We are going to Budapest in the summer of 2011 and would like your recommendation for how many days to spend and what to see. We have the RS Eastern Europe book and he recommends 3-4 days. Should I allow 5 or 6 days that would include Eger? Is there anyplace else (outside of Budapest) that is a must see? We are going to Krakow first, then after Budapest we are going to Dalmatian Coast (Slovenia, Croatia, etc) Thank you very much
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
1525 posts
We were in both last summer as part of a much longer trip. We were in Bubapest for 4 1/2 days and used one of those as a day trip to Eger. We also spent a 1/2 day in Szentendre. In hindsight, Eger was too long a train ride for a day trip. We should have spent the night there. But two nights would have been unnessessary unless you got there late for the arrival day and left early for the departure day. Szentendre was moderately cute, but I thought the guide book overstated its desireability. It's biggest asset is the ease of getting there. Budapest was wonderful. I think 4 days there (not counting any day trips) would be ideal. It could be done in 3, but you would have to be on the move all the time. More than 4 days would involve some down time and getting off the beaten track. The city park and baths were great and can take most of a day. The "Terror" museum is very interesting, but almost nothing is in english. The market hall is a must-see for both the food and the souvenirs. The fisherman's bastion on castle hill is an amazing place to visit at night - amazingly photogenic. Be warned that summer can be hot and AC is not common.
Posted by
stevens point, wi, usa
1194 posts
Hi, Budapest is worth as many days as you can budget. Eger is a great little place to see. Buses run there regularly as does the train, but the Eger train station is a bit of a walk. The Hotel Senator in Eger might be a little expensive, but sure is worth it. Two nights gives you a chance to get a bit tipsy at the wine caves out side Eger. There is a "dufus Train" that runs out there and back. use that. The wine experience is great. Szenteandre is not worth it. Over hyped. Been there twice. I thought I must have missed something the first time. Nope, it just isn't what it might have once been. Take your swim suit and do the City Baths in Hero Square. One of those life time experiences for under $20 per person. wayne iNWI
Posted by
Tampa, FL, USA
417 posts
I agree, four days in Budapest would be ideal. The trian ride to Eger puts it on the edge of being too far for a day trip, so use your time wisely. I disagree about Szentendre, personally. I do agree that it is not worth a half day, however we went there in the late afternoon, arriving about 5PM. We had a lovely dinner on a terrace overlooking the Danube river, followed by a stroll around town- this was very worth our time. The train ride was only about half an hour and you can not get lost since Szentendre is the end of the line.