Budapest is an easy city to navigate, with the river at its heart. Cross a bridge to the west and you’re in Buda, and opposite is the Pest. Both are equally as beautiful and charming. The food in Budapest isn’t what you’re going to the city for – it’s heavy and stodgy. But the Jewish quarter is full of cool snack bars and outdoor market stalls, and a booming bohemian drinking scene.
THINGS TO DO
Walk around the Jewish quarter; Drinks at ruin bars; head to a thermal spa (I would recommend Gellert Baths or Széchenyi Thermal Bath; squeeze into a Castle Hill funicular carriage (dating back to 1870) and climb slowly to the pedestrianised district of old Buda. Wander around the Royal Palace, today housing the Hungarian National Gallery
EAT
Mazel Tov Awesome Mediterranean menu vibes
Gozsdu Udvar Outdoor food hall
Sugar Shop Massive pick ‘n’ mix and other sweet things
Liberté Grand Café Traditional menu in a chic diner style setting
Anjuna They have a hazelnut cold brew ice pop. ‘Nuff said
Karavan Outdoor food stalls
Neither tried nor tested, but researched & recommended…
Nagyi Palacsintázója For traditional Hugarian pancakes
Great Market Hall
Juicy Tiny vegan joint
Costes Downtown Michelin starred resto
DRINK
High Note Sky Aar at the Aria Hotel Go for a drink, the view and a lie down
Neither tried nor tested, but researched & recommended…
Tamp & Pull A new breed of espresso bar
Café New York Traditional Hungarian setting for tea, despite the name
Koleues Kert Cool ruin bar
Mika Garden Live music and booze
Cirkusz Bohemian café
I visited Budapest in August 2018