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OVERVIEW
Explore the complicated story, past and present, of this spectacular capital city on a Jewish tour to Budapest, Hungary.
The capital city of Hungary used to be home to approximately 200,000 Jews. Many were deported to Auschwitz and killed upon arrival. But the story doesn’t stop there. Communist rule meant the closure of Jewish institutions and many Jews were expelled from Budapest. The fall of communism in 1989 brought a Jewish renewal to the city, where now between 75,000-100,000 Jews live.
Now a popular nightlife spot, explore Budapest’s historical Jewish Quarter on a Jewish heritage tour. Visit the Balint House, the only JCC in Hungary, and get to know how the community functions today. Visit the famous Shoe Memorial on the Danube or the Great Market Hall of Budapest, some of the most important places to stop on a Jewish tour to Hungary, and explore the galleries, museums, and shops of this special place.
Highlights*
*Some experiences are subject to minimum group size
Individual Arrivals
Meet, assist, and transfer to hotel:
You will be met by a representative of our team who will guide and assist everyone through the formalities, making the journey easier and more relaxing including visas, porterage, and group arrival.
Check into the hotel followed by a free evening in Budapest.
Overnight in Budapest
Breakfast Briefing with a representative of the American Embassy.
Travel through Budapest’s historic Jewish Quarter on a Jewish heritage tour of Budapest and learn about the community that remains active there today. A visit to the Dohany Synagogue, Kazinczy Street Synagogue, Raul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park, the Jewish Museum and the newly renovated Rumbach synagogue.
Our expert Jewish tour guide on Budapest will discuss in-depth the Jewish heritage behind the streets that you will walk including her own family’s experience.
Lunch in the Jewish Quarter for true Hungarian Paprikash.
Visit to the Balint House, the only JCC in Hungary, to better understand how Jewish life in Hungary continues with strength and spirit today.
Before refreshing for dinner, a visit to the Castle District to enjoy a piece of true Hungarian ‘Flodni,’ take in the magnificent view of Budapest from the Fisherman’s Bastion, visit the medieval synagogue inside the Buda Castle and enjoy a bit of free time to stroll the quaint cobblestoned streets.
Welcome Dinner on the Danube with Jewish Community Leaders (Moishe House residents, JDC Szarvas camp alumni, JA Shaliach and Masa & Birthright alumni ) Cruise past some of Budapest’s most beautiful attractions lit up at night and enjoy a 4-course dinner by candlelight while you’re entertained with live Hungarian music.
Overnight in Budapest
Breakfast briefing with a representative from the Israeli Embassy.
Pay homage to our brethren at the Shoe Memorial on the Danube in memory of the Jews who were massacred by Fascist Hungarian militia.
After a short memorial ceremony at the shoe memorial, tour the Parliament, the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary.
Visit the Memorial for Victims of the German Occupation located in Liberty Square, a memorial that has sparked controversy and angered Jewish community organizations throughout the world.
Take a walk to the larger than life (literally!) statues of former US Presidents Ronald Regan and George Bush in the heart of Budapest. End the morning at the Raul Wallenberg Memorial.
Lunch is at a local restaurant.
After lunch and before our ‘outing’ visit the Heros’ Square – one of the major squares in Budapest noted for its iconic Millennium Monument with statues featuring the chieftains of the Magyars. Hear the stories of these seven historic leaders. After which choose one of two choices:
Option One: Szentendre is a Hungarian town on the Danube River about 45 minutes north of Budapest. It’s known for its baroque architecture, colorful houses and narrow, cobbled streets. The main square, Fő Tér, and the alleyways around it are lined with art galleries, museums and shops. A wonderful little town to explore and of course SHOP.
Option Two: Etyek is one of the 22 wine regions of Hungary about 30 minutes outside of Budapest. Meet with the Viner, enjoy a wine and cheese tasting experience (not kosher) in a unique atmosphere.
Free for dinner
Meet for late night drinks at the Szimpla Kert Ruin bar
Overnight in Budapest
Breakfast and check out of the hotel.
Meet with young Hungarian contemporary art designers of jewelry, accessories, and clothes at the Eventuell Gallery. Admire the impressive variety of textile and color and have the opportunity to shop directly from the artist.
Take a walk back in time on a stroll along Vaci street to the Central Market Hall and see the Hungarian specialities: wine, brandy, cheese, strudel, Unikum. Meet our Hungarian chef who will lead us in an authentic Hungarian Cooking workshop including lunch.
Visit The Jewish Agency supported Israeli Cultural Institute (ICI.) There, meet with young adults – many of whom are alumni of MASA and Israel experience programs – and explore what commonalities and differences we have in our Jewish communal experiences.
Free Time to Shop
Closing Dinner at Carmel Kosher restaurant before departing for the airport.
Accommodation
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus’ imposing modernity remains a landmark of central Budapest. Flanked by green Erzsébet Park and lively Fashion Street, it is ideally located within easy reach of the main historical sights, the Danube, the financial district and the shopping boulevard.
The hotel comprises 353 elegant rooms, including 38 chic suites. The art collection throughout the hotel sets the tone for your entire stay.
Kempinski Hotel Budapest offers remarkable culinary attractions in its Gastronomic Quarter Downtown Budapest – two restaurants, two bars, a coffee house and a deli: ÉS Bisztró, Nobu Restaurant and Bar, Blue Fox The Bar, The Living Room and ÉS Deli.
On your business trip or on a city break, our services and facilities – Kempinski The Spa, laundry services, in-room dining, garage and more – are available for you.
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus is also the right choice for your Budapest event. Our Ten Rooms are suitable for conferences, meetings, lunches, dinners, weddings, exhibitions and fashion shows for up to 450 delegates.
Located in the heart of Budapest, our art nouveau palace Hotel embodies the spirit of Budapest’s Golden Era glam. From the moment you enter, savour the iconic wrought-iron peacock gates, pass through the Lobby adorned with over two million mosaic tiles illuminated with its striking chandelier, and let inspiration wash over you. Outside, views of the Danube and the picturesque Buda skyline stand before you. Spend the day exploring the sights, recharge in our Spa that harnesses the city’s heritage in wellness, then enjoy an innovative cocktail in our newly opened lobby bar MÚZSA.
Built in 1913, the Radisson Blu Béke Hotel in Budapest invites you to step back in time. Its elegant traditional exterior partners well with the stained-glass windows and frescoes created by Hungarian artist Jenő Haranghy. Ideally located close to both the business and shopping districts, the hotel is within walking distance of popular attractions like the famous Andrássy Street, State Opera House and Heroes’ Square.
*Star rating standards vary from country to country.
This experience is fully customizable. We will create your personal dream experience!
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