Andrassy street runs from the river north through the heart of Budapest and ends at Hero's Square. It is a pleasant afternoon's walk that takes in some of the city's major landmarks, such as the Opera House, the House of Terror and the Budapest Museum of Fine Arts. A few steps south of Hero's Square you can board the electric train underground and ride it all the way back to the river within minutes.

The House of Terror is a museum that somberly chronicles some of the attrocities perpetrated on the Hungarian people during World War II and the subsequent Communist occupation that lasted through 1989. It takes about an hour and a half to experience it but you are likely to remember it for a lifetime. Parts of the exhibition are not suitable for young children and you would do well to plan some light-hearted activity for afterwards. There is a modest entrance fee.

You can experience the highlights of the Budapest Museum of Fine Arts in a few hours time. It is the permanent home to some important 16th century Dutch paintings, Austrian and German paintings from the Medieval time period and an extensive Egyptian collection. There is a modest entry fee and an additional fee for those who wish to take photographs which is strictly enforced.

Hero's Square was erected in 1896 to commemorate the 1000 year anniversary of the Hungarian conquest. On its periphery statues representing ancient chieftans and the concepts of War, Peace, Work, Welfare, Knowledge and Glory overlook a vast semi-circular area covered with flagstones. The center piece is a representation of the angel Gabriel standing on a stone column over 100 feet high.

A few moments walk north of Hero's Square are the famous Thermal Baths where Hungarians can enjoy year round the comforts of a natural spa.