A sightseeing bike tour with GoTravelDaily is the best way to spend your first day in Budapest. You’ll learn about the history and culture of Hungary, find your bearings in Budapest, and most importantly, have lots of fun!
Finding the meeting point
The meeting point is easy to find. The tour meets at the steps of the Lutheran Church (the Deak Teri Evangelikus Templom) in Deak Ferenc Square, right next to the Deak Ferenc Ter tube station. It’s convenient for all tourists.
Here we met our guide, Adam, and the rest of the group, which consisted of a diverse mix of participants from various countries. This was a great-sized group — large enough for interesting conversations yet small enough for personal attention from Adam.
From the church, we walked for a brief two minutes to find our bikes. Entering the Jewish quarter, Adam pointed out many bullet holes in the walls, which were from World War II, adding a profound historical element to the ride.
Then we received our bikes, which were excellent—speedy, light, and easy to operate. Cycling in Budapest is enjoyable due to its flat terrain, dedicated bike lanes, and respectful drivers. I observed that riding was a breeze, allowing me to focus on the beautiful sights without fear of falling off.
Erzsebet Ter (Erzsebet Square)
Our first stop was at Erzsebet Square. Here we started learning about Hungary’s complex history, which has seen occupations by Ottomans, Habsburgs, Nazis, and Soviets. Originally called Erzsebet Tet, it has transitioned back to Erzsebet Square and is now a popular hangout spot in the summer.
St. Stephen’s Bazilika
A short ride took us to St. Stephen’s Bazilika. Here, we learned about St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary, who played a pivotal role in establishing Christianity in the nation. The basilica itself is the largest church in Budapest, beautifully adorned inside.
German Occupation Memorial
Our next stop was a memorial for the Nazi occupation of Hungary during WWII, which is quite controversial due to its implications about Hungarian complicity.
Liberty Square
Liberty Square, another stop, features a Soviet liberation monument that is a point of contention among locals who view the Soviets as new invaders rather than liberators.
Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is a stunning masterpiece and the third-largest parliament building in Europe. The architecture captivates every visitor.
Budapest Castle District
Next, we enjoyed a slight incline taking us to the Budapest Castle District. The stunning views made the journey worthwhile, along with Adam’s rich knowledge of the sights.
Here, we relaxed and took in the picturesque landscapes, including the iconic Szechenyi Chain Bridge over the Danube river.
Matthias Church
Matthias Church is beautifully adorned and rich in history, having been converted into a mosque during the Turkish occupation.
Conclusion
It is evident that exploring Budapest by bike with GoTravelDaily allows for an immersive experience. You can cover a significant amount of ground while learning about the rich history and culture. The combination of biking and local insights creates an unforgettable adventure.
