8 things you want to see, do and try while in Budapest

Last year I had the opportunity to visit Budapest with my family during the Christmas holidays. In my opinion, the city is one of the most beautiful Christmas decorated, although people often do not associate it with that.

Budapest is the capital of Hungary. The city is located on both banks of the river Danube. It was formed by the merging of Buda and Obuda on the right (west) and Pest on the left (east) bank of the Danube. It has a population of more than 1.7 million people.

1. Bridges of Budapest

Budim and Pest are connected by numerous bridges across the Danube. During World War II, they were all demolished and then later rebuilt.

The oldest of them is the Széchenyi Chain Bridge with two towers. It is recognized by the statues of lions on it. Today Budapest has 9 bridges, however, this one is the symbol of the city. It is especially beautiful when the lights are on at night.

2. Liberty Bridge or Szabadság híd

The Liberty Bridge is the shortest in Budapest's center. At its two ends are two public squares. The Buda end of the bridge leads you to Gellért Square at the foot of Gellért Hill. On the way to the top of the hill, you will find the Cave Church with the statue of Stephan I. On the top is Citadel and the Liberty Statue. From here you can see Budapest from all over.

3. Citadel

The mighty Citadela stands on Gellért Hill. I would highly recommend this to any tourist as the view from it to, the city is phenomenal. You can walk or drive to it.

4. Parliament

The parliament is an attraction by itself. The building is in neo-Gothic style and is extremely fascinating. It's the largest building in Budapest.

5. Church of Saint Stefan

Church of Saint Stefan is the largest church in Budapest. Since I visited the city during Christmas time, one of the Christmas fairies was set up around it.

6. Váci utca

Váci utca is the most famous shopping street in Budapest. In it, you will find a wide range of clothing and footwear from different brands.

Now it's time for some food. Hungary is very know for spicy and rich dishes. The favorite ingredient of every Hungarian, however, is a spice called sweet paprika, which they add in mostly all of their dishes.

7. Goulash

Goulash is one of the most famous dishes from the Hungarian culinary. The name derives from the gulyás (herdsmen), who made their rich and fulfilling dish in a kettle over an open fire. Today, a kettle made goulash is considered the most authentic version of all. Almost every region has its variety, although a basic goulash is somewhere between a soup and stew, with beef, carrot, potato, spices, and the typical paprika. Today goulash is a national symbol and a tool for presenting Hungarian identity.

8. Lángos

Langos is a deep-fried flatbread served as an alternative to bread. What makes it so beloved is the endless varieties of toppings that come with it. It is usually eaten with garlic sauce, cheese, sour cream, or sausages.

This beautiful city on the Danube is suitable for just about any occasion, if it's just a day trip or even a longer trip, you won't be bored. I guarantee you that you will find something in it that will fascinate just about everyone, as Budapest is extremely diverse. I hope my short guide has helped you decide what is worth seeing once you find yourself in this incredible city.

Love, Maša