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Budapest   Travel Guide

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19 Best Things To Do in Budapest

Updated May. 8, 2023

The thermal baths are king here, but there are plenty of other ways to kill a day. World-class museums, island parks, shopping and cafes are available in spades. Foot it around Castle Hill for a taste of medieval Budapest or spend an afternoon

• All Things To Do

Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) free

Located in the historic district of  Castle Hill , Fisherman's Bastion is a neo-Gothic terrace that looks like a structure taken straight out of a fairy tale. Designed and built in 1905 by Frigyes Schulek – the same architect who built the adjacent Matthias Church – Fisherman's Bastion is named after the medieval guild of fishermen who protected Budapest from invasion.

Visitors say Fisherman's Bastion's gleaming white structure provides panoramic views of the city: From here, you can snap some breathtaking pictures of the Danube River , Margaret Island and Pest. Also save time for exploring the sight's seven ornate turrets, which symbolize the tents of the seven Magyar leaders who settled the Carpathian Basin, ultimately leading to the existence of modern-day Hungary. 

Danube River Danube River free

Dividing the city's Buda and Pest sides is the impressive Danube River. Flowing roughly 1,770 miles from west Germany through Austria, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova and, of course, Hungary, before meeting the Black Sea in southern Ukraine, this sprawling river is the second longest in Europe. Along its Budapest shores, travelers will find iconic sights like the Hungarian Parliament and Buda Castle .

Recent visitors highly recommend checking out the Danube River on foot or by boat. If you decide to go for a stroll, consider doing so at the Danube Promenade, which offers picturesque views and the must-see Shoes on the Danube Bank Holocaust memorial, according to past travelers. Many also suggest signing up for an evening sightseeing cruise through local operators like Legenda Sightseeing Boats and Portum Lines .

Castle Hill (Várhegy) Castle Hill (Várhegy) free

Located on the west side of the Danube River , Castle Hill is a must-see district for any Budapest visitor. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, the area's iconic Buda Castle was constructed in the 13th century. Walk the cobblestone streets, take in the medieval atmosphere and dive deep into Budapest's history.

From the castle to  Matthias Church  to the underground Castle Labyrinth to  Fisherman's Bastion , you'll find there's almost no end to what you can learn about Budapest's past. The lack of vehicle traffic also lends an old-world charm to the area. Plus, travelers say you'll discover sweeping city panoramas from multiple locales in the neighborhood.

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Széchenyi Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) Széchenyi Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) free

It's hard to miss the nearly 1,250-foot-long Széchenyi Chain Bridge. Originally built in the 1800s by English engineer William Tierney Clark, this stunning suspension bridge was mostly destroyed during World War II. Though it was badly damaged, it still features its original pillars and stone lions that flank its entrances. Since being reconstructed in the late 1940s, visitors have flocked here to walk, bike and drive across it.

Travelers rave about this impressive bridge, saying it's a superb subject for photos. For the best views, visitors suggest arriving at night when lights illuminate the bridge and surrounding attractions. Sights you can see from the Széchenyi Chain Bridge include Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament .

Heroes' Square (Hosök tere) Heroes' Square (Hosök tere) free

Heroes' Square is one of Budapest's grandest landmarks. In fact, it's the largest public square in the city. Swing by this area to take a picture of the Millenary Monument, which was erected in 1896 to celebrate Hungary's 1000th anniversary.

The square and the monument are dedicated to those who lost their lives while fighting for the country's independence. At the base of the famous column (topped with the Archangel Gabriel) are statues representing seven Magyar chieftains – considered to be the founders of the Hungarian nation. Behind the column are matching colonnades with 14 statues of royalty and other important figures in Hungarian history.

Hungarian Parliament (Országház) Hungarian Parliament (Országház)

Completed in 1902, the Hungarian Parliament is one of Budapest's most famous landmarks. The Hungarian National Assembly still meets here, but visitors come mainly to take in the building's architecture (primarily Gothic Revival-style) and beautiful statues and paintings. According to many, there is no structure in Hungary that serves as a better symbol of the country's independence and commitment to democracy. 

Travelers and locals alike say this structure is a must-see for any visitor's first trip to Budapest. It not only features incredible architectural details but also stunning Danube River views and significant artifacts, such as Hungary's crown jewels. If you're interested in touring the inside, visitors suggest booking well in advance since tours – which are the only way to gain interior access – fill up fast. Photography is permitted during a tour; however, taking pictures inside the Dome Hall (where the crown jewels are located) is not allowed.

