The Hungarian capital is connected to water in several ways. Firstly, it’s split into two by the Danube, one of Europe’s biggest rivers. Secondly, in many parts of the world it’s called the City of Baths, thanks to traditions from the Turkish occupation and later periods. From Gellért Hill on the Buda side, a fantastic waterfall welcomes those walking by or crossing the Elisabeth Bridge from Pest to Buda during the summer and rainy periods. Perhaps this is also where Hungarians’ fascination with water comes from, which shows in sports as well, since our national teams perform exceptionally in canoeing and kayaking, water polo and swimming too, all over the world (Go Hungarians!). What are the water sports available to all that you must try in Budapest? We’ll show you! Modern and SUPer SUP is one of the biggest water sports sensations of late. Why? It’s easier than surfing, it doesn’t require major natural conditions – such as a bulwark – aside from water, yet it works your muscles, while at the same time you have time to marvel at your surroundings or chat with others. The team at SUP Budapest offers sunset, night time and day-long tours in Budapest – after prior registration – for beginners and advanced participants alike. The programs are led by experienced guides, and you can participate in a short security and paddling technique course at the beginning of each paddling. Have you imagined what it’s like to SUP under the Danube bridges during sunset? The classic romantic Városliget is one of the first “good weather” destinations for all tourists arriving in Budapest, since it offers several places of interest. You can take a walk around Vajdahunyad Castle – visiting the statue of Anonymus, world literature’s most mysterious writer – relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, then have a picnic on the green grass of one of Budapest’s biggest parks. If you get into a really romantic mood and, if that’s not enough, then head towards the Városliget Lake, where in the winter lovers of skating can skate up and down while holding hands, but in the summer the lake is filled up again, and you can enjoy the waves with paddle boats disguised as small cars and mini boats. The lake’s water is unfortunately not suitable for swimming, so try to stay inside your vehicle, so the rendezvous won’t turn into having to save someone. The athletic youthful Upon hearing the word Aquafitness, many of us imagine a simple, easy training method. However, with this sport – especially when done with the supervision of an experienced guide – you’ll move all your muscles during a 60-minute session. Moreover, Aquafitness not only improves your sense of balance, but it also improves coordination and is easy on the joints, and since you don’t have to move your limbs to music, even those without a sense of rhythm can be hugely successful. One of the most qualified and sympathetic Aquafitness venues for us is the swimming pool section at the LIFE1 Sportcentrum in Corvin Quarter, at the crossing of Üllői Road and Ferenc Boulevard. A modern environment and changing rooms await their esteemed guests, and you can even choose a session and training schedule to match your age. Put on your swimsuit and head to the swimming pool! Photo: Pexels