Three members of FUNZINE, including native Budapesters and others who have lived here for some time share their favourite places to be and things to do in the city every month. In April, you can see the hints of Lili, Enikő and Betti.
Lili’s Hints
My favourite place to be: Ellátó kert
Ellátó kert is my favourite ruin bar in Budapest. There is a bunch of places I love to visit and it’s hard to pick only one, but Ellátó kert is definitely on the list. I often end up here after a long day at work to catch up with my friends and drink some fröccs or when I want to go out on a Saturday night and listen to some of the best songs of Red Hot Chilli Peppers. The bartenders always create a laid-back atmosphere with their relaxed attitude and by playing the coolest hits. April is the best season to visit Ellátó kert, because you can sit outside for hours without freezing to death.
My favourite thing to do: Wandering around the city
When the end of the winter arrives and the temperature goes above 10 Celsius, I spend most of my free time outdoors. On the weekdays after the working hours I wander around the city, enjoy some refreshments on the open terrace of a bar and rediscover the city over and over again. During the weekend I like to go to the City Park or go on an excursion outside Budapest. Nearby Solymár there is an easy hiking trail called Paprikás-patak völgye which has everything you need for the perfect weekend trip: a brook, a rainfall, and a castle with an amazing view.
Enikő’s Hints
My favourite place to be: Rudas Bath
Regardless of the season, my favourite pastime activity is bathing. Rudas Bath has the most exclusive view over the city. Its rooftop swimming pool is open throughout the whole year and I’m sure that it is adored by many because of the magnificent view over Budapest. It is a unique experience to admire the Danube, the Parliament and the rooftops of Pest while sitting in the pleasingly hot thermal water with the Gellért Hill behind us. The youngsters love Rudas Bath’s night bathing option and the wellness centre is also worth having a look at.
My favourite thing to do: Hiking in the Pilis Mountains
The Pilis Mountains are located in the Danube Bend between Budapest and Esztergom. Less than an hour long drive from the capital we leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and find ourselves in the beautiful countryside. The area offers various types of trails and paths, as well as accommodation if you plan to take a longer hike. The mountains are surrounded by the Danube from all sides, which creates an exceptional landscape. In the spring you’ll be for sure drawn by the fairy-tail like natural sights. Running streams, edgy cliffs, romantic wooden bridges and lush greenery – what else do you need?
Betti’s Hints
My favourite place to be: Wasabi
My favourite place in April is Wasabi. Since I love to taste new flavours and dishes of foreign cultures, Wasabi offering several courses from the Far East has a special place in my heart. You can try anything from the running table in the order you feel like eating. The only thing that may stop you is your belly that gets full sooner than you wish. If I long for exciting tastes, Wasabi is my ultimate go-to place.
My favourite thing to do: Mátra Mountain
Spring is finally here, which means I would love to spend as much time outdoors as possible, admiring the awakening nature. The best way to do so is go out for a hike in the Mátra Mountain whenever I have some free time. In my childhood I used to spend the summer holidays here with my family, these days I enjoy a one day visit too. You can choose from many hiking trails, exploring different places. My ultimate favourite is Kékestető with its breathtaking view, fresh air and beautiful nature. It recharges my batteries every time I make a visit.
