The Castle Hill district of Budapest is essentially one gigantic fortification overlooking the Danube and the greater city beyond. Built in 1265, Buda Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which offers a remarkable view of this wondrous city. Perched some 300 feet above the river, this area also has many more historic attractions, such as; the National Gallery, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Mary Magdalene Tower. Visitors will also find many shops and restaurants lining up the streets.

Named for Emperor Franz Joseph’s wife, Erzsébetváros has been the center of Jewish community in Budapest for over a century. Almost completely destroyed during WW II, the neighborhood has been almost completely rebuilt since the 1980’s. Visitors can now experience some of Budapest’s most beautiful architecture, Dohány Street Synagogue, incomparable kosher delis, and a particularly enchanting nightlife scene.

Situated on the “Buda” side of the Danube, Gellért Hill towers above Budapest, affording some of the best views of the ancient city. Named for St. Gerard, supposedly killed by pagans in the great rebellion of 1046, the overlook is now one of Budapest’s most affluent residential neighborhoods. Embassies, ambassadorial residences, and some of the city’s nicest parks are here to enjoy. Don’t miss the Citadella, the Liberty Statue, Gellert Baths, and the Gellért Hill Cave.

A residential area of Budapest since the 1700’s, Jozsefvaros has retained much of its original architecture and charm. Here friendly residents blend in with students at nearby universities, making an interesting melting pot of cultures. Visitors will find such noted attractions as; the Budapest Film School, the National Museum, the Natural History Museum here. The neighborhood is also famous for its underground nightlife scene, as well as a thriving arts community.

Margit-sziget, or Margaret Island, sits at the center of all things Budapest, literally. Located in the middle of the Danube River, this is a veritable Hungarian Central Park. Swimming pools, fountains, and a wide array of family activities can be found within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a trying day working or sightseeing in Budapest, this is where everyone comes to wind down. You won’t want to miss the healing waters of the world famous Danubius Spa during your visit.

If Budapest has an area to compare with Manhattan, then it’s Terezvaros. Walking along busy Nagymezo utca, visitors to the city could confuse this busy street with Broadway. Lined with cafes, wine bars and theaters, this street is constantly on the move. Some attractions nearby include; the Operetta Theatre, Europe’s oldest metro line, the House of Terror, the Ballet Institute, Ferenc Liszt Academy of Music, and many more. You’ll also find many exclusive shops, restaurants, and wonderful residences in the area.

Ujlipotvaros is an older residential and commercial neighborhood of Budapest. For the visitor, it’s most noted for the over 400 stores located around the West End City Center. However, there are some notable touristic attractions including; the Parliament Building, Margit Bridge, stylist homes around Szent István, and of course the almost untouched art nouveau architecture. This area of Budapest is quite different from most others, it is one of the last not completely revamped after WW II.