At the dawn of this new year, we’re looking forward to seeing several of Budapest’s major urban development projects that are slated for completion in 2016. We love to take long walks and explore the yet-unknown buildings, streets, and squares of the city, and make use of the best community spaces the Magyar metropolis has to offer. If you feel the same way, here are a few tips on where to start looking in the upcoming months.

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Nehru Bank

Situated between Fővám Square and Petőfi Bridge, Nehru Bank is a particularly scenic spot on the Danube, but sadly its full potential has not yet been unlocked. Back in December 2013, we shared some design plans drawn up in an effort to beautify the area, named after India’s first prime minister, and we hope that most of the new features – such as the water garden, the BMX park, the dog runs, and the sledding hill – will materialize in 2016. Not only will Budapest gain a new and modern public space by the river, but the popularity of the Bálna shopping mall could also increase in the aftermath of the overhaul. We can’t wait to see the result!

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Hullám Boathouses

With only part of the endeavor realized up until now, Hullám Boathouses in the southern-Pest district of Pesterzsébet are already regarded as one of the coolest outdoors venues on the bank of the Danube. We have no doubt that they will become a huge local attraction in 2016: the sports and music events planned for the warmer months are bound to make the tranquil riverside location a hit among those looking for a hip place to hang out. We can definitely see ourselves grabbing some oars come summertime.