St. Stephen's Basilica (Svent István Bazilika) St. Stephen's Basilica (Svent István Bazilika) free

One of downtown Budapest's most popular sights is St. Stephen's Basilica. Featuring two clock towers and an impressive cupola, this historical church, which was dedicated to Stephen I (Hungary's founder and first king) upon completion in 1905, took more than 50 years to build. Visitors flock here to catch a glimpse of its main attraction – the Holy Right. This mummified, jewel-adorned right hand of the property's namesake rests inside an ornate golden reliquary in the church's Holy Right chapel.

Past travelers praised St. Stephen's Basilica's stunning architecture and interior, as well as the breathtaking city views from the cupola's balcony. Visitors can explore the church on their own, but for more insight about its history, reviewers recommend paying for the guided tour, which includes looks at the Holy Right chapel, the on-site treasury and the cupola.

Buda Castle (Budai vár) Buda Castle (Budai vár) free

As its name implies, Castle Hill 's main attraction is its medieval castle. Built in the 14th century to accommodate various kings, the structure now features Baroque and neo-Baroque details added during various restorations. It's also home to the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum and the National Széchényi Library.

Like Gellért Hill and the  Széchenyi Chain Bridge , Buda Castle boasts picturesque city panoramas, according to past visitors. However, previous travelers had mixed feelings about using the Buda Castle Funicular. Some enjoyed riding it to the top, while others bemoaned its pricey fees and suggested walking. If you are not keen on walking but want to avoid paying 1,200 forints (about $5) for a one-way fare or 1,800 forints ($7) for a round-trip ticket, consider using the No. 16 bus. Each ticket costs 350 forints (roughly $1.50) when purchased in advance; to get a ticket on board, expect to pay 450 forints (less than $2). For Budapest Card holders, rides on public transportation are covered.

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Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom) Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom) free

The neo-Gothic Matthias Church in  Castle Hill  has been around for centuries and, in many ways, its history corresponds to that of Budapest itself. Built in the 13th century, Matthias was the city's first parish church. However, it was transformed into a mosque during the 1541 Ottoman occupation and remained an Islamic place of worship until the Turkish expulsion nearly 150 years later. Today, tourists come to admire its imposing architecture, take in its historical symbolism and spend some time studying its impressive artwork.

Recent visitors said the church's architecture is striking and the informational place cards throughout the property give you a sense of its expansive history. Don't forget to check out the Ecclesiastical Art Collection, also housed inside. You can see the medieval crypt where 10th-century King Béla III and his wife Agnes are buried, as well replicas of royal jewels and other religious artifacts. And if you enjoy organs, the church's (with 7,771 pipes and 18 bells) is regularly the star of on-site concerts and shows.

Dohány Street Synagogue (Dohány utcai Zsinagóga) Dohány Street Synagogue (Dohány utcai Zsinagóga) free

Also referred to as the Great Synagogue, this place of worship is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world (only Temple Emanu-El in  New York City  is slightly bigger). Opened in 1859, this building features Romantic and Moorish Revival-style architecture and can accommodate up to 3,000 people.

Travelers suggest you visit for the atmosphere and to learn of the synagogue's historical significance  –  particularly its connection to the Holocaust.  In 1939, the synagogue was bombed by a Hungarian pro-Nazi party, and between 1944 and 1945, Dohány Street itself constituted the border of Budapest's Jewish ghetto. Visit the adjacent Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives to learn about the history of Hungarian Judaism and to pay your respects at the Garden of Memory in its courtyard.

Museum of Fine Arts (Szépmuvészeti Múzeum) Museum of Fine Arts (Szépmuvészeti Múzeum)

Located in City Park by Sz é chenyi Baths and the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden, the Museum of Fine Arts showcases Hungarian art dating back to the Middle Ages, plus Egyptian antiquities and 13th- to 19th-century European paintings. Exhibitions feature medals, prints, drawings, wooden sculptures, altarpieces and modern art – all of which contributed to Hungarian history and art development.

Previous museumgoers heap praise on the Museum of Fine Arts, adding that the renovation it underwent until October 2018 is beautiful. Some past visitors specifically raved about the informative displays, noting that they're so well-done that you don't need an audio guide.

Thermal Baths Thermal Baths

A soak in a thermal bath is a quintessential Budapest experience. (It hasn't cultivated a reputation as the "City of Spas" for nothing.) These baths, or fürdok in Hungarian, are heated by natural thermal springs and usually include on-site massage services, as well as steam rooms.

With more than 100 thermal springs, the various baths around the city cater to different tastes – from relaxation to cures for illness – and some transform into pulsating dance clubs at night, so if you're bathing with your family, you might want to do so during the daylight hours.

