THE FACTS ABOUT BUDAPEST

Hungary Budapest

Race date: August 3 2008 The Hungaroring circuit, only 19 kilometres from the centre of Budapest, is an F1 haven. Known as The Shallow Plate, 80% of the track is visible from any vantage point in the stands, which is excellent news for specators. The track is sensational, but those wanting to capitalise on their time in Hungary should pop back to the city centre after a day at the race. Food lovers flock to the Great Market Hall, a huge indoor food market that specialises in local paprika, goose liver and Hungarian brandy. Falk Miksa utca is an (almost) endless antique street where you really can satiate a desperate urge for shopping. Coffee house culture still reigns, so find a gorgeous little place to reflect on the races and watch the world go by. Magyar cuisine is rich and meaty (think venison, pheasant and Magyarovar veal cutlets), and there are endless restaurants where you can gorge on some hearty dishes. WHERE TO STAY Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal, Erzsbet Korut 43-49, H-1073, Budapest (00 36 1 479 4000; www.corinthiahotels.com). Habsburg-era majesty meets modern elegance in this carefully restored building on Budapest's main boulevard. Service is polite and efficient, and of a five-star standard. WHERE TO EAT Lou Lou, Vigyazo Ferenc utca 4, Budapest (00 36 1 312 4504). With just eight tables, this is an intimate restaurant that treats you to French-Hungarian food. The wine list is extensive, the staff speak English and the interiors are rustic. WHERE TO DRINK White Heaven, Szent Istavan ter 4-5, Budapest (00 36 30 963 1963; www.thewhiteheaven.com). A private members' club, White Heaven is the most fashionable place in the city where you can eat, drink and dance. Book a table to make sure you get past the members-only rule. FIND OUT MORE IN OUR BUDAPEST GUIDE