Hungary Like The Wolf

  Budapest, Hungary
Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Haha, sorry, I've resorted to using bad puns for the titles of my blogs, but just stating the city names isn't much fun.

I initially planned to spend two nights in Prague, then take the morning train to Budapest. But since it takes 7 hours to get there, I figured it wasn't worth wasting a day on the train. So I took the night train! I reserved a bed for 14 Euros. My rail pass, called the Interrail, is for European citizens and residents. In a 10 day period, you can travel all you want on 5 days. You just fill in each date on the ticket. On night trains and more popular routes, like Paris to Berlin, it's best to make a reservation. Otherwise you just fight for a free seat.

The "beds" were really just regular bench seats with the backrest folded down. Not very comfortable, but it sure as hell beats 9 hours (night trains are slower) in a regular seat.

There was a guy from Germany in the bunk next to me, and thankfully, nobody on top.

View of Budapest.


Interesting fact: Back in the day, Budapest was actually two cities, Buda on the left and Pest on the right. And even though the two sides have joined, they're still referred to by their former names.

The Parliament building, overlooking the Danube River.


The Grand Market Hall.


Inside


On the ground floor, there are butcher shops, bakeries, and fruit/veggie stands. Chicken, anyone?


The second floor is mainly full of souvenir shops, but there's also a section with lots of little restaurants. Here's the beef stew I had, very tasty and very hot.


The Budapest Opera House.


On the hills of Buda lies the Budapest Castle. Yet another stairmaster-like experience. ;/ Here's the church with a neat roof design.






Budapest is also known for its historic Turkish baths, but since I didn't bring my swimming suit, I didn't go in. But next to one I found this amazing castle.




Cute dog that played with me.


Budapest at night.


Next stop: Salzburg, Austria.