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Contents
32
Budapest fortissimo
April – October 2016
8
4
6
8
16
22
26
28
30
32
34
36
38
42
TOP 10 Sights
Budapest Programmes
6
Budapest Classic
Budapest Culture
30
Budapest Map
TOP 10 News
16
Budapest Active
Budapest for Gourmets
City of Baths
Budapest for Youth
26
Budapest for Kids
Budapest Surroundings
Useful Information
Budapest Fortissimo ■ April – October 2016
Published by Turizmus Kft. • Publisher: Zsolt Szebeni Managing Director • Editor: Brigitta Vajk
Design: Aranka Grünwald • Editorial office and publisher: Turizmus Kft. H-1074 Budapest, Munkás utca 9.
Tel.: (+36-1) 492-0455, fax: (+36-1) 338-4293, web: www.turizmuskft.com • Advertising: [email protected]
• Printing press: Dürer Printing House Ltd. • Photos: photo archives of Hungarian Tourism Ltd.
Publication closed: 11 March 2016
budapest fortissimo
■
April – October 2016
| 3
Top 10 Sights
2
Parliament
10
(map: B2)
The world’s third
largest parliamentary building, home
to the Hungarian
Holy Crown and
coronation regalia.
(see Budapest
Classic section)
n um b ers
C heck the
!
on the m ap
TOP sights
6
St. Stephen’s
Basilica (map: B3)
Budapest’s largest
Roman Catholic church,
it preserves in a reliquary
the Holy Right hand
of founder of the state
King St. Stephen.
(see Budapest
Classic section)
10
5
8
1 Buda Castle
(map: B3)
One of the principal
cultural and tourism
hubs of Budapest. A
listed World Heritage site since 1987.
(see Budapest Classic
section)
Great Market Hall
9
(map: B3)
In 2013 this was selected as the
best market in Europe. Built in
1896, at the time it was an internationally recognized state-ofthe-art market hall.
(see Budapest for Gourmets
section)
Hungarian State Opera House (map: B2)
The 130-year-old building is the jewel in the crown of
Andrássy Avenue. Can be visited for evening performances as well as daytime opera tours of its magnificent halls. (see Budapest Culture section)
Széchenyi Thermal
Bath (map: C2)
7
4 |
April – October 2016
Nicknamed Szecska, this is
the largest bathing complex
in all of Europe. Its medi­
cinal waters are tapped from
1246 metres and arrive at
the surface at a temperature
of 76 °C. (see City of Baths
section)
Budapest Zoo
(map: C2)
Voted one of the six most attractive historical monument zoos in
the world, it pulls in the largest
number of visitors in the capital.
(see Budapest for Kids section)
3 Matthias Church
(map: A2)
The finest church in Budapest stands
out on the Buda side. Besides its
important ecclesiastical functions it
is also a regular venue for concerts.
(see Budapest Classic section)
4
Heroes’ Square (map: C2)
Where elegant Andrássy Avenue
ends and popular City Park begins
is where we find this most grandiose of squares. (see Budapest
Classic section)
Dohány Street Synagogue (map: B3)
The largest synagogue in Europe, around which an active religious and
cultural life thrives throughout the year. (see Budapest Classic section)
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest
Hotel of the Year 2015
in 5-star superior category
Modern and luxurious, the Kempinski Hotel Corvinus is a short walk from the Danube and the
main attractions, right in the heart of Budapest,
in the pedestrian zone.
In its boldly contemporary, generously spacious building it offers 349 elegant rooms, including 33 chic suites with spacious bathrooms,
high-tech infotainment system, free WIFI internet access, fully air-conditioned.
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest has
become the lifestyle and gastronomy hub of
the city. It boasts a stunning fully re-vamped
ground floor with remarkable culinary attractions such as ÉS Bisztró - serving Hungarian
and Viennese cuisine -, the new ÉS Deli, Blue
Fox The Bar for inventive, locally inspired yet
cosmopolitan cocktails, and the not to be
missed Nobu, one of the world’s most sought
after Japanese fusion restaurants. The Living
Room draws inspiration from Budapest’s unique
“Kaffeehaus” culture, with rich coffees, fine teas,
delectable cake selection and champagne.
Kempinski Corvinus also operates Kempinski The Spa and the unique Kempinski Gallery,
which specialises in modern Hungarian art.
1051 Budapest, Erzsébet tér 7-8.
Tel.:+361 429 3777
E-mail: [email protected]
www.kempinski.com/en/budapest
Perfect for leisure and business travellers alike,
Budapest Airport Hotel STÁCIÓ Wellness and
Conference is a Mediterranean-style hotel situated only 2.5 miles (4 km) from Budapest Airport (BUD) with a shuttle service in operation
24 hours a day.
Being an airport hotel, Stáció offers an early
bird breakfast, soundproof rooms with blackout curtains, express check-out and complimentary wifi service.
Stáció also offers a great variety of wellness
services: pool with adventure elements, jacuzzi,
Finnish sauna, infra sauna, steam bath, sea climate room, plunge pool, Kneipp stepping basin,
heated relaxation banks.
STÁCIÓ****superior
Resort Style Airport Hotel
Hotel of the Year 2015
in 4-star superior category
Wellness, conference and airport
hotel services all in one place
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Hotel Stáció provides its business guests
with professional conference services in six fully
equipped conference rooms.
2220 Vecsés, Széchenyi u. 20.
Tel.: +36 29 353 053
E-mail: [email protected]
http://airporthotelstacio.hu
budapest fortissimo
■
April – October 2016
| 5
Programmes
Programmes brought to you by Hertz Rent a Car
Budapest programmes
»April
1–3 April
National Táncház
Festival and Fair
(folk dance festival)
Papp László Budapest
»May
6–8 May
Rosalia Festival
Welcoming summer with a
glass of rosé and sparkling
wine
Sportarena, Fonó Music House,
Gesztenyéskert
Fáklya Club
www.rosalia.hu
tanchaztalalkozo.hu
12–15 May
Gourmet Festival
Millenáris Park
sziget.hu/gourmetfesztival
18–22 May
2. International Nature
Film Festival
Gödöllő (30 km north of
Budapest)
8–10 April
Oldtimer weekend
Hungarian Railway Museum
Park
www.oldtimershow.hu
8–24 April
36. Budapest Spring Festival
The programme involves many
»June
10 June–20 August
Budapest Summer Festival
Margaret Island and Városmajor Open-air Stages
www.szabadter.hu
15–26 June
Wagner in Budapest 2016
Müpa Budapest, Béla Bartók
National Concert Hall
www.mupa.hu
www.godollofilmfest.com
22 May
21. Coca Cola Wake Your
Body Women’s Running
Gala
25 June
VinAgora WineGala
New York Palace, Boscolo
Conference Centre
www.borgala.hu
womensrun.runinbudapest.com
»July
of the arts
www.bsf.hu
16–17 April
31. Telekom Vivicittá
Spring Half Marathon
4 July – 1 August
Vajdahunyadvár Summer
Music Festival
City Park, Vajdahunyadvár
vajdahunyad.hu
www.runinbudapest.com
22 April – 31 July
Picasso Exhibition
Hungarian National Gallery
www.mng.hu
6 |
April – October 2016
16–17 July
Red Bull Air Race
Above the Danube between
Pest and Buda
www.redbullairrace.com
www.hertz.hu, [email protected], Tel.: +36-1 296-0999, +36-1 296-0997
april–october 2016
»October
22–24 July
Formula 1
Hungarian Grand Prix
7–23 October
CAFE Budapest
Contemporary
Arts Festival
Hungaroring
hungaroring.hu
8–10 July
International Palace Games
Knights in period costumes
perform castle tournaments,
medieval fair, crafting,
dance shows
Visegrád (40 km north of
Budapest, Danube bend)
www.cafebudapestfest.hu
21–23 October
15. International
Liszt Festival
20 August
National Holiday
All-day programmes at the
Gödöllő Royal Palace
www.kiralyikastely.hu
banks of the Danube ending
with fireworks
www.palotajatekok.hu
from the end of August
Jewish Cultural Festival
www.jewishfestival.hu
»September
»August
2–4 September
SzeptEmber Feszt – Gastronomic and Cultural Festival
21–23 October
Pig Slaughter
Sausage Festival
Népliget
10–17 August
Sziget Festival
Óbuda Shipyard Island
sziget.hu/fesztival
www.szeptemberfeszt.hu
8–11 September
25. Budapest Wine Festival
Buda Castle
18–21 August
Festival of Folk Arts
Buda Royal Palace
mestersegekunnepe.hu
Hungarian Railway
Museum Park
www.kolbaszfeszt.hu
www.aborfesztival.hu
16–18 September
National Galopp
vagta.hu
16–18 September
Sweet Days – Chocolate
and Candy Festival
edesnapok.hu
budapest fortissimo
■
April – October 2016
| 7
Classic
budapest
classic
Budapest holds a front-ranking position among the most attractive
cities of the world. It successfully combines a centuries-old architectural
and cultural heritage with the latest features of modern life.
