The best time to visit Budapest is hands down St. Stephen’s Day, August 20th.
If you are planning a trip to Budapest and have some flexibility on when you go, I would urge you to consider spending your time celebrating Hungary’s National Holiday.
Looking for the highlights of Budapest for your trip? Check out my post The Best of Budapest.
What is St. Stephen’s Day in Budapest?
St. Stephen’s Day is to celebrate the foundation of the Hungarian State, and is held on August 20th every year.
About a thousand years ago in the year 1038, St. Stephan was declared the first Christian King of Hungary. St. Stephan turned Hungary into a Christian state after a century of Paganism, therefore he is considered the state-founder of the country,
Why is this the best day to visit Budapest?
There’s no better time to visit a capital city than it’s country’s own National Holiday.
St. Stephen’s day is the best day of the year to visit Budapest because it provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Hungary’s culture. St. Stephen’s Day will introduce you to Hungary’s music, art, history, and most importantly – food, all in one day!
How to keep up with the festivities.
The festivities largely are the same year after year, but the times may vary. The best resource for updated times are locations is here.
Várkert Bazaar in Buda – Music & The Street of Hungarian Flavors
This is one of my most favorite parts of St.Stephen’s Day! Food stalls full of authentic traditional Hungarian dishes like specialty stews or chimney cake line the Danube along the Buda side.
Of course, you are in Budapest, so there is music and plenty of beer to drink in addition to the ample food choices. I had a fantastic strawberry cider that I still think about to this day!
Chimney Cake
Listening to Hungarian music makes everything more fun.
Take advantage of the free museums
On St. Stephen’s Day, all the museums are free! However, beware – the lines are LONG. I would recommend choosing 1 museum that you’d like to go to on this day.
Here are some of my favorite museums that I would recommend visiting.
Hungarian National Parliament
This stunning Neo-Gothic style building is undoubtedly the most famous landmark of Budapest.
With it being the most famous building in Budapest, getting here early on St. Stephen’s day for a free tour is a must! Expect to wait a few hours if you are not there bright and early in the morning.
The Hungarian National Gallery
The Hungarian National Gallery is a fantastic art museum to view. The gallery is located in the Buda Castle.
When I went, they actually had a traveling Frida Kahlo exhibit that was quite expensive to view, so that was my “freebie” museum choice for St. Stephen’s day.
House of Terror
The House of Terror is a very emotional museum, and I would only recommend if you are interested in history.
This museum contains exhibits about the fascist and communist regimes that occurred in Budapest during the 20th century. The exact building was the site of countless murders and abuse and acts as a memorial to the victims.
Festival of folk arts
The Festival of Folk Arts takes place in Budapest’s castle district. It typically takes place over the course of a few days leading up to St. Stephen’s day.
Local artists from all around Budapest showcase their skills and crafts at this folk festival. It’s a great way to get an authentic sense of Budapest’s artistic roots.
Honestly doesn’t it look like an awesome time!? Someone get me one of those outfits!
Fireworks at the Parliament
End the night with stunning fireworks along the Danube in front of the parliament. Fireworks typically begin around 9pm (21:00.)
I hope you can see why St. Stephen’s Day is the best time of the year to visit Budapest.
You won’t find any other time of the year to experience Hungary’s culture all in one day!
Published on Nov 2, 2023 | Last updated Nov 8, 2023
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Attention fellow travelers and cinephiles! If you’ve ever found yourself lost in the mesmerizing, offbeat worlds of Wes Anderson’s films, you’re not alone.
His distinct style, a blend of whimsy and precision, has a way of capturing our hearts and imaginations. But what if I told you that there are actual places out there, beyond the silver screen, that could be straight out of a Wes Anderson movie?
Grab your pastel-colored turtle neck and a bottle of bubbly and let’s dive into these 25 Real-life places that totally belong in a Wes Anderson movie.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Here are 25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
1. Edificio España | Madrid, Spain
The Edificio Espana opened in 1953 and is the 8th tallest skyscraper in Madrid. The historic building has 25 floors and incorporates 20th-century Spanish architecture in the neo-baroque style.
