Hungary Vs Belgium

Two European gems with their own treasures to discover – Hungary and Belgium.

Belgium has the reputation of being culturally rich historically. Once decadent, it’s a country that boasts of cosmopolitan cities with cutting-edge modern infrastructure along with grand palaces and centuries old monuments. Delicious chocolates, mouth-watering waffles and fine Belgian beer are all trademarks of Belgium.

Hungary invariably feature in the travel itinerary. A countriy that offers splendid architecture, rich history and a unique ethos with distinct cultural milieus to their patrons.

To more about what a holiday in Hungary and Belgium entail, read on…

Hungary

Budapest

Fast becoming one of Europe’s go-to spots for a holiday, Budapest combines cheap travel costs with the best of what Europe has to offer. From Art Noveau architecture, to an abundance of hot springs and bathhouses that would give Istanbul a run for its money, to a dining culture par excellence and historical landmarks such as the Danube Memorial and the ignoble Terror House – Budapest is awash with tourist fancies. Get a gander of the remarkable cityscape from one of its innumerable bridges, or visit some of the attractions that harken to Hungary’s Golden Age. Budapest is sure to delight you while remaining easy on the pockets (relatively speaking!).

Esztergom

In contrast to the cities mentioned here, Esztergom can only be called a town. But its claims to fame are several – and it offers a much-needed respite from the city scrambles to picturesque town side wanderings along the banks of the Danube River. The cultural and religious seat of influence for the Roman Catholic faith for over a thousand years, Esztergom has a number of historical landmarks up for visit. Unique amongst them is the domed Basilica, mounted atop a hilltop on the Danube. The reflections of the Basilica on the river are sights to die for, by day and by the night. 

How to Get There

Budapest is a very popular destination with Indians so do book in advance. If you have a travel portal account, best use it to avail air miles and discounts on travel because these tickets do not come cheap. Aeroflot, Lufthansa, Air France, Emirates and Etihad Airways are popular carriers operating between India and Hungary. If you wish to book your ticket, please search here.

ational airlines including Lufthansa, Air France, Air India, Jet Airways and KLM operate flights from India to Stockholm. Check for available flights from your city here. 

BELGIUM

Brussels

Charming and elegant, the vibrant city of Brussels is a tourist delight. Most landmarks in a city are either cathedrals or historical monuments. Only in Brussels will you find a famous statue of a little boy relieving himself in a fountain known as the Mannekin Pis as a main attraction. One of Europe’s’ most beautiful squares and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grand Place is the city’s centre where you will find ornate baroque and gothic buildings. Concerts, events and a daily flower market in the summertime is a big attraction here. Other significant monuments worthy of a visit in Brussels include the 13th century Town Hall, the Royal Palace, which is home to the Belgian king and Atomium, shaped on the model of an elementary iron crystal enlarged 165 billion times and undoubtedly the country’s most iconic symbol. 

Antwerp
The bustling city of Antwerp is home to iconic museums and cathedrals. Irrespective if you have somewhere to go or not, visit the Central Station, a multi-level terminus built using iron and glass and deemed as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Another public masterpiece is De Stadsfeestzaal, which houses retail outlets in a converted dance hall complete with a sweeping marble staircase, golden glass dome and a mosaic floor. For some bling, head to the Diamond District where you can see diamond dealers and stone cutters at work while art lovers will enjoy a day at the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens.   

Ghent
Located in the Flemish region of Belgium, the city of Ghent is known for its medieval architecture that can be seen in its monuments like Saint Bavo Cathedral, which houses the Ghent Altarpiece comprising 12 panels designed and constructed by the Van Eyck brothers. Visit the Belfry and Cloth Hall where you can take an elevator up to the Belfry's upper gallery and see the giant bells toll as you feat your eyes on a panoramic view of the city. Ghent also has several museums, namely MSK with its collection of Flemish paintings and sculptures, SMAK, which displays contemporary art and MIAT, the Museum about Industry, Labour and Textile that is situated in an old cotton mill. 

How To Get There

Major international airlines including KLM, Air France, Air India and Jet Airways operate flights from India to Brussels. Check for available flights from your city here. 

Destination	Budapest, Hungary	Brussels, Belgium
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 3687 (per night at Hotel Charles Budapest) Rs. 4802 (per night at Carlton Hotel Budapest) Rs. 8524 (per night at St. George Residence All Suite Hotel de Luxe)	Rs. 4797 (per night at the Hotel 3K Barcelona) Rs. 8245 (per night at the Clarion Suites Lisbon Hotel) Rs. 8549 (per night at the Radisson Blu Hotel Lisbon)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 1200 per day	Rs. 3200 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 80 per ticket	Rs. 112 per day
Miscellaneous	Rs. 1600 per day	Rs. 2300 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change. 

If you’re looking for unique holiday experiences, both Hungary and Belgium promise you something distinct. It’s nearly impossible to recommend one over the other. Be a global explorer and save up to visit both!