DON’T MISS THIS!
Insider
tip
BUDA CASTLE PALACE
1st district, Szent György tér 2 (map: B3)
As one of the symbols of the country, this area has
witnessed wars and conquests from the 13th to the
20th century. Occupied by the Ottomans, then
Habsburgs, the Castle Palace has been razed to
the ground three times but always rebuilt in the
architectural style of the age. Its current Classicist
form was given at the end of the Second World War.
The Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest
History Museum are housed here.
www.mng.hu, www.btm.hu
8 |
April – October 2016
Scattered throughout the
city, one will come across the
‘guardians of Budapest’, carved
lions, some with severe, some with
gentler countenances, all radiating
a sense of dignity and authority.
Pairs of lions guard the entrances
to important buildings, most are
to be observed in the Royal Palace
grounds, but without doubt the
most famous are the four magnificent beasts on Chain Bridge.
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Classic
CHAIN BRIDGE (map: B3)
Did You Know?
The capital’s first bridge, a historical monument,
has attracted many tourists to Budapest: photographs or film of it illuminated at night, with the
imposing Buda Castle rising in the background,
make for a breathtaking sight. Count István
Széchenyi commissioned William Tierney Clark
to design the bridge and engineer Adam Clark
(no relation) to build it. Construction lasted from
1839–1849. The bridge did not escape the destruction of the Second World War, and it was rebuilt
in 1949, on its 100th anniversary.
…that a 19th century urban planning concept would have seen a navigable canal
built where the Grand Boulevard (120 years
old this year) now stands, complete with a
link to the Danube at Soroksár? Where today trams number 4 and 6 carry 200,000
passengers a day, the scrapped plan had
been for gondolas to ferry people about.
CITADELLA
Gellérthegy (map: B3)
The Citadel sits atop Gellért Hill, 140 meters
above the Danube, from where the finest panorama of the city unfolds. Towering over the fortification is one of the much debated symbols of
the city, the 14-m-high (40 meters together with
the plinth) Liberation Monument, with a female
figure brandishing a palm branch of victory above
chain bridge
10 |
April – October 2016
her head, attended by two other works, allegories
of progress and the battle against evil. The pre­
decessor of today’s structure was the observatory
of the Pest Royal University, which stood on the
site in the first half of the 19th century.
OUR PICK
DOHÁNY STREET SYNAGOGUE
7th district, Dohány utca 2 (map: C3)
A slice of the exotic Orient in the heart of
Budapest. The building, constructed from
Classics
white and red brick, richly ornamented
with ceramics and reflecting a ByzantineMoorish style, is not only one of the most
imposing monuments in Budapest but
also the largest synagogue in Europe.
Besides traditional services it also hosts
concerts.
w
ww.greatsynagogue.hu
FISHERMAN’S
BASTION
1st district, Szentháromság tér
(map: A3)
A relatively youthful structure next to
Matthias Church. Building started in
1895 on the designs of Frigyes Schulek.
It was sited on the place of the medieval
fish market and the walls protected by the
guild of fishermen, whence the name. The
neo-Romanesque bastion has only ever
had a decorative function: it is a popular
place to look out over Pest.
fisherman's bastion
Hungary’s first traditional Lebanese
restaurant, offering genuine dishes and
beverages in an authentic atmosphere.
Open daily 12:00-23:00
TRADITIONAL HALAL DISHES
MEZZE SELECTION
COZY TERRACE ∙ SISHA
Buddha-Bar Hotel Budapest Klotild Palace
1052 Budapest, Váci u. 34. (entrance from Kígyó u.)
Tel.: +36 1 799 7303 · [email protected]
www.buddhabarhotel.hu
Member of Mellow Mood Hotels
budapest fortissimo
■
April – October 2016
| 11
Classic
parliament
PARLIAMENT
5th district, Kossuth tér 1–3 (map: B2)
heroes' square
circular colonnades extend to both left and right
of the column. Between the pillars of the colonnade are figures of the ‘greats’ from Hungarian
history, while the butt piers are embellished with
emblematic sculptural ensembles (work, welfare,
knowledge, honour and peace). The Tomb of the
Unknown Soldier is positioned in front of the
monument. The magnificent buildings of the Art
Gallery and the Museum of Fine Arts to the right
and left of the monument enhance the fine
architectural entity of Heroes’ Square.
Permanent home of the National Assembly
of Hungary, this neo-Gothic building on the
left bank of the river Danube was constructed
between 1884–1904. It has breathtaking dimensions: 691 rooms, chambers and halls, 268 m in
length, the dome stands 96 m above water level.
Its most precious artwork is Mihály Munkácsy’s
dramatic painting The Conquest. The coronation regalia (Crown of St. Stephen, orb, scepInsider
tre, Renaissance sword of state) are
tip
kept here. During recent reconstruction work on Kossuth Square several
new functions designed for visitors
Visit the
were inaugurated opposite the buildmuseums of
ing’s north wing: exhibitions, a café
Andrássy Avenue:
and gift shop in the Visitor Centre.
Ferenc Hopp
latogatokozpont.parlament.hu
HEROES’ SQUARE
14th district, Hősök tere (map: C2)
The most spectacular square in the
capital, sited at the entrance to City
Park. Anyone coming up Andrássy
Boulevard sees from afar the 36-mhigh column in the centre of the Millennium memorial, on top of which
is a statue of the Archangel Gabriel
holding the Hungarian Holy Crown
and apostolic double cross. Quarter12 |
April – October 2016
Museum of
Eastern Asiatic
Art • Ferenc
Liszt Memorial
Museum
and Research
Centre • House
of Terror Museum
• Kogart House •
Zoltán Kodály
Memorial
Museum and
Archives
HUNGARIAN ACADEMY
OF SCIENCES
5th district, Széchenyi tér 9
(map: B3)
The oldest and most significant
building on Széchenyi Square. Its
perfect neo-Renaissance design
came from the studio of Berlin
architect Stüler, and it was built
between 1862–64. The magnificent
Gala Hall decorated with pictures
by Károly Lotz is also used for
staging concerts. There are lecture
and session rooms, and a valuable
scientific library. Allegorical sculptures in the imposing foyer and on
the façade are the work of Miklós
Izsó and Emil Wolf.
www.mta.hu
Classics
MATTHIAS CHURCH
1st district, Szentháromság tér
(map: A3)
Budapest’s finest and most celebrated
Catholic church, which – from the
Pest side – dominates the picturesque
Castle district scene. The church was
built in several stages between the
13-15th centuries, with its current
neo-Gothic form given in 1896. Frescoes and stained glass windows were
made by some of the period’s finest
and most renowned artists (Károly
Lotz, Mihály Zichy, Bertalan Székely).
After reconstruction lasting nearly 10
years, Matthias Church can again be
visited in all its original glory. Besides
its religious life, the church is also the
location for an ecclesiastical collection, a new visitor centre and regular
concerts.
www.matyas-templom.hu
One of the most beautiful
tram routes in the world
Taking a ride on the No. 2 tram could be called
one of the finest and cheapest city sightseeing
programmes in Budapest, because by travelling
all the way down the Danube embankment, from
Jászai Mari Square to the National Theatre, one
stops at or has a view to many of the most important sights in Pest and Buda, all for the price of a
BKV ticket and in just 20 minutes.
budapest fortissimo
■
April – October 2016
| 13
Classic
ON THE TRAIL OF
WORLD HERITAGE SITES
Buda Castle Quarter
A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. The
area harmonizes the medieval built heritages
with buildings from the 17-18th century. There
are three principal sections to this protected
historical area: Buda Castle Palace, Szent György
Square and the historical residential quarter with
Matthias Church.
danube&gellért hill
ST. STEPHEN’S BASILICA
5th district, Szent István tér (map: B3)
The 96-m-high cupola of the Basilica, which
was consecrated in 1905 and is the largest
church in the city, is visible from many points
around Budapest. Built in neo-Renaissance
style, it guards the most important relic of
the Hungarians: the mummified hand, the
Holy Right, of founder of the state King St.
