Budapest - home to. and the

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1 Budapest - home to and the. is the capital of Hungary and the centre of its economic and cultural life. The city is separated into 2 parts by the Danube River: its older part, Buda, is situated on the hilly west bank of the river; Pest is on the flat east bank. The two parts of the city are joined by eight imposing bridges. Budapest is often called one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The capital has a rich history including 150 years of Turkish invasion and many wars which have effected the city s history. Buda, Obuda and Pest have merged into Budapest in The layout of Buda is determined by its hills and valleys, while Pest's is determined by its semi-circular boulevards and its avenues, which extend radially from the Inner City, which is the heart of modern Budapest. Situated on the Danube, it is encircled by the Little Boulevard, which runs from the Margaret Bridge to the Szabadság Bridge.

2 Just to know that.. This beautiful city on the banks of the Danube River has close to 2 million inhabitants. It is divided into 23 districts: the central districts are the V. District (Inner City) and the I. District (Castle District) where most of the sights and tourist attractions are located. The official language is Hungarian, but you won t have any trouble with the communication in most touristic places: English and German are the most common foreign languages, but some people speak Russian and French as well. The climate in Hungary is continental but quite moderate: the average temperatures in winter are around 0 degrees Celsius and in summer around 27 degrees during the day and 15 degrees at night. The average daily temperature in June is 26 degrees, in the night 14 degrees, with an average of 8 sunny hours per day and 8 rainy days for the month. So prepare for moderate / hot conditions during the day and bring a light jacket for the night, but also expect some showers.

3 What to see in Budapest? As the keeper of several major attractions in Europe the largest thermal water system in the world, the first Underground Railroad on the continent, the third largest Parliament building in the world and largest synagogue in Europe Budapest has no shortage of things to see. And of course..!

4 Some Comments This is what Carmel Higgins, travel journalist and Bridge player,had to say Just a couple of suggestions when staying in Budapest, don t miss going to Central Market Hall, a treasure trove for food, Hungarian souvenirs, very reasonable food stalls and restaurants - look where the locals eat, you won t go wrong. Many traders accept Euros, as the Hungarian Forint is the national currency. Buy just enough at the airport to get you by and then seek out any of the money exchange offices in downtown Budapest A must go to is Gerbeaud's --most famous coffee house. If you have time a boat trip on the Danube is most pleasant and whenever taking a taxi, always agree the price before you drive anywhere. Traffic in Budapest is extremely heavy but getting around on the underground is easy. A not to be missed experience is a visit to some of the Spas, The Gellert Baths, the most opulent amazing art deco hotel and spa, massages are very cheap, the pool is magnificent and afterward sit outside and enjoy a coffee or a glass of local wine. and Carol Lawless, bridge player and frequent visitor to Budapest, had this recommendation if you plan spending a few extra days in Budapest. I strongly recommend that you visit Szentendre. It is a lovely Baroque town on the bank of the Danube in the foothills of the Visegrad hills. You could take the ferry boat there and return to Budapest by metro. While there visit the Margit Kovacs museum (1 Vastagh Gyorgy utca) Her pottery is delightful. She died around 1977.

5 The Ferenczy Karoly Museum (6 Fő tér) exhibits the works (paintings and sculptures) of 5 members of the Ferenczy family. There are other galleries exhibiting works of local artists. From May to Sept Danube riverboats travel between Budapest and Esztergom and stop at Szentendre a couple of times a day. The landing area is about a km from town centre. Not advisable if anyone has difficulty walking. In that case take the metro from Budapest Batthyany ter to the end of the line. There are several trains an hour. Useful websites and links for places of Interest European Bridge League (recommended Taxi Company 2016 EBL Bridge [email protected] Official travel agency of the 2016 EBL Bridge for daily exchange rate card.com/en The Budapest Card The Budapest Card provides free admission or discount entry to several museums and sights as well as free use of the city s public transport system. Budapest Metro Map 0 pack ticket: 3000 HUF (0,95 / ticket) 1

6 24 hour pass: 1650 HUF (5,5 / pass) 72 hour pass: 4150 HUF (13,5 / pass) Week pass: 4950 HUF (16,5 / pass) Single tickets and 10 pack tickets can be purchased at any news stand in the city. Passes can be purchased at ticket vendor machines (located in all metro stations) and in all BKK / BKV offices (located in most public transport hubs, like the intersections at Nyugati Tér, Deák Tér, Kálvin tér, Keleti Pályaudvar in the underpasses). The basic fare for a single ticket is 350 HUF (about 1,15 ), however there is a wide variety of passes which offer a big discount for visitors: For your convenience here are a few places of interest. Buda Castle Hill This World Heritage Site is easily visible from everywhere in Budapest. Exploring Castle Hill's beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets can occupy an entire day. The central Trinity Square fills daily with tourists visiting the famous Matthias Church. The Fishermen's Bastion and the Royal Palace, together with the Hungarian National Gallery, are also popular sights. A Brief History of Castle Hill The first citizens arrived to Castle Hill in the 13th century after the Mongolian invasion, seeking protection in the hills of Buda. The first royal castle was built around this time. The golden age of Castle Hill was in the 15th century, following the marriage of King Matthias Corvinus and Beatrix of Naples in Many Italian artists and craftsmen accompanied the new queen, and Buda became an important European city. After the Turkish occupation, Buda was in ruins. A

7 Baroque city was built, and Castle Hill soon became the district of government. During World War II, Buda was bombed to the ground and had to be rebuilt again. Today, Castle Hill is recognized as a World Heritage Site, and has many mustsee attractions, Gothic arches, eighteenth-century Baroque houses and cobblestone streets. Though Castle Hill has changed much since building began in the 13th century, its main streets still follow their medieval paths. Some houses date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, giving us an idea of what the Castle District may have looked like back then. Practically every house has a plaque indicating the century in which it was built, and providing details of its history. A surprising number of the buildings are still private homes, as Castle Hill is also a residential area. Cars have been banned - only people who live and work here are allowed to drive; however, public transportation is available. Buda Castle Hill is also home to a large interconnected cellar system that consists of natural caves created by thermal waters and man-made passageways. Inhabitants have used the caverns for centuries for storage and shelter. The earliest traces of human life found here are 500,000 years old. Part of the cellar system can be toured at the Buda Castle Labyrinth and at the Hospital in the Rock Museum. Things to Do and See on Castle Hill Your best option is to walk along the cobblestone streets and discover Castle Hill at your own pace. Take your time, as there is a lot to see and do, and exploring Castle Hill can take an entire day. If you don t have much time, visit Trinity Square, Matthias Church (Mátyás templom) and Fishermen s Bastion (Halászbástya). Various events are held at Castle Hill year round. Our Castle Hill walking tour includes all the major sights, as well as recommended cafés and restaurants to stop for some refreshments. Getting to Castle Hill: Take the Funicular from Chain Bridge; the public bus, called Várbusz, from Széll Kálmán tér (formerly Moszkva tér) or one of the many paths leading up to Castle Hill Getting to Castle District: by bus 16A or 116 from Széll Kálmán tér (trams 4,6, M2 metro), by funicular (sikló) from Clark Adam Square at the Buda end of the Chain Bridge, Ticket: 840 HUF/adult, 520 for children (if you plan to use the funicular for both the upward and downward trip then you have to buy a return ticket: 1450 HUF/940 for children)

