The tourist map of the city of Budapest can be roughly divided into two parts, representing two banks connected by numerous bridges.
Buda is the oldest part of the city. It was here that the first Hungarian settlements were located, and you can still see the ruins of the ancient Roman Aquincum. With its Gothic windows and doors, centuries-old stone benches, and mosaic patterns in the Matyash temple, you can truly feel the spirit of the Middle Ages here.
If you're looking for Buda Hill on a map of Budapest, you can find it easily. You can reach it either by foot or by taking a cable car.
Pest, on the other hand, represents the more modern and fashionable part of the city. When checking a map of Budapest with hotels, this is an area worth exploring. Most of what you'll see here was constructed in the late twentieth century. In 1838, almost all of Pest experienced a flood, leading to the development of new boulevards and avenues in the imperial style.
Pest's key attractions include the Hungarian Parliament, Europe's largest synagogue, the Western Railway Station (designed by Eiffel), and the Paris Arcade.
When tourists inquire about the best neighborhoods to stay in Budapest, the concise answer is: nearly anywhere. Budapest is an exceptionally clean and peaceful city with a well-established transportation system, making it easy to travel between neighborhoods via bus or metro.
Budapest encompasses a total of 23 neighborhoods, which can be categorized into three groups: Obuda (the city's oldest section), Buda (on the right bank of the Danube), and Pest (on the left bank). The central districts of Buda and Pest, located in the heart of Budapest, are where you'll find the primary tourist attractions in the Hungarian capital.
Here is a selection of Budapest neighborhoods where tourists often choose to stay:
District 1 (Buda) is the city's most prestigious neighborhood, renowned for its geothermal springs, fortress, and royal palace.
District 2 (Buda) is among the city's most upscale districts, extending from the Danube riverbank into the hills.
District 6 (Pest), also referred to as "Hungary's Champs Elysees," is Budapest's most picturesque neighborhood. However, it's worth noting that the architecture here leans predominantly Austrian.
District 12 (Buda) is the city's elite mountainous neighborhood. It offers a refreshing atmosphere and tranquility, which is why even Hungarians seek to invest in property here.
There are no dangerous neighborhoods in Budapest. As in any city, it's advisable to avoid wandering alone in the outskirts during nighttime.
