Our cruise has almost come to an end but we do have 2 days in Budapest before we finish. As we sailed into the city you could not miss the massive Hungarian Parliament building. Constructed in 1843, it is among the world's largest parliamentary buildings.

Our included excursion here was Panoramic Budapest which gave us insight into Hungary's wonderful capital. Started with a drive-along elegant Andrássy Avenue, the Champs-Élysées of Budapest, through Heroes Square and then across the river to the Castle District. Here we walked to see the turreted Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church as well as wandered through the little streets.

The Fisherman's Bastion known as "Halászbástya" in Hungarian, was built between 1895 and 1902 to celebrate the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian state. Fisherman's Bastion was built on the site of the old castle walls, and it got its name because this part of the wall was historically protected by the fishermen's guild during sieges.

Matthias Church is one of the most unique churches in Europe as it is one of the few churches not named after a saint. Check out the orange, brown, and golden hewed frescos reaching from floor to ceiling, beautiful stained glass windows, far-reaching arches, century-old wooden pews, and medieval remnants.

We headed back to the ship for lunch and then set off in the afternoon for some self-exploration.

Our first stop was at the moving Shoes on the Danube Memorial. They are a stark and poignant memorial and a monument to the 3,500 Hungarian Jews who, in the winter of 1944-1945, were shot on the banks of the Danube River by the members of the Arrow Cross Party. The memorial comprises 60 pairs of life-size, iron shoes stretching along a section of the Danube's riverbank. Caste in the style of the 1940s, the shoes are in different sizes; representing the men, women, and children this memorial is a tribute to.

We then headed to the central market to gain a glimpse of Hungarian culinary delights such as lángos, paprika, and Tokaji wines. Built in 1897, the Great Market Hall is a historic indoor market and a symbol of the city. This architectural marvel boasts a stunning neogothic entrance gate and colorful tiling on its roof, covering 10,000 square meters.

Then it was time for some relaxing in Vörösmarty Square. Named after the revered Hungarian poet Sándor Vörösmarty, honored with a statue at its center, it serves as a hub of activity for both locals and tourists.

A visit to Budapest would not be complete without a wander along Váci Street. This 2 kilometre street is filled with shops, cafes, and bistros.

A stroll along the Danube riverfront provides you with a blend of the elegance of Budapest's past and present. Historic buildings and modern structures coexist showcasing the city's architectural evolution. Check out the different bridges that cross the mighty Danube including the Széchenyi Chain Bridge opened in 1849; Elizabeth Bridge named in honor of Empress Elizabeth of Austria, affectionately known as Sissi which opened in 1903; Margaret Bridge the only one with a bend, linking the city to the tranquil Margaret Island; and Liberty Bridge with its distinctive green color and design which opened in 1896.

Our final night onboard was capped off with the Captains Cocktail Party and then it was time to say farewell and begin the long journey back to Australia.