Call Us: (800) 633-1008
Int. + 1 (813) 251-5355
Essential Budapest
Budapest
Over the centuries, Budapest flourished as a crossroads where East meets West in the heart of Europe. Ancient cultures, such as the Magyars, the Mongols, and the Turks, have all left an indelible mark on this magical city. Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube River, are characterized by an assortment of monuments, elegant
streets, wine taverns, coffee houses, and Turkish baths.
Danube Delights
Today your private speedboat awaits. Sip a soda or juice as you speed by some of the most iconic sites of Budapest on the Danube – the Parliament, Margaret Island and more.
Use the historic funicular to head to the top of the castle district and explore Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and step inside Matyas Church, where Hungarian kings were crowned. This district is anchored by Buda’s historic Royal Palace, the former Hapsburg palace during the 19th century and rebuilt in the Neo-Classical style after it was destroyed during World War II.
A stroll through the castle area, known as Varhegy, will take you to the Fisherman’s Bastion for the most impressive views over Pest, across the Danube. Here you’ll see the Matyas Church, a Neo-Gothic reconstruction dating from 1874.
Jewish History
Explore the beauty of Central Pest with your guide. Prior to visiting the Jewish Quarter, your guide will take you to the Budapest Market Hall. Built by Eiffel in the 19th century, the covered market boasts soaring metal columns, high walkways and beautiful produce shops.
Next, your guide will take you to the Great Budapest Synagogue. Visit the Jewish Museum which is part of the synagogue, and afterwards, walk over to the Holocaust Memorial. The sculpture of a weeping willow was designed in memory of the 600,000 Hungarian Jews who died under the Nazis in World War II.
Art Nouveau & History
Go to Hero’s Square and see the Millennium Monument, designed to commemorate Hungary’s Millennium Celebrations in 1896, though not completed until 1929. It marked Budapest’s high point of its development in the history of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. As you drive today, you will see Andrassy Boulevard. Driving this beautiful boulevard will give you a glimpse into the stunning architecture that Budapest is known for, especially the beautiful art nouveau buildings that have been preserved.
Visit the House of Terror near the State Opera House which used to be the headquarters of the Arrow Cross Fascist Association prior to World War II. After World War II, the building was used as the Communist Party Headquarters, and was used by both organizations as one of the most notorious prisons in Hungary. Today it’s an exhibit about life under fascism in Hungary. It’s a graphic and powerful reminder of the brutality of the regime.
Wine & Dine
The Etyek wine region close to Budapest is noted for its sparkling wine production and today your tour will focus on the area’s small family-run wineries and food producers. The village is located only 30 minutes or so outside the city.
Today you will head to one of our favorite vintners – Kalna. This family-owned operation focuses on sparkling wines and whites. You’ll learn all about the owner’s passion project and taste the best from his vineyards. Your wine tasting will have accompaniments from local food producers.
Our process is high-touch, and extremely personalized. Let us walk you through the steps when you decide to travel with Exeter.
Connect
Tell us what you’d love from your next adventure or ideas you have.
Customize
Let us craft itineraries tailored to your specific interests, travel style and wishlists.
Confirm
Collaborate and refine details with us as we begin to arrange logistics, such as accommodations, private drivers, or entrance fees.
Travel
Travel confidently with 24/7 local support and expert assistance.