8 Budapest Castle Bazaar and The Royal Gardens New Attraction At the Foot of Castle Hill The series of buildings and gardens, known as Várkert bazár, were built in the 19. century (between ) by the designs of Miklós Ybl architect (he designed, among many other buildings and mansions, the Opera House). The Middle Part of the Castle Bazaar & Royal Gardens The aim of the construction was to create a similarly elegant and attractive city scape at the foot of the Royal Palace in Buda than the one in the Pest side of the river. The city leaders thought that the Várkert could be developed into a busy shopping and entertainment centre, a sort of replica of the Danube Promenade in the Pest side. It never fulfilled this aim and the buildings started to quickly deteriorate with various owners and users over the 20. century. Luckily this almost forgotten gem of Budapest will be fully renewed by August 2014 with shops, exhibitions halls, restaurants and cafes. A whole new cultural and entertainment centre had been reborn in Buda! (photo source: epiteszforum.hu)

9 before the Restoration The Historic Complex Since the Bazaar and Royal Gardens are part of the UNESCO s World Heritage sites, along with Buda Castle and the Danube riverbanks, the monument had to be restored to its original state. Besides the renovated buildings, a series of new elements add new focus to Várkert Bazár: you can go up to the castle by an escalator an underground event room hosts conferences and meetings, you can stop for coffee or grab a meal in the cafe of the Gourmet Shop. Renovation Finished in 2014 In the first phase of the development project, that was completed by 03. April 2014., the historic buildings had been renovated.

10 Afterwords the neo-renaissance gardens were restored, new buildings, cafes and restaurants, and the Foundry Court (Öntőház udvar, cannons and cannon balls were made here between the centuries) had been completed. The reconstruction was fully finished and the complex opened to visitors at the end of August Budapest Opera House Experience the incredible acoustics inside the Budapest Opera House, considered to be among the best in the world. Built in the 1880s, the Budapest Opera House stands as one of the most prestigious musical institutions in Europe. Catch a staged opera performance by Verdi, Puccini, Mozart, or Wagner just don't delay for too long, performances sell out quickly! A Brief History of Budapest Opera House The opera house in Budapest stands as one of the most beautiful Neo- Renaissance buildings in Europe. When it was opened in 1884, the city shared the administrative duties of the Austro-Hungarian Empire with Vienna. In fact, Emperor Franz Joseph commissioned its design. Construction included the use of marble and frescos by some of the best artisans of that era. Designed by Miklós Ybl, one of Europe's leading architects in the mid to late 19th century, the Budapest Opera House quickly became one of the most prestigious musical institutions in Europe. Many important artists performed here, including Gustav Mahler, who was also the director for three seasons.

11 The staircase - Photo by Phil Watkins The Budapest Opera House is considered to be amongst the best opera houses in the world in terms of its acoustics, and has an auditorium that seats 1200 people. It is horseshoe-shaped and, according to measurements done by a group of international engineers, has the third best acoustics amongst similar European venues (after the Scala in Milan and the Paris Opera House). The statue of Ferenc Erkel stands in front of the Opera House. He was the composer of the Hungarian national anthem and the first music director of the Opera. The other statue in front of the Budapest Opera is of Ferenc Liszt, the well-known Hungarian composer. Getting to the Budapest Opera House: Take the Millennium Undreground (M1) to "Opera" station Insider Tip: You can tour the Opera House during the day and learn about its gorgeous architecture as well as enjoy a world-class performance in the evening. Guided tours are offered daily at 3 pm and 4 pm in English, François, Deutsch, Italiano and Español. Tours in Japanese are offered Mondays and Saturdays. Tickets are available in the Opera Shop and tours take about 45 minutes. Prices are HUF 2,900 for adults and HUF 1,900 for students. For groups of 10+ people tours are available any time during the day, but pre-registration is necessary. Please contact Opera Visit at (+36-1) or at (+36-30) to reserve a group visit. More info on the tours is available at operavisit.hu. A performance at the Budapest Opera is a fantastic experience and it won't break the bank. You can get quality tickets for as little as USD Click here for this season's premiers and highlights

12 Chain Bridge The Chain Bridge was the first bridge to permanently connect Buda and Pest. At the time of its completion, Chain Bridge was considered to be one of the wonders of the world. Chief engineer Adam Clark completed the span in Crossing the bridge is just a short walk and no matter which direction you go, the view is beautiful. A Brief History of Chain Bridge Spanning the Danube between Clark Ádám tér (Buda side) and Széchenyi István tér (Pest side), the Chain Bridge (Lánchid) was the first to permanently connect Buda and Pest. There has been a pontoon bridge on the river since the Middle Ages enabling passage from spring to autumn. During winter, the river froze making crossing possible; however, there were times when the weather changed abruptly and people got stuck on one side. In 1820, this happened to Count István Széchenyi, when he had to wait a week to get to his father's funeral. This experience led him to decide that a permanent bridge had to be built. He became a major advocate of the project and founded a society to finance and build the bridge. At the time of its construction, Chain Bridge was considered to be one of the wonders of the world. Chief engineer Adam Clark, a master builder from Scotland, completed the span in Legend has it that he was so proud of his masterpiece he would challenge anyone to find any fault with his work. When it was discovered that the lions at either ends of the bridge didn't have tongues, he was so ashamed that he committed suicide. This of course is only an anecdote. The tunnel, which was built a few years later, is also the work of Adam Clark. By the way, the lions do have tongues; however, they are not visible from the street below. During World War II, the bridge was damaged and its rebuilding was completed in It is an interesting detail that the bridge's designer was an English engineer named William Clark, who had no relation to the Scottish engineer, Adam Clark, the builder of the bridge. The Chain Bridge is a suspension bridge, and it's a