Gellért Hill (Gellért-hegy) Gellért Hill (Gellért-hegy) free

Across the Danube River from the Inner City lies Gellért Hill. Measuring 771 feet high, this neighborhood is best known for its 19th-century citadel, but the area is also home to an arboretum, a church built into a cave and various statues, such as the Liberty Statue (a traveler favorite) and one of the region's namesake, Saint Gerard. Legend has it that the Italian monk was pushed off of the hill to his death in the 1000s.

On a sunny day, visitors say Gellért Hill offers jaw-dropping views of the river and downtown Budapest. Travelers also praise the neighborhood's statues but recommend learning more about their histories before arriving to supplement your visit. What's more, some caution that the walk up the hill is exhausting, but limited parking is available by the citadel for a fee. You can also take the No. 27 bus most of the way up to the Búsuló Juhász stop.

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Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház) Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház)

Central Pest's Hungarian State Opera House has been an institution in Budapest since its opening in 1884. Featuring a neo-Renaissance style, the opera house holds more than 1,200 seats and has a reputation for its exceptional acoustics. But the building's main draw is its opulent architecture –  inside and out.  Marble columns, gilded vaulted ceilings, an enormous bronze chandelier, and murals and frescoes depicting Greek mythological scenes provide a romantic setting.

According to recent visitors, the opera house's exterior justifies a stop, even if you don't head inside for a guided tour. If you do decide to take a tour, keep in mind that the building is currently undergoing renovations. Some past travelers bemoaned not being able to see the auditorium during their visits. 

House of Terror Museum (Terror Háza Múzeum) House of Terror Museum (Terror Háza Múzeum)

Located in the Terézváros neighborhood in Pest's District VI, the House of Terror Museum is a jarring but important museum that documents the dictatorial oppression Hungary faced during its fascist and Stalinist regimes. Once the headquarters of the State Protection Authority (similar to the Soviet Union's KGB), the building was where brutal interrogations and the torturing of countless political activists and dissidents took place throughout the 20th century. Tour the chillingly realistic prison cell replicas in the basement, and brace yourself for the powerful and moving exhibit on Hungary's post-World War II years leading up to the 1953 uprising against its Soviet-controlled government.

Recent visitors said this museum's exhibits are thought-provoking and informative. However, a few lamented the no photography policy inside. Another drawback: the Hungarian-only displays. To understand the material presented in each exhibit, you'll need to ask for handouts with English translations or pay an extra 1,500 forints (roughly $6) for an English audio guide. You can also reserve a guided tour with an English-speaking guide at least 10 days in advance for 8,000 forints (about $31).

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The 26 best things to do in Budapest

Relaxing spas, raucous bars, fine wines and a whole lot more? Step this way.

Photograph: Szabó Gábor for Time Out

Budapest  is a buzzing, lively, 24-hour city, and if you’re planning a trip, your to-do list might start with gliding along the Danube, laying into a bowl of hearty goulash and taking in the views with a panoramic cocktail. 

This city is steeped in history, blessed with spa waters and embellished with grandiose façades from the Habsburg days, just waiting to be explored. And while it’s not as cheap as it used to be, you can still cram a hell of a lot in on a budget. From attractions  to nightlife , Our local writer Peterjon Cresswell has scoured the city to bring you this list of the best things to do in Budapest. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 How to do a weekend in Budapest 🍲 The best restaurants in Budapest 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in Budapest 🏨 The best  hotels in Budapest 🍽️ …and we’re opening a   Time Out Market in Budapest !

Words by  Peterjon Cresswell , original photos by  Szabó Gábor , both based in Budapest . At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

What to do in Budapest

1.  soak in the széchenyi baths.

What is it?  Surrounded by the greenery of City Park, the Széchenyi Baths are an ornate oasis of relaxation in thermal waters. Pools piping hot, dauntingly cold and mercifully temperate await inside and out, complemented by steam and dry saunas, ice machines, relaxation areas, a lane pool, a whirlpool and a bar/restaurant with an expansive terrace. There’s enough to keep you healthily entertained all day – the hefty price of admission means you’ll want to get your money’s worth in any case. 

On Saturday nights, the Széchenyi transforms into Sparty, a mass pool party with DJs and light shows.

Why go?  Practically all European capitals have galleries, museums and Michelin-starred restaurants – sitting outside in the Széchenyi Baths as the city sizzles or snowflakes flutter is a uniquely Budapest experience.

