IN THE SPOTLIGHT: A Private Baroque Day Trip to Gödöllő and Hollókő

Private day trip from Budapest to Godollo and Holloko

If you’re looking for a meaningful escape from the city, this private day trip from Budapest to Gödöllő and Hollókő offers a perfect blend of aristocratic elegance and authentic village charm. This full-day, privately guided experience invites you to discover two of Hungary’s most treasured destinations—one rooted in royal Baroque grandeur, the other in timeless rural tradition.

The day begins in Gödöllő, home to Hungary’s second-largest Baroque palace. Originally built by the noble Grassalkovich family, the palace became the beloved summer residence of Queen Elisabeth—known affectionately as Sissi. As you walk through its beautifully restored halls, grand ballroom, and peaceful gardens, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of royal life in 18th- and 19th-century Hungary. The palace’s ornate architecture and tranquil atmosphere offer an unforgettable glimpse into the country’s noble past.

From royal elegance, we move to rustic charm. Your journey continues to Hollókő, a picturesque village that feels untouched by time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a living museum of traditional Palóc culture, where locals still dress in folk costume on special occasions and artisans create beautiful handmade crafts. Stroll the cobbled lanes, visit the village museum and pottery workshops, and enjoy a slower pace that brings you closer to Hungary’s cultural roots.

One of the many reasons travellers love this tour is its private, customisable nature. Whether you’re passionate about architecture, history, or local handicrafts—or simply want to enjoy a scenic countryside escape without the crowds—I will tailor the experience to suit your interests and comfort level. There’s no rushing from site to site, just time to explore, ask questions, and soak in the surroundings at your own pace.

This tour is ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for an experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing tour. It also offers a deeper perspective on Hungarian history, from aristocratic life in the Baroque period to rural customs that have survived into the modern day. With door-to-door transport, a knowledgeable local guide, and stops handpicked for their cultural richness, it’s an enriching and stress-free day outside Budapest.

Whether it’s your first time in Hungary or you’re returning to explore more deeply, this private countryside tour promises a rewarding journey into the heart of Hungarian heritage. It’s not just about seeing places—it’s about experiencing them with insight and intention.

How to Book Your Private Tour

Ready to step into history and explore Hungary’s countryside in comfort? You can find full details and book your Private Baroque Day Trip from Budapest to Gödöllő and Hollókő online at:

BAROQUE TOUR IN GÖDÖLLŐ AND HOLLÓKŐ (Private day trip from Budapest)

Select your preferred date, and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’d like to customise the itinerary—I’m always happy to make your day extra special!

Beautiful Budapest Stories: Vajdahunyad Castle

Beautiful Budapest Stories: Vajdahunyad Castle

Tucked away in Budapest’s City Park, Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the city’s most charming and photogenic landmarks. Originally built in 1896 for the Millennium Exhibition, the castle showcases a mix of architectural styles — Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque — all in one fairytale-like complex. It was designed to represent the diverse architectural heritage of Hungary, and walking through its grounds feels like stepping into different centuries.

From the front, the Gothic towers and arched windows echo the legendary Transylvanian castle of the same name. A walk around the back reveals peaceful courtyards, ivy-covered walls, and stunning reflections on the lake. Each angle offers a new photo opportunity, whether you’re standing on the bridge or capturing the castle through the trees.

Vajdahunyad Castle isn’t just a photogenic site—it also houses Hungary’s Museum of Agriculture, the largest of its kind in Europe. Visitors can explore both the architectural beauty and fascinating exhibits inside. A guided tour brings the whole story to life, connecting history, legend, and daily life in Hungary. Inside, the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture is surprisingly fascinating, and nearby, you’ll find statues of historical figures and a whimsical sculpture of Anonymous, the medieval chronicler.

For a truly magical view over Vajdahunyad Castle, don’t miss the chance to climb the castle’s tower or take a ride in the hot air balloon in City Park. Both options offer a unique perspective of this storybook landmark and its stunning surroundings. It’s an unforgettable way to see Budapest from above — peaceful, panoramic, and perfect for photos!