Stephen. The Basilica also regularly hosts
music events. Open: Mon-Sat: 9 am-7 pm,
Sun: 7.45 am-7 pm.
en.bazilika.biz
VAJDAHUNYAD CASTLE
14th district, Városliget (City Park)
(map: C2)
Budapest Danube embankment
The listed segment of the Danube embankment
runs from Margaret Bridge to Liberty (Szabadság)
Bridge. This approximately 60-hectare area has
enjoyed World Heritage protection since 1987.
Its buildings and districts recount the history of
the capital from the early settlement of the area
to today.
Andrássy Avenue and
historical surroundings
The 2-km-long Andrássy Avenue and Millennium
Underground Railway that runs its entire length,
which is similarly listed by UNESCO, link City
Park with the downtown. Andrássy Avenue and
its historical surroundings, including the Opera
House and Nagymező Street (“Pest Broadway”),
were added to the World Heritage list in 2002.
The historical architectural ensemble
Insider
rising over the small island on City Park
tip Millenary Park is a favourite recreation area
for locals. It has playgrounds and the buildLake was built in 1896 to commemorate the
ings within the park boast permanent and
1000th anniversary of the foundation of the
temporary exhibitions. Adjacent to it, a shopstate. Its popular name is taken from the prinping mall and several cafes, restaurants can be
cipal building in the group, a copy of the main
found in the pedestrian zone of Lövőház street.
façade of Vajdahunyad Castle, Transylvania,
today in Romania. The buildings are designed
to trace the evolution of a thousand years of
Hungarian architecture, from Romanesque
(Chapel of Ják) right up to Baroque (Hungarian
AQUINCUM
Agricultural Museum). The castle is a popular
3rd district, Szentendrei út 135
excursion point and venue for culinary and
There is a place in north Óbuda where you can
music festivals.
travel back in time – Aquincum was founded by the
Romans as the capital of the Province of Pannonia.
www.vajdahunyadcastle.com
OUR PICK
14 |
April – October 2016
Classics
matthias church
Among the two-thousand-year-old ruins
one can clearly make out the amphitheatre,
lapidarium, aqueduct and Roman baths. The
museum's permanent collection includes the
world-famous Aquincum organ.
www.aquincum.hu
HOUSE OF HUNGARIAN
ART NOUVEAU
5th district, Honvéd utca 3 (map: B2)
Sylph-like female bodies holding aloft a
lamp, a comb decorated in vine leaves,
a butterfly hairpin, dresses awaiting
the next glittering ball, a fine bedroom
dressing table with mirror. The scent of
coffee, rich biscuits, peace and quiet. A
place where time stands still. This is the
former Bedő House, the remarkable Art
Nouveau facade of which – covered in
Zsolnay ceramic flowers, with Herzl-style
coloured glass windows and asymmetric
balconies – rivals the wildly poetic creations of Gaudi in Barcelona, and in which
a permanent collection preserves an
authentic inter-war period flavour.
www.magyarszecessziohaza.hu
Hotel Hungaria
City Center a great way to make the
most of your stay
Modern hotel with a centuryold tradition, located in the
business and cultural
centre of Budapest, just
a two-minute walk from
the Eastern Railway Station.
Experience the buzzing
atmosphere & nightlife
of the city while staying
in the country’s biggest hotel.
Phone: (+36-1) 889 4400
E-mail: [email protected]
danubiushotels.hu/hungaria
budapest fortissimo
■
April – October 2016
| 15
Culture
Culture brought to you by Hertz Rent a Car www.hertz.hu,
[email protected], Tel.: +36-1 296-0999, +36-1 296-0997
budapest
culture
Budapest is a city of values and emotions, where festivals are as
much about traditions as fascinating new surprises. The events of the
Budapest Spring Festival and CAFe Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival
introduce visitors to a colourful and varied cultural scene in one of
Europe’s most exciting capitals.
Vibrantly colourful and diverse
Past years have brought about important changes
in the cultural life of Budapest. In addition to
the beautiful, 130-year-old Opera House, and the
region's first large centre of the performing arts,
Müpa Budapest – whose Béla Bartók National
Concert Hall is one of the most acoustically
perfect concert venues in the world –, the freshly
renovated Liszt Academy, which was founded
by Ferenc (Franz) Liszt, welcomes visitors again,
as does Erkel Theatre. The recently opened
Budapest Music Center is one of Europe's latest
16 |
April – October 2016
establishments dedicated to contemporary art
and it also gives home to the institute of composer Péter Eötvös.
Budapest’s cultural milieu owes much to the way
its artistic institutions coordinate their events,
and it is by relying on these synergies that the
Budapest Spring Festival (staged every April) and
CAFe Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival (every
October) have planned their programmes. Both
festivals are “Gesamtkunstwerk” city festivals,
with more than 150 events at over 40 venues.
MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME
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12 fashionable, city center located hotels in every category at great rates
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H-1051 Budapest, Vörösmarty tér 5. · Tel.: +36 1 413 2062 · E-mail: [email protected]
Culture
Culture brought to you by Hertz Rent a Car www.hertz.hu,
[email protected], Tel.: +36-1 296-0999, +36-1 296-0997
CULTURE DOSE
BUDAPEST OPERETTA THEATRE
A38 SHIP
6th district, Nagymező utca 19 (map: B2)
11th district, Buda side of Petőfi Bridge
(map: C4)
It’s a celebration every performance night in
this 120-year-old historical building (the onetime renowned Orfeum), where the auditorium
is illuminated by the brilliance of century-old
chandeliers and the dress circle retains its
gilded stucco decoration. On the other hand,
the regular clientele is increasingly youthful!
Fans of the genres await the latest operettas
and musicals with bated breath.
One of the capital’s most popular and original
cultural spaces, which opened initially as a
concert venue and restaurant in a Ukrainian
barge built in 1968, to which an independent
gallery has been added only recently.
www.a38.hu
ART GALLERY (Műcsarnok)
www.operett.hu/en
14th district, Heroes’ Square (map: C2)
The largest exhibition gallery in the country,
a defining neo-Classical structure in Heroes’
Square. It does not have its own collection
but its regular temporary exhibitions feature
mainly the contemporary arts and the works of
artistic groups from all over the world.
www.mucsarnok.hu
BUDAPEST MUSIC CENTER (BMC)
8th district, Mátyás utca 8 (map: B3)
The concert hall with superb acoustics belonging to the complex positioned in the heart
of Budapest’s cultural and academic quarter
was built specifically as a chamber venue (the
first of its kind in Budapest), devoting particular attention to classic chamber music.
bmc.hu
HUNGARIAN NATIONAL GALLERY
1st district, Buda Castle Palace,
wings B, C, D (map: B3)
Open: Tue-Sun: 10 am-6 pm
Since it houses the most comprehensive collection of Hungarian fine art, it ranks as one
of the largest museums in the entire country.
Anyone interested in strolling through a medi-
Insider Budapest ArtWeek
tip
(19–24 April)
The week for art lovers in Budapest. 6 days – 50 cultural locations – 60
programmes: studio tours, gallery tours,
exhibitions, open art studio afternoon,
guided tours, workshops.
www.bpartweek.hu
BÁLNA BUDAPEST
9th district, Fővám tér
11-12 (map: B4)
Bálna is a commercial,
cultural, entertainment
and catering centre.
It’s a meeting point
and experience venue.
It links the city centre
with Inner Ferencváros,
the tourist zone with
the gastro-zone.
www.balnabudapest.hu
18 |
April – October 2016
Culture
Culture brought to you by Hertz Rent a Car www.hertz.hu,
[email protected], Tel.: +36-1 296-0999, +36-1 296-0997
hungarian state opera
eval lapidarium or among late Gothic triptychs,
yet who would also like to view 19-20th century
Hungarian painting and sculpture, will find
everything here in one place!
www.mng.hu
HUNGARIAN STATE OPERA
6th district, Andrássy út 22 (map: B2)
One of the most imposing opera houses of its
day, the Budapest Opera House opened in 1884.
Its neo-Classical and neo-Renaissance design
is the work of the greatest Hungarian architect
of the 19th century, Miklós Ybl. The grandiose
lobby, elegant staircase and horseshoe-shaped
auditorium are important tourist sights in
themselves. Guest conductors at the Opera
House have included such world greats as Gustav Mahler and Otto Klemperer.
www.opera.hu
Works by leading classic and
contemporary
representatives of
tip
Hungarian and international photography are displayed in Mai Manó
House (www.maimano.hu) and the
Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center (www.capacenter.hu) named
after the Hungarian-born photographer,
located in Nagymező Street famed for
its theatres.
