Last Day In Budapest

(Head to the bottom for tips, tricks, and travel bits)

We had already ticked many sites and views off our Budapest list, but on this day we had more to complete, and some to revisit because the first time they were closed.

It was a bluebird, incredible day. The sun was shining, but still cold enough to dress snuggly. We walked the streets, being able to really appreciate the buildings that had, until now, been shrouded in mist and fog. The ‘Pest’ side has a wonderful view of Castle Hill, especially by the riverside. It stands tall and proud, with the oxidised metal glinting in the sun. Today, the trams looked even more vibrant than they had. Moods were lifted, smiles were shared and laughs echoed through the air.

The most important place that was on our list was The Central Market. We came here previously, but it was closed, so it was high priority! To get there, we had to waltz and weave through the buildings, admiring how the shops and architecture changes as the river curves to the left. We saw river boats, that are Five Star Hotels, with people swanning about inside. We mentally made it a goal to one day be those people swanning around.

We turned the quiet corner to be greeted by cars beeping and cameras clicking, there was Christmas music blasting throughout the Christmas Market. We had reached the Central Market, and the second busiest area of Budapest. With our cash safely in our pockets, we once again stepped through the doors of the Market Hall. It managed to make us stop in our tracks again, just by how beautiful it was. Glitzy decorations, lights and baubles everywhere. The stalls all had fresh produce, that were brighter than anything you see in a supermarket. There was salami hanging in every second stall, and Paprika overflowing from every direction. Downstairs is where everyone does their weekly grocery shopping, and upstairs is for the souvenirs and snack food stalls.

Now, be aware that as soon as you reach upstairs you will want to buy everything you see. All of the souvenirs are lovely, and very reasonable. They have something for everyone. Even walking through the stalls I was learning more about the Hungarian culture; how they dress, what is important, and what flavours and spices they use in their foods. All the shopkeepers were kind and never pushed you to buy anything.

It reached the hour of hunger, as we stepped outside the snack stalls. We had been recommended to try a Hungarian snack called a Lángos. The base is deep fried dough (very healthy) and you can choose your toppings. Sweet or savoury, there is something for any appetite! We chose to go with the traditional toppings of sour cream and grated cheese (very, very healthy). The first bite was a flavour explosion, there were different textures and tastes, but together it really worked. With each bite I became obsessed, and needed to eat more. This was until I was halfway through and we realised that one would have been fine for the both of us. And I am normally someone who can eat plenty without getting full.

Now that our bellies were full, it was time to make our way to our next spot of the day. We had heard about another Thermal Bath and we were eager to try it. Thanks to Kirally Thermal Bath, we were able to have a look around, hear about some of the history; and then submerge our cold bodies in the healing water. The Kirally baths are over 400 years old and it is an original Turkish Bath. Inside, you are able to walk past part of a Turkish wall. This thermal bath is very different to the one we had been to previously. Where Széchenyi was elaborate in design and grand in structure, this was very basic. It was in a dome with ventilation holes at the top. It was very steamy and deliciously warm. They had three different temperature baths, up to a 40 degree pool. There are steam rooms, saunas and even an outside spa. These baths are in a great location, near the main area on the Buda side of the river, and if you go there just before sunset, you can have a dazzling view of the city when you come back out.

Central Market –

The Central Market is the perfect place to find delicious food, on a budget. If you come here for a trip, you can buy lunch and dinner supplies for your whole time. You will taste authentic Hungarian food, at a ridiculously low price. You must remember to buy yourself a Langos for a very cheap price of €2, and make sure you arrive long before closing time.

Király Baths –

For a truly relaxing experience, make sure you make your way to the Király Baths. It is a pretty special feeling to soak in the water, in a building filled with so much history. You are given either a locker or a private changing cubical, so all of your belongings stay safe.