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We've compiled the best of the best in Hungary - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
This out-of-the-way bakery and cake shop, a good 20-minute walk from the center, has display cabinets crammed with mouthwatering confections, from honey cream slices to chocolate profiteroles, apple poppy cake to smoked cheese scones. Inside, it appears to be just a small take-out place, but stroll around the back to discover a lovely, sprawling terrace and garden, complete with kids' play area.
Tucked away in a pretty valley to the west of Castle Hill, Villa Medici is widely considered to be one of the region's best restaurants—and for good reason. The setting is simply beautiful, whether you dine in the attractive interior, featuring walls lined with original artworks, or out on the charming lamplit garden terrace, set around a lily pond. The service from the formal white-gloved staff is impeccable, and the food is superb. Choose from a selection of five-course set menus (prices range from 23,900 to 26,900 HUF) to enjoy well-presented dishes à la carte, including porcini cream soup, smoked red tuna steak, and quail breast and thigh. Villa Medici also has a few hotel rooms, though some old-fashioned decor means they don't reach the standard of the restaurant.
This cute little café is within walking distance of the Castle District's top sights, but far enough off the tourist path to not feel or operate like a tourist trap. You'll find warm and friendly service along with delicious cakes and toasted sandwiches. In cooler weather the terrace is a lovely spot to linger with blankets and coffees or mulled wine.
A classic turn-of-the-20th-century gathering spot for Hungarian writers of the Nyugat (West) magazine, this coffeehouse has endured two wars and a communist closure. For 19th-century grandeur in 21st-century comfort, this popular café can't be beat. Coffees are served on silver trays with glasses of mineral water just as in the old days, but these days they are enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort. The menu includes substantial dishes like hortobágyi palacsinta (meat pancakes with paprika sauce) and borjú paprikás (paprika veal stew) all day. Don't miss the excellent cakes and pastries, on view in a glass display case.
