The world's largest collection of totem poles lines the streets of this Vancouver Island city, earning its nickname as the "City of Totems."
Start your day at the Central Market Hall, where vendors sell fresh produce and local crafts. Walk along the Danube River to see the Parliament Building, a neo-Gothic structure with 691 rooms. Explore the ruins of the Roman amphitheater near the old town, which once held 6,000 spectators. Stop by the Museum of Applied Arts to view its green roof and collection of Ottoman-era ceramics. End your evening at Szimpla Kert, a converted factory filled with eclectic art and live music.
<getting_around> Use trams 4 and 6 to cross the city center quickly—they run every 4 minutes during peak hours. Buy a 24-hour public transport pass for unlimited rides on buses, trams, and the metro. Rent a bicycle from one of 150 docking stations near major squares; dedicated lanes cover 80% of central streets. Taxis are affordable but confirm the meter is running before starting your trip. Avoid driving in the central zone due to limited parking and frequent pedestrian-only areas. </getting_around>
<top_attractions> The Castle District houses Matthias Church, recognizable by its diamond-patterned roof tiles. Climb the 197 steps of the Fisherman’s Bastion tower for views of the Chain Bridge and Gellért Hill. Visit the Hospital in the Rock nuclear bunker museum, where wax figures illustrate Cold War medical operations. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath has 15 indoor pools and three outdoor pools heated to 38°C year-round. For interactive science exhibits, head to the Palace of Wonders, which has over 250 hands-on displays. </top_attractions>
<local_food> Try lángos at the Great Market Hall—fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic. Goulash is served thicker here than in neighboring countries, often with chunks of beef and potatoes. Sample kürtőskalács (chimney cake) from street vendors near St. Stephen’s Basilica. Book a table at Menza for modern takes on dishes like stuffed cabbage with quinoa. Vegetarians should visit Napfenyes Étterem, a vegan restaurant known for its seitan stew and dairy-free desserts. </local_food>
<day_trips> Take a 90-minute train ride to Esztergom to see Europe’s largest basilica and its crypt museum. Visegrád’s medieval castle ruins overlook a bend in the Danube, with falconry shows daily at 11 AM. Szentendre, 45 minutes by suburban rail, has 12 art galleries along its cobblestone main street. For hiking, Pilis Hills trails start 20 km northwest of the city; marked routes range from 2 km to 18 km. Boats depart from Vigadó Square twice daily to Szigetmonostor Island, where you can rent kayaks or join guided birdwatching tours. </day_trips>
<seasonal_tips> From December 1 to January 6, Christmas markets on Vörösmarty Square sell handmade ornaments and mulled wine. March hosts the Budapest Spring Festival, with classical concerts in the Opera House and ruin bars. July and August bring free outdoor film screenings at Margaret Island’s open-air cinema. In October, the Wine Festival at Buda Castle pours over 200 Hungarian varieties. Weekdays in November and February have shorter queues for major museums and baths. </seasonal_tips>
