The budget European city with new Hard Rock Hotel, famous spas and £24 flights
FREDDIE Mercury delighted Hungarians in their capital Budapest on July 27, 1986, when he sang a traditional folk tune to 80,000 fans.
Just a few weeks later, he played his final gig with the rest of his band Queen on their Magic tour.
Now, nearly 40 years on from Freddie’s visit, Budapest is still a rock ’n’ roll capital worthy of a weekend city break escape.
And it has recently welcomed its first Hard Rock Hotel, in a new building in the heart of the action.
WHY SHOULD I GO?
THE capital, which was traditionally three cities — Buda, Obuda and Pest — has soared in popularity among Brits seeking a cheap break within a few hours of the UK.
And as it celebrates its 150th birthday this year, it’s the perfect time to check out this gorgeous location, which is split into two historic parts by the Danube river.
Queen fans love to tell how Mercury was so bowled over by the Parliament building, he wanted to buy it — and the city is filled with stunning gothic architecture.
STREETS MADE FOR WALKING?
YES, but use the plentiful public transport to make the most of the city.
Just around the corner from the central shopping streets, the landmark St Stephen’s Basilica is not only breathtaking to look at, both inside and out, but plays host to live music events throughout the year.
Stroll through the city park to the modern museum House of Music or rock up for a live gig on the cool, decommissioned Soviet ship A38.
The city is also home to the Sziget Festival, one of the largest music and cultural gigs in Europe, every August.
TICK OFF THE BUCKET LIST?
OF course, Budapest is famous for its string of thermal spas, a reputation first cemented during the 1920s.
Our local guide recommended Rudas Baths for somewhere off the beaten track, featuring its own rooftop pool and room after room of hot and cold pools to relax in. A day ticket starts from £19.85.
Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion are absolutely worth the hike for the beautiful views across the river (there’s also a lift up there to rest tired legs).
The Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial is a moving tribute to the millions of Jews who were killed in the Holocaust.
Take a stroll through the Gozsdu Weekend Market in the centre of the city to pick up your souvenirs.
WHERE SHOULD I EAT?
The two branches of Paprika in the central city will set you up with enough traditional Hungarian goulash and chimney cakes to refuel (be sure to book to avoid queuing). The three-course set menu is under £20.
Pick up a few packets of actual paprika — the national spice of Hungary — at the bustling Central Market Hall.
If you’re not counting calories, try some langos — traditional fried, pizza-style bread topped with cheese, meats and sour cream.
I FANCY A DRINK
NO trip to Budapest would be complete without a visit to one of the city’s ruin bars — quirky pubs in formerly abandoned buildings. Most are found in the 7th District — the old Jewish Quarter.
Szimpla Kert was one of the first and still remains one of the most popular. For late-night fun, Instant-Fogas Complex is vast — 20 rooms, 18 bars and multiple dancefloors.
Try the fruity brandy palinka, which works a treat with tonic.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY?
HARD Rock Hotel has expanded its offerings to music fans young and old with brand-new lodgings in the centre of town.
Just 300 metres from the Hungarian State Opera, the hotel is home to a string of items from the chain’s mammoth collection of rock memorabilia, with clothes and props ranging from Michael Jackson’s hat to outfits from stars including Ariana Grande.
Their twice-weekly “Sessions” sets feature local musicians for after-dinner entertainment.
Sip on cocktails at the rooftop bar with views over the city. Guests can even order their own guitars to their rooms to strum like the stars.
Relax with “Rock Om” in-room yoga to wind down for the night.
Top it all off by picking one of five types of pillow from its unique menu to ensure a great night’s sleep.
GO: Budapest
GETTING THERE: Wizz Air, Ryanair and easyJet fly to Budapest from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool, with fares from £24 one way in December. See skyscanner.net.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at the Hard Rock Hotel, Budapest, start from £169 per night. See hardrockhotels.com.