| As winter finally gives way to spring each year, | | | | of Nigel Kennedy and flamenco fused with gypsy |
| Hungary's capital city is transformed into a hub of | | | | sounds brought to audiences by Maria Serrano and |
| music and culture. The Budapest Spring Festival draws | | | | Kaman Balogh. |
| travelers from across the world and backpackers | | | | Contemporary dance performances and cultural film |
| should book their Budapest hostels early to ensure | | | | screenings reflect the festival's modern approach |
| they have somewhere to stay. | | | | which makes it so popular among young people. |
| When It Is | | | | Where to Stay |
| The Budapest Spring Festival takes place in the final | | | | Budapest hostels offer great value and are a far cry |
| fortnight of the month of March every year. This year | | | | from the austere and limited travel accommodation |
| it will begin on 20th March 2009 and will continue until | | | | that was available during the Communist era. |
| 5th April 2009. | | | | Travelers should head downtown to get the best |
| What It Is | | | | Budapest hostel bargains. Many of the city's main |
| A highlight in Hungary's cultural calendar, the Budapest | | | | attractions such as the thermal baths and Roman ruins |
| Spring Festival is a long-standing annual celebration of | | | | are located here and backpackers will be able to |
| orchestral and classical music. The city comes alive | | | | combine the Budapest Spring Festival with some |
| during two weeks in spring with musical performances, | | | | sightseeing. |
| workshops and talks. Travelers on a budget can soak | | | | Getting Around |
| up the atmosphere and enjoy some of the free public | | | | Public transport in Budapest is excellent and |
| performances that are regularly organized. | | | | backpackers can make their way to festival |
| The Music | | | | performances using the various modes of travel |
| With over 200 performances arranged over 14 days, | | | | available. |
| the Budapest Spring Festival will appeal to most | | | | A sophisticated bus and tram network makes |
| musical and artistic tastes. Backpackers who enjoy | | | | navigating a journey from a traveler's Budapest hostel |
| jazz, opera, theater, ballet and concerts will not be | | | | to any desired destination straightforward. |
| disappointed. | | | | Trolleybuses, overhead trains and underground lines |
| Highlights | | | | are also reliable and cost-effective. It is also worth |
| This year's highlights included performances by the | | | | investigating transport discount promotions and travel |
| Russian National Opera, an evening of jazz courtesy | | | | passes. |