A town split in 2 - Buda pretty well off and Pest a lot like Eastern Europe was always sterotyped (think thats the right way round). HID went on a cruise from Vienna to Budapest on the Danube as an all expenses trip with her company and quite liked the place. The parliament building worth a look
It'll be good! I played in the "old" hall of the Budapest Orchestra many years ago, flew in in the dark and out the next morning with a hangover....
Similar to Czech rep, very civilised these days, not expensive, splendid architecture, great Pilsner-type beer.