'I travelled all over Europe and this is the one city not enough people are talking about.'

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Every May it begins. The slow but steady emergence of Insta stories, aesthetic photo dumps, 'pack my suitcase with me' videos, and you know that Euro summer is beginning. Jump forward to August and FOMO has officially settled in. 

And while some cities are flooded with tourists during the summer months, there are others that are getting completely overlooked. Don't get me wrong — these popular cities are incredible. But it's Budapest that's getting left off too many people's travel itineraries.

Watch: The cheapest cities to visit in Europe. Post continues below.

Divided between two halves of the city, Buda and Pest are the complete package. With Buda you have the history, charm and incredible grandeur of old-timey architecture (and some sweat-inducing hills). Whereas, on the other side of the river, Pest presents a cultural hub with iconic landmarks, beautiful promenades and vibey bars.

Budapest: your favourite city's favourite city.

Do you want to feel like you're walking along the Seine in Paris? Well, the Danube is a pretty stunning alternative.

Are you craving the architecture in Rome? Step aside, St Peter's Square, because the Buda Castle is certainly underestimated.

Looking for a night out that's filled with dive bars, intimate venues and great vibes? Well, the ruin bar scene has it all.

Wanting to bathe somewhere old and incredible? Done.

Keen for some bottomless drinks on a river cruise at golden hour? Double done.

Budapest's Thermal Baths. Image: Supplied.

Solo travelling in Budapest.

Last year I was travelling solo for four months across Europe and the UK, and let me tell you there were some highlights and lowlights. But Budapest was one of the few cities that never failed to amaze me and a place where three nights simply wasn't enough. 

Being a girlie on a budget, I stayed at the Maverick Central Market Hostel for just $36 AUD a night and despite being on my own, I certainly didn't feel it. The bar crawls, walking tours and different events that are hosted daily are a great way to meet new people — some of whom I was able to catch up with later on in my trip. And, I can't forget the vibes from the little rooftop nook.

Maverick Central Market Hostel. Image: Supplied.

My hostel was minutes from the Danube, on the Pest side and just a perfect location. A little bit further from the city but accessible via tram, scooter, or bike and still within walking distance of great restaurants, bars and sights.

Plus, if you, like me, crave some Asian cuisine while wandering the cities of Europe, Budapest has a surprisingly incredible selection of small restaurants to try. My personal favourite was PHỞ 18 Budapest — you can thank me later.

What to do in Budapest.

Budapest is so large, and with so much to do, it'd take a tightly packed itinerary to get it all done in a few days. But here are a few of my non-negotiables.

Firstly, walk around. In my humble opinion, there is no better way to get a feel for a new city than by roaming the streets and taking in the sights on foot. Especially in Budapest, a city that can capture your imagination at every corner. Crossing the Liberty Bridge and seeing both sides of the city unfold before your eyes is an experience not easily forgotten. 

On my first morning, I walked up to Buda Castle and explored the grounds and museums before hiring a scooter and making my way back to my accommodation.

Image: Supplied.

Europe is in another league from Australia's biking culture, and sometimes you don't feel the safest climbing onto the seat as an Aussie tourist. But, props where it's due, because the roads, bike lanes and traffic were incredible to bike around on (even as a novice pedaller myself). Because of this, scooting along the riverside is something I can't recommend highly enough. 

But at this point, you're probably sweating. You've been walking up hills and riding around in the beautiful dry heat that is Hungary in August. Now, it is time for a trip to the baths — Gellért Baths, to be specific.

While this excursion might seem like it's breaking the bank for the budget girlies, it was one that was definitely worth it. Being able to rest your weary legs in thermal springs under stained-glass roofs is unmatched after a long day.

Now that you're clean, cool(er) and the evening is setting in, it's time for an open-bar cruise during golden hour. Gliding along the Danube with some new (or old) friends while tucking into some prosecco is the way to end your first night in town. And with views like these, it's a no-brainer. 

Breathtaking Views from a Danube River cruise in Budapest. Image: Supplied.

For the rest of your time in Budapest, there are so many incredible sights to see: Hungarian Parliament, St Stephen's Basilica, Fisherman's Bastion. Plus, if you're getting tired of walking everywhere, the Budapest transport system was one of my favourites throughout my entire travels (the BudapestGo app is your best friend, so long as you don't forget to pay for a ticket or pass as the inspectors do inspect — and they are not too lenient with tourists).

Finally, if you enjoy a cheeky drink while on holiday, there are so many incredible bars and venues throughout the city. I went on a bar crawl with my hostel, so I didn't have to plan too much, but by simply wandering the city, you can stumble upon so many incredible spots. And, in honour of specificity, I recommend Koleves, the Karavan food market and Szimpla for an incredible night out. 

Where to stay in Budapest. 

If hostels aren't your vibe, I can respect that (and be a little envious). The Airbnb variety seemed incredible and it's all in knowing what you want out of the trip. Divided into districts, Budapest can provide the perfect vacay no matter what you're looking for.

Looking for some peace and historical atmosphere? District I's your go. Keen for some nightlife? Check out District VII. Travelling with kids? District XIII is nice, quiet and just that little bit tucked away from all the city shenanigans. After the art scene, and some cultural atmosphere? Say hello to District VI.

No matter what you're looking for from Budapest, I can promise that it will deliver. So next time you're planning your Euro travels, do me a favour, and please don't underestimate this Hungarian paradise.

Feature image: Supplied.