Budapest

Budapest, divided in two by the Danube River, is one of the most beautiful cities in Central Europe. The magical old town of Buda on the west side of the river is one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites, and the colourful mediaeval houses, breathtaking views over the city, and the Matthias church on the Castle Hill (which is at least 700 years old) are popular among photographers time and time again. Pest on the east bank is renowned for its shopping streets and boisterous nightlife.

Budapest is packed with sights, from the National Museum to the Statue Park filled with monuments from the Communism era. But the city is also a perfect destination for a slower-paced holiday. Underneath the domes and arches of the historic Király, Gellért and Széchenyi thermal baths you can forget about the daily grind and just relax. The Margaret Island and its parks, the picture-perfect Andrássy Boulevard and the bridges across the Danube invite the traveller to take relaxing strolls. The spicy delicacies of the Hungarian cuisine and local wines are a perfect way to enjoy the evening.