Budapest has made the most impressive comeback out of all of the cities in Europe in recent years. Tourists fall in love with this city of incredible contrasts and its young atmosphere. Budapest is presumed to be the capital of Hungary and its situated in the centre of Europe, meaning it is in a great position for communication and fluid movement with other cities in Europe.
Even better, it is a cheap, comfortable, well communicated and safe city… all anyone dreams about when choosing a destination for a city break! All of these characteristics therefore come together to create the perfect location not only for tourists, but also for Erasmus students. Discover the best erasmus guide to Budapest here.
What to see in Budapest
- Parliment: Situated on the banks of the Danube River is the most representative and appreciated monument in Budapest. Constructed between 1884 – 1902, the parliament of Budapest was the biggest construction of its era. It is made up of 691 rooms and it has a length of 268m and width of 118m. Its construction pays homage to the economic power withheld by Hungary at the start of the century.
- Chain Bridge: Budapest is characterise by the river that divides it in two: Buda and Pest are the names given to the two respective sides. The chain bridge is the one main entity that has the responsibility of uniting the two sides which are separated by the Danube. As a bridge, it is one of the biggest and most famous in the world due to both its size and unique construction. Instead of typical cables it has been made using a set of chains.
- The Szenchenyi Baths: These baths are one of the most famous and desired attractions on a tourist’s to-do list. They are said to be thermal baths in which the water temperature always remains high despite the time of year or the temperature of the surrounding environment. The pools are all of different temperatures, some are very cold and others extremely warm, so much so that we recommend you don’t stay in either for more than 5 consecutive minuets.
- Fisherman’s Bastion: This was constructed in 1905 and was thus baptized for being in the part of wall that defended the fishermen of the zone in the Middle Ages. From above you can enjoy the best views of the city, with the Danube at the foot, the bridge of chains, and in the background the Parliament. Also, there is an amazing view of the Pest part from here!
- The Grand Synagogue of Budapest: Within the old part of Pest, almost on the corner of the road Károly Körut, you will be able to locate one of the grandest synagogues in the world. It is a majestic building that you can’t leave without seeing!
- Heros Square: Heros Square is the meeting point for everyone in this incredible capital. From the youngest to the eldest travelers, those who love to jet set to the most humble of people, this is a point of interest for all. Its name orignnates from the statues that are located in this square, statues of the more significant and celebrated kings throughout history.
To live in Budapest
In Budapest, the biggest universities are, almost all, located in the centre of the city. As a result the centre is full of students which of course gives this city a very young and trendy atmosphere, ideal for all Erasmus students. For this reason, if you are wondering where to live, we would always say the centre!
In terms of money, the minimum amountt you need to live is 100 florines, which is equivalent to 300 euros. Renting an individual room, with bills included, tends to be around 150 euros a month, A LOT less than what you would pay in Spain! During the day, Budapest is a place to study, try new, very interesting things, with access to many different languages and, of course, incredible food!
During the evening, Budapest transforms into an amusement park: lights, music and people have a great time everywhere tends to be the norm.
In terms of transport, it is also very accessible. If you are a student you can buy a monthly card for every type of transport for a very VERY reasonable price… only 12 euros! If you are someone who likes to save money, student halls are much cheaper then renting a flat or room in a flat.
Where to go out
Budapest has one of the best nightlifes in Europe. The bars open early, because in Budapest they tend to eat quite early, so at about 19.30h there are always people drinking in bars. What’s more the majority of the bars and clubs are open every day of the week. The best places to go include: Instant, Conrvintetto, Morrison;s, Play Club, Dokk Cafe, Simple and Rio. Trust us… you won’t be disappointed.
According to Lonely Planet, two of the three best pubs in the world are in Budapest, the 1st is A38 (a club and bar on a boat that is situated on the banks of the Danube) and the 2ns is Simple Kert (a ruin bar that is an entire building, full of weird and wonderful decorations).
Some of the other famous bars in Budapest are Instant and Morrison’s (which you can get into for 1.80€ on a Monday). Then you should visit the many clubs on the island go Obuda… there is so much to choose from!