| Budapest is a grand Central European city with a | | | | though. |
| rich history, stunning architecture and tons of | | | | Margaret Island. A lush oasis in the middle of the |
| things to do On The Cheap. Where else can you | | | | city, this space offers trails, a bird refuge, lots of |
| see a world-class ballet at one of Europes most | | | | foliage, some ruins and a luxury hotel. |
| beautiful opera houses for just $4 USD? Follow | | | | City Park. Another large park, City Park is home |
| our tips below to save money when visiting this | | | | to the zoo, Szechnyi Baths, a castle, Heroes |
| glorious city on the Danube. | | | | Square (including two museums) and several miles |
| Cheap Accommodation: | | | | of walking paths. The zoo and baths charge |
| Grand Hostel, Hüvösvölgyi út | | | | admission fees, but it is free to walk through the |
| 69. Located steps from a tram stop and on the | | | | park and castle grounds. |
| lushly green side of the city, this hostel is one of | | | | Cheap Things To Do in Budapest: |
| the few in Budapest to offer single-gender dorms. | | | | Not only are there lots of free things to do in |
| Recently remodeled, travelers can choose from 4 | | | | Budapest, but many attractions are very |
| or 6 bed dorms or double/triple private rooms. | | | | affordable. Currently the exchange rate is about |
| Free Internet and parking available, and the hostel | | | | 195 Hungarian Forints to 1 US Dollar. Here are |
| boasts a beautiful bar area and outdoor garden. | | | | some of our favorites: |
| We also like Red Bus Hostel (and Hostel 2). They | | | | Opera House, Andrassy Ut. One of the most |
| have 4-6 bed dorms as well as reasonably priced | | | | opulent in Europe, this grand building is a must see |
| singles and doubles. Free breakfast and kitchen | | | | during your stay in Budapest. Even if you just |
| facilities are available. Bonus: A secondhand English | | | | step inside the lobby, the Opera House is an |
| bookstore is the perfect place to buy and/or sell | | | | amazing sight. In the foyer alone there are marble |
| reading material for your trip! | | | | pillars, a black-and-white inlaid tile floor and a |
| Free Things To Do: | | | | gorgeous gold and fresco ceiling. Ballet, symphony, |
| St. Stephen's Basilica. A grand cathedral in true | | | | and concert programs run all year long and great |
| European fashion complete with gilded edges. | | | | seats can be had for $4 USD. |
| Guided tours are available for a fee, but it is free | | | | Take A Bath. Budapest is famous for it's Turkish |
| to go inside and walk around. A breathtaking sight | | | | style baths and there are several throughout the |
| at night. | | | | city. Our favorite is the Szechnyi (Chain) |
| Fishermans Bastion. In the Castle District, this | | | | bathhouse both for its decor and location. This |
| structure has 7 towers symbolizing the seven | | | | delight sits among City Park, one of several |
| tribes that came to Hungary in 896. The | | | | attractions there. Inside, the building is |
| walkways provide stunning views over the | | | | breathtakingly decorated and houses over 25 |
| Danube towards the Pest side of the city. Free to | | | | pools. Some are warm, cold, indoor, outdoor, or |
| walk along the lower levels, small charge to go to | | | | scented with eucalyptus or other scents. |
| upper walkways (no real extra view up there). | | | | Massages and other services are also available for |
| Castle District. It is easy to spend the better part | | | | an additional fee. Entrance fees range from $5-10 |
| of a day up here, with Fisherman's Bastion, St. | | | | USD. |
| Matthews Church and the Buda Castle all within a | | | | Budapest is truly a city that should not be missed. |
| stones throw of each other. The district is | | | | It's an interesting mix of old and new and a great |
| perched high on a hill above the Danube and the | | | | time can be had on a minimal budget. |
| surrounding neighborhoods are a joy to walk | | | | |