Insider
20 |
April – October 2016
millenary park
LISZT ACADEMY
7th district, Wesselényi utca 52 (map: C2)
With a history stretching back 138 years, the
world-famous university founded by Ferenc (Franz)
Liszt, the institution of Hungarian music higher
education, has been located in this magnificent Art
Nouveau structure (a key venue of domestic concert
life) for 106 years and is once again open to concertgoers after nearly a decade of restoration that has
rekindled all its former grandeur.
www.zeneakademia.hu
TRAFÓ – HOUSE OF
CONTEMPORARY ARTS
9th district, Liliom u. 41 (map: C4)
The venue for intellectual adventure, inspiration,
multiculturalism and performances that get the
brain cells working. What was in the early 20th
century a transformer station is today the most
important presentation space for Hungarian and
foreign contemporary companies, where dance,
concert and stage performances, new circus and
exhibitions follow one another.
www.trafo.hu
PEST VIGADÓ CONCERT HALL
5th district, Vigadó tér 2 (map: B3)
The building was inaugurated with a ball in 1833.
However, besides the frivolities it was always a representative of high culture – at that time the only
Culture
Did You Know?
…the totally renovated Liszt
Academy of Music, a master­
piece of Hungarian Art Nouveau design, was awarded a
Európa Nostra prize in 2015
in the protection of cultural
heritage category?
…the Hospital in the Rock under Buda Castle features the
largest number of waxworks
figures displayed in Central
Europe.
...Hungarian Museum of Trade
and Tourism (in Óbuda) is
the only such museum in the
world, with a significant collection of catering-industry
and trade history relics, menus, menu cards, old photos,
promotion materials, etc.
concert hall in Pest. It attracted figures such as Johann Strauss
Jnr., Mascagni, Dvořak, Debussy and Arthur Rubinstein.
www.vigado.hu
MÜPA BUDAPEST
9th district, Komor Marcell utca 1 (map: C4)
The Müpa is a bold architectural statement on the bank of the
Danube, serving as the home base of the Budapest Festival Orchestra,
Ludwig Museum and performances of the National Dance Theatre.
The venue brings together the many and varied disciplines of the arts
in unique fashion by providing a home for classical, contemporary,
popular and world music, not to mention jazz and opera, as well as
contemporary circus, dance, literature and film. www.mupa.hu
OUR PICK
AKVÁRIUM CLUB
5th district, Erzsébet tér 12 (map: B3)
Multiple concert venues, unbeatable milieu, cutting edge lighting and sound systems, fantastic restaurant and plenty of programmes for young and old alike. www.akvariumklub.hu
Budapest Map
What souvenir
to bring home?
bottle of Hungarian
•A
wine (sweet Aszú, a
Bull’s Blood or a white
furmint are all a great
choices).
• An iconic Rubik cube
or a bit more pricy
but absolutely unique
Gömböc. This latter is a Hungarian invention, the only object on Earth which has
one stable and one unstable equilibrium
point...
• Typical Hungarian products include porcelain of Herend, Halas lace or clothes
decorated with beautiful matyó motives.
• A pack of paprika powder, the symbolic
spice of Hungarian cuisine.
• Such Hungarian delicacies as goose liver
or salami are great for gifts, too.
budapest fortissimo
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April – October 2016
| 23
Culture
Accessible
tourism
in Budapest
Organizing a memorable holiday in Budapest doesn’t stop at booking a flight
and a room in a wheelchair-accessible
hotel. Obviously, the more programmes
that are fixed, the more relaxed the stay
will be: so do not hesitate to plan the
following during your Budapest visit.
• Accessible thermal baths: the two
most famous venues, Gellért Thermal
Bath with its majestic Art Nouveau
building and Széchenyi Thermal Bath, are both wheelchair-accessible, as are Lukács, Rudas and Dandár
Baths, to mention a few.
• Major attractions of Budapest such as the Parliament, St Stephen’s Basilica, Gellért Hill Cave Chapel, Fisherman’s Bastion or Margaret Island can be visited by all.
• If you are planning cultural programmes during your stay, you surely can count on the State Opera House,
the Palace of Arts, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hungarian National Museum.
For more information visit: http://budapest.gotohungary.com/accessible-budapest
TOP FESTIVALS
8–24 ,
l
apri6
201
7–23 r,
octobe
2016
catch-pop stringstrong concert
ferenc snétberger
record release concert
Budapest Spring Festival
CAFe Budapest
Hungary’s major cultural arts festival awaits visitors with a programme that involves many of the
arts, with events in classical music, opera, jazz and
pop, world music, dance, theatre and the visual
arts. With the best Hungarian performers and real
world stars, the Budapest Spring Festival is a truly
special occasion, presenting Hungarian and world
premieres of musical and theatrical productions and
co-productions with parter institutions throughout
its seventeen days.
Hungary’s most important contemporary arts festival
is a regular autumn celebration of contemporary and
progressive art. For seventeen days, contemporary culture will again make a spectacular presence in Budapest, with a rich programme at Müpa, the Liszt Academy, the Budapest Music Center, the Budapest Jazz
Club, Trafó House of Contemporary Art, the Várkert
Bazár (Castle Garden Bazaar), Ludwig Museum, Bálna
Budapest, the Akvárium Klub and the city's theatres,
exhibition halls, ruin pubs and public spaces.
www.bsf.hu
24 |
April – October 2016
www.cafebudapestfest.hu
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Hotel Residence**** superior Ózon
Hotel of the Year 2015 in 4-star superior category, countryside
WE ARE AT THE SUMMIT
OF EXPERIENCES
The highest point of Hungary not only offers
the beauty of nature and fresh air of its subalpine climate but a 79-room hotel with unique atmosphere, embraced by the woods of the Kékes
Mountain. This grand building with a breathtaking view of the Kékestető peak welcomes guests
and visitors with various recreational options
on the 3.2-hectare mountain ridge covered with
ancient trees.
Over recent years the hotel has been presented with several prestigious awards: Hungarian
Tourism Quality Award 2013, Superbrands Award
2013, 2014 and 2015, Traveller’s Choice Award
2015 in multiple categories.
Whether it’s a romantic relaxing weekend or
family revitalization, you will find everything here
in one place. Head for the Mátra in every season!
3233 Mátraháza, Üdülőtelep 2.
Tel.: +36 37 506 000
E-mail: [email protected]
http://ozon.hotel-residence.hu
architectural treasure Casati Budapest Hotel is a
more than 300-year-old, beautifully refurbished
architectural treasure. The hotel has 25 uniquely
designed, spacious rooms.
unique design Our guests are encouraged to
choose between the four room and suite styles:
elegant CLASSIC, bohemian COOL, pure NATURAL and airy HEAVEN.
excellent location Located in the centre of Budapest, right between elegant Andrássy Avenue
and the popular ruin pubs, the main sights, fine
restaurants and lively culture hub of the city are
all within walking distance.
personal touch Since 2012, we have featured
among the best 10 hotels on tripadvisor.com,
and we have 9.4/10 reward points on booking.
com.
Casati Budapest Hotel
Hotel of the
Year 2015 in 3-star
superior category
“A hidden gem in the
heart of Budapest”
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
eco-friendly In 2014, we were granted the Green
Hotel prize by the Hungarian Hotel Association.
H-1061 Budapest, Paulay Ede utca 31.
Tel.: + 361 343 1198
E-mail: [email protected]
www.casatibudapesthotel.com
budapest fortissimo
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April – October 2016
| 25
Top 10 News
TOP 10 news
about budapest
7
son of sau l
city of design
small grand
hotel budapest
1
Budapest has been named
“City of Design” by UNESCO! In December 2015 the
Hungarian capital was chosen
as one of the most creative
cities in the world – and the
first in the Central European
Region to win this title after
such cities as Melbourne and
Shanghai.
2
Hotel Moments is the
latest Budapest hotel,
which opened in March 2016.
The 4-star hotel located in
the World Heritage site of
Andrássy Avenue, a few steps
from the State Opera House,
has 99 elegantly furnished
rooms.
3
In 2016 the number of
Michelin-star rated restaurants in Budapest has
risen to 5! Costes was the first
to win the prestigious award,
followed by Onyx, Borkonyha
(WineKitchen), Tanti and in
March 2016 Costes Dowtown.
