Budapest

Hungary’s vibrant capital city, Budapest, is an intriguing city with surprises around every corner. Belle Époque opulence sits beside impressive street art, and Michelin-starred restaurants sit next to trendy street food stalls and ‘ruin pubs’ (abandoned buildings filled with graffiti, plants and a collection of different bars).

These fascinating contrasts mean Budapest’s tourism can be bold and brash, entertaining backpackers and boozy stag groups aplenty. Yet culture-seekers flock to the city to soak up the nouveau architecture and relax in one of Budapest’s world-famous thermal baths – these architectural marvels serve as idyllic wellness sanctuaries and social hotspots, and are a must-visit as part of the quintessential Budapest experience.

Budapest is also big on Christmas, pulling in visitors from all over the world between November and New Year for its Christmas markets, when the city’s historic buildings are festooned with fairy lights and light displays. Wander through the stalls while nibbling on traditional Hungarian chimney cake and sipping mulled wine, while browsing the beautiful handcrafted gifts.