Hungary is a central European country whose capital, Budapest, bisected by the Danube River, attracts more and more visitors each year. Budapest is an interrail hotspot due to its stunning architecture and historical grandeur, yet the feeling of youthful urban-ness at the same time. Not to mention the delicious Hungarian cuisine – goulash, langosh, cold-smoked sausages, red paprika, paprika-based dishes, strong fruit brandy palinka and renowned wines.

Turkish and Roman influence on Hungarian culture were immense and are seen in the popularity of Turkish bathhouses and mineral spas, including at thermal Lake Hévíz, as well as Roman ruins and medieval towns.

Hungarian towns today stand as a reminder to their Habsburg past and Baroque churches, Art Nouveau palaces and neoclassical public buildings round out Hungary’s architectural wonders.

Hungary also has geographic diversity to satisfy the outdoor enthusiasts – from the banks of Danube, to the shores of Lake Balaton, to the wide open spaces of the Great Plain, and to the alpine hills in the south, there’s a piece of nature for everyone.

The expressive Hungarian language, which is from a completely different language family from its neighbouring countries is sometimes an obstacle, even though more and more people use English, especially the young. Speaking of youth, Sziget Festival is an unforgettable experience hosting the world-class musicians on an island in Budapest on the Danube.

Budapest is also one of those cities that never gets boring. Studded with architectural landmarks from Buda’s medieval Castle Hill and Andrássy Avenue to the 19th-century Chain Bridge, Budapest is also home to stunning museums, such as the House of Terror museum, dedicated to Hungary’s infamous past of the brutal leaders under the Nazi and Soviet regimes and a memorial paying homage to the victims.