A PERFECT DAY

Drink in...

Szimpla Kert

For a quirky and colourful atmosphere in which to sink a beer or pálinka (fiery brandy), try a “ruin pub”. These Budapest watering holes occupy the courtyards of derelict buildings in residential neighbourhoods. The long-standing favourite is Szimpla Kert (pictured, right). A scattering of rickety tables and stools (and even an old car converted into a private booth) fill its flaking courtyard. 0036 1 321 5880 szimpla.hu

Eat out...

Fatál’s

For a veritable whirlwind of a dining experience head to Fatál’s cellar restaurant. Waiters hurry between the bench seating, bearing heaving wooden platters of oldfashioned Hungarian fare such as stuffed cabbage, chicken stew, paprika- spiced sausage and cheese dumplings. It’s a loud and lively cauldron, and thoroughly good fun. It’s excellent value too. 0036 1 266 2607 fatalrestaurant.com

Must do...

Some of the world’s biggest names in music and sport will descend on Budapest in the next few weeks. Formula 1’s (formula1.com) glitzy bandwagon rolls into town this coming weekend for the Hungarian Grand Prix, while on August 10 the week-long Sziget Festival (szigetfestival.com) kicks off on an island in the Danube and features acts from Robbie Williams to Kasabian.