Left Hungary for more in Budapest
FROM its ruin bars to the stunning thermal baths, Budapest is a city made for discovery.
My trip led me to a spellbinding experience on set of BBC’s The Last Kingdom while series two of the hit Saxons and Danes drama was being filmed.
It’s hard to think of a better base than the Corinthia Hotel.
It’s a beautiful building which takes the breath away on arrival but the thing which really impresses is the relaxed vibe of the hotel itself.
It may be opulent in appearance due to its grand staircase but there is an easy-going feel mirrored in the city’s laid back approach which you can’t help but enjoy during your stay.
Rooms start at £113 a night and you won’t be disappointed with your choice, this is a hotel which blends luxury and tranquility with ease.
Their breakfast buffet is fantastic – a European treat offering all the classics as well as a live station, which specialises in homemade omelettes, which is well worth your time.
A particular highlight of the city are the thermal baths, with the Széchenyi Medicinal Bath the biggest – and arguably the best – in the city.
For around £16, you can relax the day away in one of the most unique settings as young and old take advantage of the inviting surroundings.
Budapest is a city you can get lost in, but highlights worth checking out are Buda Castle and the famous artwork which takes centre stage, and the iconic Chain Bridge which links Buda to Pest.
The jaw-dropping link between the city is highlighted with carved lions at each end, which were the creation of sculptor János Marschalkó.
This is a modern, vibrant city which embraces its history as well as looking to the future.
The ruin bars have become an integral part of it over the last decade.
Established in old, unused buildings, they are some of the best places to drink I have experienced in Europe.
With beer prices starting at little more than £1 on average, it’s a bargain and you can see why it’s such a popular city break choice.
There is so much to see and do but Budapest is also a hotbed for the film and TV industry as well, with the Last Kingdom one of many productions being filmed on the outskirts of Hungary’s capital city.
Upcoming big-budget Hollywood blockbusters Red Sparrow and Blade Runner 2049 have also chosen Budapest as the location for filming.
And what an experience, no expense is spared on the custom-built set of the Last Kingdom which by all accounts had grown beyond recognition from the first series.
The stunning location is the perfect backdrop for the show, which allows the cast ample room to carry out the myriad battle scenes which make the show so spectacular.
Leaving the city for the set visit, we were treated to some of the most breathtaking views of this enchanting, wonderful place. The Last Kingdom Season 2 is available on Blu-ray and DVD, courtesy of Universal Pictures (UK).