In the Danube River, between Buda and Pest, verdant Margaret Island is a tranquil getaway within the city. Pedestrian promenades navigate around parkland, an art nouveau water tower, the ruins of a 13th-century Dominican convent, a musical fountain and a small zoo. Other attractions include jogging tracks, thermal spas and swimming pools.
In addition to its pools, guests can enjoy its saunas and steam rooms, as well as spa services including massages. For a special treat, pay a visit to the baths after nightfall. Day tickets, which include use of a locker, can be purchased online, or upon arrival.
Established in 1870 after Hungary inherited a fine collection of paintings, drawings, and prints, the museum is divided into six excellent departments: Egyptian Art, Ancient Art, the Old Sculpture Gallery, the Old Painter Gallery, the Modern Collection, and the Graphics Collection.
Towering over the Danube, Budapest's Castle Hill (Várhegy) contains many of the city's most important medieval monuments and museums. Castle Hill is worth exploring for its medieval lanes and it Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. This entire historic complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gellért Spa is another famous thermal bath in Budapest. The Art Nouveau bath palace has welcomed bathers to take to its medicinal waters, fed from deep underground springs, since 1918 (check out the vintage photos on display!).
For the best views of the entire city, take a ride on the Ferris Wheel of Budapest in Erzsébet Square. Its 65-meter height allows you to get amazing vantage points of Buda Castle, St. Stephen's Basilica, and the Hungarian Parliament Building from any of the 42 partially open cabins.