Budapest : book your hotel

The Hungarian capital is one of Europe’s best destinations for a weekend break. Split in two by the River Danube, this unique city combines the districts of Buda and Pest. Each is packed with history and vibrant modern culture that tempts visitors back time and time again.

Wondering how to get to Budapest from your corner of the UK? By plane is the obvious choice, with various airlines flying to the city every day. Tickets are usually less than £100, and the journey takes between two and three hours, depending on where you take off. There are also three international train stations in Budapest. From the UK, you'll need to get from London to Paris, then Stuttgart, Munich and finally arrive in Budapest. That's a lot of stops! If you plan to take the train, consider turning it into an exciting interrailing trip, spending a night or two in each destination to make the most of your adventure.

Budapest is a beautiful and charming city, home to many historic sites that include some of the top things to do during your visit.

Don't miss the Hungarian Parliament Building. Not only is this towering neo-Gothic building critical to Hungary's political sphere, but it's also one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the capital. It's been the largest building in the country since its completion in 1902, embellished with 40 kilograms of gold, 90 stone statues and 365 towers. Enjoy a 50-minute guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament and see unique sweeping staircases, chambers and halls decorated with priceless art and textiles.

Buda Castle is another must-see historical attraction in Budapest. The original building was finished in 1265, but much of today's architecture was added in the mid-1700s. Once the home of Hungarian kings, Buda Castle is one of the most significant symbols of Budapest. Today, visitors can admire the World Heritage Site on a guided walking tour. The castle isn't used by royalty anymore but houses the National Széchényi Library, the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.

The Great Market Hall is another of Budapest's unique landmarks, built in 1879 for growers and merchants to sell and trade. Today, the towering market hall is home to three floors of stalls. Find fruit and vegetables, cheeses, meats, pickles, spices, wines, homeware and homemade gifts under its historic roof. You can even grab some typical Hungarian street food, a perfect lunch in Budapest.

It isn't known as the 'City of Baths' for nothing. Budapest is built on a fault line, which means over 100 hot springs fill its thermal baths with naturally warm water. Many of the city's baths date back to the 16th century. New spas and pools also welcome visitors looking for a luxurious bathing experience.

Perhaps the most popular in Budapest, Széchenyi Thermal Baths, are set inside a neo-Baroque palace in the City Park. It's the largest you can visit today, home to 15 indoor and outdoor pools of various temperatures, all filled with calcium and magnesium-rich spring water. You can also enjoy saunas and steam rooms.

If you're a foodie visiting Budapest, you'll want to sample some traditional local dishes while you can. Goulash is one of the most traditional things you can eat in Budapest. It's somewhere between a soup and a stew, usually made with beef, carrots, potatoes and spices. If you prefer the flavours of the sea, you won't be disappointed; fisherman's soup is another Hungarian classic, made with river fish and hot paprika. Traditional Hungarian comfort food? Look for Lángos, deep-fried flatbread often topped with garlic, cheese, sour cream and fried bacon or sausages. For something sweet, get your hands on somlói Galuska, 'Hungary's favourite cake' made from sponge cake, chocolate cream, walnut, rum and whipped cream layers. Or try delicious Dobos torte, sponge cake layered with chocolate buttercream and topped with caramel.

Ruin bars are some of the best places to drink in Budapest. These unique watering holes occupy some of the city's oldest, run-down buildings – that's where they get their name! The contrast of neglected architecture and cool modern nightlife make these charming spots some of the best places to enjoy an authentic Budapest experience. Szimpla Kert is one of the city's favourites. Set in a dilapidated former factory, this iconic ruin bar hosts live music and theatre throughout the week and flea markets at the weekends. Grab a plate of local food while you're here to complete your visit. More unmissable ruin bars include Élesztőház, Kertem, Kobuci Kert and Doboz.