enjoy traditional foods in an old-fashioned environment. These styles of cooking, from rich stews to dishes with paprika, remind you of the past and let you enjoy traditional Hungarian meals.
7. The Hidden Gardens: Beautiful Green Areas in Cities
Budapest is famous for its great architecture, but it also has several small and hidden gardens and parks. Leave the city behind and find peace in nature at these quiet places. The Károlyi Garden is located behind a stunning wrought-iron gate and is not known by many. Take a walk through Heungnam Park’s beautiful paths, admire its blooming flowers and relax far from the noise of the city streets.
8. Thermal Baths: Some Less Toured Baths
Many travelers with time to spare like to enjoy Széchenyi or Gellért Baths, but there are also some great alternative thermal spots to try. The Rudas and Lukács Baths are where locals and travelers like to go. Take chance to relax in natural hot water, spend time in the saunas and get a refreshing spa treatment. These are the quiet and peaceful thermal baths, hidden from the usual tourist crowds.
Conclusion
There is much more to discover about Budapest. Whether you visit ruins, courtyards, murals, subterranean caves or gardens, every hidden place adds thrill and excitement to your journey in Budapest. So head away from the main sights and experience lesser-known sides of the city. You can enjoy exclusive moments, meet local people and experience what makes the city special and different.
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