Update from Budapest By Malo

Article published on 24 March by Malo

It has now been about three to four weeks since I arrived in Budapest, and I’m finally starting to settle in. Although I’ve managed to find my footing and adjust to this new environment, there are still a few things that I’m not entirely used to especially when it comes to food. Hungarian cuisine is quite different from what I’m used to back home, and I occasionally miss the tastes and dishes I’m more familiar with. That said, overall, I’ve adapted well and I’m beginning to feel integrated into daily life in Budapest.

Budapest’s Nightlife

Since I only have classes two days a week, I have plenty of free time to explore and make the most of my Erasmus experience. Budapest is known for its vibrant nightlife, especially among Erasmus students, and I’ve had the chance to go out and discover some really unique places. One of the highlights so far has been visiting Szimpla Kert, one of the city’s most iconic ruin bars. It’s famous for its quirky, eclectic decor and buzzing atmosphere it’s definitely a must-see for anyone coming to Budapest.

With the conclusion of the Six Nations Rugby tournament where France finished first I also spent some time in various pubs around the city. These outings allowed me to strike up conversations with people from all over the UK, including English, Irish, and Scottish rugby fans. It was great fun and a perfect way to connect with others through a shared love of sport. I even discovered Le Troquet, which, as far as I know, is the only French-style bistro in Budapest. It felt like a little slice of home.

The Erasmus Life in Budapest organization also hosts a variety of events and parties. These gatherings have been a fantastic way to meet other international students from all over the world, share experiences, and make new friends.

Visiting the Buda Castle District

I recently visited the Buda Castle District, located on the hills of the western side of the Danube. I walked around the Fisherman’s Bastion, a stunning structure that offers breathtaking views over the city. The area reminded me a lot of Montmartre in Paris, with its charming atmosphere and elevated position. From there, we tried to catch the sunset, but we arrived just a few minutes too late. Still, we waited until nightfall to see the Parliament building on the opposite side of the river, beautifully lit up against the dark sky a truly unforgettable sight.

These spontaneous walks have helped me see Budapest in a different light. Whether it was unexpectedly running into familiar faces, learning about the country’s history, or getting caught up in a national celebration, each outing brought something new. I never really planned these experiences, but that’s what made them so memorable. Budapest has a way of surprising you when you least expect it.