I remember stumbling into a cute, little garden in one of those hectic days of 2009, as a working Erasmus student. I felt like the place was asking me to stop and breathe. Honestly, I didn't listen to the voice of the secret garden that time, as I was busy running from the office to the university. Luckily, I was going to have plenty of time in my 10 years in Budapest to experience the oldest gardens in Pest. Located between the Petőfi Literary Museum and the National Museum, the Károlyi Kert (kert means "garden") is close to Csendes.
Budapest is rich in green spaces, making it ideal for families and dogs, but the Karólyi is something special. It gives me both shelter and a sense of safety, as it's enclosed between high buildings; still, it's in middle of the city, so I know that I am free to reach the rest of the world, buzzing a few meters away. The iron fence, all in green, is more friendly than confining, and the benches are dislocated in a way that grants some privacy. Here I can observe the change of the season, thanks to a variegated flora. I also like seeing what other people are doing here, it's revealing of the local temper and habits.
Some history: this park was the backyard of Károlyi Palace, once home of the wealthy aristocratic family of Mihály Károlyi, a historically relevant Prime Minister (1918-19).
Romantic, historical and literary, I cannot recommend this garden enough.
Károlyi utca 16
HUF
free
Find your way with 172 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
This small business is owned by a Dutch couple, and they happily offer their traditional toasts and specialities.
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My go-to is the Diavola pizza (spicy Italian salami), which is baked to perfection, and let’s not forget about the four cheese pasta - a true masterpiece.
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At Smashy, they keep it simple with just two burger options, both served with pickles, onions, burger cheese, and your choice of sauce.
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This spot is located in the basement of Eötvös Loránd University, and I was fortunate enough to be introduced to this hidden gem by a dear friend.
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It is a perfect spot for taking a stroll with loved ones, and it is an ideal spot for a family walk too, with many restaurants around that you can visit.
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At this spot, you may find the events of some of the well-known members of the local underground scene playing some funky sets or having an exhibition.
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Muzikum Bisztró, near the National Museum, serves a great 2-3 course lunch menu affordably.
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Their gin-based signature cocktail is my absolute number one. It's called “Ramos Gin Fizz” and it’s pure magic in a glass. It never, ever disappoints.
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I love starting my day here with my personal favorite, the "Don Corleone" bagel. They offer a wide selection of bagel types, some served hot & others cold.
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Ligeti Bolt, a zero-waste pioneer in Budapest, offers grains, snacks, and more for refill. Shop eco-friendly, bring your jars, and embrace a conscious lifestyle!
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The "Hungarian Treasury" in Budapest is a building I show to all my guests. Its secessionist art nouveau style is reminiscent of Antoni Gaudí...
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