Back in the day, the imposing Danube River segregated the hilly city of Buda on the west bank from flat plains of Pest on the east bank. The two halves were unified in 1873 and the names uncreatively slapped together to form “Budapest.” Today, city life effortlessly flows between the formerly split regions with a goulash-like mix of transportation options like trolleys, a metro system, taxis, and cable cars. The bike-friendly culture and many biking lines are particularly advantageous to students who would rather save a bit of money and put in a bit of physical labor pedaling to class.
Budapest’s savory culinary scene and relatively inexpensive costs associated with eating out makes a paradise for foodies with a tight budget. Traditional Hungarian food can best be described as hearty. Wholesome, meaty stews and lángos, a delectable fried dough treat that can be prepared to your liking, will keep you warm and comfortable throughout the chilly winter months. While the sun is still out, grab a bite at the indoor Grand Market or relax at any one of the open-air cafés lining the cobblestoned roads.
A lively bar scene in trendy districts like Erzsébetváros appeals to students looking for an energetic atmosphere to meet up with friends at all hours of the night. If you find yourself being dragged to a shady-looking abandoned building in the middle of the night by a Hungarian friend, you don’t have to run the other way. These “ruin bars” have become a major trend in the past decade and are the highlight of Budapest’s nightlife. Old abandoned buildings are swiftly transformed into edgy underground bars, each with its own unique character, where you can strike up conversation with locals or just kick back and enjoy a drink.