Day two in Budapest was all about relaxing on the Buda side which is on a hill and some exploration in the Pest side.
As I was walking from my place to the Buda Castle, it started raining so I found refuge at a cute tea and breakfast cafe. I enjoyed my breakfast while overlooking the Lánchíd bridge. Perfect way to start a calm and relaxing morning.
The Café owners daughter owns a fine art and fashion store next door, so I stoped by to check it out. I had some interesting conversations with Agnes about art and how she has transformed her artwork into prints on leather, so she can create other products, such as bags, wallet, pillows and upholstery. This allows her to keep her original art pieces without needing to sell them.
From there, I hiked the steps up to Buda Castle which is a great way to get your booty in shape as well as a great vantage point to view the entire Pest side.
Buda castle and the gardens are stunning as well. I didn’t explore much. I found the spot with the best view and staked my claim, even if it was for an hour or two. You can definitely spend an entire day over here, may be next time when I’m in a more touristy mood.
From there, I walked up further to the Fisherman’s Bastion. The neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque architecture always takes my breath away. I can sit here for hours admiring this fairy tale style terrace and the view of the Danube, Parliament building and the entire city is so magical.
After admiring the Matthias Church from outside and, especially its tiled roof, I went to “Ruszwurm Cukraszda.” Ironically, I was seated in the same place I sat during my visit here years ago. This is one of my favorite place for cakes in the world. It opened doors in 1827 by Ferenc Schwabl and offers only its own cakes to follow with tradition. I had the “Ruszwurm Kremes,” cake. As if one cake was not enough, I had the “Dobostorta” chocolate cake. These are the two most popular cakes at Ruszwurm, and yes, they are heavenly delicious.
After being in cloud nine, it was time to walk around and get lost. How wonderful to have found my favorite novel, “Cold Mountain,” at an English Second Hand book shop!
I later ended up at Mary Magdolna Buda Tower, where I could lay down under a tree, meditate and soak in the beauty around me. My friend from Chicago called me and it was nice to hear a familiar voice.
A friend recommended that I should do the Danube River Sunset Cruise, so I walked down the hill and headed to Dock 7. As we sailed away from the coast, sipping on champagne and enjoying the spectacular view, the dark clouds and lightning took center stage. It started to rain but I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. When we got back to shore, it was still raining. I waited for 15 minutes and when the rain became more mellow, I ran to the nearby bus stop to catch my bus and get back home.
I had managed to not get soaking wet but a speeding car did splash the muddy water on me. As soon as I got home, I jumped into the shower. It feels so nice to be warm and clean. Made a cup of hot tea and called it a night.
