Budapest is split dramatically by the Danube, with Buda, west of the Danube, including the castle and many of Budapest's best known attractions, and Pest to the east. Both regions have their own distinct charms, and are linked, elegantly, by a series of bridges..
Well known for its beauty, Budapest is a great city for visitors because it's very easy to get around on foot, and has a user-friendly transport system for longer journeys. And everywhere you look there's something beautiful to behold: fine Art Nouveau facades, a slew of graceful churches, rows of inviting cafes and a surprise Turkish bath or two. Budapest also has some wonderfully inexpensive but stylish places to stay.
- The Palazzo Zichy is a contemporary property, with cool, clean interiors in the shell of a fine 19th century mansion. Situated in the university district, there are plenty of interesting bars and clubs close by.
- Brody House is reputedly the coolest hotel address in the city (easily one of the best places to stay in Hungary), the place to rub shoulders with creative types - Budapest's Soho House?
- Mamaison Andrassy Hotel is a little Bauhaus gem of a hotel, located in an exclusive Embassy neighbourhood just off Pest's Andrássy Avenue. Expect sleek and contemporary rooms with floor to ceiling windows and an Art Deco style restaurant.
- The Four Seasons Gresham Palace is a landmark Art Nouveau property has some of the best views in town, plus beautifully decorated rooms.
Szeged is known as 'the sunniest city in Hungary', a university town akin to Oxford and Cambridge, with beautiful architecture, plenty of smarts, and a youthful, culturally rich vibe.
Pécs is another one of the best places to stay in Hungary for a city break. Historic and interesting, Pécs has a selection of excellent museums and monuments, and sits on a wonderfully sheltered plain with a good wine region and an excellent reputation for quality local produce.
Eger is known as a beauty, and while it's maybe more a large town break, rather than a city break, it's rich with dramatic Ottoman and Turkish history, has a reputation with drinkers of 'big' wines, and there's loads to see and do here.