26 |
April – October 2016
bubi
4
Spring 2016 will also see
the opening of another
4-star hotel, Small Grand Hotel Budapest with 107 rooms,
combining the familiarity of a
small hotel with the fabulous
atmosphere of a grand hotel. All this in the very heart
of Budapest, a few hundred
meters from the Great Synagogue and St. Stephen’s Basilica.
5
BUBI (Budapest Bike)
has expanded its network
of public bikes, so that today
1150 bikes can be rented at
98 stations across the city.
Jump on one of the green
two-wheelers of this environmentally-friendly bike sharing
system!
6
2016 is the Year of Gastro Adventures in Hungary, so check out the myriad
programmes in the capital
and in the country at www.
gotohungary.com!
Jamie Oliver, the bestknown chef in the world,
is opening a Jamie’s Italian
restaurant in Budapest. What
better site could he have
chosen than the heart of the
Castle District? Check out this
fancy and affordable gastro
venue from spring 2016. 8
Sziget, probably the
most famous festival of
Hungary, was again named
Best Major European Festival
in 2015, so be sure to book
your hotel and ticket to this
wonderful event held on one
of the islands of the Danube,
attracting thousands from all
over the world.
9
Tourists and inhabitants
can enjoy the sight of ever
more wall paintings in Budapest: the latest one features
the Miracle Stag, an important
motif in Hungarian mythology, in Régiposta Street, just a
few steps from the pedestrian
shopping zone of Váci Street.
10
In 2016 the Hungarian
film “Son of Saul” won
the Oscar for the best foreign
language film. This achievement is again drawing attention to Hungarian film production, as an amazing number
of American blockbusters are
shot in Budapest.
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Active
budapest
active
Getting acquainted with a country, its habits and people is not always
possible by just taking part in a sightseeing programme. Instead, one
has to join the sort of unique and fun programmes as those listed below.
It is truly worth booking one or two extra nights and discovering why Budapest is becoming such a fashionable and sought-after destination
for foreigners… and Hungarians too.
OUR PICK
Painting class
You really do not have to be talented to make your own replica of a Van
Gogh or the artwork of a famous Hungarian painter. A truly unique
Hungarian initiative, FessNeki, will provide you with accessories, artists
helping you as instructors and everything else needed to create a brilliant
painting – all the while having a great time. It’s a perfect way to tap into
your creative side while sipping a glass of delicious Hungarian wine!
fessneki.hu/en
28 |
April – October 2016
Unconventional
sightseeing
More and more companies
are offering out-of-theordinary sightseeing walks,
where unknown treasures of
the city are showcased based
on different themes. These
tours provide a great chance
for those wanting to discover
the hidden side of Budapest
and get off the beaten track.
Some of these inspired
guided sightseeing tours
include a treasure hunt, tastings and further tailor-made
elements. Check out the offers of Underguide, Imagine
Budapest, BudapestScenes or
Beyond Budapest!
Active
Cookery courses
Taking a cooking lesson is probably the best way to find
out secrets of Hungarian gastronomy, make new friends
and at the end have a great meal together. The ambiance
of such programmes, the chosen Hungarian specialities
and your active attendance are the key to a memorable
culinary experience. A range of options are at your disposal brought to you by such companies as Taste Hungary,
Chefparade or Gastropolis.
Insider
tip
Budapest, the worldwide
hub of escape rooms
Budapest is known today as the
capital where the largest number
of so-called escape or exit rooms
can be found. If you have never
heard this term, just imagine a
team of 5-6 people (some games
require an even larger group),
locked in a cellar or a room somewhere in Budapest... The group
has exactly 60 minutes to solve
all the problems which lead to the
opening of the door and a sense
of pride and success. The game
requires creativity, logic and team
work, in return guaranteeing an
amazing experience, lots of fun
and complete distraction from
the world outside for a thrilling
60 minutes. It’s impossible to say
how many escape rooms there are
in Budapest, but the number is
certainly above 100 and growing at an amazing pace... Be sure
to try this kind of entertainment,
which is slowly becoming another
landmark of Hungary (warning:
you might become addicted)!
www.trapfactory.hu,
www.parapark.hu,
www.claustrophilia.hu
Chocolate school
Szamos is probably the best known name in Hungary
when talking about marzipan and chocolate. Where
better to learn master techniques and secrets than in
the confectionary, café and chocolate manufacturing
shop in the heart of Budapest, Szamos Gourmet House?
Explore the adventures of making your own handmade
chocolates and fulfil a long-forgotten childhood dream.
www.csokoladeiskola.hu/english.html
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April – October 2016
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Gourmets
budapest for
gourmets
Budapest is a creative city, and not only in the buzzing art and fashion
scene. Gastronomes are reinterpreting Hungarian classics for a 21st century
international audience, locals are redefining and repurposing their environment to give them a whole new lease of life.
Among the bests
Voted ‘Best Bar in the World’ by readers of Lonely
Planet in 2012, the A38 used to be a Ukrainian
barge but has been repurposed as a concert venue,
bar and restaurant. The ruin pubs of Kazinczy
Street lead to the chic wine bars of Gozsdu Udvar,
adjacent to the stately splendour of Andrássy
Avenue, where the palaces might display luxury accessories or hide a ruin pub 2.0 where young people
pour in on a Friday night to sip cocktails amongst
exposed brick walls.
Stars
and others
Due to the growing number of tourists, menus
are almost always available in several languages.
International top restaurants with Michelin stars
(Costes, Onyx, Borkonyha, Tanti, Costes Downtown), traditional or modern Hungarian cuisine
mixed with Mediterranean flavours, English or
Irish pub food, soup bars, Asian or Mexican fast
food, student bars with Balkan food or fancy
burger bars and steak houses await you.
Don’t miss!
➥According to Gault&Millau, the following
restaurants are among the best in town:
Zóna Budapest, Alabárdos, Laci!Konyha!,
Olimpia Vendéglő, Salon Restaurant.
➥The distinguished name of Gundel is
synonymous with the history of Hungarian
gastronomy, while the menu of the elegant
Kárpátia lists classic Hungarian dishes
alongside fine dining of nouvelle Hungarian cuisine.
30 |
April – October 2016
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Gourmets
Ráday Street offers a wide selection of restaurants
in all price ranges, while Liszt Ferenc Square is
known for its idyllic outdoor seating with higher,
but still affordable prices.
Bistro revolution
While ruin pubs are still thriving, the bistro revolution is redefining our relationship with eating
out, craft beer appreciation is a serious pastime
and chic wine bars are giving prestige and recognition to the wide variety of wines that come from
Hungary’s far flung wine regions, introducing
them to Budapest and through her, the world.
Taste Hungarian wines!
Hungary’s 22 wine regions turn out a diverse
range of wines. There is no doubt that the country’s flagship wine is furmint, from which we get
the superb Aszú dessert wine in Tokaj. Varieties also well worth trying are the other native
Hungarian whites (juhfark, kéknyelű, hárslevelű,
leányka), and from the reds Eger and Szekszárd
Bull’s Blood.
2016: Year of Gastro
Adventures in Hungary
The year 2016 is being thematised (again) by
Hungarian Tourism Ltd. to attract the attention of
foreigners and locals to one of the most important
segments of tourism in Hungary: gastro tourism!
Therefore, 2016 is declared the Year of Gastro Adventures highlighting several events, festivals and
programmes in the capital and nationwide.
Budapest boasts such a number of large-scale
gastronomic and wine events that one just has
to pick a date and join the fantastic programmes
organised in an open-air or historic environment, on one of the lively streets of Budapest or
in a charming park in the heart of the city. Some
of them put the focus on typical Hungarian
products (sausages, pálinka or wine, for instance),
some offer the opportunity to get acquainted with
Hungarian cuisine as a whole, including modern
trends, traditional dishes and irresistible Hungaricums (highest quality, typically Hungarian delicacies). Follow us on www.gotohungary.com
Meeting of gourmets
in Budapest
The best chefs from more than 50 countries
battle against each other at the internationallyacknowledged Bocuse d’Or competition, the European final of which is being staged in Budapest
on 10-11 May (www.bocusedorhungary.hu).
The gastronomy of the Hungarian capital is on
the rise: with five Michelin-starred restaurants, it
is the leader in the East Europe region.
