General Info for Hungary

Budapest has a temperate continental climate. Seasons are usually well defined, with July and August the hottest months (28-30° C, 82-86° F) and December and January the coldest, when temperatures may fall to –15° C or just +5° F. Average sunshine from April to September is in excess of eight hours a day.

Budapest is in the Central European Time Zone. In the winter months this means clocks are set at GMT + 1 hour, and in the summer (March to the end of October) GMT + 2 hours.

 Electricity

 Voltage in Hungary is 230 volts, and plugs are of the two-pin continental type.

 Telephone

The international code for Hungary is 36, the area code for Budapest is 1. To call a number within Hungary, first dial 06. Budapest telephone numbers comprise seven digits, all other areas’ have six digits (excluding the area code in both cases). To make an international call from Hungary, first dial 00, then the country code followed by the area code and the subscriber’s telephone number. Public telephones accept either coins (20, 50, and 100 forints) or telephone cards (available from tobacconists, newsagents, post offices, and petrol stations). Cheap rate runs at night and on public holidays. To call a (Hungarian) mobile telephone, first dial 06, followed by the subscriber’s seven-digit number starting with either 20-, 30- or 70-.

BUDAPEST CARD

Take advantage of this very popular feature from the Budapest Tourist Office. For three days one can enjoy unlimited use of public transportation and visit almost all the museums in Budapest for free! And there is more!
Discounts:
- on sightseeing tours,
- at spas,
- cultural events,
- participating restaurants and shops,
- and the airport minibus.
The price of the BUDAPEST CARD for an adult with a child under 14 for

2 days is 4700 Ft = $ 24.00 3 days 5900 Ft = $ 30.00

To read more about Hungary go to www.gotohungary.com or www.cityguide.budapestrooms.com

Budapest

The capital city of Hungary, Budapest, was created out of the unification of the separate historic towns of Buda, Pest and Óbuda in 1873. Whilst the area had been inhabited from early times, it was from this date that the city’s expansion into a world capital really began. Budapest is bisected by the River Danube, with the city as much a natural geographical centre as it is the country’s transport hub. Covering an area of two hundred square miles and divided into 23 administrative districts, it is home today to a population of 1.8 million people.

Flowing north to south through the centre of the city is the mighty River Danube. Buda and Óbuda, comprising roughly a third of the total, are situated mainly in the hills to the west, with commercial Pest on the plains to the east. There are three islands – Óbuda Island, Margaret Island and Csepel Island – and nine bridges, two of which carry railway lines

 T he city known as Budapest actually consists of three cities: Óbuda, the oldest section, with Celtic and Roman ruins on the Buda side of the Danube; Buda in the gently rolling hills on the western bank, famous for its historic Castle Hill and beautiful residential area; and bustling Pest with its shopping, government and commercial districts on the flat plain of the east bank. United in 1873, Budapest is renowned as the location of one of the most beautiful World Heritage sites.

Only Budapest can say of itself that it has Europe's largest Parliament, largest functioning synagogue and the continent's first underground railway.

The visitor will find side by side the remains of fortresses and buildings from Roman times, still operating Turkish baths, Gothic and Baroque buildings, and the incredibly rich Art Nouveau architectural heritage.

Not only is Budapest the worthy holder of the title `Queen of the Danube`, but in fact there is no other capital city in the world with almost 100 thermal springs and 12 medicinal baths within its boundaries, where 19 million gallons of thermal water rise to the surface each day.

Despite spectacular development, Budapest has preserved its old charm and magic. It is a city where the pleasing harmony of different architectural styles and superb structures, the cafés, baths, the food and culture, combined with legendary hospitality blend into an unforgettable experience for visitors.

For lovers of culture, the only problem is choice. 237 monuments, 223 museums and galleries, 35 theatres, 90 cinemas, 2 opera houses, 12 concert halls and nearly 200 places of amusement offer a wide variety of things to do. Travel agencies organize walks and sight-seeing tours by coach and boat, tailored to your requirements every day of the year.

Castle Hill

Exploring the city on foot is the best way to burn off all the calories from the delicious food and wine you will be enjoying. Start by strolling along the winding streets on Castle Hill, where the medieval character of Buda has been preserved. The entire panorama of the two banks of the Danube all the way from Margaret Island - Budapest's green Central Park in the middle of the river - to Gellért Hill and the Castle District has been designated a World Heritage preservation site by UNESCO.

