Why Budapest?

... or, more to the point, why not Budapest?

International travellers - a moment of attention, please - think you've seen Europe? But any trip to Europe isn't complete without experiencing the joys of Budapest, a magnificently regal city perched on both banks of the Danube and a key point in Central Europe for centuries. Consider yourself lucky, as a modern traveller, to be able to take advantage of all this offers, as Budapest is the historical, political, commercial, cultural, and artistic centre of Hungary. But don't just believe the hype, experience Budapest for yourself. Climb to the top of Fishermen's Bastion to survey one of the finest views of the Danube, Pest, and Margaret Island. Soak away your sore feet after a busy day sightseeing in any one of Budapest's renowned public baths. Sip at a glass of fine Tokaji wine from the historic Hungarian Tokaj-Hegyalja wine district all from the comfort of the bar in your Budapest hotel.

... and speaking about enjoying culinary pleasures, you certainly won't be left to go hungry in the Hungarian capital. A worthwhile daytrip is to the pretty little village of Szentendre, just 19km north of Budapest. Packed-full with cafes, museums, and galleries, it's a must-see for anyone with a sweet tooth thanks to the Dobos Chocolate Museum, which introduces the work of the famous confectioner József C Dobos. Dobos rose to chocolate-making fame with the gourmet Dobos cake, which consists of rich chocolate cream between layers of sponge, all topped with crunchy caramel. Make sure that you try a piece at the museum's Nosztalgia cafe!

Szentendre also has an excellent Marzipan and Confectionary Museum at 12-14 Dumtsa Jenő utca, which is Hungary's first marzipan museum and home to several eye-opening (and mouth-watering!) confectionary sculptures.

Yet apart from those that revolve around food, there are many marvellous excursions to be had in and around Budapest, all starting with a convenient pick-up from a whole range of hotels in Budapest. More information can be found online, including comprehensive suggestions on this very site. Guide yourself through Budapest, and find out just how rewarding do-it-yourself can be!

Wherever you decide to stay in Central Europe, whether it's hotels in Prague, Budapest, or Vienna, book online, and well in advance, to ensure that you get the best possible price. With all sorts of discounts available for online bookings, it's well worth your while to get in early.