Poland’s second largest city is filled to the brim with beauty and character. Largely undamaged during World War II it has retained all of it medieval charm. It is a great place to stroll around and explore the Old Town and soak up its long and rich history. Dominating the cities skyline is the Royal Castle, situated at the top of Wawel Hill which provides the best views of the city and the Vistula River.

 

Reykjavik

The Icelandic capital is known for its hot weekend nightlife as well as its hot pools. But for those who prefer a quieter time visit one of the interesting galleries, museums and bookshops or just hang out in one of the many coffee shops. With old-fashioned wooden buildings in amongst the modern architecture and breathtaking landscapes Reykjavik is a unique experience.

 

Bruges

This city in the Flemish region of Belgium had its entire town centre designated a World Heritage Site and is often referred to as the “Venice of the North”. It is the home of some of Europe’s best preserved medieval buildings and is easily one of the prettiest cities in Europe with its canals and cobbled streets. Bruges is all about strolling through picturesque streets, sampling the good food and beer and admiring the gorgeous architecture and art.

 

Istanbul

The only city in the world to encompass two continents Istanbul is the gateway between Europe and Asia. This range of cultures is what makes Istanbul such a fascinating and beautiful place to visit. Whether it is admiring the centuries old Ottoman minarets or shopping in the ancient bazaars there is lots to do. And when the sun comes down there is great food and a vibrant nightlife to explore.

 

Budapest

The Capital of Hungary was formed by the joining of hilly Buda on the right bank of the Danube with bustling Pest on the left bank. Budapest’s fascinating history along with its mix of modern architecture and Eastern mystique makes it such an absorbing place to visit. There are over 100 museums, galleries and historic buildings to see but it is the off-beat cafes that are the soul of Budapest with lively music and great food.

 

Stockholm

Perched on 14 islands, the city offers up spectacular views of its quaint waterways and pastel coloured buildings. Despite being famously expensive there are lots of museums and galleries to visit for a fix of culture once you have run out of money shopping in the numerous excellent shopping districts. The beauty of Djurgarden is also not to be missed along with the impressive 18^th century Royal Palace.

 

Vienna

Grandiose Vienna is the world’s classical music capital and the adopted home of Mozart. With its other famous resident being Sigmund Freud this is a city bursting with culture and places of interest to visit. Vienna has plenty of other pleasures too whether it is enjoying a few drinks in one of the plentiful or renowned wine taverns, a walk in the woods or along the river or just bar-hopping till morning.

 

Prague

The “Paris of the East” sits on the banks of the Vltava River and practically defines the word ‘picturesque’. It is easy to lose yourself in a city that was left largely untouched by the Second World War. In both the castle district on the left bank of the river and the Old town on the right you can stroll down narrow medieval streets and courtyards, across cobbled squares and into the many stately buildings.

 

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is cosmopolitan, classy and cultured. You can admire the elegance of the 18^th century New Town, stroll along the Royal Mile or gaze across the city from the parapets of the 16^th century castle. But it is in the summer that Edinburgh truly comes to live when the festival takes place each year, with hundreds of theatre and comedy shows and street entertainers on every street.

 

Seville

The capital of the region of Andalusia has often been overshadowed by Barcelona and Madrid but won’t disappoint. There are enough sights and things to do to wear down the most ardent of travelers. A stroll along the banks of the Guadalquivir river will give you a feel for the romance of historic Seville. And when you are worn out by all the sightseeing relax in one of the many riverside restaurants.

 

Without further ado, here is the list:

1. Krakow, Poland

   Situated in south eastern Poland (a geographic area known as Galacia), Krakow is not subjected to the harsh weather most of Poland receives. The capital of the Polish Kingdom from 1038 until 1596, Krakow contains some of Europe's most majestic churches and an impressive castle. Spared the destruction of World War II and largely spared communist development during the rule of the USSR, Krakow maintains an old world Europe feel similar to Prague or Budapest. Krakow is also an hour by train or minibus from Auschwitz, the notorious Nazi concentration camp from World War II. Poland is a member of the European Union and is quite safe. Despite being a member of the EU, Poland has yet to join the Euro and is still quite affordable.

