What to do in Tatabányai

Hungarians call this palatial parliament building, lying resplendent on the banks of the Danube, the 'House of the Nation'. And it is certainly a grand house, fit for a country as proud of its democracy as Hungary is. A mass of white pinnacles, topped by a mountainous red-roofed dome, the Parliament Building is huge. At nearly 270 metres in length, 100 metres wide and 96 metres high, this century-old marvel is the tallest building in Budapest – and in fact the largest one in the country.

Famed for its art nouveau design, the Gellért Thermal Baths and Swimming Pool has been an important fixture for locals and visitors since it was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century. These baths use the thermal springs from Gellért Hill to fill the pools in its majestic rooms. Spend a day taking advantage of the treatment options in this tranquil spa.

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is the oldest bridge connecting the two sides of Budapest across the River Danube. Opened in 1849, it was considered a triumph of engineering and played a huge role in the growth of the city. Admire the elegant classicist design of this cast iron suspension bridge that has become an icon of Budapest.

St. Stephen’s Basilica is a neoclassical church with an imposing dome and elegant turrets. With a height of 315 feet (96 meters), it is the tallest building in the city and among the largest churches in the country. Admire the opulence of this majestic church that features stunning stained-glass windows and works of art.

Buda Castle’s imposing silhouette is impossible to miss on the hill above the Danube, and it has more to offer than just great architecture. This castle has been repeatedly caught up in the thick of history. Thirty-one sieges, countless sackings and at least three relentless poundings by artillery have seen Buda Castle reduced to rubble many times. Each time, the people of this city have, eventually, picked up the pieces and started Buda Castle anew.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is among the largest thermal spring spas in Europe. Its natural hot water is used for medicinal purposes to aid degenerative joint illnesses and inflammations. Admire the neo-Baroque style of the buildings and the pools that date back to the turn of the 20th century.

Fisherman’s Bastion is a unique viewpoint that is as spectacular as the view it provides. The white turreted fortress stands atop Castle Hill and looks over the River Danube and the eastern half of Budapest. Bring your camera to this impressive vantage point to take photographs of the city lights at sunset.