To truly appreciate Vajdahunyad Castle’s stories and its place in Budapest’s cultural landscape, I recommend joining a customised walking or driving tour. I’d love to show you around — book your experience here: https://lovefromhungary.com/fully-customisable-budapest-private-tours/

Learn more about the history of Vajdahunyad Castle on the Agricultural Museum’s official site.

Beautiful Budapest Perspectives: Parliament

Budapest Parliament Building is one of the most iconic landmarks in Europe, offering stunning views from various angles. Admiring a building from different angles unveils new perspectives and highlights details often overlooked from a single viewpoint. Each shift in position allows for a deeper appreciation of its design, offering unique opportunities to capture its beauty in fresh, unexpected ways.

One of the best perspectives is from the banks of the Danube River, where you can capture the full grandeur of the Gothic Revival architecture with the water reflecting the building’s majestic silhouette. A boat tour along the river (I highly recommend Danube Legend) allows for a unique shot from the water, giving you an intimate yet sweeping view of the Parliament and its surrounding bridges. Another fantastic viewpoint is from the Buda side of the city, particularly from Fisherman’s Bastion, where you can beautifully frame the Parliament.

For a more panoramic shot, head to Gellért Hill, offering an elevated vantage point with a wide-angle view of both the Parliament and the sweeping cityscape. A great time to capture the building’s beauty is during golden hour, when the sunlight casts a warm glow on its intricate details, making it shine against the sky. Nighttime photography also offers magical opportunities, as the Parliament is beautifully illuminated, providing a striking contrast to the dark sky. From Margaret Island, you can frame the Parliament against lush green landscapes, making for a peaceful yet grand shot.

Book a private tour to experience the building up close, so that I can reveal hidden details and offer exclusive perspectives that will leave you in awe of its true magnificence.

Take to the Skies: Hot Air Balloon Rides in City Park, Budapest

Spotting the hot air balloon from all over Budapest

The red and white stripes of the Budapest hot air balloon create a striking visual that catches the eye from various vantage points across Budapest, visitors are often wondering what it is.

The hot air balloon in City Park offers a unique and breathtaking way to experience Budapest. Rising high above the park, it provides stunning panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including Heroes Square, Vajdahunyad Castle, and the peaceful expanse of the park itself. This exhilarating experience allows visitors to see Budapest from a completely different perspective, making it a must-do activity for anyone seeking adventure and beautiful vistas.

Visitors might not know that the original version of the hot air balloon first took people to the sky in 1896, it was one of the major attractions of the Millennium celebrations in the City Park, so that people could admire the celebrations from a birds’ eyes view. The creators wanted to pay homage to Hungarian painter Pál Szinyei Merse, it looks very similar to the hot air balloon painted by Szinyei Merse, the original painting is in the National Gallery. The painting was created in 1878, and it is one of his most famous works and a key piece in Hungarian art history. The painting depicts a colourful hot air balloon soaring through the sky over a beautiful, serene landscape, capturing both the grandeur and the delicacy of the moment. Szinyei Merse, known for his mastery in capturing light and nature, uses vibrant colours and dynamic composition to convey the excitement and elegance of flight.

The hot air balloon is impossible to miss, as it stands tall against the backdrop of Budapest’s skyline. From iconic landmarks like Buda Castle and the Parliament, visitors can spot the colourful balloon flying high above the city. Its vibrant presence offers a unique visual contrast to the city’s historic architecture, making it an unforgettable sight for anyone exploring Budapest. Whether from the Chain Bridge or Fisherman’s Bastion, the balloon serves as a constant reminder of the adventure waiting just below in the park.

In the Spotlight: Budapest Art Nouveau Walking Tour

Discover Art Nouveau architecture in Beautiful Budapest

Budapest is a hidden gem for lovers of Art Nouveau architecture, with its stunning buildings and intricate designs scattered throughout the city. One of the best ways to explore this unique style is by wandering the streets of Budapest’s inner city, where you’ll find elegant façades adorned with flowing curves, floral motifs, and elaborate designs of ceramic tiles.

On a walking tour I take you to and tell you the fascinating stories of many different buildings. The Bedő House was designed by architect Emil Vidor and is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture in Budapest. Featuring exquisite wrought-iron balconies, floral motifs, and vibrant ceramic tiles, the building showcases the elegance and decorative beauty of the early 20th century. The Gresham Palace, now a luxury hotel, is one of the most iconic examples of Art Nouveau, showcasing the grandeur and beauty of the movement. Another must-see is the Ráth György Museum, which boasts a remarkable collection of Art Nouveau objects and architectural details.

