The grand palazzos and charming side streets of inner District 8 in Józsefváros still exude an air of upper class, pre-war Budapest. Stylish cafés and restaurants have mushroomed to take advantage of the area's newfound popularity, but the neighborhood isn't yet overrun by tourists as the nearby and better-known Jewish Quarter (District 7). Józsefváros ( German: Josefstadt) is the 8th district of Budapest, Hungary. It is the part of the city centre in the wider sense as one of the 18-19th century older suburbs, close to Belváros . Budapest, St. Joseph Parish Church Location
6 reasons to visit Budapest's District 8
Budapest's hipster district, Józsefváros, is an underrated gem full of great food, hipster bars, historical sights and beautiful architecture. Here's our guide to the 8th District, including what to see, eat and do. Józsefváros is more than just a district in Budapest; it's a tapestry of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or someone looking for a taste of Budapest's local life, Józsefváros promises an experience that's both enriching and unforgettable. Google Maps of Józsefváros (District 8) Buda: I, II Óbuda: III Pest: IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X In the 1930s, 4 new districts were organized, numbered from XI to XIV. On 1 January 1950, 7 neighboring towns and 16 villages were annexed to Budapest by creating 9 new districts, so the number of its districts increased to 22. A decade ago, the streets of Budapest's Eighth District - also known as Józsefváros - were best avoided. Beneath the shadows of the grand aristocratic homes and ornate residences walked.
A Guide To Józsefváros, Budapest's Hipster District 8 The Common Wanderer
Budapest's District VIII is one of two contrasting halves. Closer to the city center sits Palotanegyed - the Palace District - an area noted for its stunning architecture, an abundance of students and a relaxed, cafe atmosphere. The other part of District VIII, beyond the Grand Boulevard, has an entirely different feel. Józsefváros, Budapest's 8th District, is a truly unique sector of the city that combines historic elegance and contemporary liveliness. It offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for every tourist. Budapest Guide: Inside the 8th District Over the last 13 years, Budapest's 8th district, Józsefváros, has transformed itself from an area known for crime into a vibrant hub of culture filled. Once the city's dark underbelly, Budapest's 8th District is now a thriving neighbourhood with a plethora of hip cultural spaces and laid-back bars. It's also known as the Palace District, thanks to the flock of stunning 19th-century mansions constructed by the city's nobility, and this faded glamour certainly contributes to the 8th.
Leafy tree lined street in District 8, Budapest, Hungary Stock Photo Alamy
Unlike Vienna and many other European capitals, Budapest is a conglomeration of 23 cities called districts, each having a number, a name (like 8 th District is Józsefváros i.e. Josephtown ), its own elected assembly and mayor, and, most importantly, its own budget. The VIII District is perhaps Budapest's most diverse neighbourhood.It's home to a vibrant and vast Roma majority, and you'll also find a community of Asians (if you want something different, head out to the Four Tigers Market, a bustling Chinese market in the outskirts of the district).You can also grab a bite to eat at an African buffet, buy spices and halal meat from a Pakistani shop.
Budapest's centrally located District 8 (aka Józsefváros) used to be known as a soft "ghetto" and slightly dangerous area of the city, especially two decades ago. It was known for having all the marginalized elements of society such as drug addicts, prostitutes, gypsies and low lives thrashing around in filth for as far as your eyes could see. The 23 Budapest districts ( kerület in Hungarian) are numbered clockwise, in widening circles like Paris' arrondissements. They are marked with Roman numerals (I-XXIII). Downtown Budapest districts have lower numbers (I., II.), while suburban districts have higher ones (XXI., XXII.).
A Guide To Józsefváros (District 8), Budapest's NewCool Neighborhood Offbeat Budapest
Budapest's District 8 Until recently, Budapest District 8 was off the radar for visitors, considered a high crime area with buildings in various stages of disrepair from neglect. It's still not a place that tourists will find easily. Krúdy Gyula Street, District 8 The old Jewish Quarter today is home to Budapest's famed ruin bars and it's the center of nighlife. Little of the neighborhood's Jewish past has remained save for three synagogues, including Europe's biggest in Dohány Street. The Palace Quarter (District 8) has striking pre-war mansions and cute cafés nestled on quiet streets.
