"Where dreams are born & time is never planned" Budapest, Hungary

December was spine chilling cold in Budapest. We braved the cold  and set off to explore Chain Bridge that spans River Danube between Buda and Pest - the eastern and western sides of Hungary.

We then continued to the picturesque Fisherman's Bastion - one of the best known monuments in Budapest, located in Buda castle.

Next was Buda Castle and Square of Holy Trinity.

While the ruthless weather continued, we decided to experience the Buda Eye ride on Day 2  (we commuted via metro, trams/ bus. Metros were so quaint in Budapest. We stayed in super cheap Airbnb's - as cheap as 2000/ night and bought food from local groceries. Budapest is super affordable that way, along with being exquisitely beautiful.)

We continued exploring the city on foot and discovered decked up Christmas markets and churches.

We decided to try traditional Hungarian food and had a delicious lunch at one of the oldest restaurants of Budapest.

The day wrapped up with a memorable cruise on  Danube with breathtaking views, as the sun set.

A bright sunny day dawned upon us after two days of relentless cold, rain and winds. We took advantage of the lovely weather and set off for Vajdahunyad Castle - in the City Park of Budapest. It's free for tourists.

Our next stop was Heroes' Square - a landmark of Budapest, its largest & most symbolic square and an imposing plaza.

It was Christmas Eve and we were surprised to find most shops, restaurants and public places closed. We sampled an Italian lunch.

Next on the list was House of Terror, a museum containing exhibits of the fascist regimes and a memorial to the victims who were tortured and killed.

The day ended with a visit to a historical Jewish synagogue in the Jewish quarters of Budapest.