buda or pest

I stay in Pest, from where you can admire Buda across the river. There seem to be many more places to sleep and eat on the Pest side, and it has better transport, but I wouldn't describe it as hectic.

I'm with Kathy on this. The cost to buy an apartment in Buda is much higher than in Pest from what I've been told. That would probably translate into higher rates at B&Bs or hotels over there. Public transportation is excellent with a subway line over to Buda and buses to get you around. Pretty much all the sights are close to the river so there's no need to get way back into Buda. There are also many sights on the Pest side that can be more easily accessed if you are staying there. As for hectic, the last time I was there there was a World Cup Soccer semi-final match, a gay pride parade, an anti-gay pride parade, a marathon and a half marathon. The streets were full of yelling people with signs, drunken Swedes, riot police and Hungarian army units.

Do you have RS Budapest Guide Book yet? If so, great. If not, I would suggest you get one as it has lots of important information that we used when we visited there.

I was on a Tauck tour of eastern europe several years ago and the tour stayed at the Hilton which had beautiful views of Pest and the river. It is very scenic and quiet in Buda and not a problem getting to Pest using the bus or the funiculare. If I went back again I would stay in Buda.

there are plenty choices and some places on the castle hill can still be relatively cheap. but no matter which hotel you choose make sure it's close to the metro line.

I agree with Kathy. I prefer the Pest side for better metro and tram connections and a wider choice of restaurants. Plus, it feels more "alive" than Buda. Pest is not particularly hectic, I felt that the city in general is fairly relaxed.

thank you to everyone for their feedback!

I decided to look for an accommodation in Pest. My wife found an apartments in Ferenciek tere in central part of the town. (Thanks for www.cote-est.net for helps) . I think , Pest is a good option.