Hungary’s Parliament building: Secrets and symbols

(CNN) — Striking an imposing and impressive figure on the edge of the River Danube in the heart of Budapest, Hungary’s Parliament building is one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival and Renaissance Revival architecture in the world today. Ranked among TripAdvisor’s top 15 landmarks, this architectural marvel proved more popular than London’s Big […]

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Budapest’s best cakes and where to find them

(CNN) — It’s possible there’s no better place than Budapest to while away an afternoon in a coffee house with a cake — or three. Blending different cultural influences, histories and traditions, Budapest’s cake scene offers a delectable range of pastries, tarts and sweet treats. Gyorgy Ujlaki, a tour guide for Taste Hungary, says Hungarian […]

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Luxury spas in Budapest: Your ultimate guide

(CNN) — Although Budapest’s stunning architecture and unique tourist attractions are world renowned, many travelers flock here to sample therapeutic waters from the 118 natural thermal springs that flow through the “City of Spas.” You’ll find everything from Zen-inspired spa retreats to traditional Turkish Baths in Hungary’s capital, but its luxury spa experience is the […]

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Budapest in winter: 10 best things to do on your trip

(CNN) — Budapest is fast becoming one of Europe’s leading travel destinations, especially in winter when Hungary’s capital city truly comes to life. Offering a cozy winter atmosphere with romantic architectural creations, Budapest delivers a scene reminiscent of a classic Christmas movie. Rich in culture and steeped in tradition, winter here not only feels like […]

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Inside the Hungarian State Opera House’s multi-million dollar renovation project

(CNN) — The Hungarian State Opera House is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in Budapest, drawing in thousands of visitors each year. But its facade is currently obscured by scaffolding, leaving the impressive landmark almost unrecognizable. The Neo-Renaissance structure has been closed for the past 18 months due to extensive restoration and modernization […]

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Fine dining in Budapest: How the city has become a culinary force

(CNN) — While Budapest may be primarily known for its architecture, geothermal springs and communist heritage, the city’s gastronomy scene has been gaining considerable travel attention in recent years. New and exciting fine dining spots are constantly opening up in the Hungarian capital, many headed up by prolific chefs keen to inject imagination and prestige […]

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Hungary Birthday Cake: Most delicious contest in in the world?

(CNN) — Made with painstaking precision, Hungarian cakes are among the most luxurious and coveted in the world. From the six-layered Dobos cake, created by famed baker Dobos C. József, to the Esterházy torte, comprised of layers of meringue and chocolate butter cream, nowhere does cakes quite like the Central European country. In fact, confectionery […]

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Budapest’s New York Cafe: World’s most elegant spot for coffee?

(CNN) — Step inside the New York Café, and you may find yourself wondering if you’ve accidentally entered the Hungarian equivalent to the Sistine Chapel. Built in Italian Renaissance-style, with sparkling chandeliers dangling from high ceilings adorned by spectacular frescoes, it’s one of the oldest cafes in Budapest, dating back 125 years. It looks more […]

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Luxury bars in Budapest: The finest places to go

(CNN) — Budapest’s craft cocktail movement has seen new bars and clubs spread across town like wildfire in recent years, making it that much harder to choose the best of the bunch. While the Hungarian capital’s ruin bars offer a unique experience, the luxury bar scene here is second to none. Whether you’re looking to […]

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Mystery Hotel Budapest: The hotel designed for likes

(CNN) — One of the first things you’ll notice on entering the Mystery Hotel Budapest is the Aladdin-style magic carpet “floating” above the reception desk. This is the first indication there’s much more to this boutique hotel than meets the eye. Then there’s the countless light boxes on the walls displaying animated pictures that change […]

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