Hungary’s capital city of Budapest, situated on the banks of the majestic Danube River, is a fabulous place in which to discover a profusion of fascinating art, culture and history. The sophisticated traveller will be find a cultural paradise on Budapest river cruises, a city brimming with intriguing museums, stunning art galleries and tremendous live performances. Several areas of the city, including the banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrassy Avenue have been named as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, due to their architectural and cultural importance. Read on to find out why Budapest is the place to be for art and culture in 2014.
Budapest’s museums and galleries are the envy of Eastern Europe, each with their own world-class exhibitions and displays guaranteed to fascinate curious visitors. Cultured tourists can enjoy a day amongst a collection of renowned European artwork at the Museum of Fine Arts. Established in 1896, this historic gallery features a plethora of paintings, drawings and sculptures dating back as far as the 4th century AD, including the horse sculpture created by Leonardo da Vinci.
The Hungarian National Gallery exclusively celebrates Hungarian art and artists from the past 500 years. Founded in 1957, this local gallery displays artwork including medieval stonework and Gothic wooden sculptures. The Kogart Gallery is also dedicated to Hungarian artwork, but exhibits a range of contemporary pieces from up-and-coming young Hungarian artists.
Contemporary and modern art can be found in several other excellent galleries on Budapest river cruises, the most famous of which is the renowned Ludwig Museum. The Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art boasts a fantastic collection of modern artwork from the past 50 years including examples from world-famous artists such as Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns and Roy Lichtenstein alongside pieces of hyper-realism created by Malcolm Morley, Chuck Close and Richard Estes. Even more contemporary artwork is on display in Budapest’s Trafo Gallery, which focuses on the most current art trends.
Fans of photography should also consider a trip to Mai Mano House, the former home of imperial and royal court photographer Mai Mano. The building now contains the Hungarian House of Photography, a gallery dedicated to world-class Hungarian photography.
Brilliant and extensive art tours of Budapest are available through local companies. These wonderful tours will provide travellers with an expert local guide, leading cultured visitors on Budapest river cruises through the city’s vibrant art scene, from quaint art studios to major galleries and everything in between.
The cultural side of Budapest river cruises does not begin and end with art, as there are many other wonderful attractions for visitors with the culture bug to enjoy. Take in a dramatic performance at the amazing Budapest Opera House or listen to some beautiful classical music at the city’s Academy of Music. Alternatively, if you are staying in the city through August, you will have the chance to attend one of Budapest’s marvellous cultural festivals. Be one of the hundreds of thousands of people attending the annual Sziget Festival and listen to terrific live music or head to the city’s Festival of Folk Arts to purchase some locally produced handicrafts or try your hand at traditional Hungarian folk dancing. Whatever you choose to do during Budapest river cruises, this city is the place to be for tremendous art and culture this year.
Image Credits:
(1) Nathan Hughes Hamilton – flickr.com
(2) Roger Wollstadt – flickr.com