December 2019 marked a magical family getaway for us as we embarked on a winter journey to Budapest, Hungary. With the enchanting cityscape adorned in festive lights, we found our perfect haven at the AquaWorld Hotel. Join us as we recount the warmth of Budapest in the cold season and the delightful experiences we had during our stay at this remarkable hotel.
Our excitement soared as we approached the AquaWorld Hotel, nestled in the heart of Budapest. The hotel's architecture seamlessly blended modern elegance with warm tones, setting the stage for a cozy and comfortable stay. The promise of a family-friendly environment was evident, with special rooms for disabled guests ensuring inclusivity-- we made a short video of some of the fun in the waterpark 
Our first day in Budapest was a whirlwind of history, culture, and breathtaking views. We kicked off our adventure at Heroes' Square, where the imposing Millennium Monument greeted us. The square was alive with activity as ice skaters glided gracefully on the lake in front of the enchanting Vajdahunyad Castle.
From there, we strolled into the heart of the city, making our way to the iconic Castle District. Our exploration led us to the awe-inspiring Matthias Church, a 13th-century marvel named after King Matthias, who married here. The church housed an ecclesiastical art museum that offered a fascinating journey through Hungary's religious history.
The nearby Fisherman's Bastion, a 19th-century fortress with seven turreted lookout towers, provided us with panoramic views of the city. We indulged in the scenic beauty and enjoyed a moment of relaxation at the cafe on the terrace, savoring both the architectural splendor and the winter charm of Budapest.
Church of Saint Mary Magdalene Ruined church with hourly chiming bells & a restored late-Gothic tower offering views over the city.
On the second day, we revisited Heroes' Square via the hotel shuttle bus and delved deeper into Budapest's architectural wonders. St. Stephen's Basilica, with its vast cupola-topped structure, left us in awe. The Roman Catholic place of worship, built between 1851 and 1905, showcased timeless beauty and offered regular concerts.
Our journey continued to the Hungarian Parliament Building, a Gothic Revival masterpiece with lavishly decorated rooms and a visitors' center. A poignant moment awaited us at Shoes on the Danube Bank, a waterside sculpture memorializing those tragically killed during World War II. It served as a stark reminder of Budapest's complex history.
Our day took a lighter turn as we stopped by the Hard Rock Cafe Budapest, collecting our customary pin and t-shirt. Lunch at the Central Market Hall was a sensory delight, with the restored neogothic hall housing traders on the ground floor and souvenirs on the first floor.
Post-lunch, we returned to AquaWorld for the kids to enjoy the indoor water park, rounding off the day with laughter and aquatic adventures.
Our last day in Budapest began with a morning visit to AquaWorld's waterpark before heading into the city after lunch. Armed with City Tour Bus tickets purchased at Heroes' Square, we hopped on and off to explore more of the city's landmarks.
As evening approached, we embarked on a memorable cruise along the Danube, witnessing the city's illuminated wonders. The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Buda Castle, and the Hungarian Parliament Building stood majestically against the night sky, leaving us with indelible memories of Budapest's enchanting beauty.
Our family's winter escapade in Budapest, enriched by history, culture, and aquatic fun, concluded on a high note, creating a treasure trove of memories that will stay with us forever.