➥Budapest is also famous for its
Insider
tip
coffee house culture: in addition
to classic coffee houses, such as the
New York, Szamos, Gerbeaud, Central
or Lotz, you can enjoy invigorating coffee from freshly roasted beans in familyrun coffee shops.
➥You should definitely visit the Great
Market hall, which, according to CNN,
is the most beautiful market in the
world – a treasure box full of Hungarian
food and lifestyle.
budapest fortissimo
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April – October 2016
| 31
Baths
city of
baths
széchenyi
thermal bath
Budapest is a city of medicinal baths. Although baths from Roman times
(2nd century) have been uncovered in Budapest, the true bathing culture was
initiated during the period of Turkish occupation in the 16th and 17th centuries. Even today there are some Turkish baths in the capital, each one a
masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
RELAX AND ENJOY
DANDÁR BATH
Did You Know?
9th district, Dandár utca 3 (map: C4)
…that there are a dozen thermal
spas and baths in Budapest
alone, thus the city is also called
the Spa Capital of the World?
Info about baths and spas:
www.spasbudapest.com
Dandár was built in 1930, and originally functioned as a sanitary
facility. Today it operates as a medicinal spa. Since 2014 it
welcomes guests with five pools (inside and outdoor) alongside
numerous medicinal and wellness services: saunas, massages
and medicinal water fountain.
SZÉCHENYI THERMAL BATH
14th district, Állatkerti körút 9-11 (map: C2)
Széchenyi spa sits right towards the top of the list of must-see sights
in Budapest. With 15 different pools it is not only one of the largest
bathing complexes in Europe but it enjoys a reputation as the spa with
the greatest atmosphere in the capital. Chess players immersed to the
neck in steaming thermal water are as much a feature of the Széchenyi as the open-air pools embraced by the wings of this beautiful old
building, the classical Roman pool halls
and the cavernous saunas. In addition to
traditional medicinal services, the more
than 100-year-old spa and swimming
pool offers guests several other wellness
services at no additional charge, including an exercise room, saunas, aerobics,
and aqua-gymnastics.
GELLÉRT THERMAL
BATH AND SWIMMING POOL
32 |
April – October 2016
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Baths
Insider
tip ➥The Rudas restaurant is a fine dining establishment with a range of dishes
featuring traditional and modern cuisine.
➥The Király Bath escape room represents a real challenge to visitors: adventurers
simply must try the Prisoners of Budapest (budapestprisoner.com) game.
➥For those seeking that extra level of pampering, don’t miss the Palm House in
Széchenyi spa (www.szechenyipalmahaz.hu): this crystal palace is a multifunctional
space with a special microclimate thanks to the lush flora. It is the perfect place for
rest and relaxation.
KIRÁLY THERMAL BATH
GELLÉRT THERMAL BATH AND SWIMMING POOL
2nd district, Fő utca 82–84
(map: B2)
11th district, Kelenhegyi út 4–6
(map: B4)
Construction of the Király Thermal
Bath (450 years old this year) was ini­
tiated by Pasha of Buda Arslan in 1565
and completed by his successor, Sokoli
Mustafa. It is one of the few remaining
monuments from the Turkish times,
receiving visitors in all the original
magnificence of a bathing palace, from
the Ottoman period. In addition to
medical services it also offers guests
numerous other new features including a fitness room built in 2015.
One of the most popular baths for tourists coming to Budapest. The medicinal spring here was already famed in the 13th
century. The medicinal baths and hotel built in Art Nouveau
style opened in 1918, before being expanded with an outdoor
strand area and jacuzzi. The original, 1927 wave machine is
still in operation today and ranks as a major feature around
Europe. The Gellért offers virtually every spa therapy, it has a
fully equipped medicinal baths section (outpatient hospital)
and an inhalatorium, and guests are also welcome to try the
lava stone massage, spa pedicure, chocolate massage, Cleopatra
and herbal baths.
luKÁCS THERMAL BATH
AND SWIMMING POOL
2nd district, Frankel Leó utca
25–29 (map: B2)
The baths already functioned
during the Crusades. During the
Turkish occupation it was the
favourite spa of Pasha Mustafa, and
on the recapture of Buda it became
the property of the treasury. People
came here for treatment from all
over the world, and marble tablets
with inscriptions of gratitude for
successful cures can still be seen
on the walls. Lukács has thermal
pools, swimming and adventure
pools, a wellness section, saunas and
a variety of services. The recently
established open-air workout room
is on the roof terrace.
RUDAS THERMAL BATH
AND SWIMMING POOL
OUR PICK
RUDAS THERMAL BATH
AND SWIMMING POOL
1st district, Döbrentei tér 9
(map: B3)
The constantly upgraded Rudas is a
perfect blend of long-established and
modern bathing traditions. The core
of today’s spa was established during
the Turkish occupation in the 16th
century, and the Turkish bath, that is,
the currently operating Rudas, is nearly 500 years old. An octagonal pool
is sited under the characteristic Turkish dome (diameter 10 m)
supported on 8 pillars. Medicinal waters can be taken in the
pump-room in cure form. Rudas is open to both sexes on certain
days, most notably during late night sessions on the weekends
that are an unmissable experience for any visitor to Budapest.
The panorama pool in the wellness section constructed a year
ago provides guests with a magnificent view of Budapest.
budapest fortissimo
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April – October 2016
| 33
Youth
budapest
for youth
Ruin pubs and escape game rooms, alternative concert venues, Europe’s
best festival, crazy pubbing on the Beerbike, sightseeing by TukTuk –
young people of the world have discovered Budapest.
Did You Know?
MUCH TO DO – LESS TO SPEND
…in 2015 Sziget festival won – for
the second time – the prestigious
European Festival Award, becoming Europe’s Best Major Festival
again after 2011.
…according to a recent report
from Lonely Planet, Budapest
is among the 10 best places in
Europe for a family holiday.
…you can ride the Continent’s oldest metro in Budapest. The yellow
metro line No. 1 (also called the
Millennium Underground) started
operating in 1896.
Budapest still counts as one of the cheapest European cities. This
means Happy Hour nonstop, but it gets even better! The Basilica and
the lobby of the Opera House and the Liszt Academy are free to visit
and The Palace of Arts is also free to explore. Climbing up Gellért
Hill will only cost dedication – but once you have reached the Citadel
you will be rewarded with the best views, which are priceless. Art
lovers will spot countless galleries and antique shops on Falk Miksa
Street that are worth popping into. Others can go on free walking
tours that start daily from Vörösmarty Square. Sporty types will value Margaret Island’s 5.3-km-long jogging track. Using public transport can be an attraction in itself: the Millennium underground,
tram No. 2 and the public boat services don’t cost much either.
...the RiverRide floating bus is the
only vehicle for tourists in Budapest that can splash into the water
and then drive out of the Danube
safe and sound. The tour takes
approx. 1 hour 45 minutes.
34 |
April – October 2016
LIVELY AT NIGHT
Magnificent bridges provide an amazing backdrop for atmospheric
parties on ships – as well as for open-air clubs like Park, Zöld Pardon,
Romkert, Kiosk, Cha-cha-cha or Holdudvar. On mild summer
nights crowds take over once abandoned courtyards now called
‘ruin pubs’, grand palaces and casinos are transformed into dance
floors, schools function as cool clubs and cinemas become bars.
Party people from all over the world dive in to the Sparty, the hottest
event of the weekend organized regularly throughout the year. Music, laser and light shows take classical thermal baths to a whole new
level. A38 is the old Ukrainian cargo ship which was converted into a
floating concert hall/bar. You might have heard about it since Lonely
Planet chose it as the best bar in the world.
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Youth
EXPLORE BUDAPEST
iN NEW WAYS
Try a completely new means of transport and
unconventional vehicles. Here are some recommendations:
Buda-Castle Funicular The Funicular (Sikló in
Hungarian) transporting passengers to the Castle District
is a short, three-minute ride to and from Buda Castle, worth
trying not only for the great views but also because it is a
historical carriage operating since 1870.
Budapest TukTuk Dolce Vita on three wheels, as
they call the experience! Opt for a “simple” tour of the city
enjoying the lively and bohemian style of this charming
tricycle or choose a customized tour or one of the offers
taking in extra programmes such as a drink in a rooftop bar
or a classy dinner.
PediCab Budapest A pedal coach service is the
man-powered version using environmentally friendly rickshaws to discover the metropolis.