While the building is a hotel, the complex has a mix of offices, shops, and apartments. Designed by architect Julian Otamendi, it was “the symbol of prosperity” during Francisco Franco Bahamonde’s rule.
Address: Plaza de España 1, Madrid, Spain
photo by @poealan via @accidentallywesanderson
2. Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine | Kyiv, Ukraine
The Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine is one of the largest libraries in the world. It serves as the main library and science information center for all of Ukraine. The building has 27 floors and contains about 15 million items.
Wheelers Oyster Bar prides itself on being “the oldest restaurant in town!”
This quaint, family-owned Oyster Bar has been passed through the owner’s family for generations. While the building is gorgeous, their delicious seafood is rumored to be worth the hype!
Address: 8 High St, Whitstable CT5 1BQ, United Kingdom
photo by @tonia.fest
4. Royal Oxford Hotel | Oxford, United Kingdom
Built in the 1930s, the Royal Oxford Hotel screams Wes Anderson with its bright mustard yellow paint and symmetrical details. When I studied in Oxford, I adored walking past this hotel frequently.
Address: Park End St, Oxford OX1 1HR, United Kingdom
photo by @pursesandplanes
5. Pfunds Molkerei | Dresden, Germany
“The World’s Most Beautiful Milk Shop.” In the 19th century, a farmer traveled from Reinholdshain with his wife and six cows to Dresden in order to supply the city with healthy milk. Through this journey, Pfund dairy was established and is still serving fresh milk to this day.
The interior of this humble beginnings milk shop is elaborately decorated with hand-painted Villeroy & Boch ceramic tiles, all accented in blue and gold.
Pfunds Molkerei is actually a real filming location that was used in Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel for the interior of Mendl’s Confectionery.
Photos are not allowed in Pfunds, unless you are press and have been granted special permission.
Address: Bautzner Str. 79, 01099 Dresden, Germany
photo via interior.gamersta
6. Húsavík Lighthouse | Husavik, Iceland
Húsavík Lighthouse was built in 1956. It is located on the Húsavík cape and stands at 49 meters, or 160 feet, above sea level.
With its bright yellow structure and desolate background, this lighthouse definitely belongs in a Wes Anderson film.
Address: Vitaslóð 1, 640, Húsavík, Iceland
photo by @Matthjsvmierlo via nylon
7. American Radiator Building | Manhattan, New York City
Built in 1924 by architects Raymond Hood and Andre Foulihoux, the American Radiator Building is a 23-story landmark building located in Midtown, Manhattan.
The structure is actually based on the famous Tribune Tower in Chicago but with a Gothic Art Deco twist. With its unique color, it’s rumored to symbolize coal. When it lights up at night it is said to look like a giant ball of glowing coal.
Although black isn’t technically a color Wes Anderson would embrace, I think the style of the building is undeniably something that would pop-up in one of his films.
Address: 40 West 40th Street Manhattan, New York City
photo via designyourtrust
8. Stylenanda Pink Hotel | Seoul, South Korea
Despite the misleading title, the Stylenanda Pink Hotel is actually a 6-level store, designed as a hotel.
This popular pink store is located in Seoul and is filled with wondrous rooms of makeup, clothing, accessories, and “Instagrammable” set-ups such as fake pools or an art-deco hotel lobby.
Address: 37-8 Myeongdong 8-gil, Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
9. Bloom & Bean | Liverpool, United Kingdom
Bloom and Bean is a quaint coffee shop in Liverpool decorated from the inside out with chic pale pink and forest green. This little shop looks like the ultimate Wes Anderson cafe experience!
Address: 6a Victoria St, Liverpool L2 6QE, United Kingdom
10. Miami Beach | Florida, USA
Iconic South Beach lifeguard towers have become staple landmarks of Miami Beach.