At the top of Castle Hill visit the Royal Palace, erected in the 14th century and rebuilt in Baroque style 400 years later. It was the residence of Hungarian kings for 700 years. Today it embraces the most visited museums and galleries in Budapest, such as the Budapest Historical Museum, Hungarian National Gallery and National Library.

The 700-year old Matthias Church with its Gothic spire and multi-colored tiled roof is where the nation's kings were crowned. Now it is the site of organ and choir performances. Be sure to catch the sunset at Fisherman's Bastion, with its view of the river, Chain Bridge, Parliament building and Pest across the horizon.

Gellért Hill

For a view of sights on both sides of the river, go up Gellért Hill to the Citadel. The hill is a protected nature reserve, in the middle of the city.

The Citadel, built on the top of the Hill in 1851 as a military fortification, now serves as a tourist center. The hill is home to three famous and historic spas: the Art Nouveau-style Gellért and the 400 year-old Rudas and Rác Baths, the latter two built by the Turks.

Buda Hills

The capital's green belt, the Buda hills has memorable places for excursions. The hills and the Budakeszi Game Preserve are all part of the Buda Nature Reserve.

Hungary did not destroy its Soviet monuments. The colossal statues in Socialist Realist style were moved to a fascinating open-air Statue Park Museum at Budafok (the bus departs from Deák tér), dedicated exclusively to these relics of Soviet rule.

Óbuda

If you are looking for antiquity, Óbuda is the place to see excavated ruins of the 2000 year-old Roman city of Aquincum. Europe's largest open-air arena, the amphitheater, mosaic-decorated villas, a military bath and the stone pillars of the water system can be seen there. In the Aquincum Museum valuable carved stones, wall-paintings and an ancient organ are on display.

In the heart of Óbuda at the Fõ tér (Main Square), old single story houses, excellent taverns and fine museums, such as the Vasarely Museum and Kiscelli Museum, create a unique atmosphere.

Pest

You may walk from Buda to Pest on the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the oldest one of the 9 bridges spanning the Danube. It has become a sentimental symbol of Budapest. You can continue your walk along the Danube Corso, or along the main pedestrian street of old Pest, Váci utca. Elegant shops, fine cafés and restaurants offer a great variety of merchandise, food and drink. The Inner City Parish Church in Március 15 Square is the first church of the city. It has an exceptionally interesting interior.

Walking further, the Grand Market Hall is the right place to buy the 'Hungaricums'. This building earned architectural recognition. The Hungarian National Museum is the finest monument of Hungarian Classical architecture. It preserves the historical memories of the Hungarian people from ancient times to our own age.

One area that must be explored on foot is Erzsébet Town, the charming old Jewish quarter. The Byzantine-looking Dohány Street Synagogue with 3,000 seats, is Europe's largest synagogue and the world's second largest after New York's Temple Emanu-El. Its excellent acoustics also make it suitable for concerts. The Jewish Museum, set up in its courtyard, has one of the most outstanding Judaic collections of Central Europe. Wander through the courtyards connecting residential buildings, forming a protective cocoon for the quarter. Then stop for pastry or lunch at one of several kosher restaurants and cafés.

The most beautiful monuments of Hungarian Art Nouveau are the Museum of Applied Arts with its rich collection, the dwelling-houses of Szervita Square (Inner City) and the former Post Office Savings Bank (4 Hold Street).

The Parliament is the largest and most decorative building in the country. It has 10 courts, 29 decorative staircases, 27 gates and the first long distance district heating system in Europe. You will see the legendary crown jewels of King Stephen, which have a spectacular history, having been stolen or misappropriated at various times since the Middle Ages. After World War II, fleeing Hungarians brought them to the United States for safe-keeping. Former President Jimmy Carter returned them to Hungary in 1978.

The St. Stephen's [István] Basilica, a neo-Renaissance church, raised to the rank of basilica minor, possesses the largest bell in Hungary. The Chapel of the holy Right [Szent Jobb] contains a jealously guarded treasure, a relic of the first Hungarian king, St. Stephen. It is his right hand which has remained intact for 1000 years. The Basilica's tower balcony offers a wonderful panorama of the city.

Andrássy Blvd.

It is worth continuing your walk along the strictly straight Andrássy Boulevard. Both sides of the Boulevard are lined by eclectic 19th and 20th century mansions designed with artistic thoughtfulness. The colossal Hungarian State Opera House has been the center of Hungarian musical life since 1884. The public can see its fresco-decorated interior, its auditorium seating 1200 spectators and its technical stage equipment in group tours.