Budapest on two wheels The question
remains: why walk if you can ride? Ride a bike, as on tours
organized by Budapest Bike, rent a segway or ride an apple
green BUBI bike… BUBI (Budapest Bicycle) is the newly
launched bike-sharing network, with 98 docking stations
and 1150 bikes across the city centre. molbubi.bkk.hu
Nostalgic vehicles Driving a Trabant (a once very
popular and common car type in Hungary) will not only be a
challenge but also huge fun, so do not hesitate to hire one to
discover Budapest and its surroundings (Go Trabi Go, Rent a
Trabant or MB Travel will provide you with such services). If
you do not wish to drive, and have a large family, or a group
of friends with you, opt for an eye-catching nostalgia bus or
even an LI2-type nostalgia aircraft taking groups on aerial
sightseeing tours from Budaörs Airport…
INFO For detailed information about public transport in
Budapest, visit www.bkk.hu/en
Don’t miss!
The best nightspots in town are: Kazinczy Street,
Gozsdu Courtyards and the Jewish quarter, the pedestrian way next to the Opera (Hajós Street), Broadway Budapest (Nagymező Street), University Square
(Egyetem tér), the area around Oktogon (Liszt Ferenc Square, Andrássy Avenue), Szent István Square
by the Basilica (plus Zrínyi and Hercegprímás Street)
budapest fortissimo
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Kids
budapest
for kids
city park
Thanks to its great setting, Budapest is one of the greenest capitals in the
world, where children can enjoy a wide variety of leisure pursuits in crystalclear air and an upland environment. Naturally, there is plenty to discover
indoors, too.
MEETING ANIMALS
OUR PICK
Tropicarium Budapest
Aquaworld Budapest
Capital Circus of Budapest
The aqua empire of children including a giant
slide, surf and wave pools (plus sauna world and
thermal pools for parents).
22nd district, Nagytétényi út 37–43
(Campona Shopping Mall)
www.tropicarium.hu
14th district, Állatkerti körút 12/a
www.fnc.hu
Municipal Zoo
and Botanical Garden
14th district, Állatkerti körút 6–12
www.zoobudapest.com
4th district, Íves út 16
www.aqua-world.hu
City Park (Városliget)
The largest green belt expanse on the Pest side, a
favourite place for families, offers entertainment
of all kinds and for all generations: Zoo, Capital
Circus, museums, spa, boating lake.
MUSEUMS FOR KIDS
Hungarian Natural
History Museum
8th district, Ludovika tér 2–6
www.nhmus.hu
Hungarian
Railway Museum
14th district, Tatai út 95
www.vasuttortenetipark.hu/en
36 |
April – October 2016
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Kids
CALL FOR
FRESH AIR
INDOOR PROGRAMMES
Buda Hills (Széchenyi
Hill, Sváb Hill, János
Hill, Hármashatár Hill)
6th district, Andrássy út 69
A mecca for nature lovers and excursionists, the Buda Hills (400-500
m) lie to the northwest of the city
centre and offer visitors excellent
air and endless forests with well
marked tourist trails.
Gellért Hill
A popular excursion destination for
Budapesters and tourists alike due to
its attractive park and superb panoramas from the viewing terraces.
Margaret Island
The capital’s most beautiful park is on
the island, and visitors strolling around
come across a variety of interesting
structures and ruins dating back several centuries. And there is still more:
a strand, swimming pool, hotels, a
variety of restaurants and the popular
Brigóhintó (family pedal ‘bikes’).
Budapest Bábszínház (Puppet Theatre)
Central Europe’s largest puppet theatre in
a historical monument over 100 years old.
www.budapest-babszinhaz.hu
Minipolisz
6th district, Király utca 8–10
Minipolisz is an interactive exhibition, an entire city showing
children the most typical venues and occupations, where
they can become – if only for a few hours - dentists, cashiers
or hairdressers. www.minipolisz.hu
Miniversum
6th district, Andrássy út 12
A gigantic, beautifully
detailed and decorated
model layout featuring
many sights and landmarks
from Budapest and Hungary - and a bit of Austria
and Germany, too, scaled to
1:100 of original size.
www.miniversum.hu
Palace of Wonders (csopa)
22nd district, Nagytétényi út 37–43
(Campona Shopping Mall)
Interactive scientific exhibition. Spectacular, entertaining
and instructive experiments draw us into the astounding
world of natural laws and physics. www.csopa.hu
Planetarium
10th district, Népliget
Do not miss the opportunity to meet the universe in Budapest! Travelling in time and space becomes possible thanks to
the exhibition and (English-speaking) shows.
www.planetarium.hu/english
Don’t miss!
Chocolate Museum
16 district, Bekecs utca 22
www.csokolade-muzeum.hu
(no English website)
th
Witch Museum
7th district, Alsó erdősor u. 13
www.boszorkanymuzeum.hu
(no English website)
Chair-lift – between Zugliget and János Hill
Children’s Railway – between Széchenyi Hill and Hűvösvölgy
Cogwheel Railway – from Szilágyi Erzsébet fasor
Pál-völgyi Cave and Szemlő-hegyi Cave – both ideal
venues for great adventures on the Buda side: regularly
organized, guided tours will show you the breathtaking
dripstones and canyon-like corridors of these underground worlds. www.dinpi.hu
budapest fortissimo
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April – October 2016
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Surroundings
budapest
surroundings
In whichever direction one looks, there are things of interest
close to Budapest – charming towns, the beauty of the Danube Bend,
a Mediterranean ambience, history that can be touched...
Esztergom
Visegrád
This more than 1000-year-old
settlement – the first capital of the
country, site for the baptism into
the Christian Church of our first
king, where the pagan rebel Koppány was cruelly executed and his
quartered remains hung on the
city walls, seat of kings and archbishops for centuries – attracts
around 1 million visitors annually.
Hungary’s largest church, the
Basilica, stands atop Castle Hill.
There is a statue of St. Stephen not
far away, and the Mária Valéria
Bridge also contributes to the delightful view of the surroundings.
Visegrád is a synthesis of the
past, present and future. At
one time the border of the Roman Empire, the “limes”, ran
past the settlement; you can
still see the ruins of Roman
watchtowers along the Danube.
The first king of Hungary, St. Stephen, established a stewardship
here and raised the archdeacon’s church, the foundations of which
still stand on Castle Hill. The view from here is superb, encompassing the incomparable Danube Bend. The imposing citadel is not far
away; during the reign of King Matthias, who had it rebuilt in Renaissance style, a fountain ran not with water but with wine during
meetings of heads of state. Throughout the year knight’s tournaments are organized next to Solomon’s Tower and a medieval fair
presents Hungarian handcrafts in the Palace House (Palotaház), a
tourist information and event centre which also boasts a restaurant.
budapest.
gotohungary.com
38 |
April – October 2016
www.palotahaz.hu; www.visegrad.hu/en
www.budapest.gotohungary.com
Surroundings
OUR PICK
Relaxation on the Danube
Szentendre
This neat town with
a decidedly Mediterranean ambience
has preserved its
18-19th century
compact and unified
layout. Its picturesque setting on
the Danube, its architecture and historical monuments all contributed to the
formation over the years of colonies of
painters, sculptors and artists who lived
and still live today in Szentendre. There
is a particularly strong Serbian culture
all around, brought here by Serb communities fleeing a Turkish onslaught in
the late 17th century. Most of the houses
which once belonged to wealthy merchants are now museums; in fact the galleries, workshops, exhibition centres and
museums just come one after the other.
Szentendre is home to the first (and
still the largest) skansen or open-air
museum in Hungary. Museum experts
revive the everyday life and holidays of
the old peasant way of living.
The river Danube not only defines the cityscape but it also
offers amusement and great experiences for all who love
being close to the water. Everyone will find the excursion
opportunities most appropriate for them on the cruise boats
of MAHART PassNave Ltd. The 2.5-hour music and dinner
cruise is the best choice for those looking for a romantic
evening programme combined with the chance to delight in
the night-time panorama of Budapest. Those interested in
longer excursions can discover the finest settlements of the
picturesque Danube Bend by cruise boats and hydrofoils.
The Budapest – Vác – Visegrád – Esztergom route operates from late April to the end of September, with twindeck excursion boats complete with buffet departing from
the Boat Station on Vigadó Square. It takes 1 hour to Szent­
endre, 3 hours to Visegrád, 5 hours to Esztergom. Those
in more of a rush to travel north can take the hydrofoil
services, which operate at the weekend.
budapest.gotohungary.com
www.mahart.info
Visit the historic cities of the Danube Bend
Cruises almost every day!
