For years I have longed to visit Budapest, it’s a city that seems to sparkle with beauty, history and culture, and one I couldn’t wait for the opportunity to explore. During the summer, I finally had the time and the money to jet off on a jaunt around Europe, taking in cities like Amsterdam and Berlin, road tripping around Bulgaria and I couldn’t resist taking the time to explore what has since become one of my favourite European cities. After spending just a few days exploring the sights and sounds of Budapest, I have spent the last few months telling everyone I know to go along and experience it for themselves. Whether you’re looking for a romantic city break for two, a weekend away with friends or, like me, you’re going it solo, it’s the perfect city for your next trip.

Where to stay?

I stayed at Avenue Hostel which is right in the heart of Budapest on Oktogon, and I can’t recommend this hostel enough. I met amazing people there, had the comfiest bed and loved the creative, artsy vibe. Whether you’re there to sightsee or want to party and meet people, it’s a perfect hostel for you to use as your base. Plus everything within Budapest is walking distance so you can easily get to all of the sights, restaurants and bars on foot. It’s a great area and even if you don’t want to stay in a hostel, there are countless hotels, AirBnBs and B&Bs to choose from.

What to do?

On my first day in the city, the weather was terrible but what better excuse to visit the famous baths? I went for the Gellert Baths to start with – these were mainly inside and offered great deals on massages which was just what I needed on this rainy day. It’s worth asking at your hostel/hotel for any deals available – my hostel gave me a great entrance/massage packages that saved me quite a bit of money. As the weather improved, I spent the next few days exploring the city on foot – there was no need for a tour guide as it was easy to navigate the city using the maps app on my phone and by chatting to the locals. The castle, parliament and Fisherman’s Bastion are incredible structures that are well worth a visit, as is St Stephen’s Basilica and City Park. Check out the views from the Liberty Bridge and as you wander along the winding streets look out for memorials of the history of this amazing city. Finally, wait for a sunny day to enjoy the incredible Szechenyi Thermal Baths, the jewel of Budapest, it’s a perfect place to top up your tan while bathing in the famous waters.

When should you visit?

Budapest is an amazing city to visit all year round – glorious in summertime when visitors can walk through the winding streets and eat outside in the restaurant-lined courtyards. Or, for those who prefer to time their visit around Christmas, it’s a perfect opportunity to get in the festive spirit by visiting the world famous markets. If you can time your visit in the summer – be sure to grab a ticket for Sziget Festival – music, arts and a lot of fun right in the heart of the city. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to take the time to explore the city at night as well as during the day. A city of lights, Budapest comes alive at night when crowds all the streets to witness the city aglow and visit the ruin pubs of years gone by. If you’re travelling alone and want to meet some party pals, definitely try and do the Wombats Hostel pub crawl – it’s one of the best hostel pub crawls I’ve done in a long time.

Has that whet your whistle for Budapest? If so, why not check out Liverpool John Lennon Airport’s new city guides for all the best tips on what to do and how to plan your Budapest trip. Read the Liverpool John Lennon Airport destination guide here. Or find another destination for your next trip – click here.

Have you been to Budapest – what did you think of the city? What is your favourite European city and why?