The Alienist, the series based on the blockbuster novel by Caleb Carr, was one of the many productions to pull an amazing slight-of-hand and use Budapest as a stand-in for a far away location. In The Alienist’s case, Budapest became turn-of-the-century (the last century, that is) New York. The collaboration was successful enough that a sequel was ordered, The Alienist: Angel of Darkness, which was also shot here in Hungary.

So, it’s fair to say that Alienist star Luke Evans has been around Budapest for long enough have an informed opinion on its merits. In a recent video (below), which promotes both the show and the city, Evans takes the viewer around Budapest, and even dishes some local secrets.

While Evans begins his tour with some of the tried and true choices: the Castle, and the Chain Bridge, he quickly moves on to more personal favorites, like the Liberty Bridge (Budapest’s smaller, more elegant bridge) and while introducing us to the Gellért thermal baths, he is quick to point out that you can have a DIY bath in the famous bath’s spill-off that gathers in a rogue hand-constructed pool by the Danube, for free.

The legality of bathing in that pool — it’s a popular thing for local young people to do — is questionable. But as Will Smith showed us with his stunt of shooting video footage of him dancing atop the Chain Bridge, stars in Budapest are often given the benefit of the doubt.

Evans also reveals himself to be a fan of the electric scooters that now buzz around town, through the company Lime. In particular, he enjoyed the open greenery of Margaret Island, which he calls, ‘a secret garden’ in the middle of the city. He is right, though perhaps it is not such a secret.

That Budapest became one of the favorite cities of a star who passed through is no surprise. Actors like Matt Damon and Brad Pitt also fell under the city’s spell while working here. But it’s also nice to see an endorsement that gets more personal and informed (and comes with a video!)

The Alienist: Angel of Darkness, is currently running on TNT. Below find Luke Evans’ tour of Budapest.

Flatpack Films has many years of experience dedicated to offering expert servicing. It has brought the best of Hungary to countless brands, agencies, and production companies through its unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top of the line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more - bringing their projects to life through a highly bespoke approach.