The pearl of hungary
Monday
We meet at the Malta International Airport at 04:00 to check in for flight FR2278, which departs at 05:50 and arrives in Budapest at 08:05. Upon arrival, we transfer by coach to the city center for a city tour by coach with a local guide. We’ll see the Parliament building, Heroes' Square, the Opera House, the Royal Palace, the Citadel, and the Fisherman’s Bastions, from where we get a spectacular view. Afterwards, we proceed to the Hotel Mercure City Centre 4*, located right in the heart of the city. In the evening, for those interested, we go to Vörösmarty Square to visit the Christmas Market.
Tuesday
Breakfast and excursion to the beautiful towns along the Danube River. This excursion is known as the Danube Bend. Our first stop will be in Szentendre, a beautiful baroque-style village located 20km from Budapest. We continue to Visegrád, a fortress with breathtaking views. In the evening, for those who wish, we go to St. Stephen’s Basilica, where we enjoy another beautiful Christmas market. Return to the hotel.
Wednesday
Breakfast and then a free day, but anyone who wants can join the tour leader to continue exploring this amazing city, or you can visit the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the largest in Budapest and one of the biggest in Europe. It features 3 outdoor pools and 15 indoor pools. In the afternoon, you have the opportunity to take a cruise on the Danube River (optional), and anyone interested may also visit the West End Shopping Centre, which has around 400 shops, bars, and restaurants. In the evening, we organize a Dinner & Folklore Show (optional).
Thursday
Today we have a full-day excursion to the western part of Hungary, to Puszta. Here we’ll witness the remarkable skills of the horsemen in a spectacular horse show—an unforgettable performance! We take a ride in a traditional carriage and afterwards enjoy a good meal with wine (included) at a traditional restaurant. We will also have the opportunity to listen to gypsy music.
Friday
Breakfast and then a very interesting excursion to the charming town of Eger. This is one of the most beautiful baroque towns in Hungary, and it is home to the second largest church in the country. We will also see the medieval castle (entrance extra), as well as the 15th-century Bishop’s Palace. We also visit a historical Ottoman minaret, 40 meters high. Eger is also known for its spas, wine, and beautiful baroque streets. We return to Budapest with some free time for last-minute shopping and maybe a cup of mulled wine from the Christmas Market.
Saturday
Breakfast and transfer to Budapest airport for flight FR2277 departing at 12:20 and arriving back in Malta at 14:35.
