T he Danube River weaves through 10 countries — a historic haunt of Europe ' s greatest artists and composers . Yet , Budapest , Hungary appears again and again , one of the most painted and most photographed , living up to its nickname as the “ Queen of the Danube .” When travellers plan trips to the city , they have to choose a side — Buda , or Pest . While the city is known by its combined name , the two sides have very distinct characters . Buda , which sits on the west of the river , is hilly , quiet and green , home to more families and expats . Pest , on the other hand , is flat , gritty and vibrant — a place where bars and kebab shops stay open until late , sharing the streets with Michelin-starred restaurants and countless museums , theatres and attractions .