2.  Take the funicular to visit Buda Castle

What is it?  The short climb by funicular from Clark Ádám tér takes you to the former royal palace atop Castle Hill now housing the National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum and the Széchényi Library. Its green-coloured cupola, an addition during the lengthy post-war rebuild in the 60s, forms an integral part of Buda’s stunning cityscape.

Why go?  A quick zip up Castle Hill by funicular is pretty much top of everyone’s bucket list their first time here – particularly if they’re a fan of Monet or Cezanne, on view at the National Gallery near the funicular terminal. Visitors may also access the panoramic terrace for outstanding views from the cupola.

3.  Glide along the Danube

What is it?  The Danube defines and delineates Budapest into its twin components, Buda and Pest. Wide and graceful, the river is linked by a string of beautiful bridges, and traversed by cruise ships, barges, fire-red speedboats and waterborne lines on the city’s transport network.

Why go?  Relaxing by day, romantic after dark when the bridges light up like pearl necklaces, the Danube plays to your inner Strauss, whether you’re enjoying an hour-long sightseeing tour or indulging in starlit dining à deux .

4.  Tour Budapest’s cool murals

What is it?  Numerous firewalls around Pest, particularly in District VII, are decorated with murals, some related to Hungarian history or culture. These echo many aspects of the country’s past, its inventions and creativity such as Rubik’s Cube, its role in World War II and heroism in the 1956 Uprising, and its recent achievements, such as award-winning scientist Katalin Karikó, instrumental in the development of a coronavirus vaccine. 

Popular among football fans is the huge representation of the famous match between Hungary and England in 1953 at Wembley, overlooking a car park in Rumbach Sebestyén utca.

Why go?  For an alternative sightseeing tour, with special walks available, Budapest’s murals offer the visitor an insight into areas of Hungary’s heritage they might not have known about, and take them to streets they may not have walked down otherwise.

5.  Party on water at the A38 Boat

• Late-night bars

What is it?   This former Ukrainian stone-carrying cargo ship has been transformed into one of Budapest’s most popular nightspots for live music, DJ parties and general after-hours fun. It has a restaurant, too, and a gallery with occasional exhibitions, but its varied concert agenda is the main draw, establishing the   A38   as a mainstay of the city’s music scene for the best part of 20 years.

Why go?   For a night out during your stay here, this is the best bet, whatever happens to be scheduled that particular evening. Even if a Bulgarian black metal band isn’t to your liking, you can always enjoy a drink on the top deck and watch the Danube go by. The A38 is also close to the all-night 4/6 tram route on Petőfi Bridge above, meaning you needn’t mess around with taxis afterwards.

🪩  Read more about Budapest's best   nightlife spots . 

6.  Ride the Children’s Railway

What is it? Perhaps the only revered hangover from the Communist era, the former Pioneers’ Railway (now named the Children's Railway ) is a narrow-gauge train that snakes through the Buda hills. Its unique feature is the fact that it is almost entirely staffed by children – don’t worry, the driver is a grown-up – checking tickets and signalling from the platform.

Why go? Budapest’s most charming attraction allows you to take in the fresh air and greenery of panoramic Buda while enjoying a family-friendly day out.

7.  Sip coffee in style at the New York Palace

What is it? Budapest’s most elegant coffeehouse of the 1890s, amid strong competition, has regained its status after being converted into a five-star hotel in the early 2000s. Now overseen by the high-end Thai group Anantara, the New York has got back its sheen, serving 24-carat gold cappuccino beneath crystal chandeliers, amid marble and mirrors. All of this comes at a price, of course, and having to factor in queueing time for a table to become free.

Why go? Because this was ne plus ultra of Budapest’s literary cafés in the golden era, where film directors found their starlets in the early days of Hungarian cinema – Mihály Kertész, later Michael Curtiz of Casablanca fame, was a regular. It also links to one of the city’s most enduring urban myths, dating back to the 1890s, when playwright Ferenc Molnár threatened to throw the key in the Danube so that the place wouldn’t close. Sculptor Mihály Kolodko ( see below ) riffed on this theme more recently when he created a little statuette near the main entrance.

8.  Get in tune at the House of Music Hungary

What is it?  The latest attraction to open in the city is the jewel in the crown of the Liget Project currently transforming City Park along the lines of Vienna’s Museum Quarter. Adventurous Japanese designer Sou Fujimoto has integrated the surrounding trees into the building, its roof full of holes and seemingly floating on air.

Why go?  As well as a hands-on journey through the history of music, the House of Music Hungary is also an architectural wonder and a complex of spaces for live music, events and exhibitions. The kids can have a great time making strange sounds as they jump around the playground outside.

