Hello ladies! AS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CITIES IN THE WORLD, BUDAPEST IS A VIBRANT FUSION OF RICH CULTURE, HISTORICAL LANDMARKS, AND CULINARY DELIGHTS THAT WILL LEAVE YOU SPELLBOUND. EXPLORE THE CAPTIVATING EXPERIENCES THAT this city HAS TO OFFER OVER SEVERAL DAYS. don’t WORRY ABOUT JET LAG—THE CITY’S PULSATING ENERGY AND CHARM WILL KEEP YOUR SENSES ALIVE. HERE ARE my RECOMMENDATIONS, WHICH MAKE BUDAPEST my FAVORITE CITY IN EUROPE.

1. I love taking a picturesque tram ride where the iconic clattering of wheels carries me through the city's heart, along the Danube, and then to enjoy a sip of Unicum Zwack. This herbal liqueur embodies Hungarian tradition.

2. Whether I’m alone or with my son, I always visit the breathtaking Fisherman's Bastion, perched high above the Danube. Its fairy-tale turrets provide stunning panoramic views of the city and the majestic Buda Castle, which glows at sunset like a golden jewel.

3. In the mornings, I enjoy having coffee at Müvesz Café on Andrassy Street; it’s a cozy café decorated like a beautiful, comfortable house, offering excellent pastries and a wide choice of lattes and macchiatos. For a more indulgent experience, I go to the New York Palace, whose elegant café transports me back to the regal Hungarian Empire. The New York Palace is a tribute to opulence, serving aromatic coffee amidst extravagant decor. Don’t forget to bring your newspaper or book with you.

4. I recommend everyone to stroll along the hauntingly impressive Shoes on the Danube Bank, a poignant tribute to the lives lost during the Holocaust. These iron shoes—conceptualized by Turkish film director Can Togay and created by Togay and Hungarian sculptor Gyula Pauer—are strewn along the riverbank and invite reflection and remembrance.

5. If you walk further, a leisurely stroll across the Chain Bridge—the historic connection between Buda and Pest—fills my heart with awe as I bask in its architectural brilliance, protected by impressive lion statues, and enjoy the shimmering views of the river below.

6. For relaxation, I immerse myself in the thermal waters of Szechenyi Baths; the soothing embrace of the springs is perfect for rejuvenation.

7. Another coffee house that you must visit is Gerbeaud, a legendary café known for its sumptuous cakes (and you know that Hungarians love sweet treats!).

8. My best tip that doesn’t cost anything: as you wander the streets of Budapest, you'll encounter plaques honoring the city's numerous scientists, writers, and activists. Each plaque tells a tale of Budapest's profound intellectual legacy, weaving a narrative of pride and inspiration. In no other city will you find as many plaques as in Budapest.

9. History buffs (like me!) will be fascinated by Europe’s second-largest synagogue, nestled within the lively Jewish Quarter. This sacred space speaks volumes about Budapest's rich Jewish heritage.

10. To finish the evening, I recommend visiting one of Budapest's sky bars for a panoramic view of the city, with Skybar St. Andrea being a favorite. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails as you take in the breathtaking sunset, casting a golden hue over Budapest's skyline.

In Budapest, every moment is an invitation to create cherished memories woven into the vibrant fabric of this remarkable city. Stay tuned for the next post, which will be about my favorite restaurants and wine bars in my second home, Budapest!