You probably heard of the love story that connected Budapest across the Danube. Budapest is one of the most interesting European cities I have visited. As one of the fastest developing cities in Europe, Budapest is developing into a city of its own with well-balanced history, hip, and modernity. The Buda side is a bit hilly while the Pest side is quite flat. You will find most of the lodge situated on the Pest side due to the hilly side of the Buda is occupied by many historic sights, spas, and museums. Still, don’t miss out on the St. Stephen’s Basilica on the Pest side.
Spas and Baths
The abundance of thermal springs in the bigger Budapest area supplied the many spas and baths since the Roman era. Today, citizens of Budapest still enjoy weekly gatherings and dips in the spas. For visitors, the Széchenyi Baths and the Gellért Baths are the most famous and most photographed ones. I have heard good things about the Lukács Baths and the Kiraly Baths. Many other baths are available throughout the city as well. Though many of the smaller baths have designated days for a certain gender, member, or age group. Check before you go!
Gellért Baths 
Széchenyi Baths 
Széchenyi Baths
Ruined Bars and Other Drinking Holes
Ruined bars have many rumoured origins, some say it was used to recycle space, some say it was part of the counter-culture movement. After all the legal battles and threats, ruined bars stayed and became a stable for the fast-growing city. Szimpla kert ruin bar was my favourite and the most popular one. This famed ruined bar has many faces depending what time of the day, and the day of the week you are visiting.
City Park
Normally I wouldn’t be recommending sites like the city park. Though this has a rumored Dracula’s castle, a heroic gate, and, most importantly, the Széchenyi Baths. The Széchenyi Baths have a pool party every Saturday. Though recommend you ask around to get a feel of the vibes before heading to the night pool party. Don’t want any unwanted encounters there.
The Parliament
One of the most important sites on the Pest side is the Hungarian parliament and the Memorial for the Murdered Jewish on the banks of the Danube not too far from the parliament. The Memorial reminds visitors of a somber history of all the Jewish who were shot then washed away by the Danube during the Nazi occupation. Man, women, and children all lost their bodies to the Danube. I hope the Danube washes away their pains and suffering they had during their lives. Visitors left some flowers by their symbolic shoes as a sign of condolence. On a lighter note, the Parliament is best viewed from outside on a river cruise on the Danube. The night cruises have champaigns!
Food in Budapest
The food in Budapest is very meaty and hearty. Many said this is due to their ancestral originals as Huns. Either way, better ask for pickles or else it might be too much for you!
Bratislava
This little-known capital of Slovakia has many hidden gems. 3 hours of Flixbus (high recommend for inter-Europe travels) will bring you there from Budapest. I recommend staying close to the old town and take a careful stroll through the old district. Also, don’t forget to enjoy the sunset on the Danube from Bratislava Castle.
Honey
Little known fact, Slovakia produces amazing honey that exports to many places around the world. You can find a few honey shops just in the old town itself.
