Known as the 'Queen of the Danube, ' Budapest is the vibrant and stunning capital of Hungary. This city not only blends the mystique of the East with the style of the West, but also combines the modern with the exotic. Ultimately, this destination offers something for everyone. As the most largely populated city in the country, and possibly one of the most densely populated cities in Europe, it is filled with an energy that is unmatched by other European capitals. Divided by the River Danube, the spectacular Chain Bridge adjoins the colorful but sedate hilly Buda to the west of the river, with the lively but flat plains of Pest in the east. Óbuda, or Old Buda, is also on the west side of the Danube and is an extension of the Buda to the north. Though originally a Roman outpost during the 1st century, the city of Budapest was not created until 1873, when the areas Buda, Pest, and Old Buda (Óbuda) were unified. These areas are now aligned by nine bridges, and include six islands within the city limits. What results is a world-class classical music city, that comes alive with a youthful energy. It is no wonder that Budapest has often been described as the Paris of the East. Not only is the beauty of the city's epic, faded grandeur a draw for visitors, but so are the ornate traditional baths, elegant boulevards and classic cafés. However, not every aspect of Budapest is stuck in the past. In recent years, the city underwent a significant remodeling in preparation to bid for the summer Olympics. Though it eventually withdrew its bid, the city has still benefitted from rebuilt sections on both sides of the Danube.
