Welcome to a journey through Budapest, a city that captivated us during our visit in 2017. As we strolled through the streets of Hungary’s capital, I was struck by a palpable sense of optimism and renewal. The city seemed to be embracing its democratic future, having emerged from decades of communist rule less than 30 years prior. There was an air of possibility and progress that permeated the atmosphere.
Budapest’s architectural landscape is a testament to its rich and varied history. The city is a veritable open-air museum of architectural styles, from the neo-Gothic splendor of the Parliament Building to the Art Nouveau masterpieces scattered throughout the city. I marveled at the eclectic mix of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Secession buildings that line the grand boulevards and intimate side streets. However, many were in disrepair and needed the type of renovation that was so evident when we visited Prague in the Czech Republic.
No visit to Budapest is complete without experiencing its famous thermal baths. The city sits atop a network of over 100 natural hot springs, and the tradition of “taking the waters” dates back centuries. We visited them and enjoyed a soak at the magnificent Széchenyi Baths, feeling the stress melt away in the steaming mineral-rich waters.
Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of Budapest’s history is its pioneering underground railway. Built for the 1896 Millennium World Exhibition, the M1 line is the oldest electric underground railway system on the European continent. Riding this historic “subway” felt like stepping back in time, a reminder of Budapest’s long-standing position at the forefront of urban innovation.
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