Cruises to Budapest

Ships dock on both sides of the Danube, right in the center of town, which means a good many of Budapest's highlights are walkable from the riverbanks.

If you're moored on the Buda side, you are closest to the Castle District, and you can follow a zig-zag path up to the top or take the for-fee funicular, which is the fun (and easy) way to get there. Or stroll along the bank to the ornate Gellert Baths, one of the city's thermal spas, which are open to the public. From moorings on the Buda bank, you need to walk across the nearest bridge -- usually the Chain Bridge -- to reach the attractions of Pest.

The Pest side is closest to the upscale shops of Andrassy Avenue, the parliament and St. Stephen's Basilica, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants with outside terraces lining the waterfront. Also nearby is the Tourist Information Center in Deak Square.

On Foot: One of the best things about Budapest is that it is walkable, with a compact city center. Many of the main sights are within a 20-minute walk of the docking area. Biking is also a great option, as Budapest has well-marked bike lanes both in the city and along the Danube River.

By Metro: The Budapest underground system is a tourist attraction in its own right. Built between 1894 and 1896, the M1 or yellow line was the second in the world after London and still has some original tile work. The M1 line is near ground level, and there are no elevators -- just a short flight of stairs to each station. Three lines serve all the major tourist destinations. The Metro is clean, safe and fast, with regular services running every two to 10 minutes. Individual tickets or books of tickets are available from manned booths at each station (denoted by large M signs). Tickets are also valid for use on trams and buses (although the latter is more complicated to work out and not advised when the Metro and tram system are much easier). Validate your ticket in the orange boxes at Metro entrances before travel, as inspectors carry out spot checks and fine passengers who do not have correctly stamped tickets. Maps of the lines are available from tourist offices and hotels. Signs above the track show the direction of travel, but if you go the wrong way, simply get out at the next stop and cross over to the other side.

By Tram: If you have a map, it's also relatively easy to get around on the city's extensive tram network and enjoy a spot of sightseeing as the trams rattle through the streets. Tickets are available from coin-operated machines next to the stops and must be purchased before travel. The machines don't dispense change. They must be validated on another machine. One of the most scenic routes is number 2, which runs along the side of the Danube. Routes 47 and 49 are the two main lines connecting Buda with Pest.

Tip: Buy a Budapest Card from the Tourist Information Office. Available for 24 hours to 72 hours, they provide free public transport; a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour; and discounted admission to selected museums and attractions.

By Taxi: Budapest's licensed taxis are bright yellow and easy to spot. They have a set tariff, and fares are show on the sides of the doors. It's worth noting the telephone number, as ordering a cab by phone is cheaper than hailing one in the street, albeit fares are still relatively inexpensive in comparison with those in other European cities. Firms include Fototaxi, which is also the official transport partner of Budapest Airport. (+36 1 222 2222)

Hungary joined the European Union in 2004 but has not adopted the euro. The currency is the Hungarian forint, denominated in coins and notes. Check online for the latest exchange rates.

ATMs, readily available throughout the city, tend to be the least expensive way to obtain local currency. Generally, banks are open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. As in any city, there are currency exchange offices that charge a commission. Many souvenir shops and street stalls accept euros, but check first and expect to get any change in forints. All major credit cards are accepted at larger, tourist-friendly shops. Carry cash for cabs and smaller retailers.

The official language Hungarian. It's a tough language to master, and it has more links with Finnish than the languages spoken in the countries that surround it. But a few basic words go a long way: "Hi" is szia (si-ah). "Excuse me" is bocsanat (bo-chaa-naht). "Good morning" is jo reggelt (yoh regh-ghelt). English is widely spoken in hotels, shops, restaurants and all the major tourist attractions. The youth in Hungary are likely to speak English, but many older residents don't.

Impress locals by pronouncing Budapest the "right way", with the "pest" part pronounced "pesht."