- Szentendre city of arts
- Visegrád city of the renaissance in Hungary
where you can still participate tournaments
(almost every day)
- Esztergom the capital of catolicism in Hungary
INFORMATION AND TICKET SALE:
Vigadó Square Ship Station, Budapest
(+36-1) 484-4013
[email protected]
www.mahartpassnave.hu
!
Bike
Tuesday
Hungary Card,
Budapest Card
F
S zen r om
t
Bu d a e n d r e t o
pest
in
1
hour
-20%
!
One bicycle ticket is free of charge for Tuesdays with each payed passenger’s
ticket in case of private passenger, bought in advance latest 48 hours before
departure – either in a ticket office or online. All other cases: 50% of the adult fare.
budapest fortissimo
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April – October 2016
| 39
Surroundings
Surroundings brought to you by Hertz Rent a Car www.hertz.hu,
[email protected], Tel.: +36-1 296-0999, +36-1 296-0997
Vác
Vác is a charming town 40 km north of Budapest with a rich cultural heritage and beautiful promenade along the Danube. Among its 81 monument listed sights, mention must be made of the
Baroque-Classicist-style Triumphal Arch (the only one in Hungary), the breathtaking Memento Mori
Exhibition (presenting mummies from the 18th century) and the imposing Cathedral.
budapest.gotohungary.com/baroque-treasures-of-vac
Ráckeve
Situated on the banks of the Danube just 40 km
from Budapest, Ráckeve is well worth a visit. The
“town of towers and water” boasts such sites as the
unique boatmill, the Serbian Orthodox Church with
its magnificent frescoes and, for a programme popular with kids, the Thermal and Fun Bath Aqualand.
budapest.gotohungary.com/charmingrackeve
An absolutely unmissable attip traction in Esztergom is Prímás
Pince, a Tourism and Wine Cultural Centre. Guests are welcomed
to the imposing restaurant and wine
tasting venue in a recently stylishly
renovated, elegant historical cellar
system running beneath the Basilica.
www.primaspince.hu
Insider
Gödöllő
If we leave the capital heading northeast,
after 30 km we arrive in the town of Gödöllő,
renowned for its association with Queen Elizabeth, wife of Franz Joseph, emperor of the
Austro–Hungarian Monarchy. The restored
Baroque palace, originally the Grassalkovich
Mansion, was the favourite residence of the
queen, familiarly known by the Hungarians
as Sisi. This truly imposing palace lovingly
restored to its original glory has a fascinating
exhibition and regularly hosts cultural events
and festivals. A Baroque theatre operated
in the south wing of the mansion between
1785–1867. Following its complete restoration,
opera performances are once again staged in
Hungary’s only surviving original Baroque
theatre (guided tours also available).
www.godollo.hu/tourism,
www.kiralyikastely.hu
Don’t miss!
➥Adventures in an equestrian park: either head for Domonyvölgy, 35 km from Budapest,
to reach Lazar Equestrian Park (www.lazarteam.hu) or Szentendre island only 30 km
from Budapest, to get to Bodor Major (www.bodormajor.hu). Both facilities are ideal if
you would like to spend an amazing day in rural settings with typical Hungarian dishes,
living traditions and a breathtaking horse show.
➥Prize-winning wines from Nyakas Cellars. The estate can be found close to Tök, a small
www.nyakas.hu
village by the Nyakas-Hill (350 m)
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April – October 2016
Surroundings
Insider
tip
Börzsöny
Mountain
It is not by chance
that Börzsöny, the
third highest mountain in the country,
is among the most
popular hiking and
biking destinations.
Picturesque villages
(Nagybörzsöny
above all), three
forest railways, several ruins of ancient
fortresses (such as
Drégely, Hont
or Nógrád) await
visitors throughout
the year.
Enjoy the hotels and
restaurants delivering
the highest quality:
HUNGARIAN
QUALITY AWARD
»qualityaward.gotohungary.com
Zsámbék
Zsámbék is without any doubt a village not
to be missed when looking for attractions
close to Budapest. On the way, the wildlife
Park of Budakeszi (Vadaspark in Hungarian) is a favourite spot for families with children. The famous church ruins of Zsámbék
are indeed worth the 30-minute drive: the
late Roman-preGothic Basilica on the crest
of a hill provides a fantastic view.
budapest.gotohungary.com/
discovering-zsambek-basin)
budapest fortissimo
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April – October 2016
| 41
Information
Information brought to you by Hertz Rent a Car www.hertz.hu,
[email protected], Tel.: +36-1 296-0999, +36-1 296-0997
useful information
»budapest basics
Climate
Temperate
zone, continental climate, four
seasons.
Hottest months: July, August
(temperatures can reach
28–35 °C)
Coldest months: December,
January (temperatures can
fall as low as –15 °C)
Holidays
National holidays:
15 March, 20 August, 23 October;
Christian holidays: Easter
Monday, Whit Monday, All
Saints’ Day (1 November),
Christmas and Boxing Day
(25–26 December);
plus: 1 January and 1 May
(May Day).
Time zone
Central European time (CET).
GMT +1 hour
Summer time (March to midOctober): GMT +2 hours
Budapest facts
and figures
Area: 525 km2
Pop.: 1 815 000
Administrative structure:
23 districts
Buda: hilly, right bank of
Danube
Pest: flat, left bank of Danube
Islands: 3
Bridges: 9
Currency
Forint (Ft or HUF)
Coins: 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5
Banknotes: 500, 1000, 2000,
5000, 10 000, 20 000
»reaching budapest
Arriving by plane
Budapest has the largest airport in the country, Ferenc Liszt International
Airport. All passenger flights arrive and depart from Terminal 2.
www.bud.hu
Taxi
The official contractor
of Budapest Airport is
Főtaxi (tel.: +36-1/2-222-222,
www.fotaxi.hu). You can
order a cab at their desk in the
airport for reasonable prices.
Airport Shuttle
If you are travelling on
your own, it is cheaper
to use miniBUD, which has desks
at the airport on arrivals and
departures floors.
www.minibud.hu
42 |
April – October 2016
By train
Budapest has direct
rail links to 25 capitals, and there are more than
50 international connections
each day. The three major international railway stations in
Budapest: Eastern Railway Station (Keleti pályaudvar); Western Railway Station (Nyugati
pályaudvar); Southern Railway
Station (Déli pályaudvar). All
can be accessed by the metro.
www.mav.hu, www.elvira.hu
By coach
The international coach
station is at Népliget.
Volánbusz has scheduled passenger coach services to and
from more than 24 countries.
www.volanbusz.hu
By boat
Hydrofoils run scheduled services from
Vienna to Budapest between
April and October. There
are three large international
quays on the Danube in the
capital.
www.mahartpassnave.hu
By car
Of the five motorways
and four main roads
in Hungary, eight start from
Budapest.
There is a flat-rate charge
for use of motorways M1, M3,
M5, M6 and M7 (payment can
be made at border crossing
points and most petrol stations).
www.motorway.hu
CASTLE GARDEN BAZAAR
programmes | culture | tourism
During the reconstruction a building complex was renovated, new area was built
including the exhibition halls, the Neo-Renaissance Garden, the Öntőház (Foundry)
courtyard, Szárazárok (Dry Ditch) and the multi-functional event hall.
By now, the expression Castle Garden Bazaar denotes not only a building complex on the
banks of the Danube, but a very important, so-to-speak must-see cultural and touristic
site of Budapest with exclusive programmes, exhibitions or performances.
Spring and summer preliminary programme
2-3 april 2016
17-19 june 2016
Renewed Castle Garden Bazaar
celebrates its second birthday
2nd Budapest International
Featuring: Group’n’Swing,
György Ferenczi and the Rackajam
as well as many more artists.
20-21 may 2016
Budapest Folk Fest
A Capella Festival
Partner: Hangvető
21-24 june 2016
Music Festival
Partner: Cseh Tamás Programme
Partner: Fonó Buda Music House
4 june – 27 august 2016
Citadella Festival
Featuring the best artists of
Hungarian folk and pop music.
Budapest, Ybl Miklós tér 2-6.
tel.: (+36-1)225-0554/292
e-mail: [email protected]
www.varkertbazar.hu
25 june 2016
Night of Museums
in Castle Garden Bazaar
Aquaworld. One name, tons of memories
Whether it is a one-day break, wellness weekend
or a family vacation, Aquaworld means all of them.
Relax and fun in one place.
Check in, chill out
www.aquaworldresort.hu
A resort of: