Dent, Bob: Budapest for Children - Our Budapest (Budapest, 1992)

6. Parks and Open Spaces

6. PARKS AND OPEN PLACES

Despite the centre of Budapest being very cramped and enclosed, there are a number of places within easy reach, perfect for strolling, relaxing, playing ball or more specific activities. The air in these places tends to be a little bit better than elsewhere in the centre and they also provide a respite from Budapest’s noisy traffic.

Margaret Island [Margitsziget]

A real island with lots of grass and trees, about 2.5 kilometres long, in the middle of the Danube between Margaret [Margit] and Árpád bridges. A popular recreation spot with Hungarians and foreigners alike. Lots to do and quite a lot to see. Can be very crowded in the summer and on festive days, but trafficwise it is very peaceful as private cars are only allowed on the northern tip of the island—though watch out for the buses which run up and down its main road.

The island is best approached at its southern tip along the bridge connecting it to Margaret Bridge. Trams no. 4 and 6, which run along the Great Boulevard and from Moszkva tér, cross Margaret Bridge and stop in the middle by the island. Alternatively, bus no. 26 leaves Nyugati (formerly Marx) tér by the side of the Western Railway Station and goes to the island, crossing its