Communism was short lived in the 1100 year history of Hungary. Today the country is well at ease with a capitalist identity. Budapest may be Hungary's social and economic benchmark; however, other cultural attractions and interesting provincial capitals are within easy reach.
There are the wine valleys of the northern hills; plains of the south and (upscale) resorts in the east.
It is suggested you visit the countryside in addition to the cultural centers as there is much fulfillment to be gained by visiting both areas.
Fast Facts about the Country Follow:
The official name is the Republic of Hungary. The government is a Parliamentary democracy. The Capital of the country is Budapest. Total land area is 92,340 km. The geography of the country includes mainly plains and low mountains and hills on the Slovakian border. The winters are cold, and cloudy with a high humidity and warm summers. The major cities include Budapest, Eger, Szombathely, Debrecen and Pecs. The language is Hungarian (Magyar). The majority of Hungarians are Roman Catholic; followed by Calvinist and Lutheran.
Budapest is the capital of Hungary and is quite a cosmopolitan center. The city has historically made a “comeback” after World War II and the invasion of the Soviets in 1956. The city has emerged from the cocoon of its former Communist government with a vibrancy and architectural majesty that makes it easily one of the most sophisticated and culturally interesting cities in Eastern Europe.
Accommodations:
It is suggested, when seeking accommodations, you call ahead-particularly in the summer months.
Budapest's hostels are for the most part social centers with no curfews, and common rooms full of beer and music that often prove more interesting than neighboring bars and clubs.
The next topic of accommodation is the guest house. If you prefer a more personal “touch” rather than the communal lodging of the hostel than the guesthouse may be your best option. Guesthouses and rooms in private homes offer privacy at about the same price as hostels. Owners are always on the prowl for guests and carry their cell phones in order to take reservations.
Following are some guesthouse style recommendations:
Museum Guesthouse, VIII, Mikszathkalman ter 4, first floor in Pest. M3: Kalvin ter; take the left exit from the stop onto Baross U., take the left branch at the fork, go to the far right corner at the open square, and ring the buzzer at gate number four. The lodging is situated in the heart of a lively nightlife and bar scene although the guesthouse is quite laidback. It is suggested you make reservations on the morning of your stay.
Another possibility is Caterina VI, Andrassy ut. 47, third floor, Apartment #18 in Pest: ring bell at Apartment #11. Trams #4 and #6. The guesthouse is located across from Burger King. A grandmother-style house with no curfew, but quiet hours. Dorms; doubles; triples and 6-bedroom units available.
Welsses Haus is a family-owned villa in a nice neighborhood. It is approximately thirty minutes from the center of the city. Breakfast is included. Address is Erdoalja, ut 11. M3: Arpad hid; then take tram #1 to Florianter and #137 to Iskola.
Restaurants in the city -even the most expensive may fall well within your price range. A ten percent gratuity is normally expected and another ten percent should your meal be accompanied by live music. The Kifozes or vendejlos offer good examples of Hungarian cuisine. If you are less adventuresome then Budapest is home to the world's largest Burger King located on Oktogon.
Corner markets are your best option for groceries. Grand Market Hall, IX, Fovamter 1/3, next to Szabad sag hid (M3: Kalvin Ter) was first built in (the year) 1897. The hall is an enormous 10,000 square miles of market stalls and is a tourist attraction in and of it self.
The Fatal Restaurant, V, Vaci ut 67 in Pest is a popular place for hearty Hungarian-style meals. The main courses are very large; however, presentation is carefully garnished. Reservations are a necessity.
Marquis de Salade, VI, Hajos u. 43 in Pest serves up very chic cuisine served by waiters dressed in black from head to toe. The décor is presented in the most elaborate fashion with interesting dishes from Azerbaijan, France, India, Italy, Japan, and Hungary. To reach: take the M3: Arany Janos; at the corner of Bajcsy-Zsillinsky ut.
Marcellos, XI, Bartok Bela in Buda is noted for its imported bread sticks, fresh flowers and classy waitresses. Also expect real tomato sauce. To locate: the establishment is just before Moricz Zsigmond Korter on the river side.
Falafel Faloda, VI, Paulay Ede u.53 in Pest provides fast food. Here you may make your own falafel with real tahini and fresh vegetables. M1: Opera; cross Andrassy, head straight on Hajos u. and turn left on Paulay Ede.
