Margaret Island (Margitsziget)

Think of the two-mile long Margaret Island—named for Princess Margaret who lived in a convent here in the 13th century—as a grander version of New York’s Central Park: a verdant respite from city life, especially during the hot summer months. The car-free island, located north of downtown Pest and reached via the Margaret Bridge, has some sights, including a 187-foot Water Tower, built in 1911; a rose garden and Japanese garden; the remains of a 14th-century Franciscan church; and a huge public swimming pool, designed by Hungarian Olympic athlete Alfred Hajós, who also created the Andrássy. But most people come to jog, walk or picnic on the island’s large lawns and along its leafy shore during the day—it is not advised to go to Margaret Island after nightfall.