History of Hungary and Budapest
Hungary
The Republic of Hungary is situated in Central Europe. The country covers an area of less than 100 000 squarekm and it has roughly 10 million inhabitants, who speak a unique language which is not used anywhere else in the world.
Hungary has become a full member of the European Union from 1st May 2004.
In the year of 2000 the nation celebrated the thousandth anniversary of the foundation of the Hungarian State. Since the time of the state founder King Saint Stephan, Hungary had to go through several repeated trials and tribulations besides its golden eras, but it could stay on its feet despite its stormy history. Today, Hungary is one of the most popular destinations of visitors who wish to encounter this beautiful country with its natural, historical, cultural and gastronomic attractions.
Hungary celebrates the foundation of the state on 20th August. This date is a national holiday. It is heavily celebrated with several cultural and folk programs all around the country. If you have the chance to arrive to Hungary some days earlier the Budapest Nephrology School starts, do not miss the opportunity to join the festivity.
Budapest
The capital of Hungary, known by many as the "Pearl of the Danube", is undoubtedly one of the most beautifully located cities in the world. The river Danube runs through the middle of the metropolis of two million, dividing hilly Buda with its narrow cobbled streets and mixture of medieval and neo-classical buildings from the Pest plain with its wide boulevards. Because of the picturesque panorama offered by the river and its bridges, the Parliament, the imposing Royal Castle, Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Danube Embankment, UNESCO placed this site on the World Heritage list.
The guests will find side by side the remains of fortresses and buildings from Roman times, still operating Turkish baths, Gothic and Baroque buildings, and the incredible rich Art Nouveau architectural heritage. There is no other capital city in the world with close on 100 thermal springs and 12 medicinal baths within its boundaries, where 19 million gallons of thermal water rise to the surface each day.
It is a city where the pleasing harmony of different architectural styles and superb structures, the cafés, gastronomy and culture are combined with legendary hospitality blend into an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Optional Tours and Programs
On the occasion of the 17th Budapest Nephrology School several optional tours and/or programs can be organised for discovering Budapest or Hungary upon request.
FULL DAY EXCURSIONS
North Hungary I. – Nature Reserve Ipolytarnóc Fossils
(Minimum number of participants: 15 persons)
Price: 85 EURO / person
In the late morning, the visitors arrive to the Nature Reserve Ipolytarnóc Fossils where they can explore a nature conservation area and its unparalleled relics, fossils since the area got protection status in 1944. The Nature Reserve Ipolytarnóc Fossils contains both marine and terrestrial fossils which are more than 23 millionaire years old, including shark teeth, petrified trees, leaf impressions and tracks. The site is considered the prime fossil locality of Hungary. The lunch will be served in a Hungarian Restaurant.
Transportation by bus, English-speaking guide, entrance fee, lunch are included.
North Hungary II. – Baradla Cave
(Minimum number of participants: 15 persons)
Price: 110 EURO / person
In the late morning, the visitors arrive to Baradla Cave which is the most significant and spectacular stalactit cave in Hungary. This wonderful and unique Stalactit Cave in Europe belongs to the World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1995. The lunch will be served in a Hungarian Restaurant.
Transportation by bus, English-speaking guide, entrance fee, lunch are included.
Lake Balaton
(Minimum number of participants: 15 persons)
Price: 100 EURO / person
In the late morning the visitors arrive to the Lake Balaton which is called the "Hungarian Sea". It is the largest sweetwater lake in Central Europe and is also very famous for its wine. The first break will be on the peninsula of Tihany. Before a traditional Hungarian lunch the guests will visit the Abbey of Tihany which was founded nearly 1000 years ago. Standing near the Abbey guests can admire the beautiful landscape of the entire Lake Balaton. The Lunch will be served in traditional Hungarian Restaurant. After lunch the visitors can have a walk at Balatonfüred, which is a traditional Hungarian holiday resort.
Transportation by bus, English-speaking guide, entrance fee, lunch are included.
Danube Bend
(Minimum number of participants: 15 persons)
Price: 75 EURO / person
The whole day program includes visiting Esztergom, the birthplace of the first Hungarian King and the residence of the Hungarian Cardinal Archbishop (Basilica, Treasury). With a short walk at the picturesque Visegrád, the seat of the Hungarian Kings participants can explore the ruins of the old Royal Palace and the medieval fortress. Lunch is served in the Renaissance Restaurant which offers a unique atmosphere and great cuisine.
Transportation by bus, English-speaking guide, entrance fees and lunch are included.
The Residence of Queen Elisabeth (Sissi)
(Minimum number of participants: 15 persons)
Price: 65 EURO / person
A tour to Gödöllő, a settlement close to Budapest, to the castle of Grassalkovich which was the residence of the Habsburg Royal Couple (King Franz Joseph and Queen Elisabeth) during the second half of the 19th century. The largest baroque building complex in Hungary is now under reconstruction but the main parts of the building - including the apartments of the royal couple, the beautiful ballroom and the baroque theatre - can be visited.
Transportation by bus, English-speaking guide, entrance fee and lunch at the Lázár Equestrian Park are included.
HALF DAY EXCURSIONS
Jewish Sights of Budapest
(Minimum number of participants: 15 persons)
Price: 35 EURO / person
A three-hour long walking tour in the world’s second largest Synagogue and its surroundings including an inside visit of the Synagogue complex (Jewish Museum, ghetto and World War II area history). The Synagogue and the nearby Jewish Quarter have a very rich history. By the end of the 18th century the Jewish people were allowed to leave the Buda side of the city and they created this area known as the Jewish quarter of Budapest on the Pest side.
Transportation by bus, English-speaking guide, entrance fees and refreshment are included.
Art Village – Szentendre
(Minimum number of participants: 15 persons)
Price: 40 EURO / person
Szentendre is located by the River Danube about 25 km North from Budapest. This colorful artists’ settlement has preserved its medieval character with ancient buildings and cobble stone streets which are nowadays cheered up with numerous street vendors, musicians lending a Mediterranean character to this small town.
Transportation by bus, English-speaking guide, entrance fees are included.
In case of any interests, please contact the Congress Bureau at neubauer@blaguss-congress.hu
