The end of first term is fast approaching, but don’t let the fear of your overdraft keep you from fulfilling that desire to book an impulsive getaway. We all need something to get us through January exams and deadlines, and this article is going to show you how…
Getting there
Picking somewhere within Europe will ultimately keep the cost down on your travels as budget airlines offer cheap flights at ideal times. Multiple airlines and airports offer affordable options across the country.
- Check Skyscanner to compare deals and make sure you are getting the best offers around.
- Ryanair offer flights to Budapest from London Stansted, Bristol, East Midlands and Manchester for as little as £68 in June 2017.
- Aim to book early morning and late night flights as those are the deals that come up the cheapest, you just have to get through the 4 am wake-up call.
Where to stay
When I visited the city I opted to stay in an Airbnb studio apartment for just £17 a night and I am now a loyal Airbnb devotee. They provide you with more freedom than a hotel as you can make own meals which ultimately keeps the cost of the trip down.
If Airbnb isn’t your thing then Budapest is a hotspot for interailers and backpackers so the city is thriving with hostels.
- Avenue hostel in the heart of the city centre offers accommodation at £13 a night
- Full moon hostel again offers accommodation in the city centre for £13
When you get there
Budapest is a bustling city day and night, as well as being full of modern history the city also caters to us students at Trent who enjoy a drink or two. You can take us out of Trent but you cant take the Trent out of us.
Gellért Hill
Located in the Buda side of the Danube river. The trek to the top of this hill is worth it just for the view that awaits you at the peak.
Although this is a tourist hotspot, you will be able to capture some breathtaking images and view Budapest from its highest point, that’s if you make it up the hill.
Parliament Building
One of Budapest oldest and most prestigious buildings. The intricate detailing and craft in the walls makes even the houses of parliament look inferior.
You can include this on your walks along the river side or guided tours are on offer whenever Government is not in session, lasting 45 minutes.
Heroes Square
Located just a short metro ride from the city centre lies Heroes Square and the Millennium Monument.
Continue to stroll through Heroes square and you will reach city park, where you will find the Szechenyi Baths of Budapest, one of Budapest’s biggest attractions.
Szimpla Kert
Undoubtedly the best experience and bar I have been to. Szimpla Kert is one of Budapests ruin bars and in my opinion the best. By day the bar offers bike tours, a market and the chance to design your own t-shirt.
By night this is a prime location for students, with cheap drinks deals, shisha, live music, video games and even a Szimpla Kert’s tradition of waitresses selling carrots as a snack for guests.
The bar hosts 14 different rooms as well as the courtyard. Each room homes a different objects and atmospheres so you can chose how you enjoy your experience.
The most vibrant bar you will ever see. Like a scene from Stranger Things.
City Centre
If you’re looking for shopping, food and drink then this is the prime location. I personally recommend Pasta e Basta for fresh, delicious pasta meals at a reasonable price whilst watching the world go by (everything holiday is about). Budapest also has its own Hard Rock Cafe if you fancy a burger as big as your head.
River tour
My final recommendation is a boat trip along the River Danube. The best time to do this is around sunset as you will witness the sun setting over Gelert hill and the lights of the city slowly appear.
This may be a slightly more expensive experience but definitely a memorable one. Plus a free drink is included on board. Follow this link to book. https://legenda.hu/en/danube-legend
I hope this guide gives you the intensive to follow your impulses and book a holiday with your mates, significant other, or family. Whether its a weekend this Christmas, or a week away next summer, Enjoy!
By Frankie Edwards