This landlocked country, at different junctures of history a part of the Hapsburg and Soviet empires, is firmly wedged between eastern and western Europe. Budapest is a cultured and sophisticated capital with majestic boulevards, opera houses, fine cafes and a walled castle district. Lake Balaton serves as the country's resort, while thermal spas and bathhouses are popular nationwide.

landlocked country, Hungary is wedged between eastern and western Europe. Since the fall of the communist government in 1989 the economy has steadily improved, and annual tourist numbers have risen to 20m. Of the population of 10.1m, 90% are native Magyars (Hungarians), with the Roma (gypsies) the biggest minority group. Once part of Austria's Hapsburg Empire, Hungary also fell to the Ottoman Turks and the Romans; some relics of these times remain.

The highly cultured and sophisticated capital, Budapest, on the Danube, is reminiscent of Paris with majestic boulevards, cathedrals, opera houses and fine cafes. Its walled castle district and ornate parliament building are key sights. Attractions elsewhere are historic cities and vineyards in the north, as well as thermal spas and bathhouses across the country.

Lake Balaton in the west is the country's surrogate coastal resort; although picturesque, its waters aren?t too pleasant for swimming. Hungary will have to work hard to clean up its environmental act, particularly in waste management, air, soil and water pollution, if it is to meet EU membership requirements.

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