Planning your next European city break?

Budapest should deffo be on your list and NO, you don't have to wait for a big inter-rail trip to do it. In fact, I flew over with a group of friends for a short weekend break. The capital city of Hungary, Budapest has so much to offer, from the iconic outdoor baths to the prison where Dracula was held. Yep, the real Dracula. The city is separated by the large River Danube and still has its castle on top of a hill in the old town, looking out to the new skylines. Here are my top tips for a memorable stay:

Where To Stay

Hostel: The Hive Party Hostel

While in Buda, I stayed in The Hive Party Hostel. This trendy hostel is in a deadly area, right in the heart of the city. There are 300 beds making it the 3rd biggest hostel and also one of the most popular in Budapest. If you haven't guessed by the name, this hostel is great for the sesh heads. The rooms centre around an open courtyard where they host gigs, events and DJs. They also arrange pub crawls, sightseeing tours, daytime SPA baths, night SPA parties, party boat cruises and many more. https://www.instagram.com/p/BAJ9mzPGmPy/

Hotel: Corinthia Hotel

If you if you're looking for something a little classier than a party hostel why not up the ante and check out a five-star hotel? The Corinthia is proper luxury with a stunning pool, marble floors and glass atriums. Of course, it's a little pricey but it's ideal for a special occasion. https://www.instagram.com/p/BoYzNaTFEfa/

AirBnb: Cabin&Canvas

If you're more into the quirky experiences, Cabin&Canvas needs to be on your list. This Cabin is situated on the outskirts of Budapest, away from the city rush and totally immersed in nature. The single wooden cabin has its own garden with a large bell tent and custom decking. Inside it's a Tumblr feeds dream with whites and greys giving it a cosy homely feel. https://www.instagram.com/p/BymHHkXhRy_/

Day 1

What To Do: Visit The Labyrinth

I'm a complete adrenaline junkie but nothing could have prepared me for this. The historical Budapest Labyrinth is located under Castle Hill and it was where Count Dracula (Vlad Tepes) was once held. The underground chamber system served as a large shelter and hospital during World War II and was also used by the Turks back in the 16th century for military purposes. It's one of the scariest places I've ever been, there was one point I thought I was going to faint I was so freaked. It's really dark and eerie and there's this room that you go through that is probably the darkest place I've ever been through in my life - literally couldn't even see my hands. To get through this room, you must guide yourself using a rope, many believe they have met spirits here. https://www.instagram.com/p/BZdfmpCF3hP/

What To See: The Castle

From the Castle grounds, you'll get some of the best views of the city. The best way to get up to the castle is by funicular tram, it's good craic and avoids climbing up a rake of steps. You can walk all along the courtyards and gardens, it's a super place to stop off for a picnic. https://www.instagram.com/p/BynYAIDiT9B/

Where To Eat: Mazel Tov

This spacious glass-top eatery specialises in decadent Mediterranean dishes. Think - falafel burgers, shwarma, sweet potato and lots of tahini! https://www.instagram.com/p/Byhi3VuHJ3c/

Where To Drink: Szimpla Kert

This is one of the coolest places I've been to for a drink in Europe. Szimpla Kert takes dive bar to a whole new level. This bar is like walking into a large gaff party, there's writing all over the walls, quirky furniture, loads of random rooms and a buzzing atmosphere. There are a few different drinks counters on the ground floor, each serving their own style or spirit. It's such a dealy spot, you'd be mad not to go here. https://www.instagram.com/p/BymfsSkHpuo/

Day 2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VswTNnI4q6s&t=167s

What To Do: The Baths

Budapest is most famous for its outdoor baths. You can visit them day or night over the summer months. Daytime is good for a nice chill swim and night is for the crazy parties. The parties are insane, you won't experience anything like it anywhere else in the world. https://www.instagram.com/p/BDENbDrAVxa/ What To See: Fisherman's Bastion One of the coolest architectural pieces in the city and a cool place to head for a stroll before sunset. We found a darling bar near the top and had mulled wine whilst looking over the city, it was super dreamy. https://www.instagram.com/p/BDIrI5BgV0x/ https://www.instagram.com/p/BypI17WBDPr/

Where To Eat: Hilda

Hilda is a trendy brunch spot that foodies will love. The deadly menu is paired with a chic, Instagrammable interior with ceramic blue tiles across the walls and tables. https://www.instagram.com/p/ByA3VdmB-vi/

Where To Drink: Rumpus Tiki Bar

Quirky cocktails and sensational presentation. The Rumpus Tiki bar is such a cool spot and deffo one to check out. Cocktails come loaded in flowers, smoke and other crazy concoctions. It's great craic and they even serve punch bowls for groups of friends. https://www.instagram.com/p/BwSmI4QDB6Z/ Planning your next European break? Buda needs to be it.