The Middle European country of Hungary has long been a popular visitor destination, with its capital, Budapest, rightly known as one of the most beautiful cities in the West. Areas of the city declared as World Heritage Sites include the banks of the Danube and the Buda Castle Quarter.

The majestic River Danube bisects the city into two districts, Buda and Pest. Good roads and an excellent transport system, including the world’s second oldest underground railway, make sightseeing a pleasure. Getting around is straightforward, both in the city and the country, with cheap car hire in Hungary.

Budapest itself dates from an early Celtic settlement which later became the Roman capital of the area. The city is an architectural wonder, with Roman, Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance buildings and its stunning and famed Art Nouveau terraces. Its many museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, celebrate the country’s impressive history and culture.

Dining, shopping and entertainment in Budapest have flourished since its Soviet days, making it a centre for opera, ballet, music, nightlife and great restaurants. Within comfortable driving distance with car hire in Hungary are ancient towns such as Visegrad and Esztergom with their listed building, palaces, castles and museums.

The largest body of water in the country, Lake Balaton, is easily accessible with car rental in Hungary. With its natural beauty, water sports, riding, quaint lakeside villages, ancient castles, vineyards, beaches and spa resorts with thermal baths, it is the perfect destination for a relaxing visit after a hectic few days in Budapest.