Grand Voyager | Exploring Budapest
Budapest’s Historic Charm
Poinews.com – Budapest, a city in Central Europe, captivates with its timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage. Split by the Danube River, it offers a unique blend of architectural wonders and historical landmarks. In a recent episode of Grand Voyager, Euronews presenter Lilly Douse delves into the reasons behind Budapest’s enduring appeal.
A Journey Through Pest
Lilly’s adventure starts on the Pest side of the city, where she immerses herself in Budapest’s famed thermal heritage. Her first stop is the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, a historic establishment opened in 1913 and frequented by more than a million visitors annually. From there, she ventures into City Park, the site of the 1896 Millennium Exhibition, and explores iconic attractions like Vajdahunyad Castle and Heroes’ Square.
Her tour also includes a visit to the Hungarian State Opera House, a masterpiece of 19th-century design. The day concludes with a stop at St. Stephen’s Basilica, a revered religious monument that symbolizes the city’s spiritual heart.
Discovering Buda
Shifting focus to the Buda district, Lilly discovers its historical legacy. She begins with the striking towers of Fisherman’s Bastion, a symbol of the city’s medieval past, before heading to Buda Castle and Matthias Church. These sites provide insight into the Castle District’s storied history, which dates back centuries.
On the Water and in the Hotel
After completing her walking tour, Lilly takes a serene boat ride along the Danube, offering a different perspective of the city’s iconic skyline. Her accommodation for the stay is the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest, a historic hotel nestled in the city center. Here, she indulges in the hotel’s wellness center, highlighting Hungary’s deep-rooted tradition of spa culture.
Experiencing Rural Hungary
Departing from the urban landscape, Lilly journeys to Kóspallag village to uncover the countryside’s offerings. She joins a local guide for a foraging expedition, sampling foods that thrive in nature. The visit includes a tour of an organic garden and a private basket-weaving workshop, showcasing traditional crafts.
“An action-packed adventure to say the least!”
Her Budapest expedition culminates at Stand Restaurant, a two-Michelin-starred establishment where she participates in a cooking masterclass and savoring a curated tasting menu.
