The Jókai-kert (garden) may be small, but it belongs to the Duna-Ipoly National Park, and is, as such, a protected area which gives a home to several species of birds, insects and inquisitive squirrels as well. The garden belonged to famous novelist Mór Jókai, who bought the abandoned stone quarry in 1853. He then proceeded to plant vines and fruit trees, and also encircled the garden with large trees, such as maples and ash trees, to protect it from the strong winds which are still typical for the area-something you will find out if you make the rather arduous climb on foot: moving westwards from Déli station, it takes you through scenic neighbourhoods with great vistas and lasts about an hour and a half at a leisurely pace. Lazier nature lovers can take buses 21/21A or 212, getting off at the Városkút stop.
The garden can be visited for free during opening hours, but there is a small fee (600 forints) for the bird exhibition. Guided tours, birthday events and wedding photography packages are also available for those interested. On the Pest-facing slope, which comes with a fabulous view of the city, there is a small vineyard, with vines brought from several famous vineyards from within the current Hungarian borders and beyond. The aim is to recreate the once-famous Buda red wine, a mixture of the Csóka grape type, traditionally found in the area, the Kadarka, brought from south of the Danube by Serbian settlers and the Kékfrankos.
Find your way with 171 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Muzikum Bisztró, near the National Museum, serves a great 2-3 course lunch menu affordably.
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Their gin-based signature cocktail is my absolute number one. It's called “Ramos Gin Fizz” and it’s pure magic in a glass. It never, ever disappoints.
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I love starting my day here with my personal favorite, the "Don Corleone" bagel. They offer a wide selection of bagel types, some served hot & others cold.
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Ligeti Bolt, a zero-waste pioneer in Budapest, offers grains, snacks, and more for refill. Shop eco-friendly, bring your jars, and embrace a conscious lifestyle!
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The "Hungarian Treasury" in Budapest is a building I show to all my guests. Its secessionist art nouveau style is reminiscent of Antoni Gaudí...
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The true star of Vivina’s brunch menu is the porridge—comforting, nourishing, and served with fresh berries and toasted nuts, it’s one of the best porridges in town!
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"Lion's Locker" in Budapest is a cute family-run cafe where I can stay all day. The staff is all wonderful - and they know how to make almond milk foam!
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"Arán Bakery Budapest" fuels my dreams with sourdough bread like my grandmother made it and delicious cinnamon rolls...
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"Sport Bisztró" in Budapest is a pleasantly familiar, well-oiled haunt that sticks to the proverb 'healthy mind in a healthy body!' Great sports bar, too.
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"Nos a Hely" is a pop-up vintage shop in Hungary - they have a carefully curated selection of vintage porcelain and other local items. Great for gifts!
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"Pogány-torony", or Pagan Tower, in Budapest, is one of the city's strangest buildings, with a Gothic folk-tale-meets-Tolkien charm...
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171 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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