City Park

After a long walk or a nostalgic trip on the Millennium-underground we arrive to the imposing Heroes' Square. This is the entrance of Pest`s most important green area, the City Park. The sculptures commemorate the founders of the country and the great Hungarian kings, generals and politicians. On the left side of the square, the Museum of Fine Arts contains richest art collection in the country. In its Antique Picture Gallery you can find the largest Spanish painting collection outside Spain and works of world-famous artists. The Palace of Art on the opposite side is a worthy venue for the most significant temporary exhibitions in the country. The Vajdahunyad Castle houses the Hungarian Agricultural Museum. Founded here in 1896, it is the first institution of its kind in the world.

      The park's pond not only offers romantic rowing in summer but gives pleasure to skaters in winter as well. The Széchenyi Medicinal Baths is the largest health spa in Europe. The Transport Museum is one of Europe's oldest collections of transport history. The Municipal Zoological and Botanical Garden is listed among the oldest zoos in the world. Its buildings were built in the famous Hungarian Art Nouveau style. In the neighborhood, is the most elegant restaurant in the capital-"the Gundel"- which bears the name of the family that has become a legend in catering. The two popular places of amusement in the City Park are the Municipal Circus and the Funfair. The 100-year-old carousel, winner of the Europe Nostra Award, is still working.

Margaret Island

In the middle of Budapest and of the Danube, you can enjoy the green oasis of Margaret Island [Margitsziget], stretching from Margit Bridge to Árpád Bridge. In summer, the Margaret Island Open-air Theatre offers musical evening performances. The Island was named after Princess Margaret, who lived in the ancient Dominican and Franciscan monastery of the Island some 700 hundred years ago. Explore on foot, by rented bicycle or by minibus. The gardens, the medieval church and chapel, the mini game reserve, swimming pools, spa-hotels, tennis stadium and 10,000 trees with rose-gardens make the island in the middle of the river seem miles away from the bustle of a modern city.

The northern section of the island is home of the turn-of-the-century Grand Hotel Margitsziget and the modern Thermal Hotel Margitsziget, the latter offering thermal spa and state-of-the-art medical services using thermal water springs on the island to cure different types of locomotor disorders.

Budapest possesses a rich and fascinating history as well as a vibrant cultural heritage. Recognizing the unique value of its traditions it has managed to maintain its magic and charm, and is rightly known as the Queen of the Danube. It has also been called the City of Spas, as there are a dozen thermal baths complexes served by over a hundred natural thermal springs.

                                            Balatonfüred - "International Town of

                    Grape and Wine"poop0o

This small town with its historical atmosphere is located on the north shore of the "Hungarian Sea", the Lake Balaton. Balatonfüred has a more than two thousand year old history as there has been a settlement here since Roman times. Among the architectural masterpieces from the 18th century one can find the Nagyvendéglõ, the State Hospital for Heart Diseases, the house of the Lajos Kossuth spring, the bigger house of Ádám Horváth Pálóczi and the mansion of Ferenc Széchenyi, which all influence the atmosphere of the town even today.

Balatonfüred became truly popular in the 19th century, when it was considered as one of the most important center of cultural and social life in Hungary. Famous poets, writers and politicians spent the summer here at that time. In 1825 the first Anna-ball was organized in the Horváth house, which is still a popular event in every year.

Main attractions of Balatonfüred are its beautiful location, the therapeutic effects of its natural healing springs, the aromatic quality wines from the uplands, and last but not least the hospitality of the inhabitants. It is worth visiting this town for its historic and cultural traditions, for the different programs and events provided through the whole year and of course for the natural resources.

Those traveling to Balatonfüred should take a walk in the town, see the monuments and other sights, go for a trip in the surrounding hills, and at the end of the day admire the sunset reflected in the water of the lake.

This is the place where the first Balaton steamship started its trips. The first yachtsmen's association began here. Here were built the villas of 19th-century celebrities, such as the villa (now a memorial museum) of the great romantic novelist, Jókai Mór. The town is still the center of festivities. The annual Anna Ball, with the coronation of the Queen of the Ball, has been organized in the town theatre for 170 years, on the last Saturday of July. Start-of-sailing parties are held each May in the Rose Garden.

Patients have been treated for three hundred years with the help of the mineral water sources. This water is good for diabetes and digestive malfunctions; you can taste it in the Kossuth Lajos drinking house next door to the Hospital of cardiology and the Sanatorium Building.