13 large scale version of William Clark's earlier Marlow Bridge on the River Thames in Marlow, England. Things to Do and See Around Chain Bridge Crossing the bridge is just a short walk and no matter which direction you go, the view is beautiful. It's also well worth a visit in the evening, when the bridge is all lit up. In the summer, festivals are held on the bridge almost every weekend. The Buda-end of the bridge is at Clark Ádám Square, where the Funicular takes you up to Castle Hill, and the Pest-end of the bridge is at Széchenyi István Square, a busy square in the city center, named after the former U.S. president. The Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Gresham Palace are also located in the square. Zrinyi Street, a pedestrian precinct, leads from Széchenyi István Square to St. Stephen's Basilica. Getting to Chain Bridge: Streetcar 19 stops at Clark Ádám tér (Buda side) and Streetcar 2 stops at Széchenyi István tér (Pest side) Budapest Parliament The Parliament building, a magnificent example of Neo-Gothic architecture, is just over 100 years old. It's the third largest Parliament building in the world, and is also home to the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Tours are available when the National Assembly is not in session. A Brief History of the Hungarian Parliament The Parliament building, a magnificent example of Neo-Gothic architecture (although displaying Renaissance and Baroque characters too), is just over 100 years old. In the 1880's an open tender was held for the design of the Parliament building. Construction based on the winning plan began in 1885 and the building was inaugurated on the 1000th anniversary of Hungary in 1896, and fully completed in Both runner-up designs were also built facing the Parliament building. One is the Museum of Ethnography and the other is the Ministry of Agriculture. The Budapest Parliament building is the third largest

14 Parliament building in the world. It has 691 rooms, 20 kilometers (12,5 miles) of stairs and at 96 meters (315 feet) it is the same height as the St. Stephen's Basilica. During the Communist era a large red star was added to the central tower above the dome of the building, but after its downfall, the star was removed. Unfortunately, modern air pollution constantly attacks the porous limestone walls, requiring frequent restoration. This also means that there is a good chance that you will see some scaffolding around the building. One of the main halls The square where the Hungarian Parliament stands was named after Lajos Kossuth, a Hungarian lawyer, journalist, politician and Governor-President of Hungary in He was widely honored during his lifetime, including in the United States, as a freedom fighter and a bellwether of democracy in Europe. His memorial, as well as a memorial for the 1956 Hungarian Revolution can be seen in front of the Parliament building. During World War II all of Budapest's bridges were destroyed and as a temporary solution a bridge was built between Kossuth Square and Batthyány Square. The bridge, named after Lajos Kossuth, was in use until A memorial next to the Parliament building marks the site on the Pest side. The Hungarian Parliament Hungary, officially the Republic of Hungary, is a parliamentary republic. Its legislature is the unicameral National Assembly, which has 386 representatives, elected for a four-year term. The election system is said to be one of the most complicated in Europe. Half of the representatives are elected in single-seat constituencies, half of them on party lists. The Prime Minister is elected by a majority of votes of the members of parliament. The President of the Republic, elected for a five-year term, has more of a ceremonial role. Technically he is the Commander in Chief of the armed forces and he nominates the Prime Minister.

15 Things to Do and See at the Houses of Parliament Guided tours of the Parliament are available when the National Assembly is not in session. The tour takes about 45 minutes, and is well worth the price, as it covers the main entrance stairs and hall, one of the lobbies, the old House of Lords and the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Tours are held in several languages. Admission (in 2015) is HUF 2,000 for EU citizens (HUF 4,000 for non-eu citizens), and the ticket office is at gate "X". The Holy Crown The Hungarian Crown Jewels were lost and stolen numerous times. After World War II, they were transported to Western Europe and eventually given to the American Army for safekeeping from the Soviet Union. For much of the Cold War, the Crown Jewels were held at the United States Bullion Depository (Fort Knox, Kentucky) alongside the bulk of America's gold reserves. They were eventually returned to Hungary under the presidency of Jimmy Carter in Some of the best views of the Parliament are from the Danube (take a Danube cruise) or from across the river, especially from Batthyány Square, which is only one stop by subway from Kossuth square on the M2 line. Looking at the Parliament from a distance makes it easier to take in the beauty and harmony of the building. Getting to the Parliament Building: Take the Subway (M2) to Kossuth tér, or Streetcar 2, which runs along the Pest riverfront and has a stop at Kossuth tér Insider Tip: The best way to take the tour is to buy your ticket in advance (online at as lines tend to be long and slowmoving and there are only a limited number of tickets available. For more information and to book a group tour, visit the Parliament's website at Also, if you hold a European Union passport, don't forget to take it with you, as you get a discount from the entrance fee.

16 Matthias Church The 700-year-old Matthias Church was the scene of several coronations, including that of Charles IV in 1916, the last Habsburg king. It was also the site for the great Hungarian King Matthias' two weddings, hence its name. The eastern gate of the church was built in the 13th century. Today, Matthias Church remains one of the city's most prominent buildings. A Brief History of Matthias Church The historic Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom) is over 700 years old. The church was the scene of several coronations, including that of Charles IV in 1916, the last Habsburg king. It was also the venue for the great Hungarian King Matthias' two weddings, hence its name. The history of the church serves as a symbol of the city s rich past. The eastern gate of the church was built in the 13th century, when Buda was founded following the Mongolian invasion. The central part of the church was built around 1400, and from as early as the 14th century, monarchs were crowned here as kings. In the 15th century, King Matthias royal wedding was also held here. During the Turkish conquest, soon after Buda was captured, the church became the city s main mosque. The walls were whitewashed and covered with carpets. After the Turkish occupation, Buda lay in ruins. In the 17th century, an attempt was made to restore the church in Baroque style.

17 Following the Austro-Hungarian Compromise in 1867, Matthias Church was the scene of a big coronation ceremony when Franz Joseph and his wife Elizabeth were crowned, and thus the Austro-Hungarian Empire was established. Towards the end of the 19th century, a major reconstruction took place, and the building was restored using many original parts and regained much of its former splendor. The roof is covered with the famous Zsolnay ceramic tiles, making the building even more beautiful. Today, Matthias Church remains one of the city s most prominent buildings. During his stay in Hungary in 1991, Pope John Paul II visited the church. Things to Do and See at Matthias Church Matthias Church is one of the oldest buildings in Buda. It s not only a church, but a museum as well. It s frescoes are the works of famous Hungarian painters. Every year, the church hosts several concerts featuring Hungarian and foreign musicians. One of the most popular concert series is called the Sunday Organ Nights at the Matthias Church. Since it s located on Castle Hill, there are many other sights nearby that are worth visiting. Castle Hill is also great for walks and admiring the beautiful buildings while following the cobblestone streets, which maintain their medieval courses. Getting to Matthias Church: Take the Funicular from Chain Bridge; the public bus, called Várbusz from Széll Kálmán tér (formerly Moszkva tér) or one of the many paths leading up to Castle Hill Insider Tip: There is an entrance fee to visit the church, which includes entry to the museum as well. If you would like to pray or simply enjoy a moment of silence, the sacred chapel is open all day, free of charge. Royal Palace

