THE MOST AWESOME THING TO DO IN THE CITY
A Budapest night cruise on the Danube River is a relaxing way to enjoy the spectacular illuminated skyline. You will love this city sightseeing experience immensely, as I did.
When I visited Budapest, Hungary, the most awesome thing I enjoyed was a night cruise on the Danube River. The illuminated landmarks are dazzling as you sail past them and under the bridges. I highly recommend it if you’re thinking about a Budapest night cruise, it will be the highlight of your stay.
Our cruise sailed after dark when the city lights were in full force and the buildings all aglow, providing a thrilling night spectacle.
We took full advantage of this prime opportunity for photographs and videos of the stunning panorama, however I must say, the photos don’t do it justice.
Cruising through Budapest on the Danube River at night was a most memorable part of my visit.
Danube River
The Danube River is the second longest river in Europe and flows through 10 countries. It splits the city of Budapest down the middle, which used to be two separate cities, Buda and Pest, until 1873 when they were united as one to form the capital of Hungary.
The two sides of Budapest are easily accessible with several bridges crossing over the Danube, the most famous being the Chain Bridge which was the first bridge built to connect the hilly Buda on the west bank and the flat Pest on the east bank.
Budapest Landmarks To See From The River
Most of the iconic Budapest landmarks are visible from the river. Whilst cruising you can spot the spectacular monuments standing proudly, on both the Buda and Pest sides, and appreciate the stunning architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The landmarks visible from the Danube River cruise include:
BRIDGES CROSSING THE DANUBE
Several iconic historic and modern bridges:
- Árpád Bridge
- Margaret Bridge
- Széchenyi Chain Bridge
- Elisabeth Bridge
- Liberty Bridge
- Petőfi Bridge
- Rákóczi Bridge
BUDA SIDE OF THE RIVER
- Buda Castle (also known as Buda Palace) situated on Castle Hill
- Castle Garden Bazaar
- Fisherman’s Bastion, in Castle district
- Liberty Statue and Citadella Fortress on Gellért Hill
PEST SIDE OF THE RIVER
- Hungarian Parliament Building sits right on the riverbank, the largest and most famous landmark in the country
- Gresham Palace, in Lipótváros district
- Vigadó Concert Hall
- Corvinus University.
Options for Budapest Night Cruises
There are various options for Budapest night cruises, as well as daytime ones, of course. Sunset cruises are also available which are popular. Paddles steamers are another option for cruises on the river.
Some cruises offer drinks, including alcohol, snacks or meals, audio commentary, music and performers.
You can choose a cruise of 1 hour, 2 hours, or longer.
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One Comment
A night cruise on the Danube is one of those experiences that stays with you! Seeing the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge beautifully illuminated must have been magical. Definitely one of the top things I’d recommend to anyone visiting Budapest.