RIDING IN AN ARCHITECTURAL PARADISE

Written by Dave O'Byrne - Wednesday, 02 November 2011 15:52

After a great ride from Bratislava, I arrived in the city of Buda with the sun beating out of the sky, and a temperature of around 36 degrees. On the way over the Árpád Bridge, I noticed that the cooling effect of wind on the motorway had been replaced by an invisible furnace, slowly cooking me in my own sweat. Best thing to do, was find a place by the river, where I could remove some layers, drain the boots, and eat that questionable breadroll I got at the petrol station, 203 kilometres ago...

Carved in two halves by the River Danube, Budapest throws an eclectic and sometimes bewildering architectural heritage at you, where many different styles are combined to generate the architectural mix you find in the city today. On one side of the Danube, you have the hillside city of Buda, and on the other side, the flatland city of Pest, with both sides merging into an exciting and atmospheric cityscape, comprised of Roman, Art Noveau, Classicist, Gothic, Bauhaus and Ottoman architecture.

Many architectural treasures can be found dotted around the city, and on your first visit, you have no idea what's around the next corner. Budapest's unique blend of old and modern, from Roman remains, to contemporary waterfront abominations will leave you wondering how all these styles can exist in such a relatively small area, yet each have the space to breathe, and let their own particular style shine through. It's still possible to find the right angle from which to photograph the buildings and bridges, without having the photo polluted with all kinds of other structures in the background.

As you move away from the waterfront, you gradually uncover the true character of the city, where you'll find 200-year old buildings that look like they require intensive maintenance, while others, seem ready for demolition. However, it is this stark contrast to the main tourist thoroughfare, which gives Budapest it's depth of honesty, credibility and authenticity.

For the best views of the city, take the bike up to Castle Hill, where you'll find many of Buda's architectural attractions, including the Royal Castle, which is well worth a visit. It’s a pedestrian area, so you’ll have to lock the bike, and use your legs for a while. Afterwards, head over to the Citadella on the top of Gellért Hill, where you'll find a breathtaking view over Pest and the many bridges, gracefully spanning the Danube. Gellért Hill is a great vantage point from which to plan your next move, and get some great photos, or just sit there, and take it all in.