The classic art deco towers started popping up in the 1990s shortly after hurricane Andrew hit. The towers were part of the effort to revive the area from the devastation. Many more have been constructed since the first few by Architect William Lane.
These towers symbolize the rebirth of the city.
Address: Various towers along the coastline of Miami Beach from the tip at South Pointe Park up to 87th Street.
photo by @mijookim_studio
11. TWA at JFK Airport | New York, USA
The Trans World Flight Center was constructed for Trans World Airlines by Finnish-American architect, Eero Saarinen.
The design of the terminal represents a flight wing and incorporates a Neo-futuristic style. Googie, and Fantastic. While the terminal was originally built in 1962 it has since been renovated and is now owned by the TWA Hotel.
Address: Terminal 5, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Queens, New York 11430; United States
photo by @mikeraz212
12. Muzeum Narodowe | Warsaw, Poland
Muzeum Narodowe, or the National Museum of Warsaw was constructed in 1862, and was unfornately damaged and raided by Nazis in WWII. It has since recovered and is one of the largest museums in Poland.
photo by @tantejohannes via @accidentallywesanderson
13. Moritzburg Castle | Saxony, Germany
Moritzburg Castle is a Baroque-style palace built in 1546 in the state of Saxony, near Dresden.
The castle features 4 round towers and was built on a symmetrical artificial island. Originally, the palace was a hunting lodge for Moritz of Saxony, the then Duke of Saxony.
Address: Schloßallee, 01468 Moritzburg, Germany
photo by marie_ohh_marie via @accidentallywesanderson
14. Eastern Columbia Building|Los Angeles, California
The Eastern Columbia Building was built in 1930 by Claud Beelman. It is known as the “benchmark of deco buildings in Los Angeles.” and the “Art Deco Jewel of the West.”
It was originally built as the flagship building for the Eastern-Columbia Department Store until they went out of business in 1957. It is now more commonly known as “Eastern Columbia Lofts.”
You may recognize it as one of Johnny Depp’s penthouses or from the TV show, iCarly.
With prominent glossy turquoise, gold trim, and symmetrical features this statement building is perfect for a Wes Anderson film.
Address: 849 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014
photo by @elizabethdaniels01 via @accidentallywesanderson
15. Hawa Mahal | Jaipur, India
The Hawa Mahal is a pink and red sandstone palace in Jaipur, India. This five-story pyramidal-shaped palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh.
Its famous honeycomb latticework was originally built to allow royal ladies to observe the daily life of the city from above without being seen since they could not go out in public without face coverings.
Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India
photo by @wesleympeterson
16. The Ultimate Picture Palace | Oxford, United Kingdom
The Ultimate Picture Palace opened in 1911 and is the only surviving independent cinema in Oxford. The historic theater has gone through a series of owners and renovations over the years.
In 1996 it’s neoclassical facade was restored and it officially opened under the name as The Ultimate Picture Palace.
The theater is known historically in England for being “a rare surviving example of a simple early cinema.”
Address: Jeune Street, Oxford OX4 1BN
photo by @pursesandplanes
17. Sands Club | Treasure Cay Abaco Island | Bahamas
The Sands Club is a chic farm-to-table beachfront dining experience in Treasure Cay. It’s iconic long dock with pale pink accents make it a Wes Anderson wannabe classic.
photo by maryschlacter via @accidentallywesanderson
18. The Bathrooms in the British Library | London, United Kingdom
The British Library is the national library of the UK, and has the largest number of cataloged items in the world. These mustard colored walls and sink symmetry are the perfect stylized film aesthetic!
Address: 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom
photo by @pursesandplanes
19. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is decorated throughout with Baroque and Art Nouveau style buildings. While these are the most obvious architectural styles, you can also see eclectic, gothic, and soviet influences throughout the city.
