There are two main regions in Budapest, called Buda and Pest which are separated by the Danube River. Pest or the Pest side, is well-known for its energetic setting, with busier streets, landmarks from the past and many attractions for tourists. We will look at what you can see and do on the Pest side of Budapest in this beginner’s guide. Read on!

1. Look around the important sculpture on the square.

 Start at Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere), as it is one of the famous places in Budapest and a great location to begin. The square pays tribute to Hungary’s heroes and has statues and monuments for key historical people. Archangel Gabriel holding the Hungarian Crown can be seen on the tallest monument called the Millennium Monument. Go for a relaxed stroll, check out the sculptures and explore Hungary’s history.

Also located nearby is the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art (Műcsarnok), giving you a chance to view art and history all at once. Because the square is close to City Park (Városliget), you can enjoy the culture and follow up with a leisurely walk or a pedal boat ride on the lake in the hotter months.

2. Have a stroll down Andrassy Avenue.

 Andrassy Avenue (Andrássy út) was recognized by UNESCO and is considered Budapest’s main boulevard, full of great buildings, shops and entertainment venues. Go for a relaxed walk along this well-known avenue and admire the amazing architecture. See the elegant Hungarian State Opera House, shop in the boutiques and watch people as you sit in a friendly café.

Being on the avenue, you will notice embassies in pretty villas and you might discover pop-up exhibitions or special markets here or there. You might like to ride the historic M1 metro line, the very first on continental Europe, that passes under Andrassy Avenue and allows you to see many attractions along the way.

3. Go to the beautiful Parliament Building.

 A trip to Budapest should always include a stop at the Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház). Being the biggest building in Hungary, this architectural wonder proudly represents Szekesfehervar. Go on a tour with a guide to discover the richly decorated rooms, see the Hungarian Crown Jewels, pass by the grand staircase and admire the special Hungarian Holy Crown. Take some snaps of the outside from the Danube River promenade which is perfect for your Instagram feed.

The best views of the Parliament’s neo-Gothic look are from the Buda side, across the river. Living for photography, sunrise or sunset gives you a breathtaking golden light that shows the landscape at its finest. Prepare to reserve tickets for inside tours well ahead of time, especially when there are lots of tourists.

4. Enjoy the Happenings of Hungarian Culture at the Great Market Hall

 The Great Market Hall is the perfect place for anyone interested in food and it reflects the way Hungarians live and eat today. Look around at the different stalls for vegetables, local snacks, authentic crafts and memorabilia. Taste some tasty local meals such as goulash and lángos which is similar to pizza but with fried dough. Visiting the restaurant lets you experience traditional Hungarian food.

The top floor features traditional Hungarian embroidery, pottery and other handcrafts which make great souvenirs. Try to go in the morning, so you get the best and freshest food and there are fewer people and remember to sample the free food offered by cheerful sellers.

5. Spend a Relaxing Day on a Cruise along the Danube

 Take a scenic cruise down the Danube River while you’re in Pest. Be awed by the wonderful views of Budapest, with its famous sights like Buda Castle, Matthias Church and the Chain Bridge. Go on a day cruise to see all the architectural landmarks in the sun or choose an evening cruise to see everything highlighted with bright lights.

Other cruise packages offer nightlife, including dinner, music or even sampling local wines. There are special boats that travel up and down the river with multiple stops, letting you visit attractions from the boat.

6. Spend time in the busy streets at night.

 Evening in Budapest is an experience, as Pest is full of nightclubs and lively bars for many different tastes. Ruin bars, clubs and music venues are scattered all around the city. Many visitors consider Szimpla Kert, a famous ruin bar, to be a must because of its unique atmosphere. Dance until morning, witness live acts on stage or wind down with an uplifting drink surrounded by the city’s lively nightlife atmosphere.

Budapest alone has ruin bars — former abandoned places turned into lively hangouts filled with unusual furniture, art displays and a casual atmosphere. Bars vary in character and you can see live bands, DJ appearances or movies several times a week.

7. Try out the thermal baths.

 Budapest gets the nickname “City of Spas” for its many thermal baths. People often visit Gellért Baths and Széchenyi Baths which are top attractions in Pest. Relax in the therapeutic baths, unwind in a sauna or have a traditional Hungarian rub down. It’s the perfect relaxation at the end of a hectic day of fun.

Széchenyi Baths in City Park is a large spa center with both indoor and outdoor pools set in a grand building. Enjoy watching the classic games of chess in the open-air pools which is a well-loved pastime here. Don’t forget to take your flip-flops, swimsuit and towel or you can rent them at the beach.

8. Visit the Jewish Quarter.

 Do not skip the Jewish Quarter when you are on the Pest side. Stop at the Great Synagogue which is the largest in Europe and hear about the Jewish community in Budapest. Spend some time walking gently down Kazinczy Street which is famous for its many trendy cafes, bars and street art. Close to the Jewish Quarter is the Shoes on the Danube Bank, a reminder of the Holocaust victims.

This area is not only about cultural sites; it also has a nice mix of both historical and modern places, where historical buildings are hosting fashionable cafes, cocktail spots and antique shops. You can explore the area on guided walking tours which are strongly recommended to explore its significance and emotions.

Conclusion

 The region known as Pest brings together the city’s past, present and exciting events. Heroes’ Square and the Hungarian Parliament Buildings add historic charm, while the lively nightlife and thermal baths give something for everyone to enjoy. Thus, if you like history, enjoy local food or are up for fun adventures in a city, you won’t be disappointed in Pest. Get planning now and look forward to making your trip to Budapest an amazing one!