18 The once famous Medieval palace, built from the 13th to the 16th century, has a varied history. The original castle was destroyed during the liberation of Buda from the Turks and then it was replaced with a smaller Baroque palace in the 18th century. Today, the Royal Palace is home to the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum and the National Library. A Brief History of the Royal Palace The first royal residence on Castle Hill was built in the 13th century, after the Mongolian invasion. It was extended in the 14th century, becoming probably the largest Gothic palace of the late Middle Ages. Construction continued in the 15th century, following the marriage of King Matthias Corvinus and Beatrix of Naples in Many Italian artists and craftsmen accompanied the new queen, bringing the Renaissance style to Buda. The palace was completely destroyed when liberating Buda from the Turks. In the 18th century, a small Baroque palace was built, which is identical with the core structure of the present-day palace. During the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the palace gave home to lavish ceremonies symbolizing peace between the dynasty and the nation. The process of rebuilding the Royal Palace continued in the 19th century, and it was finished in At the end of World War II, the palace was badly damaged. It was rebuilt once again, in Neo-Baroque style, using many original parts. Things to Do and See at the Royal Palace Today, Buda Castle is home to the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum and the National Library. Other attractions include the Lion Courtyard; the Matthias Well, a bronze statue of King Matthias; and the statue of the Turul Bird, the mythological bird of the Magyars. Exhibitions in the National Gallery (Building B,C,D) feature the history and development of Hungarian painting. The collection also represents the past five hundred years of art in Hungary, including Medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wood sculptures and Gothic altars. While many of the historic figures depicted on older works may be less recognizable for visitors, paintings from the late 19th century will be more familiar.

19 The Budapest History Museum (Building E) is dedicated to the history of Budapest. Although not many artifacts survived from the once famous medieval palace; however the museum features a modest selection of restored rooms. Getting to the Royal Palace: Take the Funicular from Chain Bridge, the public bus serving Castle Hill called Várbusz from Széll Kálmán tér (formerly Moszkva tér) or one of the many paths leading up to Castle Hill Fishermen s Bastion Things to Do and See Around Fishermen s Bastion Fishermen's Bastion (Halászbástya) is only 100 years old, and is a favorite lookout. In medieval times, the fish market was nearby and the bastion was built to commemorate the fishermen who protected this part of the city. The seven tent-like turrets symbolize the seven Hungarian tribes that arrived to the Carpathian Basin in 896. Getting to Fishermen's Bastion: Take the Funicular from Chain Bridge, the public bus serving Castle Hill called Várbusz from Moszkva tér or one of the many paths leading up to Castle Hill Insider Tip: There is a fee to enter the lookout at the top level of Fishermen's Bastion, however you can enter the lower level lookout for free and the view is equally beautiful. Fishermen's Bastion is one of the most fascinating sights on Castle Hill. Although fishermen from Watertown (Víziváros) reputedly defended this part of the city during the Middle Ages, Fishermen s Bastion was built in the 1890s and it s purely decorative. Today, it's a favorite lookout. Heroes Square

20 Heroes Square is the largest and most impressive square of the city. The Millennium Monument standing in the middle of the square was erected in 1896 to commemorate the 1000-year-old history of Magyars. The Museum of Fine Arts is located at the north side of the square. The Kunsthalle (Hall of Art), an exhibition hall for the contemporary arts, is at the south side. Things to Do and See on Heroes' Square Laid out in 1896 to mark the thousandth anniversary of Hungary, Heroes' Square (Hősök tere) is the largest and most impressive square of the city. Located at the end of Andrássy Avenue and next to City Park, Heroes Square is one of the most visited sights in Budapest. Surrounded by two important buildings, Museum of Fine Arts on the left and Kunsthalle (Hall of Art) on the right, Heroes Square is also a station of the Millennium Underground. The Millennium Monument in the middle of the square was erected to commemorate the 1000-year-old history of the Magyars. Archangel Gabriel stands on top of the center pillar, holding the holy crown and the double cross of Christianity. The seven chieftains who led the Magyar tribes to Hungary can be seen on the stand below. Statues of kings and other important historical figures stand on top of the colonnades on either side of the center pillar. When the monument was originally constructed, Hungary was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and thus the last five spaces for statues on the left of the colonnade were reserved for members of the ruling Habsburg dynasty. The Habsburg emperors were replaced with Hungarian freedom fighters when the monument was rebuilt after World War II. In 1989 a crowd of 250,000 gathered at the square for the reburial of Imre Nagy, former Prime Minister of Hungary, who was executed in Getting to Heroes' Square: Take the Millennium Underground (M1) to Hősök tere Insider Tip: If you have the time, it's worthwhile to visit Heroes' Square at least twice: both during the day and at night. Combine it with a stroll along Andrassy Avenue or a visit to City Park. Central Market Hall

21 The spectacular Central Market Hall is a good source of Hungarian products. You can also make it a pit-stop for a quick bite of traditional Hungarian food when touring the city. Shop with the locals for sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables and pastries. Fancy bottles of Tokaji, a variety of paprika and handicrafts are also available. Things to Do and See at the Central Market Hall Built at the end of the 19th century, the Central Market Hall (officially called 'Központi Vásárcsarnok' in Hungarian) is the largest indoor market in Budapest. Among other things, on the ground floor you'll find a large selection of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables. On the second floor, there are food stands and plenty of vendors selling handicrafts, clothing, embroidery, chessboards and other souvenirs. Paprika and Tokaji are also sold here. In the basement, there is a fish market, a small Asian grocery store, a supermarket, and a small drugstore. While focusing on Hungarian products, on International Gastro Days (held on Fridays and Saturdays), the Central Market Hall also features the food and cuisine of a foreign country. The building also has some architectural significance. The metal roof structure is still the original, and the roof is covered with decorative Zsolnay tiles. There are four other markets like this in Budapest, which were all built in the same style (these are in Klauzál tér, Rákóczi tér, Hold utca and Hunyadi tér). An interesting fact is that all five buildings opened on the same day, on February 15th Because of its location and size the market hall on Fővám tér was chosen to be the central market hall by the city as opposed to the other markets ranked as district markets. When it opened ships sailed right into the building using special docks. The old customs house across from the building is now part of the Corvinus University. Today, the Central Market Hall remains a wonderful food market and a must-see, even if you don t buy anything. It s often visited by celebrities and foreign dignitaries. Getting to the Central Market Hall: Take Streetcars 2, 47 or 49 to Fővám tér

22 Opening hours: Mondays: 6 am to 5 pm Tuesday - Friday: 6 am to 6 pm Saturdays: 6 am to 2 pm Sundays: closed Insider Tip: Whet your appetite with a tour of the famous Central Market Hall, and then prepare and enjoy a Hungarian meal at Chefparade Cooking School. To get an insiders' perspective, consider joining a market tour guided by Taste Hungary, a local foodie expert. Check out their Culinary Walking Tour. Gellért Hill Gellért Hill offers some of the best panoramic views of Budapest. Named after bishop Gellért (Gerald), who was thrown to death from the hill by pagans in the fight against Christianity in At the top of the hill is the Citadel (Citadella) and Budapest's Statue of Liberty is also located here; you can see her from all parts of the city - a statue of a woman holding a palm leaf. A Brief History of Gellért Hill The hill was named after bishop Gellért (Gerard), who was thrown to death from the hill by pagans in the fight against Christianity in His statue, which faces Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsébet hid) and holds a cross, can be seen from many parts of Pest. At the top of the hill is the Citadel (Citadella), a fortress built by the Habsburgs after defeating Hungary's War of Independence in It was a prime, strategic site for shelling both Buda and Pest in the event of a future rebellion. In the 18th century, the slopes of Gellért Hill were covered with vineyards. The Tabán district at the foot of the hill was an important center of winemaking in Buda. Gellért Hill was a strategic military position in the Second World War as well as the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, when Soviet tanks bombarded the city from here. Budapest's Statue of Liberty stands on top of the hill, and she can

