Budapest, Hungary

After completing finals on Friday, I was able to kick off the summer by visiting the beautiful city of Budapest, Hungary for the second time. After visiting the city for a weekend, we decided that we did not get to see as much of it as we wanted so we booked another trip back. I am pleased to say that the city was even better the second time.

During our first stay we experienced the Budapest baths. It was quite different than anything I have ever experienced, but it was a great time, nonetheless. We also spent a lot of our time at a market that was set up in the city center for the weekend. There were many stands with a variety of Hungarian trinkets for sale.

Upon arriving Friday night, we checked into our hostel and decided to check out the infamous ruin bars of Budapest. The ruin bars, are old buildings from the communist time period that were originally abandoned. It was a very unique atmosphere that I am so glad I got to experience.

The following morning we decided to tour the area near the Danube River. We started off by hiking up the beautiful Gellert Hill that overlooks the Pest side of Budapest. Despite not having our hiking shoes and clothes on, it was a beautiful view from the top.

We then walked along the river to the Royal Castle. It was the prettiest castle I’ve ever seen and looked as though it belonged in a fairy tale.

After that we crossed The Széchenyi Chain Bridge back to the Pest side, and headed over to the Parliament building. The parliament building was constructed using incredible architecture. It stands in front of the Danube. It is currently the largest building in Hungary and still the highest building in Budapest.

After viewing the incredible parliament building we made our way back to the hostel to get ready for our evening boat cruise down the Danube. It was yet again an incredible view of the city. It was amazing to see the city come alive at night looking over the river. It was an amazing day in Budapest.

We woke up the next day and walked over to Heroes square. Heroes Square is one of the major squares in Budapest, Hungary, noted for its iconic statue complex featuring the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important national leaders. After that we decided to visit AquaWorld, which is known as the best waterpark in Central Europe. It was a great way to end the amazing weekend in Budapest, Hungary.

I have arrived safely back in Olomouc, where I will spend my last night packing up for America. I will be traveling the next 12 days through the Bohemian region in the Czech Republic, and then my last week on the coast of Croatia before getting on my flight back to America.

Can’t wait to see you all in 12 short days!