Nov. 17, 1873, saw the union of Buda, Pest and Óbuda, creating modern-day Budapest. The city is divided by the Danube River, with flat Pest to the east and the hilly Buda and Óbuda regions to ...

Just make sure to have a map handy. With various forms of efficient public transport, Budapest feels a lot smaller than it is. Spring for a taxi when convenient, but avoid renting a car.

A vibrant capital, Budapest is a study in contrasts. Andrássy Avenue and the Fifth District ooze Hapsburg-era grandeur, where Art Nouveau buildings rest on leafy boulevards just beyond the Danube.