23 be seen from all parts of the city. Liberty was erected during the Communist era, commemorating the liberation from Nazi rule. Now a residential area, private homes and embassies line the streets winding up the hill. Since 1987, Gellért Hill has been listed as a world heritage site, as part of "the Banks of the Danube" area. The famous Hotel Gellért and the Gellért Baths can be found in Gellért Square at the foot of the hill. Things to Do and See Around Gellért Hill Gellért Hill (Gellért-hegy) offers some of the best panoramic views of Budapest. Starting your sightseeing here is not just a wonderful experience and a good first impression of the city, but it also makes orientation much easier. It's like laying out a map of Budapest in front of you. You can see the structure of the city and the difference between the hilly Buda side and the flat Pest side, with the Danube dividing the two. Besides the wonderful view, there are several attractions worth visiting: St. Gellért Monument - A colonnade and the statue of St. Gellért commemorate the bishop, Gellért Hill was named after. Citadel (Citadella) - This fortress, built by the Habsburgs after 1849, has been a military checkpoint, prison, anti-aircraft missile launch pad, and is now a tourist attraction. Statue of Liberty (Szabadság Szobor) - Budapest's Statue of Liberty stands on top of the hill, and she can be seen from all parts of the city. The statue (by Zsigmond Kisfaludi Strobl, 1947) was erected during the Communist era. As Liberty had already become a symbol of the city, she was not removed unlike other Communist icons, such as the Red Army soldier who used to stand at her feet, allowing us to see her in her original surroundings. Gellért Hill Cave Church (Sziklatemplom) - A network of caves exists within Gellért Hill. The first modern entrance to the caves was built in the 1920s. The Gellért Hill Cave served as a chapel and a field hospital during World War II. Today it belongs to the Hungarian Paulite order and it continues to serve as a church, but its unique setting also makes it a favorite tourist attraction. Getting to Gellért Hill: Streetcars 19, 47 and 49 have stops at Gellért Square Insider Tip: Gellért Hill has a popular play area equipped with children's slides of different length and difficulty. It's not visible from the main path, so look for the wooden signs pointing to the 'csúszdák'.

24 Great Synagogue The Great Synagogue in Dohány Street is the largest Synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world. It can accommodate close to 3,000 worshipers. It was built between 1854 and 1859 in Neo-Moorish style. During World War II, the Great Synagogue was used as a stable and as a radio communication center by the Germans. Today, it's the main center for the Jewish community. A Brief History of the Great Synagogue The Great Synagogue in Dohány Street (also known as Dohány Street Synagogue) is the largest Synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world, capable of accommodating 3,000 people. It was built between 1854 and 1859 in Moorish Revival or Neo-Moorish style, in the wake of Romanticism. Originally, there was a residential block next to the synagogue. In fact, Theodor Herzl, founder of the Zionist movement, was born in one of the houses located there. This site is now part of the complex and home to the Jewish Museum. During the inter-war years, anti-semitism grew quickly in Hungary. A series of anti-jewish policies were passed, and fascist groups like the Arrow Cross Party started to attract more followers. Hungary became an ally of Germany and the Arrow Cross Party damaged the Synagogue in During World War II, the Great Synagogue served as a stable and as a radio communication center for the Germans. Today, the compound serves as the main center for the Jewish community. Things to Do and See at the Great Synagogue The buildings and the courtyards of the Synagogue include the Jewish Museum, the Heroes' Temple, the Jewish Cemetery and the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park. Jewish Museum - The Jewish Museum was constructed on the site where Theodor Herzl's house once stood. The Museum is adjacent to the Great Synagogue, and it features Jewish traditions, costumes, as well a detailed

25 history of Hungarian Jews, including information about the Holocaust. Heroes' Temple - The Heroes' Temple was added to the Great synagogue in 1931, and it serves as a memorial to Hungarian Jews who gave their lives during World War I. Jewish Cemetery - The cemetery is located in the backyard of the Heroes' Temple. There are over 2,000 people buried here who died in the Jewish ghetto during the winter of Raul Wallenberg Memorial Park - The Raul Wallenberg Memorial Park, home to the Holocaust Memorial, is located in the backyard of the Great Synagogue. The Holocaust Memorial, also known as the Emanuel Tree, is a weeping willow tree (by Imre Varga) with the names of Hungarian Jews killed during the Holocaust inscribed on each leaf. The memorial was sponsored by the Emanuel Foundation of New York. The foundation was created in 1987 by Tony Curtis in honor of his father, Emanuel Schwartz, who emigrated to New York from Mátészalka in Hungary. Also part of the memorial are four red marble plates, commemorating 240 non- Jewish Hungarians who saved Jews during the Holocaust. One of the most heroic figures of the Holocaust in Hungary was Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish diplomat who prepared Protective Passports under the authority of the Swedish Embassy, saving the lives of thousands of Jews. Getting to the Great Synagogue: Take subway (M2) or streetcar 47 or 49 to Astoria, which is the nearest station Insider Tip: Take a self guided walking tour in Budapest's former Jewish Quarter or join UniqueBudapest's Secrets of the Jewish Quarter Tour to discover some hidden treasures. Andrássy Avenue

26 This elegant avenue, recognized as a World Heritage Site, is often referred to as Budapest's Champs-Elysées. It is also called cultural avenue, as the Opera House, Pest's best theaters, the Academy of Music, and many museums are either on the avenue or just off of it. Andrássy Avenue is great for walks alongside the beautiful turn-of-the-century buildings or people watching in one of the many cafés. A Brief History of Andrássy Avenue Andrássy Avenue, recognized as a World Heritage Site, was built to connect the city center with City Park (Városliget). Construction began in 1872, and the avenue was inaugurated in Its Eclectic Neo-Renaissance palaces and houses were built by the most distinguished architects of the time. Aristocrats, bankers, landowners and noble families moved in. The iconic avenue was named after Prime Minister Gyula Andrássy, a key advocate of the project. At the time of its completion in 1885, Andrássy Avenue was considered a masterpiece of city planning and even public transport was prohibited to preserve its character. This brought about the idea to build a railroad beneath it. The Millennium Underground Railway, the first subway line in continental Europe, opened in The line transported people from the city center to Városliget, the main venue of the Millennium celebrations. Since its inauguration, Andrássy Avenue has had many names: Andrássy Sugárút (Andrássy Avenue) at the time of its completion in 1885, Stalin after World War II, Hungarian Youth in 1956, People's Republic after 1956 and until 1989, and Andrássy út since No matter what the official name was, people in Budapest eventually always called their beloved street Andrássy Avenue. In recent years, Andrássy Avenue has become increasingly chic, attracting some of the world's leading designers. Not to mention, the many restaurants and cafés located along the avenue. Andrássy Avenue has four distinct parts: 1. Elizabeth Square to Oktogon mainly commercial buildings, shops,

