When Ernő Rubik invented his "Magic Cube" in the mid-seventies, he could never have predicted how it would entertain and mystify the masses. And dare we call this colorful, twisting, ever-changing structure a metaphor for the city in which it originated? (Oh yes, we just went there.)
Budapest City Guide Introduction
Like the puzzle that occupied millions during the 1980s (and is still sold in souvenir shops throughout its hometown), Budapest is a colorful, constantly changing city. On any given day, you're just as likely to see the bustle of fashion-forward girls in flashy tights rushing to school or work as you are to witness calm elderly gentlemen passing a relaxing afternoon on a balcony.
A combination of two ancient towns—Buda and Pest—on opposite sides of the Danube, Budapest may well be the Gemini of European cities. A stroll through town reveals modern minimalist shopping malls and lavish 19th-century mansions. And though Budapest is steeped in the past, with a rich history dating back to the Romans, the city manages to be undeniably, inarguably present.
All hotel reviews
From our Budapest blog
Budapest has long been a favorite for budget travelers. Since it joined the European Union in 2004, prices have risen quite a bit, but there are still bargains to be had. Good quality hotels can be found for around $60 ... read
Happy Halloween! Though costume parties for October 31st are growing increasingly popular across the continent, most countries in Europe still do not celebrate Halloween in quite the same way as the United States does. T ... read
The enthusiasm of many travelers exploring Europe by train seems to flag when they reach Budapest. The Hungarian capital is so very easy to reach from the west and north, and it is thus possible to travel as far as Budap ... read
In today’s installment of “4 Cheapo Questions for…” we interview Tim Leffel, an award-winning travel writer, editor of the narrative webzine Perceptive Travel, and all around knower of budget tra ... read
Last month, EuroCheapo chief Tom Meyers popped the train versus plane question…. does the savvy traveler fly or take the train around Europe? But it is not a straight either / or choice. Many leisure travelers, and ... read
