Things to do in Budapest

As river cruises go the Danube is up there for romance and calm. Hop aboard and breeze by Castle Hill in all its regal grandeur. If you go to Budapest for a spot of relaxation then you will want to spend a day at a Turkish bath. Swan around the complex enjoying the pools, saunas and steam rooms and pampering yourself up. Favourite bathhouses include Gellért and Széchenyi both located in the centre of Budapest.

The Jewish quarter of Budapest is a recommended place to visit, above all for the city’s main synagogue on Dohány Street. It’s the second largest in the world and was built between 1854 and 1859. The interior is a majestic treat for the eyes and one of Europe’s most intricate. And next door is the National Jewish Museum, which if you’re in the neighbourhood is worth a mosey. Inside are collections of religious relics, as well as a room dedicated to the Holocaust.

Budapest’s nightlife is one of Europe’s liveliest, attracting partygoers from all across Europe. A quirky night haunt is Szimpla near the city centre. The place is adorned with secondhand sofas and a plethora of mis-matched furniture and decoration. The venue includes Budapest’s trademark bar-gardens – great when the sun is shining. During the evening the place lights up with Budapest’s hip and cool crowd. The venue has a jam-packed summer programme of live jazz, rock, blues, electronic, funk and world music.