27 Opera House, Liszt Ferenc Square 2. Oktogon to Kodály körönd a widened part with residential and office buildings, House of Terror Museum 3. Kodály körönd to Bajza utca an even wider part with residential villas 4. Bajza utca to Heroes' Square villas and palaces with gardens, some are used as embassies Things to Do and See Around Andrássy Avenue Andrássy Avenue is great for walks alongside the beautiful turn-of-the-century buildings or people watching in one of the many cafés. It's a long avenue, however the Millennium Underground Railway runs beneath it, should you feel tired. The State Opera House is one of the most famous tenants on Andrássy, but the avenue is also home to many upscale boutiques, including Louis Vuitton, Ermenegildo Zegna, Burberry and Gucci, and to several other attractions. The intersection of Andrássy Avenue and the Grand Boulevard (Nagykörút) is shaped like an octagon, hence its name: Oktogon. Like with many other places in Budapest, the Oktogon had different names in the past. From , it was known as Mussolini Square, and during the Communist era, for 40-some years, it was known as November 7 Square. Today Oktogon is a busy square, giving home to the world's largest Burger King. The Millennium Underground (M1) also stops at the Oktogon. The best way to discover Andrássy Avenue is to take our Millennium Walking Tour. Getting to Andrássy Avenue: Take the Millennium Underground Railway (M1), which runs underneath Andrássy Avenue St. Stephen s Basilica It took more than 50 years to build the Basilica, the largest church in Budapest. Building commenced in 1851 and the inauguration ceremony took place in The patron saint of the church is St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary. Visit the dome's observation deck for a beautiful panoramic view of Budapest.

28 A Brief History of St. Stephen's Basilica St. Stephen s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest and can hold up to 8,500 people. Although in architectural terms it s a cathedral, it was given the title of basilica minor by Pope Pius XI in It took more than 50 years to build the Basilica. Building commenced in 1851, and the inauguration ceremony took place in 1906 and was attended by Emperor Franz Joseph. During its construction, in 1868 the dome collapsed and rebuilding it had to start almost from scratch, which explains the delay in the Basilica's completion. Architect Jozsef Hild who drafted the original plans and supervised the construction died in Miklós Ybl, one of Europe's leading architects in the mid to late 19th century, who also designed the Opera House, took over. When the dome collapsed in 1868, Ybl had to draft new plans. Unfortunately Ybl didn t live to see the completion of the Basilica as he passed away in 1891, however work was finished according to his plans. The dome from the inside Originally designed in neo-classical style by Hild, the Basilica was finished in neo-renaissance style based on the plans of Ybl. The dome is 96 meters high, the exact same height as the Budapest Parliament Building. In fact current building regulations stipulate that no other structure in Budapest can be taller than 96 meters. Having the same height as the Parliament also symbolizes the balance between church and state in Hungary. The patron saint of the church is St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary. His mummified right hand is kept in a glass case in the chapel to the left of the main altar. The beautiful interior is also noteworthy as it is decorated by famous artists of the era. The most valuable artwork is the mosaic based on Gyula Benczur s oil painting depicting the allegories of the holy mass. Another beautiful work by Benczur is the painting in which St. Stephen holds up the crown and asks the Virgin Mary to become the patron of Hungary.

29 Getting to St. Stephen's Basilica: Take the subway (M3) to Arany János utca The stairs Insider Tips: For beautiful, panoramic views of Budapest walk up the stairs (364 steps) or take the elevators up to the dome's observation deck (open April 1st through Oct 31st). There's no cost to enter the church, but there is a nominal fee of HUF 500 to go up to the observation deck. The Basilica has two bell towers and Hungary s largest bell, weighing 9.5 tons, which is located in the south tower. Guided tours of the Basilica are also available Monday through Friday between 10 am and 3 pm, for a fee of HUF 2,000. Organ concerts are held on Mondays starting at 5 pm year-round. Tickets are HUF 3,000. If you are a fan of classical music check out the Basilica s event calendar (in Hungarian only) for concerts held throughout the year. Visit St. Stephen's Basilica on Christmas Eve for the city's largest Midnight Mass Budapest Academy of Music Ferenc Liszt, the famous Hungarian composer founded the Academy of Music in 1875 and in a short period of time, it became one of the most prestigious musical institutions in Europe. The Art Nouveau building giving home to the Academy is one of the most well known in Budapest.

30 A Brief History of the Academy of Music The Academy of Music (Zeneakadémia) in Budapest was founded in the 1870s, enabling talented music students to receive higher education in Hungary, which until then was possible only abroad. One of the biggest supporters of the conservatory was Ferenc Liszt, the famous Hungarian-born composer. In 1873, the Parliament decided to create the institute, and Ferenc Liszt was elected as president. The Academy opened its doors in 1875, and in a short period of time it became one of the most prestigious musical institutions in Europe. First the Academy was located at Ferenc Liszt's apartment, then it moved to a building on Andrássy Avenue and finally in 1907 it took residence in a new Art Nouveau building. At the same time the square in front of the building was named 'Liszt Ferenc tér' in honor of the great composer. Today, the square is packed with indoor and outdoor cafés and restaurants, creating the perfect atmosphere for lunch, laidback cocktails or dinner. It's a trendy and busy place. Getting to the Academy of Music: Take the Millennium Undreground (M1) to Oktogon plus Streetcars 4-6 to Király utca Good to know: Following two years of extensive renovations, the Ferenc Liszt Academy of Music reopened its doors on October 22nd, City Park City Park provides a great escape from the bustle of the city. The 1896 Millennium Celebrations took place here, leaving many attractions behind. Vajdahunyad Castle was built to show the various architectural styles of Hungary, and has Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque parts. There is a boating lake next to the castle, which is turned into an ice skating rink in the winter. Things to Do and See in City Park City Park is the largest park in Budapest. The first trees and walkways were established here in In the first decades of the 19th century a park was

