Budapest, a city of 1.9 million people, is the political, cultural, intellectual, and economic center of Hungary. It is divided by the Danube River, which separates Buda from Pest. Buda, the older section of the city contains most of the medieval Roman areas, cultural attractions, and monuments. Pest is a thriving commercial and administrative center, full of restaurants, clubs, shops, and office.

Budapest offers a wealth of cultural activities. The State Opera House and the Ferenc Liszt Music Academy produce world-class operas and concerts. Theater can be enjoyed at the Madach and Nemzeti theaters as well as a variety of small venues around the city offering both contemporary and classical repertoires in several languages. The city is home to numerous museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Mucsarnok Art Gallery, the National Museum, and the Museum of Applied Arts. Sporting enthusiasts will find numerous opportunities to watch or participate in European football, basketball, hockey and other competitive athletics. Budapest also offers many pleasant areas for bicycling, running, or hiking. Students enjoy the modern cinemas, cafes, pubs, and dance clubs. Several English-language newspapers advertise a variety of cultural and entertainment events around the country.

Princeton students will have full access to library and computing facilities at CEU, which holds the largest collection of English language materials in the social sciences and humanities in Central and Eastern Europe. The library aims to become the leading research and information center in the region by using all available means of information technology. CEU also houses the Open Society Archives, with holdings from the Research Institute of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and the archives of the Soros Foundations Network, all of which is rich in resources for independent work.

Students may also use CEU's medical facilities, access to which is based on presentation of a valid student ID. (Students must provide CEU with proof of insurance coverage prior to enrolling in the program.) The two CEU doctors hold regular consultation hours, and both doctors speak English.

There is also a Counseling Center to support students with emotional and psychological difficulties.