Budapest, as we know it today, was officially established in 1873, when three cities – Pest, Buda, and Óbuda – were united. This historic moment marked the beginning of a new era in the development of Hungary’s capital. Since then, Budapest has become not only the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country, but also one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.

Today, the city is home to approximately 1.7 million people. Including the surrounding metropolitan area, this number is even higher, making Budapest the economic and social engine of Hungary.

The city enjoys unique geographical features. It lies on both banks of the Danube River: the western side, Buda, is hilly, green, and rich in historical atmosphere, while the eastern side, Pest, is flat, more densely built-up, and known for its vibrant urban life. Nine road bridges and two railway bridges connect the two parts of the city – six of which you can admire during our journey.

As we continue, observe how past and present, nature and architecture blend seamlessly, brought together by the Danube into one breathtaking cityscape.

The Danube is the longest river in Central Europe and the second longest in Europe, stretching nearly 2,850 kilometers. It originates in the Black Forest of Germany and flows into the Black Sea in Romania through the Danube Delta. What makes the Danube remarkable is that it passes through ten countries – including Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania – and flows through four European capitals: Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade. For centuries, it has served not only as a natural border and transportation route, but also as a defining feature in the identity, economy, and culture of the cities along its banks.