Budapest

Budapest is quite the large city, but still has a very small town feel. Actually, it used to be 2 cities, so I suppose that's why its so big.

Anyhow, because its Europe, shops are closed on Sunday, which means I had to get my shopping out of the way on Saturday. So, I wandered down the Váci utca and ended up at the Great Market Hall, full of food on the lower floor, and souvenirs on the top.

BTW, Ben--OMG--they have Rodeo Cheeseburgers! IT REALLY WAS THE RODEO FROM THE DAYS OF YORE!!!

Since I wore out quickly, I went ahead and hopped on a tour, that took me to the main sites of Budapest. First stop, the Hungarian State Opera House, which was quite impressive.

Then off to Heroes' Square, honoring the 7 tribes that formed the first Hungary.

And along the way, we saw a VW Beetle get together. Rather odd, I thought.

The Great Synagogue, which is the largest synagogue in Europe. I wanted to go in and check it out, but it was Saturday, the Jewish Holy day. Shucks.

After that, it was time to cross the Danube to see Buda (the previous sites were all in Pest). And, at one point, you can sit atop a hill, and see both sides of the city, and it was so beautiful on a wonderfully sunny day. Buda on the left, Pest on the right.

Also on that hill, a quirky little WWII wax museum in a bunker. Rather odd, yet entertaining.

On top of the Citadel was a very nice statue, which is visible from the river and most of the city.

St. Stephen's Basilica.

Admittedly, I missed Castle Hill, as I fell asleep on the bus. However, I did take the opportunity to take a night cruise on the Danube, to catch some night time sight seeing. Sorry if the pics aren't perfect...

The beautiful Gothic structure, the Parliament. It really is very impressive at night.

The Chain Bridge, with the castle in the background.

And that does it for Budapest. I enjoyed it, and there was plenty to do. However, I found myself a little tired/lazy to be full on my sight-seeing game! Oh well, there's always next weekend!