48 HOURS IN... BUDAPEST

Divided by the Danube, the Hungarian capital is a city of two distinct halves – both worth a visit

- BEN SIMTH

Often referred to as the Paris of the East, Hungary’s capital city is an art-nouveau beauty. Straddling the Danube river, it's bursting with stunning architecture, fascinating history and vibrant culture. Yet it’s also a city of distinctly different characters, having been formed in 1873 by the unification of the historic Buda on the Danube’s west bank, and the more modern, cosmopolitan Pest on the east. You'll find everything from a bustling food and drink scene to thermal spas to escape the chill. The cooler months are a perfect time to visit: travel costs are lower and the streets are quieter.

SOAK UP HISTORY

Much of the city is walkable, but the old yellow tram network (as well as the buses and the metro system) make getting around a doddle. Start by visiting the imposing Buda Castle, formerly the Royal Palace. Reached by funicular, you can admire views across the Danube to Pest and the neo-Gothic splendour of the Parliament building.