2. Budapest, Hungary

   Just three hours by train or car from the Austrian capital of Vienna, Budapest is a thriving center of culture in its own right. Budapest is well known for serving as a second and equal capital of the Austrian Empire following the Dual Compromise of 1867, but truthfully it spent equal time in the Austrian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. As a result, the influence of both cultures, though vastly different, is quite apparent. Many buildings reflect Viennese type architecture, while surrounded by Turkish baths (which are quite famous!). Having spent so much time under the rule of others Hungarians, or Magyars, are a proud people with a troubled history. Hungary is also part of the EU and not on the Euro. It, too, is relatively affordable.

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

   A well known city in Europe, Copenhagen is not as full of tourists as one might think. In fact, few enough tourists visit this city that many who do consider it “overlooked.” The established capital of a thriving, if small, western European country, Copenhagen is definitely worth a visit. Danish bread is particularly well regarded throughout Europe and there is no shortage of it here in the capital. The city is also Europe's most cyclist friendly, with cycle lanes that parallel main roads for maximum access. Copenhagen is also conveniently located to northern Germany (also beautiful) and Malmö, Sweden is just across the bridge. For its beauty, as well as its proximity to other great spots in Europe, Copenhagen is a must. Copenhagen is in the EU and has voted by referendum not to adopt the Euro. Despite this, prices in Denmark are quite high (as is true of all of Scandinavia). Copenhagen is less expensive than Stockholm and Oslo.

4. Istanbul, Turkey

   While it is true half the city lies in Asia, the old town, or Sultan Ahmet as it is called, is located entirely on the European side. Located in the political hotbed Middle East, Turkey is a surprisingly safe and out-of-this-world friendly country. Though it borders countries such as Iraq and Iran, Turkey is astonishingly democratic and very western. Turkey is the only secular Muslim country in the world. Furthermore, Turks, proud of their history and eager to tell their part of the story, have done a fantastic job preserving Ottoman palaces and relics. From the Hagia Sophia to Topkapi Palace, Istanbul is sure to please and educate. Though not a member of the EU, customs is a simple process and visas are available at all entry points (by train, car, or plane) for a fee of $20 U.S.

5. Istria, Croatia

   Located on a peninsula to the north of its more famous relative, the Dalmatian Coast, the Istrian Peninsula is equally beautiful and less touristy. Begin your stay in Poreč, located only an hour south from Trieste, Italy. This town of 9,000 is easily accessible by car or bus and customs through Slovenia into Croatia are a breeze. Visit Vrsar and Rovinj on day trips, but be sure to be back in Poreč for every dinner, as Croatian and Italian cuisine are on display each night in some of Europe's finest restaurants. Fresh fish and other seafood are available in small markets around town and they sell only the current day's catch. Don't forget a boat cruise around the Adriatic like only Croatian tour guides can provide! In short, Istria provides all the beauty of the Mediterranean without being overrun by unappreciative visitors. But hurry, Europe's best kept secret is about to get out! Like Turkey, Croatia is not a member of the EU, but it is a candidate and should be admitted by 2009. No visa is required for U.S. citizens.

One final note: I have traveled extensively throughout Europe and have visited each of the aforementioned destinations. All of this advice is first hand information and comments will be quickly answered.

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.

Café style establishments are reminiscent of a by-gone era. Once they were the haunts of the city's intellectual and culturally elite. The cafes now are noted for serving inexpensive and very rich pastries.

Muvesz Kavehaz, VI, Andrassy ut 29-the name meaning “artist café” is a place to enjoy cakes and cappuccino. They are located diagonally across from the Opera.

Café New York, VII, Erzsebet Krt 9-11. (M2: Blaha Lujzater.) The style of the establishment is symbolic of the golden Age. The café has been restored with luxurious velvet, gold and marble materials. Here you may enjoy ice cream, pastries and a variety of delightful coffee beverages.

There are as well a number of prominent sights located within the city. The construction of the sights were prompted by Hungary's 1000 birthday bash held in the year 1896.

Among the works originally commissioned by the Hapsburgs were: Heroes' Square, Liberty Bridge, and Vajda hunyad Castle.