31 created, which became the first public park in the world. In 1896 the Millennium Celebrations took place here, leaving many attractions behind. Vajdahunyad Castle, a replica of a Transylvanian castle of that name, was built to show the various architectural styles found in Hungary, and has Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque parts. In the courtyard is the statue of Anonymus, the nameless medieval chronicler to King Béla. His work is the main source of information on Hungarian history through the Middle Ages, however the fact that there were four kings called Béla during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries makes it hard to identify him or the monarch. His face is hidden by a hood, making him anonymous, and yet portraying an interesting and important historical figure. The castle is surrounded by an artificial lake that's used for boating in the summer and turns into an impressive ice skating rink in the winter, which is a local favorite. The history of the City Park Ice Rink (Városligeti Műjégpálya) goes back to the 19th century, when skating was considered a favorite winter pass time by the elite. It first opened on January 29th 1870 and Rudolf, Crown Prince of Austria, was present for the inauguration ceremonies. The Budapest Zoo, the Amusement Park, the Municipal Circus, the Museum of Transport, the legendary Gundel Restaurant and the famous Széchenyi Baths are also located within City Park. In addition, there are playgrounds, slides, wooden castles and monkey bars in the park to keep the small ones entertained. For treasuer hunters, there's a flea market held every weekend by Petőfi Csarnok (open Saturdays and Sundays from 8 am to 2 pm). There are many seasonal activities and you can easily spend a full day here. Getting here from the city center is quick and easy with the Millennium Underground. Getting to City Park: Take the Millennium Underground (M1), which runs underneath Andrássy Avenue

32 Váci Street 'Váci utca' is perhaps the most famous street in Budapest. It runs from Vörösmarty Square to the Central Market Hall and features a large number of restaurants, shops and cafés. Things to Do and See Around Váci Street Váci Street, located in the city center and designated as a pedestrian precinct, runs from Vörösmarty Square to Vámház körút. The northern part is the busy and fashionable shopping street everyone refers to as Váci Street, while the southern part is lined with restaurants and over-prized souvenir shops. While Váci Street is great for a stroll, unfortunately most of the restaurants are expensive and geared towards tourists and there is little in the way of quality souvenirs for sale. To give you an idea of the size of Pest in the Middle Ages, it was the lenght of today's Váci Street. Next to Vörösmarty Square, on the corner of Váci Street and Türr István Street, the white line on the pavement marks the site of the medieval city wall. This is where the city s northern gate, Váci Gate, once stood. Getting to Váci Street: Take Subway (M2 or M3) to Deák Square and take the short walk over to Váci Street, or take the Millennium Underground (M1) to Vörösmarty Square Insider Tips: Start your walk at the famous Gerbeaud Café on Vörösmarty Square and you will end it with a totally different experience at the Central Market Hall on Vámház körút. If you are a fan of Art Nouveau, be sure to check out the Philanthia flower shop at No. 9.

33 Budapest Broadway The theatre district in Pest is nicknamed as Budapest's Broadway. There are four theatres, two galleries, a nightclub and some very good restaurants here, just off Andrássy Avenue. As theatre is highly valued in Hungary, this area is always busy at night. Things to Do and See Around Budapest's Broadway The intersection of Nagymező utca and Andrássy Avenue (a block north of the Budapest Opera) is nicknamed as Budapest's Broadway. Some exquisite theaters, as well as the Moulin Rouge nightclub, the Manó Mai House of Photography, the Ernst Gallery, and some very good restaurants, are all located here. Theaters in Nagymező utca - Thália and Radnóti are both traditional theaters. Operett features musicals, and Mikroszkóp is famous for its stand-up comedy. The most famous Hungarian stand-up comedian, Géza Hofi ( ), was the star here for years. His statue stands in front of the building. Getting to Budapest Broadway: Take the Millennium Underground (M1), which runs underneath Andrássy Avenue

34 Vörösmarty Square Vörösmarty Square, located in the heart of Budapest, is always busy. This is where the famous Gerbeaud Café can be found, as well as the first station of the Millennium Underground. Váci Street also starts here. Things to Do and See in Vörösmarty Square Vörösmarty Square is a popular square in the heart of Budapest, located at the northern end of Váci Street. It was named after the renowned Hungarian poet Mihály Vörösmarty, whose statue can be seen in the middle of the square. This is where the Millennium Underground begins and this is where every year the Christmas Market is held. The main attraction here is however the famous Gerbeaud Café, a tenant since The newest addition to the square is a high-tech, glass-covered mall/office building. Getting to Vörösmarty Square: Take the Millennium Underground (M1) to Vörösmarty Square, or Subways (M2) or (M3) to Deák Ferenc tér, or Streetcar 2 to Vigadó tér Danube Promenade The Danube Promenade, a fifteen-minute stroll between Elizabeth Bridge and Chain Bridge, offers a magnificent view of the Royal Palace. The Vigadó Concert Hall, three luxury hotels, along with some restaurants are located here. Things to Do and See Around the Danube Promenade

35 The Danube Promenade (Dunakorzó) extends between the Elizabeth Bridge and the Chain Bridge in Pest along the banks of the Danube. This location was always popular for promenading, especially in the 19th century. Back then the Promenade was home to several famous hotels such as the Ritz, the Bristol and the Carlton. Their cafés, overlooking the Danube and the Buda Castle were immensely popular. These days a new row of luxury hotels attempts to recreate the pre-war ambiance. Things to see when walking from Elizabeth Bridge towards Chain Bridge: Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd) Probably the most elegant bridge in Budapest was named in honor of Queen Elisabeth, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph. The original suspension bridge was built at the end of the 19th century, but the damage sustained in World War II left the bridge beyond repair. Using the old pillars, a new bridge was built in the 1960s. Vigadó Concert Hall The Romantic building of the Vigadó Concert Hall was inaugurated in It is located on Vigadó tér, a small square next to the Marriott Hotel. The Vigadó hosted performances by Liszt, Mahler, Wagner and Von Karajan. The building was badly damaged during the war and it didn't reopen until Most Danube cruises depart from Vigadó tér. Little Princess Don't overlook the statue of the Little Princess on the Promenade, sitting on the railings by the embankment; she is one of Budapest's newest attractions. Széchenyi István Square (Széchenyi István tér) The Pest End of Chain Bridge (formerly known Roosevelt Square, named after the former U.S. president), was recently renamed to Széchenyi István tér as a tribute to the founder of Chain Bridge. The Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Art Nouveau-style Gresham Palace are located in the square. Getting to the Danube Promenade: Streetcar 2 has several stops on the Danube Promenade Insider Tip: Every December Christmas trams decorated with hundreds of lights run along the Danube Promenade, on route 2A.