The Art Nouveau villa buildings along Városligeti Fasor are a stunning showcase of the architectural style, with their ornate façades and fine details blending harmoniously with the surrounding green space. These charming villas, often adorned with floral motifs, curved lines, and decorative tile work, offer a glimpse into Budapest’s elegant early 20th-century design heritage.

As you walk through Budapest, you’ll notice how Art Nouveau seamlessly blends with the city’s more classical and Baroque architecture, creating a captivating fusion of old and new. Exploring Budapest’s Art Nouveau is not just about admiring beautiful buildings; it’s about stepping into a time when design was meant to evoke emotion and tell a story.

Contact me for more details or book a tour with me!

Discover Budapest: Behind the Scenes with My Private Tour Videos

Beautiful Budapest Private Tour videos

I’m excited to share the videos I created recently to promote my Budapest private tours, designed to offer a deeper, more personal connection to this amazing city. Through breathtaking shots of landmarks, the videos highlight what makes Budapest an unforgettable destination.

One video takes viewers on a captivating walk through Buda Castle, where I highlight not only the stunning views over the city but also the fascinating history that makes this UNESCO World Heritage site so special. Another video delves into Communist-era Budapest, offering a unique perspective on the city’s past, exploring key sites from that era and giving insights into the lives of locals during that time. I also created a video focusing on Szentendre, a charming town just outside Budapest, where visitors can experience its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and vibrant art scene. There is more, and there will be more in the near future 🙂

For those looking for a more customized experience, the Budapest private tour video emphasizes the flexibility and exclusivity of a tailored itinerary, ensuring that every guest’s interests are met. Each video captures the essence of Budapest, from its stunning architecture to its rich history and culture. I’ve carefully crafted these videos to give potential travellers a taste of what they can expect, showcasing how personal and enriching these tours can be. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire travellers to explore Budapest like never before, with an intimate and tailored journey through its most iconic and hidden gems. Don’t hesitate to contact me for more details!

 

Exploring the Vibrant World of Stained Glass in Budapest

Beautiful Budapest stories: Stained Glass

Budapest is a city that dazzles with its architectural wonders, and among its many treasures, stained glass windows stand out as one of its most beautiful and intricate forms of artistry. These stunning windows can be found throughout the city, each piece telling a unique story through its vibrant colors and delicate designs. The tradition of stained glass in Budapest dates back centuries, and it continues to be a significant part of the city’s architectural heritage.

One of the best places to appreciate stained glass in Budapest is the majestic Matthias Church. Inside, visitors can marvel at the intricate stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes and saints, all crafted with painstaking detail. The rich colours and light filtering through the glass create a serene atmosphere that enhances the spiritual experience.

Another iconic location to view stained glass is the Hungarian Parliament Building. Here, you’ll find windows that showcase both historical and symbolic themes, blending art with national identity. The craftsmanship of these windows is a testament to the skilled artisans who worked tirelessly to bring these designs to life.

Beyond religious and governmental buildings, stained glass can be found in many of Budapest’s Art Nouveau and eclectic-style buildings. The early 20th century saw a boom in decorative glasswork, with many structures featuring stunning, nature-inspired motifs and modernist designs. These windows not only enhance the beauty of the buildings but also give a glimpse into the cultural and artistic movements of the time. ne of my favourite spots in Budapest is the Róth Miksa Museum, highly recommended for those interested in stunning stained glass art and the city’s history.

For those interested in learning more about this unique art form, the Hungarian National Museum offers exhibitions that explore the history of stained glass in Budapest and Hungary.

Stained glass in Budapest is more than just a decorative feature—it’s a reflection of the city’s rich history, culture, and artistry. Whether in a grand cathedral, a synagogue or a hidden corner of a historic building, these windows offer a glimpse into the soul of the city. So, next time you’re wandering through Budapest, take a moment to look up and appreciate the vibrant world of stained glass that tells a story centuries in the making or join me for a tour to discover more!

