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Known as “Little Paris” or “Paris on the Danube,” Budapest is a fascinating city, rich in history, and cultural wonders.

Budapest is more than just a stunning cosmopolitan city in Eastern Europe. Visitors flock here for exotic food, antiques, shopping, bargain prices, entertainment and history. Hungary’s struggle against both Nazi and communist occupation offers families a sobering insight into the country's past. Children with an affinity for history, or parents who want to expose their teenagers to some of Eastern Europe's heritage can take a walk through time in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Sightseeing in Óbuda

Many savvy travelers already know that modern Budapest is comprised of two distinctively different areas, Buda and Pest, which are divided by the majestic waters of the Danube River. But, if you take a look further back in history, you’ll see that the city was originally comprised of three areas; the third being Óbuda. In 1873, Óbuda was united with Buda and Pest to form today’s Budapest.

"Old Buda” has been inhabited since the Stone Age and was home to the ancient Romans who formed the capitol for their Pannonia province. The Romans named it Aquincum and stationed nearly 6,000 soldiers there in 89 AD.  Because their settlement bordered the Danube, and Aquincum means "abundant in water," it is believed that the Romans understood and utilized the therapeutic value of Budapest’s famous thermal springs. Ruins from ancient military baths indicate a long-standing tradition that is alive today in Hungary.

To learn more about the history of the area, The Aquincum Museum (36 1 250-1650, Szentendrei út 139) features a view into the ancient Roman ruins of Acquincum. Discover two amphitheaters, villas, sanctuaries, baths, water aqueducts, shrines, a market place, and sculptures. The museum showcases traditional jewels, glassware, metal tools, and paintings from the Roman era. It hosts seasonal events such as Floralia, a Roman spring feast, a Roman mosaic workshop for families, and, during its annual Summer Festival from mid-may until mid-September, tourists can get a sense of what the everyday lives of the Romans were really like through traditional dress, pictures, and artifacts.

Today, Old Buda showcases a variety of ancient attractions left over from the Roman era. Visitors can make their way through the cobble stone streets and stroll through this small and secluded area. Start by paying a visit to Kiskorona utca, or Kiskorona Street, to peruse the medieval ruins of a convent and the Óbudai Társaskör. During holidays, summers, and special city events, Társaskör acts as the center for Old Buda’s cultural life. You’ll find pastry, coffee shops, pubs, and souvenir stands through this cultural artery.

Main Square is undoubtedly one of the most favored Old Buda attractions and features a tranquil 18th century setting that feels relatively undisturbed. The area underwent intense turmoil as the Turks destroyed most of the medieval buildings during their 150-year reign. To get an overview of what the area has to offer, walk over to Zichy Castle, erected during the 18th century. Although never completed, it’s presently home to several museums including the Lajos Kassák Museum, Óbuda Museum, Victor Vasarely Museum, and Budapest Gallery. Directly opposite of the gallery, look for the impressive Classicist-style synagogue, which most recently housed a TV studio.

Don’t forget the military bath museum of Thermae Maiores (36 1 250-1650, 1033 Budapest, Flórán tér, Aluljáró) located under the flyover at Árpád Bridge on Flórián Square. The baths were used by the military and its remains were discovered in the 18th century. It’s a great insight into the long-lasting tradition of Hungarian baths.