Several monuments in Budapest are famous for their unique architectural styles such as the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and The Fisherman’s Bastion.
photo by @zsolt_hlinka
20. The National Gallery of Ireland | Dublin, Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland was established in 1864 and opened when it had just twelve paintings. A must-see in Dublin, this gallery is nearly as beautiful as the artwork it contains with its stunning symmetrical layout, pastel colors, and minimalist design.
photo by @pursesandplanes
21. Grand Hotel Europa | Innsbruck, Austria
The King of Bavaria called it “the finest hotel in Innsbruck.” The Grand Hotel Europa was established in 1869, making it the most historic hotel in Innsbruck. Golden colored walls and ornate chandeliers decorate the interior of this glamorous hotel.
Address: Südtiroler Pl. 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
photo by @joemanderton via @wesandersonplanet
22. Havana, Cuba
Havana is a melting pot of several different architectural styles. When you walk around the city, you will see just how different all of the buildings are – but I that’s what makes Havana so unique!
Havana’s bright-colored buildings largely come from Spanish Colonial influences. Other known styles in Havana are Baroque, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco.
Havana architecture
23. Gellért Thermal Baths | Budapest, Hungary
Gellért Hotel was one of the main inspirations behind the design of Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel.
When the hotel opened it’s doors in 1918, it’s iconic Art-nouveau architecture and panoramic mirror entrance quickly made it known as one of the most luxurious hotels in Hungary. The hotel’s ancient thermal baths have been used since the middle ages.
Address: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary
24. Estádio do Pacaembu | São Paulo, Brazil
The Estádio do Pacaembu is an Art Deco stadium located in the Pacaembu neighborhood of São Paulo. The stadium was established in 1940 and named after the national celebrity Paulo Machado de Carvalho.
Address: Praça Charles Miller – Pacaembu, São Paulo – SP, 01234-010, Brazil
25. James Smith & Sons | London, United Kingdom
James Smith & Sons is a historic umbrella store founded in 1930. It’s classic Victorian style storefront makes it a classic dreamy Wes Anderson feel.
Anderson undoubtedly is inspired by European Baroque, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau architectural styles. Although he and his designers do incorporate a lot of these styles, I don’t think they restrict themselves. Neo Classicalism, Gothic, and other influences can also be seen in his work.
For something to belong in a Wes Anderson it can’t just be a cool looking building. It has to have a story. The beauty of architecture is that it oftentimes reflects the struggle and/or prosperity of a city.
And there you have it! 25 Real-life Places That Belong In a Wes Anderson Film.
The style that Wes Anderson carries into his films is unlike no other. It’s worldly, historic, and it’s all in the details.
I would love to know, have you been to any of these places? And are you as obsessed with Wes Anderson films as much as I am!?
Published on Nov 2, 2023 | Last updated Nov 8, 2023
Planning the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Hoi An?In this ultimate itinerary for Hoi An, we break down how to make the most of your 3 days in Hoi An. Your FREE Hoi An Printable to Keep Your Trip Organized Stay organized during your 3 days in Hoi An with your free…
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This post is all about the BEST things to do in Budapest.
Budapest is quickly earning the title of one of the trendiest capitals in central Europe. You can spend weeks in this beautiful city and still have SO much to see.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Planning a trip to a city with so much to offer can be exciting and overwhelming! That’s why I’ve created this FREE Checklist to print off for your trip.
Planning your trip to Budapest? I recommend going for St. Stephens Day. It’s undoubtedly the most magical day of the year to visit.
My Budapest Essentials
Why Visit Budapest
Budapest, often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and vibrant culture that offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.
Travelers mark Budapest as a top bucket list choice so they can experience soothing thermal baths, the intricate history at museums and historic sites, and the delectable Hungarian cuisine at traditional cafes and restaurants.
Whether exploring the charming streets of the Castle District or having a drink at a ruin bar, Budapest is an enchanting journey into the heart of Central Europe.
Where to Stay in Budapest
District V (Inner City): This central district is ideal for first-time visitors as it’s close to many major attractions like the Hungarian Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Danube River. It also offers a range of hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it convenient for exploring both Buda and Pest.
District VII (Jewish Quarter): This area is famous for its vibrant nightlife, unique ruin bars, and street art. It’s a great choice for younger travelers and those interested in experiencing the hip and creative side of Budapest.