Beautiful Budapest Stories: Wenckheim Palace

Beautiful Budapest Stories: Wenckheim Palace

The home of the wealthy Wenckheim family, a jewellery box in the Palace Quarter of Budapest, the central building of the Budapest Metropolitan Library and an absolutely popular filming location: the Wenckheim Palace.

The palace is from 1889 and was built in Neo-Baroque style for the family of count Frigyes Wenckheim and his wife Krisztina Wenckheim (yes, they were first cousins), designed by architect Artúr Meinig. The interior is beautifully decorated in Lous XV style. Count Wenckheim was a rich landowner and Member of the Parliament. The building has always been considered one of the most beautiful palaces of the 8th district of Budapest. Its dance hall is beautifully ornate and spacious, it could – and probably did – accommodate 500 guests at a time. The Wenckheim family was famous for their elegant and magnificent receptions and balls, even Emperor Franz Joseph was one of the illustrious guests. Count Wenckheim died in 1912 and the building was sold to the city government in 1927.

The central building of the Budapest Metropolitan Library opened here in 1931 and it soon became a popular place for students, researchers and academics spending long hours in the historical halls.

The beautiful halls of the palace can be visited during the opening hours of the library (10.00 AM to 8.00 PM on weekdays, 10.00 AM to 4.00 PM on Saturdays). The palace halls might be closed for shooting or for special events, and it’s also closed for a few weeks during the summer school break. Many Hollywood movies were filmed in the Wenckheim Palace, including “𝑹𝒆𝒅 𝑺𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒘”, “𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒕”, “𝑺𝒑𝒚” and “𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒐𝒎 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒂”. Please let me know if you would like to include the visit of the palace when you book a tour with me.

Beautiful Budapest – part 5

Beautiful Budapest Private Tours - some of the most magnificent sights and attractions of Budapest

Guiding tours around Beautiful Budapest, I cannot help but snap random moments that are catching my eye. From the vibrant street art to the hidden alleyways, there’s magic in every corner. Sometimes the best shots come when you’re not looking for them at all. This city is full of surprises, and I’m so grateful for every photo I get to capture along the way. Here’s to the joy of spontaneous exploration and the stories each photo tells! Spring is coming, days are getting longer and there is no greater joy than exploring this wonderful city.

Book a tour with me so that you can see some of these attractions and many more! All the private tours are fully customisable, based on your interests and preferences.

Beautiful Budapest Perspectives: St. Stephen’s Basilica

Beautiful Budapest perspectives: St. Stephen's Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest Catholic Church of Budapest and the third largest church of Hungary. After the devastating floods of the Danube river in 1838 local people from the neighbourhood wanted to thank God for saving their lives, and raised a lot of money for the construction of the largest church of the city. Construction works started in 1851 and after multiple unfortunate events (death of two of the church’s architects, a devastating storm when the dome collapsed) it was finally consecrated 54 years later, in 1905. The building is an appealing mix of different styles: Baroque, Classicist and Neo-Renaissance. The artworks (paintings, sculptures and stained glass windows) were all created by Hungarian artists, including Gyula Benczúr, Károly Lotz and Miksa Róth.

The church is dedicated to St. Stephen, the first Christian king of Hungary, the founder of the Catholic Church in Hungary, and the founder of a Christian state. His statue made of Carrara marble is the main altarpiece of the church. The principal relic of the Basilica is the mummified right hand of king Stephen, it is on display in the church hall.

A panorama terrace was created around the main dome of the Basilica at a height of 65 meters, which is the highest viewpoint in Pest, offering a 360-degree panorama over the city. You can take the stairs (about 300 steps) or the elevators to get to the dome. There is a Holy Mass in English in Mary’s chapel at 6.10 PM on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and at 4.00 PM in the Basilica on Sundays and holidays.

We usually try to include the visit of the interior on the Budapest tours if time permits. You can learn more about the Basilica, visiting hours and ticket prices here.

I am spending a lot of time wondering around my beautiful city, and I am fortunate to see its buildings from all different angles and viewpoints. There’s something alluring about capturing a building from multiple angles; each perspective reveals a new layer of its architecture and character. As I moved around, I saw how the light shifted and how the structure seemed to change, transforming with each viewpoint. It’s a reminder that sometimes, to truly appreciate a subject, you need to step back and see it from every possible angle.

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