Looking for a uniquely Hungarian activity while in Budapest and the folk dance venues seem interesting. Anyone have any experience with such? Want to pay/go only if a must see but Tripadvisor does not even not mention. Seems the two common types are either theatre based (Hungarian State Folk Ensemble) or a dinner cruise. Can anyone recommend... or not?
Posted by
Seattle
4637 posts
It depends what one likes. I like it and would go for it. In Budapest these performances are mostly for tourists and are heavily choreographed. If you like it more authentic you need to see it in smaller towns or villages. TI in Budapest can advice you on dates and locations.
Posted by
New Berlin, WI, US
156 posts
Want a truly unique Hungarian experience? How about a hot dip at Szechenyi Baths? You can take the metro to Hero's Square, which should be seen anyway, walk to the baths and spend an hour soaking in the water from the hot sulfur springs. Bring a suit and a towel, buy an inexpensive ticket and enjoy the experience. Watch the old timers play chess on their floating boards. The Museum of Fine Arts is in the same area.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15794 posts
I bought the combined folk dance and dinner cruise ticket. I was planning to take an evening cruise anyway, and the additional wasn't very much. As the previous poster said, the dances are not authentic, but the troupes (there are 3 that alternate evenings) are quite good, as are the musicians. It was very enjoyable and a glass of good Hungarian wine at the interval was cheap. Afterward we had a short walk to the cruise boat and more Hungarian wine and a good buffet dinner. Budapest is magical at night. I was very pleased that I had done it. Another suggestion - instead of the daytime tour of the basilica, buy a ticket to an evening concert. Get there early for a good seat and plenty of time to see the inside all lit up (much better lighting than during the day) and take photos, before the music begins, then enjoy the beauty of the church while listening to the concert.
Posted by
Ann Arbor, Mi
3696 posts
I am going to Budapest in a few months with a group of photographers and we will be going out into the countryside to a place called Pustza.... has horses, gypsy music and a wonderful sounding Hungarian lunch including goulash soup... Just google it (haven't been, so I can't recommend yet, but it looks fun ) I have however been to Budapest and it is probably my favorite big city in all of Europe and eastern Europe. I loved it and can't wait to get back... I am not someone who typically likes big citites