                  Tihany

The twin-towered church of the Tihany peninsula is distinctly visible far and wide. The peninsula, inhabited almost a thousand years, is of volcanic origin, and has a profusion of rare plants and animals. The crypt of King András I, founded in 1055, survived the turbulent past and still stands in its original form. The present church was built over the crypt in the 18th century in Baroque style and has many precious wood carvings. In the Museum of the Benedictine Abbey, you can find an exhibition about ancient times. There are frequent organ concerts in the abbey church in summertime.

The Open-air Ethnographic Museum, the rural houses of the old village and the Potter's House show the life of fishermen. From the natural lookouts of the peninsula-the Kiserdõ top and the 'Golden House', the most beautiful among more than a hundred geyser cones-an unforgettable panorama opens onto the Inner Lake, so loved by anglers, and the Outer Lake where tens of thousands of birds nest.

Sopron

is situated near the western borders of Hungary, at the foot of the Alps, 60 km from Vienna and 220 km from Budapest. It is one of the oldest jewel boxes of the country. Sopron merges past and present in itself. It creates a bridge between Hungary and its western neighbors, opening a gate for foreign guests visiting Hungary, as it is symbolized by the coat of arms of the city. The inhabitants of the city are famed for their hospitality and loyalty to their hometown. This is also symbolized by the 'Gate of Faith', which can be found on the southern side of the Fire watch Tower, the symbol of the city, and which was made in memory of      the referendum of 1921.

The City Hall was built in 1896, in the year of the Hungarian Millennium. Opposite it, the Stornó House is one of the most well-known buildings of the city, thanks to its highly interesting collection. Even King Matthias stayed overnight between these walls. The Goat Church provided a venue for coronations and parliamentary sessions. The Holy Trinity Statue is a masterpiece of the Hungarian baroque, while the neo-gothic Ursuline Church is one of the most impressive architectural monuments of the past century. Várkerület was built along the former moat, its inner row of houses following the line of the castle wall. A gem of Várkerület is the Maria Statue.

The artistic traditions of the city are nearly seventy years old, and go back to a time which is often referred to as the golden age of the city.

The curative and recreating air of the natural environment, the hiking routes of the wooded hillsides, the view towers, the mountain springs, and the proximity of Lake Fertő make Sopron one of the most beautiful and most pleasant holiday resorts of Hungary. The Löverek, the hilly area south of the city, is the most fascinating and most distinguished recovery area of the city. Calm forests with spruces, oaks and chestnuts, lilies of the valley and cyclamens, hiking paths and lookout towers - these are the attractions of the Löverek.

Another attraction of the historic town of Sopron is represented by the excellent wines of the region, so the city is becoming increasingly popular among those who would like to satisfy their thirst with noble wines.

THE TOWN OF MUSEUMS

In this lovely town you can find as good as everything. The most important points of attraction are the atmospheric street lines of the downtown, creating the air of history, the architectural rarities built in Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles, the historical monuments, and the local culture. Besides the marvelous buildings of the past, the little curved streets, the medieval atmosphere of the squares, the walls of the town which come to be seen every here and there, the delicately fashioned balconies, and the arched gateways with their Gothic sidles, a certain village atmosphere is also represented in some quarters of the city, with cheerfully inviting wine cellars. In 1975 Sopron received a European gold medal for monument protection, with good reason since regarding the number of architectural monuments it is today the second richest city of Hungary. Due to the beauty of its buildings and the spectacular collections of its museums, Sopron has earned the title 'museum town' or 'the town of museums'. One of the oldest museums of Hungary (founded in 1867) offers a venue for several permanent exhibitions, which attract a large number of visitors year by year. The care of the past is also testified by the existence of numerous public and private collections. However, the historical city center is today filled with cheerful and sparkling life.

Liszt, the man of genius and Sopron

The piano virtuoso, composer, conductor and pedagogue Liszt Ferenc was born in Doborján (Raiding), in former Sopron county. The house where he came into the world is today a memorial museum. His first concert held in Sopron marked the start of a musical career with worldwide fame. The nine-year old prodigy played as "the natural beat of music required". The town of Sopron later organized charity concerts to honor the European prince of music. His personal charm, the inimitable warmth of his artistry, as well as the donations he made reflect his generous character. Kant's university conferred the title 'doctor of musical sciences' or 'doctor musicale' on him, to acknowledge his masterpieces of imperishable value and performances of high artistry. The Latin language of the honorary diploma expressed the respect to the Hungarian national consciousness of Doctor Franz von Liszt which he had explicitly claimed. Today the new Conference and Cultural Centre, a choir, and the town's symphony orchestra bear the name of the Maestro.