After a long three-legged flight, we settled in our comfortable cabin, looked out our window and saw the Hungarian Parliament.

Views all around were stunning.

We weren't the only river cruise, but traffic on the Danube was surprisingly light. 

The Royal Palace and the Chain Bridge

The Chain Bridge at night

This statue, on a tall pillar, overlooks Hero's Square in central Pest.

Heroes flanked the base of the pillar

It seems the statues of war more elaborate than others.

Of course St. Stephen was there.

Tall ornate lamp poles flanked the square.

Hungarian State Opera House

St. Stephen's Bascilica

... with its striking dome

...fascinated this young visitor.

Over in Buda,  the Matthias Church has a beautiful tiled roof

Overseen by a raven, perched on by a small bird

Overlooking the church is Hungary's first king, St. Stephen.

Paprika on the hoof

The area's oldest house is now a museum.

The main street of Castle Hill, Buda

The holes in this building are from WWII

Our ship alongside in Pest.

This sad monument of brass shoes represents what was left when Jewish victims were forced to jump into the freezing Danube during WWII.

The deck chair area on the top of the Adagio was a restful contrast.

Why bother moving from bus to boat for a city tour?

Hooded Crows provided deckside birdwatching.