Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, spans an area of 525 sq km (203 sq miles), with approximately two-thirds in the flat region of Pest and one-third in the hilly area of Buda. It is the home of nearly 1.69 million people, making up about 17% of Hungary’s total population.
The city stretches approximately 25 km (15 miles) from north to south and 29 km (18 miles) from west to east. Its geographical coordinates are 47° 5’0″ N, 19° 0’0″ E, and its GPS coordinates are 47.49571, 19.05507. The lowest point in Budapest is the surface of the Danube River, 96 meters above sea level, and its highest point is János-hegy, at 529 meters above sea level.
The climate is temperate, with cold, cloudy, humid winters and warm summers. The city experiences over 2,000 hours of sunshine yearly, with an average temperature of 11°C. Learn more about the weather here.
Budapest is divided into 23 administrative districts, each indicated by a Roman numeral. Notable historical quarters include the Castle (Vár) and Watertown (Víziváros) in Buda, as well as Belváros (Downtown) and Lipótváros in Pest. The city is connected by 11 bridges, nine of which cater to road traffic and the remaining two to railway transport.
Public transportation in Budapest is diverse and accessible, including buses, trams, four metro lines, the HÉV suburban railway, and a cogwheel railway. More unique modes of transport include ferry boats, the Buda Castle Funicular (Budavári sikló), the Children’s Railway (gyermekvasút), and the Zugliget chairlift (Zugligeti libegő).
The city is served by the Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér (former Ferihegy International Airport), located 15 km from the city center and offering three terminals to accommodate both Schengen and non-Schengen flights.
Culture and Lifestyle:
- Budapest is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, from theaters and opera to contemporary art galleries and music festivals. The city celebrates its rich history and traditions while also embracing modern art and entertainment.
Architectural Marvels:
- The cityscape is adorned with architectural wonders, a mix of Roman, Ottoman, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Art Nouveau, and other styles. The Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge are some of the iconic landmarks.
Thermal Baths:
- Budapest is sometimes called the “City of Spas” due to its rich thermal waters. There are numerous public thermal baths, like the Széchenyi and Gellért Baths, offering a relaxing experience in opulent settings.
Cuisine:
- Hungarian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, with dishes like goulash (gulyás), pörkölt, and chimney cake (kürtőskalács) being quite popular. The city boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional Hungarian eateries to international cuisines.
Festivals and Events:
- Throughout the year, Budapest hosts a variety of festivals and events, celebrating everything from music and arts to food and wine. The Budapest Wine Festival, Budapest International Documentary Festival, and the Budapest Opera Ball are just a few of the annual highlights.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
- Budapest has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue, showcasing its historical and cultural significance.
Shopping and Nightlife:
- From boutique stores offering local crafts to modern shopping malls, Budapest caters to every shopper. The city’s nightlife is dynamic, with ruin bars, nightclubs, and jazz cafes offering entertainment until the early hours.
Local Etiquette:
- Hungarians value politeness. A simple “Köszönöm” (Thank you) or “Jó napot” (Good day) can go a long way in building rapport.
In essence, Budapest is a city that seamlessly blends its storied past with a pulsating present, ensuring every visitor has a memorable experience. Whether you’re soaking in a thermal bath, admiring the panoramic views from the Fisherman’s Bastion, or dancing the night away in a ruin bar, Budapest promises an enchanting escape.