The domes of the Parliament and St. Stephen's Basilica are both 96 m high and correspond to the historic date of 1896.

The city of Buda is older than Budapest and a bit more conservative, nevertheless, it is well worth exploring. The Castle District is located on Castle Hill and contains most of the city's sites. (South of the district, also on the banks of the Danube is Gellert Hill.)

The Castle District towers above the Danube and has been resurrected three different times during its eight hundred year history, most recently in 1945.

The district has plenty of winding statue filled streets, breath-taking views and a nice variety of architectural styles. The “visited” area has much the feel and look it had during the days of the Hapsburgs. Bullet holes in the façade of the castle bring back to memory the event of the 1956 uprising. Regardless, the castle houses quite a number of very fine museums including the National Gallery.

The beautiful multi-colored roof of the neo-Gothic Matthias Church (Matyas templom), converted to a mosque when the Ottoman Armies “captured” Buda in the year 1541 is one of the most renowned sights in Budapest. It was reconverted 145 years later when the Hapsburgs defeated the Turks.

Gellert Hill is the historical landmark wherein the Pope sent Bishop Gellert to the coronation of King Stephen, the first Christian Hungarian monarch, to aide in the conversion of the Magyars.

The view from the Citadel, built as a symbol of Hapsburg power after the 1848 revolution is particularly spectacular at night.

The winding streets of Pest were constructed during the nineteenth century and today host chain stores, corporations, banks and a vast array of monuments. The older inner city is a locale for tourists complete with street vendors and over priced wares.

The Pest riverbank sports a number of luxury hotels on the way to its Neo-Gothic Parliament modeled after Britain's structure.

Buda Castle holds the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Ludwig Museum devoted to the works of Warhol, Lichtenstein as well as other modern masters. Also located at the castle, the Hungarian National Gallery displays Hungarian paintings and sculptures. The Budapest History Museum provides exhibits of artifacts of the 1242 castle revealed by the bombings of World War II.

The Museum of Fine Arts (Szepmuveszeti Museum), XIV, Dozsa Gyorgy ut 41 (M1: Hosok tere) provides a magnificent collection from Raphael to Rembrandt.

The Museum of Applied Arts (Lparmuveszeti Museum), IX, Ulloi ut 33-37 (M3: Ferenc Korut) Displays include: beautiful Tiffany glass, furniture and other “temporary” exhibits evolving around crafts.

The Jewish Museum (Zsidy Museum) chronicles Hungary's rich Jewish history. The location is: VII, Dohany ut 2. (M2: Astoria).

The Hungarian National Museum (Magyar Nemzeti Museum), VIII, Muzeum Krt. 14/16/. (M3: Kalvin ter.) Exhibits include such items as the Hungarian Crown Jewels to Soviet-related propaganda.

Enjoy an opera performance in the splendor of the gilded neo-Renaissance State Opera House (Magyar Allami Operahaz) VI, Andrassy 22. (Take the M1 to Opera.)

The Philharmonic Orchestra offers equally grand music. (Vorosmarty ter 1). The performances are presented in a bit more modest venue.

With its exquisite location in Eastern Europe and its magnificent past, many travelers are considering Hungary an ideal location to invest in any one of the extraordinary properties the country offers.

Conclusively, Budapest as well as other cities mentioned herein in Hungary are wonderful cultural areas wherein to explore the country's relative historical significance and appreciate the sophisticated and cosmopolitan side of the country.

The Hungarians migrated thru Asia and Eastern Europe and finally arrived to the Carpathian Basin where they were able to settle. Hungary was established as a Christian kingdom under Stephen I of Hungary, who was crowned in December 1000 AD.

After that we had more kings. The country was invaded by the Turkish for 150 years (14 hundreds to the 15 hundreds) and then by the Habsburgs for another few century.

After the I. World War because of a wrong step Hungary lost 60% of it's land.

Then during the II. World War another bad luck and the Russian just as 500 years ago the Turkish invaded the country for 40 years.

The Hugarians are famous of their fights for the freedom. Lots of people lost their lives in these battles so Hungary has many heroes.

You might say Hungary is a small country, but there is a lot of Hungarians who had famous inventions for the world.