BUDAPEST
I went by train to Budapest arriving from Vienna. The train was charming with a restaurant looking like a movie in the fifties. There was a change of atmosphere from Vienna so clean and organised to Budapest more vibrant and with still a flair of what I would call eastern countries.
As every body knows Buda and Pest were assembled (in 1873) to become the capital of Hungary.
For Hungarians people the Revolution in the middle of the nineteen century is very important
They then became a state on their own even if they were coupled to Austria via the Emperor
Since that time Budapest has developped a lot and in particular with monuments like the Parliament and the famous Andrassy avenue.
Certainly Buda (the old city) is fascinating because of its history
The former kings have developped a system of defence in order to preserve the city from invasions.
The turcs have occupied most of Hungary for centuries. However the main souvenir from their presence are the baths. You cannot say the architecture has a reminiscence of those days.
People in Hungary are globally friendly and I think happy to see visitors coming and enjoying the city.
What makes Budapest beautiful is of course the Danube (which is sometimes blue) which separates Buda from the vibrant Pest. You will enjoy crossing the Bridge of Chains which was constructed 200 years ago and help to go easily from one side to another
Today Budapest is an important city in Europe and it is really woth going because of its pesronnality.
I will say a few words about Buda because you naturally you will start your visit with that part of the city.
If you stay in Pest you will cross the bridge and may walk (climb) to the castle if you dont want to wait for the funicular (sometimes crowded).
It is the oldest part of Budapest and it has some magnificient bulldings in particular Buda Castle (have a look at the Hungarian National Gallery), the castle district and the Matthias Church which I consider one of the most beautiful churches I ever saw.
You will admire the roofs of the old buildings and the beauty of the painted walls in the church.
After the visit I recommend going down to the Danube and eat in an old small palace in the Vizivaros aera (Aranyszarvas). That will complete the visit with a touch of history and a charming lunch. After you may want to relax in the beautiful Gellert Baths (Art Nouveau).