Visiting the Historical City of Budapest, with a Greek Twist

Budapest is without a doubt one of Europe’s most spectacularly beautiful cities. Here, you will find the past and the present blending in a unique way, as historical buildings are modernized on the inside, while preserving their original architectural integrity on their exteriors.

This Hungarian capital city is remarkable in so many different ways. It is bisected by the sparkling waters of the Danube River. Connecting the two halves of the capital city, with the hilly Buda district on one side and the flat Pest on the other, is The Chain Bridge, which dates back to the nineteenth century.

One of the absolute not-to-miss activities (which will also reward you with unforgettable selfies to make all your friends green with envy) is to take the funicular which lifts you up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town. Here you will not only find the Budapest History Museum, which chronicles the city from Roman times onward, you will also be able to take epic photos which show the expanse of the entire city.

While on Castle Hill, check out Trinity Square, home to the 13th century St. Matthias Church as well as the turrets of the stunning white building called the Fishermen’s Bastion — with a backdrop of sweeping views of Budapest.

When you think of where to travel in Europe to try out some great souvlaki, you probably don’t think of Budapest, Hungary! But this inviting and charming city truly does have it all — including a touch of Greek, with a Hungarian twist.

In Budapest you will find souvlaki on every corner! But the “Hungarian” version comes wrapped up in a tortilla instead of a pita. This “Greek-ish” treat is a top fast food choice for locals.

Maybe this is why Budapest has become a very popular destination among Greek travelers, with many airlines companies offering direct flights daily?

There is so much to see and do in this capital city that you will never run out of options. From historical sites such as castles and monuments, to street markets, dinner cruises on the Danube, cave exploring, and spas… the list is almost endless.

Another absolute must-see while in Budapest is a former palace from the 19th century which has now been turned into a four-star hotel, the Hotel Palazzo Zichy.

What could be more enchanting than staying in an authentic palace during your vacation?

You’ll be amazed by the palace’s beauty as you are transported back in time to the gracious elegance of the nineteenth century. But of course, you’ll also have all the modern conveniences a traveler could ever want in your luxurious room.

The building is the former palace built for the family of the famous Hungarian nobleman Count Nándor Zichy and it dates back to the nineteenth century. The palace was converted into Hotel Palazzo Zichy  in 2009 and it continues to welcome guests with 80 well-equipped contemporary-style rooms.

You will find everything your heart desires at this luxurious hotel, from waking up to a lavish breakfast buffet, or just chilling in your room and enjoying a coffee from your Nespresso coffee machine. The hotel even has high-speed Wi-Fi Internet as well as an in-room Blu-ray player with smart functions, so you can stay connected and be entertained as well.

The staff is extremely friendly and inviting, while the hotel is clean, quiet and has its own unique classical-modern vibe. There are a variety of room choices — even some with views which overlook the beautiful square below.

The Hotel Palazzo Zichy is situated in the Palace District of Budapest, and is surrounded by restaurants, bars, terraces, cafes and lovely shops. The hotel is within walking distance of the Hungarian National Museum, the Great Synagogue, the Holocaust Memorial Center and the Great Market Hall.

For more information on where to stay on your trip, check out Hotel Palazzo Zichy’s website here.