Sightseeing on the Danube in Budapest (pronounced as Buda-peSHt), Capital city of Hungary. The west bank of the river is Buda (meaning water) while the east bank is Pest (meaning oven). The city was formed in 1872 when Buda, Obuda and Pest merged. Chain Bridge, first bridge to link Buda and Pest, was built in 1849. On top of Buda Castle Hill is the Royal Palace complex which is now used as Budapest History Museum and Hungarian National Gallery, Presidential Residence etc. etc. On Buda side, there is also the Citadella, Gellert Hill, Rudas thermal baths etc. Rudas baths are dated back to the Ottoman ruling era. Pest is on flat land. There are the majestic Hungarian Parliament building, the inner city, Hero’s Square and some churches. In comparison, Pest has fewer historical attractions, probably because the city was destroy by the Mongols in 1241 and by flood in 1838.
Visiting Budapest is quite affordable compared to western Europe. A decent hotel room would cost about US$50 per night. Visiting one of those thermal baths is interesting too. Taking the Hop-on Hop-off bus tour is a good way to see the city. The ticket includes this river cruise too. The only trouble is that during rush hours, the buses are stuck in traffic, so you either are stuck on the bus or stuck at the bus stop.