Folkloric, elegant, gritty and progressive all at the same time, Budapest is a gem of a city shrouded in legends, and legendary experiences. Whether you are sipping the good life at a chandelier-lit 19th-century coffee house, stealing looks of admiration at the mighty Danube atop the hills of royal Buda, romancing the long wide boulevards of bustling Pest, soaking in style at an iconic Hungarian bath, or chasing the night down across Budapest’s temples of nightlife – the inimitable ruin pubs, the capital of Hungary somehow always emits a real sense of place, and identity. If you are looking for a unique proposition in Europe, plunge into the land of the Magyars today with a customised Budapest and Hungary tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours and immerse yourself in its tales of honour and myths.
Culture soak
One of Budapest’s most endearing cultural symbols is its unique offering of thermal baths and spas and whether indoor or outdoor, lavish or functional, regal or exotic, Hungarians all love a good steamy soak. There are plenty of iconic venues dotted around the capital for your pleasure such as the postcard-featured Art Nouveau Szechenyi, the exotic Turkish delight of Rudas or the grandiose Gellert. Enjoy the domed roofs, coloured windows, stunning architecture and au-naturale springs with plenty of locals while at it, and if you prefer exclusivity, Kempinski Budapest offers one of the most luxurious spa experiences in this city of spas.
In cold memory
The Magyars are a people known to be fearless and brave, and this was especially evident during the Cold War when Budapest defied odds and served as the most “democratic” city of communist Europe; a decadent place if you wish for neighbouring citizens to stream in to indulge in occasional western indulgences such as rock concerts and fast food. But this doesn’t mean the city was spared the horrific deeds of war and communism. The House of Terror Museum commemorates these exact victims of the Nazi and communist regimes in Hungary where the building served as the former headquarter of the Nazi party in 1940, and later on the Hungarian secret police where civilians suspected of being an enemy of the state were routinely arrested without trials, tortured and executed. Stroll through the museum’s hallowing floors of torture chambers, jail cells and execution gallows and imagine what life must be like in those tumultuous times.
Hungry for Hungary This may be a surprise to many but the Hungarians has a sophisticated food culture cooking and boiling ever since the late 19th century. From its world-renowned paprika and the representative goulash, to a mix of Asiatic-Germanic dishes such as game stews and hearty casseroles to sweet-filled pancakes, Hungarian cuisine is the underrated big-hitter in flavour and value alike. Forget temporarily about Italy and France which undoubtedly shine for their popularity and international repute, but to elevate your foodie cred, head to Budapest for a European taste you will never forget. The Central Market Hall is an institution where you can join a culinary walking tour for a friendly introduction. And all this without mentioning the excellent Hungarian wines which are unassuming but oh so fine too. 
Looking for more European escapes in and around the region? Try:
Discover the pearl of the Danube with a customised Budapest and Hungary tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours today. Call 6212 9935 or email privatetours@chanbrothers.com.sg to find out more.
Highlights
Every itinerary can be fully customised according to needs, special interests, personal preferences and defining style of just about anyone who wants to travel privately and exclusively.
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Budapest, the capital city of Hungary. Upon arrival at the airport, meet your driver and enjoy a private airport transfer to your hotel.
After breakfast, proceed to the town of Eger, 140 kilometres east of Budapest located on the southern slopes of Bukk Mountains. It is one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe with 17 Baroque churches, thermal baths and a Turkish minaret. The lovely Eger Cathedral, also known as Cathedral Basilica of St John the Apostle, was built in 1837. Next, visit Istvan Dobo Castle Museum and the Baroque Lyceum, with its 53-metre-tall tower and revolving dome offering more incredible views. Next, head to the narrow lanes of the Old Town, where a large central market place and the impressive church of St Anthony of Padua stand. Finally, visit medieval Eger Castle, which was built in the 11th century and expanded numerous times over the ages.
Town of Eger
Today, spend the day to discover the charming city of Budapest. Discover the Jewish Quarter, where the Jewish Ghetto created the boundaries for the confined Jews in WWII. 3 huge synagogues serve as the geographical and spiritual cornerstones of the neighbourhood, including the 2nd-largest synagogue in the world. Adding to the charm are late Art Nouveau homes, long arcades and romantic courtyards. After lunch, visit Hungarian Open Air Museum, which showcases the rural architecture and lifestyle of 10 different 18th-century Hungarian settlements. Buildings typical of the region are scattered throughout the gently rolling landscape and linked by pathways. Return to the city and pass by the iconic Chain Bridge and catch a glimpse of Royal Castle.
Chain Bridge
Today, visit the Danube, one of the world’s greatest rivers which flows through 4 modern European capitals. Be sure to gaze upon the dramatic curved Danube Bend and numerous villages that will evoke the medieval vibe. Enjoy viewing river bluff castles and the ancient ruins of Budapest Next, hop aboard a cruise along Danube Bend and marvel at the beauty of the Parliament Building of Hungary.
Parliament Building
Today, visit Heroes’ Square and spend the day at leisure shopping at Old Town and various department stores in the city.
Heroes’ Square
Enjoy a private airport transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight home.