Chain Bridge

When the German Army retreated during World War II, they blew up the seven bridges that connected Pest and Buda to slow down the approaching Russian Army (incidentally, that winter was so cold that the Danube froze, and the soldiers simply marched across the ice). But the pillars of Budapest’s oldest bridge, Széchenyi Lánchíd, survived, and today the elegant structure, with two massive arches framed by stone lions, is a popular landmark. (the bridge was originally commissioned by Count István Széchenyi in 1839, after he was forced to delay his father’s funeral for a week when he was unable to cross the Danube during bad weather. The Four Seasons Gresham Palace has perfect views of it.

Indagare Tip: Indagare members can contact the Bookings Team to arrange a tour of the inner passageways of the bridge, a sure hit with families.