April/May 2026
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novel, ‘Dracula.’ With legend suggesting that both Vajdahunyad castle and castles in Transylvania provided inspiration for the titular characters home. A particularly fun addition to Budapest were 30+ mini sculptures dotted throughout the city. A concept created by artist Mihály Kolodko, making it a quirky way to explore and learn more about the destination. Hidden throughout the streets of Budapest, the characters are disguised in plain sight. Some are obvious to the naked eye, where some require a bit of searching. Over the course of my trip, I managed to locate five, one of which was located at Vajdahunyad Castle.
located in City Park and just a few minutes from Heroes Square. One might be fooled when looking at the property that it has stood since the middle ages, due to its magnificent gothic and baroque architecture. However,
Vajdahunyad
castle was built in 1896 as a celebration of the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian
State. Still
though, this young age does not take away from the might and legend surrounding the castle. Located just a short distance from the entrance of City Park, once the castle comes into eye-line, one might think they are stepping into a novel, or perhaps an old horror flick. Many believe that Bram Stoker was influenced by Vajdahunyad castle for his
Carefully disguised in the castle grounds, the miniature sculpture at Vajdahunyad Castle requires a bit of searching, but once found, certainly summons a smile. Perched on a wall nearby the castle gardens, sits a mini statue of Dracula looking over the city. A charming homage to the rumoured inspiration Hungary provided to Bram Stoker.
Departing from the castle grounds and venturing deeper into the City Park, a large red and white striped hot-air balloon peeked over the trees. Venturing closer, I saw a kiosk which advertised ‘Balloonfly’ , a unique way to witness panoramic views of Budapest. Priced at around 26 euros per person, it seemed a bargain for the experience I was yet to embark
on. The balloon rises to a height of 150 metres from ground level and on a clear day, you can see up to 20 kilometres away. From the top, you are able to catch a glimpse of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and
THE PEARL OF THE DANUBE | 27
Heroes Square. If you’re feeling brave, while in the air, you can even walk around the hot air balloon to catch different angles of the city. In the light of day, Budapest truly shines as a destination with plenty to offer the modern-day tourist. From thermal baths, historic sights, gothic castles and the tucked away hot air balloon experience in the heart of City Park. However, undoubtedly for me, the evening is when the city truly sparkles. After four jam-packed days of sight-seeing, rounding up the trip with the glow of the Hungarian Parliament Buildings was definitely the highlight. The enchanting illuminations captured the true magic and allure of Budapest, and as I walked along the riverside back towards my hotel to pack and get ready for my return to Belfast. Twinkling under the reflection of the lights, Budapest brought one last sight to my attention before I departed, a small statue of a flute player rested on the wall beside me, bidding me farewell.
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