36 Shoes on the Danube Located in Pest, between Roosevelt tér and Kossuth tér, the Shoes of the Danube memorial commemorates the victims of the Holocaust. 60 pairs of iron shoes form a row along the river in memory of the people shot into the Danube during World War II. Why visit: history, Jewish heritage, panorama The Shoes on the Danube is a memorial to the Budapest Jews who were shot by Arrow Cross militiamen between 1944 and The victims were lined up and shot into the Danube River. They had to take their shoes off, since shoes were valuable belongings at the time. The memorial was created by Gyula Pauer, Hungarian sculptor, and his friend Can Togay in It contains 60 pairs of iron shoes, forming a row along the Danube. Each pair of shoes was modeled after an original 1940's pair. For more of an insight read 'One of Budapest's Most Moving Memorials: Shoes on The Danube'. Getting to the Shoes on the Danube: Take Streetcar 2 either to Széchenyi István tér or to Kossuth tér. The memorial is between the Parliament Building and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, by the Danube. Insider Tip: If you want to learn more about Budapest's Jewish heritage sign up for a Secrets of the Jewish Quarter Tour.

37 Margaret Island Long a religious center, Margaret Island now serves as a recreational park in the center of the Danube River. It's a great place to walk, swim a few laps, or go for a run. During summer months, bicycles are available for rent. Since vehicles are prohibited, the island is a fantastic escape from the city's traffic. A Brief History of Margaret Island In the Middle Ages, Margaret Island was called the Island of the Rabbits, simply because there were many rabbits there. The island received its current name after Saint Margaret ( ), the daughter of King Béla IV, who lived in the Dominican convent on the island. King Béla IV vowed to raise his daughter as a nun if Hungary survived the Mongol invasion. Ruins of this 13th century Dominican church and convent can still be seen. Among the present historical monuments on the island are the 13th century ruins of a Franciscan church, as well as a Premonstratensian chapel with a Romanesque tower from the 12th century. Churches and cloisters dominated the island until the 16th century. During the Turkish occupation, the monks and nuns fled and the island was turned into a harem. In the 18th century, the island was chosen to be the resort of the palatines. Palatines were the highest dignitaries after the king. It was declared a public garden in Since then, Margaret Island serves as a recreational park. The island houses various sports establishments, like the Palatinus water park, the Alfréd Hajós sports pool, tennis courts and an athletics center. Things To Do and See on Margaret Island Walking the length of the island takes about 20 minutes, but most visitors spend time at the Hajós Alfréd and the Palatinus outdoor pools. The Palatinus water park is a popular place in the summer, especially on the weekends. The 11 outdoor pools, including two for children, are in a beautiful setting. If it is too cold to go for a swim, an island tour introduces relics hailing back to the island's religious origins, including a 12th century convent and ruins of a Franciscan and a

38 Dominican church. During summer months, bicycles, inline skates and 'bringóhintó', a four-wheeled bike for four, are available for rent. Since vehicles are prohibited, the island is a fantastic escape from the bustle of the big city and a great place to work out, swim a few laps, or go for a run. The music fountain Other attractions on the island include the Centennial Memorial which commemorates the 100th anniversary of Budapest, a Japanese Garden, a tiny zoo, a music fountain, and an octagonal water tower, built in Art Nouveau style in The outdoor theater hosts operas, concerts and plays during summer. The thermal water on Margaret Island is famous for its healing effects. The natural, thermal water running beneath the island was first brought to the surface in In addition to its healing power, a day at the Danubius Health Spa is also a great way to relax and unwind. Margaret Island is not only a popular destination during the day, it comes alive after sunset too. Young adults mingle and dance to a backdrop of canned music underneath a ceiling of stars in Holdudvar, a popular summertime restaurant, bar and open-air cinema. Another favorite hang-out, known for its artsy vibe, is Wndrlnd.

39 Getting to Margaret Island: Streetcars 4 and 6 have stops on Margaret Bridge. Margaret Island is only a short walk from there. Insider Tips: If you like to run, there is an excellent rubber-coated jogging track around the island (3.3 miles / 5350 meters, marked at 500 meter intervals). When the weather is nice Margaret Island is also great for a picnic. In the summer, take in an outdoor concert at the open-air theater located next to the famous Art Nouveau water tower. Millennium Underground The first subway line in mainland Europe, the Millennium Underground in Budapest, opened in The line is still in use and it runs along Andrássy Avenue. In 2002 the Millennium Underground was added to he World Heritage Sites. A Brief History of the Millennium Underground At the time of its completion in 1885, Andrássy Avenue was considered a masterpiece of city planning and even public transport was prohibited to preserve its character. This brought about the idea to build a railroad beneath it. The first subway line in continental Europe opened in 1896 and is still in use as the M1 or the yellow line. Like many other buildings in Budapest, the Millennium Underground Railway was commissioned to celebrate the Millennium in Trains ran along Andrássy Avenue, from Gizella Square (today Vörösmarty Square) to the Zoo in City Park, in a northeast-southwest direction. There were eleven stations, nine were underground and two were above the ground. The length of the line was 3.7 km (2.3 miles) at that time; trains started in every two minutes. It was able to carry as many as 35,000 people a day (today, about 100,000 people travel on it on a workday). The history of the subway line can be seen at the Underground Museum.

40 The Millennium Underground is still in use and it makes the following stops: - Vörösmarty Square (Vörösmarty tér) - Deák Ferenc Square (Deák Ferenc tér) - Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Street (Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út) - Opera - Oktogon - Vörösmarty Street (Vörösmarty utca) - Kodály circus (Kodály körönd) - Bajza Street (Bajza utca) - Heroes' Square (Hősök tere) - Széchenyi Baths (Széchenyi fürdő) - Mexikói Street (Mexikói út) Roman City of Aquincum From the first century BC to the 5th century AD, western Hungary was part of the Roman Empire. The largest town was Aquincum, the ancestor of Budapest. Remains of an amphitheatre, mosaic floors, tombstones, statues and a reconstructed water-organ are the main attractions. Things To Do and See at Aquincum From the first century BC to the fifth century AD, western Hungary was part of the Roman Empire. It was called Pannonia, and its largest town was Aquincum, the ancestor of Budapest. As the center of Pannonia, Aquincum played an important leading role. The excavated ruins date back to the second century, when the city had around 15,000 inhabitants. Remains of an amphitheater, mosaic floors, tombstones, statues and a reconstructed water-organ are the main attractions. The first Roman ruins were found in 1778 by a wine maker. Luckily, the significance of the find was recognized immediately, and the remains were

41 shortly identified as the Roman town of Aquincum. Since then, more of the area has been excavated; however, so far only one third of the former settlement has been unearthed. Besides Aquincum, Hercules Villa (accessible only as part of a guided tour) and Thermae Maiores (Big Bath, a former Roman bath complex) are open to the public. Aquincum is located in the oldest part of Buda, called Óbuda, which literally means Old Buda. Óbuda was united with Buda and Pest in Today, Óbuda forms part of District 3. In addition to the several excavated Roman ruins, Óbuda also has a Baroque and a modern side. Its center, Fő tér (Main Square), is one of the most charming squares in the city. Budapest's Shipyard Island, which hosts the biggest annual music festival, the week long Sziget festival, is also in this part of the city. Getting to Aquincum: Take the HÉV (suburban railway) from Batthiány Square (at the M2 Subway station) to Aquincum