Budapest Travel Guide | CNN

Destination Budapest

Is there a finer European city than Budapest? When it comes to classic good looks steeped in history and culture, Hungary's capital lays serious claim to the crown. From the neo-Gothic splendor of the Parliament building to the disorderly comfort of its legendary ruin bars, Budapest carries itself with effortless charm on every beautiful street corner. While the city's many thermal spas, not to mention restaurants serving hearty Hungarian fare, make it perfect in winter, warm summers see locals enjoy open air pools and leafy strolls on Margaret's Island in the middle of the majestic Danube. When it gets too warm, there are easy escapes to the fresh air and greenery of the Buda Hills via the cog railway or Zugliget chairlift.

Is there a finer European city than Budapest? When it comes to classic good looks steeped in history and culture, Hungary's capital lays serious claim to the crown. From the neo-Gothic splendor of the Parliament building to the disorderly comfort of its legendary ruin bars, Budapest carries itself with effortless charm on every beautiful street corner. While the city's many thermal spas, not to mention restaurants serving hearty Hungarian fare, make it perfect in winter, warm summers see locals enjoy open air pools and leafy strolls on Margaret's Island in the middle of the majestic Danube. When it gets too warm, there are easy escapes to the fresh air and greenery of the Buda Hills via the cog railway or Zugliget chairlift.

BDPST Group/Fortepan/Archikon Architects/Alexander Waterworth Interiors Ltd./Gábor Nagy/MÁ-TUN ART

It had become a shabby relic. Now one of Europe’s grandest hotels is being restored to its former glory

Hotel Gellért has long been a beacon of architectural splendor and pride in Budapest, but had fallen into decline after years of communist neglect. A new Mandarin Oriental partnership is set to see it reclaim its crown.

Raphael Lafargue/Abaca/Sipa/AP

Europe’s drought could signal the death of river cruising

Courtesy Royal Tokaji Wine Company

How Hungary produced the ‘world’s most expensive wine’

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