The Jewish Quarter is where I based myself for the two weeks I was in Budapest and I loved it!
Best Things to Do in Budapest – 7 Things You Can’t Miss
While Budapest is filled with countless amazing sites to see and activities to immerse yourself in, here is a rundown of the absolute must-do things you can’t leave the city without doing.
1. Tour the Parliament Building
Taking a tour of the breathtaking Budapest Parliament is a must. As you step inside the neo-Gothic masterpiece, you’re greeted by intricate details, towering spires, and a sense of grandeur that reflects the nation’s proud heritage.
The guided tour takes you through chambers decorated with golden accents and historic artifacts, providing a glimpse into the legislative processes that have shaped the country.
Most Parliament tours are the best value through the official government website here. Be sure to book your tours weeks in advance. If all tours are booked through the official website, you can pay a little extra and secure a ticket with this tour below:
Budapest Parliament building
2. Visit The Fisherman’s Bastion
Perched atop the Buda Castle Hill with sweeping views of the Danube River and the city’s skyline, Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest stands as a fairytale-like architectural gem. Its distinctive white towers are a whimsical staple of the city.
From its vantage points, the Bastion offers a picture-perfect panorama of the Hungarian Parliament and the Chain Bridge,
3. The Shoes on the Danube Bank
The Shoes on the Danube Bank in Budapest is a haunting memorial that pays tribute to the countless lives lost during one of the darkest periods of history. As you approach the riverbank, you’ll encounter a solemn row of 60 pairs of iron shoes.
Each pair of shoes, meticulously crafted in period-appropriate styles, represents the footwear left behind by Jewish victims who were forced to strip before being shot and swept into the Danube River during World War II.
This memorial was constructed by film director Can Togay.
Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial
4. Go to a Thermal Bath
Immersing yourself in the thermal baths of Budapest is a must-do! This rejuvenating journey offers an escape into warm, mineral-rich waters that have been soothing locals and visitors for centuries.
All you need to bring for your spa day is a towel, a swimsuit, and some cash.
Here is a breakdown of finding the best spas for you in Budapest:
Szechenyi is the most popular, especially for parties.
Gellert is a beautiful art deco and relaxing experience.
Rudas is where the locals go. This is the most low-key, cheapest, and most relaxing thermal bath that you’ll find in the city. and where I chose to go!
5. Go to a Ruin Bar
No trip to Budapest is complete without visiting an iconic ruin bar!
These eclectic and vibrant buildings have transformed abandoned buildings into dynamic hubs of art, culture, and nightlife.
With their mismatched furniture and graffiti-covered walls, ruin bars create an atmosphere that’s both laid-back and electric.
Some of the top ruin bars to visit in Budapest are Szimpla, Instant, and Fogashaz.
If you’d like to experience Budapest’s nightlife with fellow travelers, check out this guided pub crawl with a local in a group setting.
6. See the Most Beautiful Cafe in the World
Deemed “the most beautiful cafe in the world” the New York Cafe will take your breath away. Experience the lavish chandeliers and elaborate decor with a hot cup of coffee and feel like true Hungarian royalty.. just for a bit!
7. Visit a Museum or Gallery
Budapest is home to loads of incredible museums and art galleries. Check out the Hungarian National Gallery and see what traveling exhibitions they are hosting.
If you are interested in Budapest’s history, I recommend visiting the House of Terror, a memorial for victims of the fascist and communist regimes. This museum is quite popular, so be sure to book in advance.
A few of the best museums in Budapest are the Hungarian National Gallery, House of Terror, and the Museum of Fine Arts.
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Published on Nov 2, 2023 | Last updated Nov 8, 2023
Planning the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Hoi An?In this ultimate itinerary for Hoi An, we break down how to make the most of your 3 days in Hoi An. Your FREE Hoi An Printable to Keep Your Trip Organized Stay organized during your 3 days in Hoi An with your free…
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Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
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