Budapest

Buda and Pest, the two lovers who were separated by the 'die schone blaue Donau' (the beautiful blue Danube). Dignified Buda, the inspiration of many an artist, is now primarily as a tourist attraction. Westerly Pest is the modern city's pulse. Buda and Pest together make up Hungary's capital city.

Buda, with its hill situation, castle and Citadel (among other things), offers a magnificent view over the Danube and the remainder of the city. On the other side of the Danube you have flat trendy Pest, with the lively friendly city centre. It's the area for full out enjoyment of restaurants, little cafes, terraces and hotels.

The communist era is fortunately now a thing of the past. The watch towers and snipers along the country's borders are no more, but many places in the city still evoke memories of that period. In spite of this, Western influences have made major inroads and as you wander through the city, you'll come across one McDonalds, Burger King or Pizza Hut after another.

Happily plenty of authentic Hungarian restaurants can still be found. You won't come across them in the main streets, but tucked away in small side streets. Enjoy Budapest's carless centre, where it's fun to stroll past all the beautiful buildings.

Must see sights include the Parliament Building, Heroes' Square, carfree Margaretha Island in the Danube, the Citadel, the Castle, the Matthew Church, the countless thermal baths, the museums and the bridges over the Danube.

One last important tip! Buda is for daytime, with masses of culture and old buildings. Pest, with its infinite little bars, cafes and clubs, is for the nights.