Budapest is a great place to visit. I’ve been there twice on weekend trips and hope to go for a longer visit soon. Here’s some advice on getting around in Budapest and where to stay.
Transportation from the airport
After you’ve passed through customs and are ready to leave the airport, look for the Airport Minibus desk. Buy a round trip ticket and tell them where you’re staying. Be sure to save your ticket – it’s also for your return trip. Then have a seat and wait for a driver to call your hotel. The day before you need to return, you’ll need to call to reserve a shuttle seat.
Where to stay
At least for your first visit to Budapest, stay close to the Castle district in Buda or the inner city of Pest. This will keep you in walking distance or short subway trip of the major sites. (Use the subway – it’s great!)
Last time, I was in Budapest, I stayed further away in Obuda, which is in the north of Budapest. I got a great nonrev rate through www.perx.com at the Corinthia Acquincum – a very classy spa hotel. The area is residential with good restaurants nearby and some off the beaten path sites like Roman ruins and a folk art museum. Plus the Acquincum is only 2 blocks from the suburban train station that can get you to downtown Buda in 15 minutes or so.
Happy flying,
Susan