9.  Get the chills at the House of Terror

What is it?  The house at Andrássy út 60 once inspired fear as the headquarters of the Communist Secret Police, who tortured and killed their victims within these very walls. Since 2002, this elegant villa has housed a poignant museum honouring the victims who were never seen again after being led here.

Why go?  The museum spans four floors and contains a curious collection that blends installations with interactive screens that allow you to listen to first-hand accounts from survivors. These also includes those who did the torturing, happy to describe tearing up farewell letters with little sense of remorse.

10.  Let loose at Szimpla Kert

What is it?  This is Budapest’s original ruin bar, the one that set the tone for so many others to follow, adorning a vast, dilapidated building, its open courtyard and labyrinth of rooms, with eclectic furniture, edgy artwork and fairy lights. A regular agenda of DJs and live acts is programmed, and it tends to be   the   spot for foreign partygoers. 

Why go?  It’s still an essential Budapest experience (but perhaps not for Hungarians trying to avoid tourists). If you've never visited the city, the   Szimpla   will blow your mind – just be prepared to pay a little more for your drinks.

More great things to do in Budapest

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4 Days in Budapest: How to Plan A Perfect Budapest Itinerary

Budapest is one of our favorite cities in Europe. Straddling the Danube, the capital of Hungary is one of Europe’s most charming cities. Not only is it beautiful, but it is filled with history, culture, fun things to do, high quality and inexpensive wine (my personal favorite), and good food. The architecture is beautiful, the atmosphere is vibrant and there are plenty of things to do and see that are well worth the visit. The city is the perfect size: small enough to allow you to explore on foot, but big enough to offer plenty of activities over the course of 4 days in Budapest.

My mom’s side of the family is Hungarian, and before you ask, I speak exactly zero Hungarian, which is easily the hardest language I’ve ever tried to learn.

In this detailed guide, we will give you all the tips you need to create an unforgettable Budapest itinerary. We will take you through Hungarian history and culture and point out all the must-sees for someone visiting the city for the first time. We will also give you suggestions on where to eat, drink, and sleep. 

While we have both visited Budapest multiple times including basically doing the exact itinerary below (twice), and my (Matt’s) mom’s side of the family is Hungarian, we’re by no means experts.

We wanted to bring you the best and most up-to-date recommendations, so we partnered with Diana Bernardo , who is a Portuguese travel writer who has lived in Budapest for the past three years. Over this time, she has hosted many friends and family members in Budapest, and has given them all an extensive tour of the city. 

Now it’s your turn to get the insider tips she has to share that will help you plan an amazing Budapest adventure. Occasionally, we’ll interject with our thoughts and experiences, but for the most part, Diana is going to be your expert tour guide. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Tips for Visiting Budapest

Even though Hungary is in the EU, the country didn’t adopt the Euro as a currency, and still uses the Hungarian forint. This means that there are plenty of exchange houses throughout the city, some better than others. Look for one that has a smaller gap between the buy and sell rates, that’s how you’ll make the most of your money.

Your best bet is to exchange money with your bank at home before you come, and to use ATM machines at reputable banks in Budapest (Budapest Bank and Erste Bank were the ones we saw most often). Keep in mind, you’ll likely be charged a flat fee by both your bank and the bank whose ATM you’re using, which means you should try to withdraw as much cash as you think you’ll need for your trip to avoid paying those flat fees multiple times.

Also, stay away from Euronet ATM machines , as they will give you a very unfavorable rate, and charge you a flat commission on top.

The best option would be to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. If you have an international card like Revolut or Wise , this is the best option. Card payments are accepted everywhere in the city, even for very small amounts, the only exception being some farmers markets or temporary selling stalls.

Where to Stay in Budapest

Budapest is divided into districts. The best one to stay at depends on your preference. If you want to be at the center of the action, close to everything, the 5 th (Belváros) is the one for you .

It includes Deák Ference square, the main transportation hub in the center of Budapest, and it will give you easy access to any point of the city. It is also close to the nightlife area, without being too loud and boisterous.

Staying in Belváros (District V)

The 5 th district is home to many of the city’s hotels and hostels. Here are a couple of options that we like for a range of styles and budgets.

Loft Astoria : The location here couldn’t be better – it’s just a few blocks away from where we stayed on our last trip, which puts you within walking distance of most of Budapest’s main sights. It’s an apartment-hotel, so you’ll have a bit more room, kitchen facilities, and a range of room types from cozy studios (perfect for couples) to two bedroom apartments for larger groups. Unlike many of Budapest’s hotels, which are ornate and classically-decorated, the rooms here are ultra modern and sleek.

Wombats Hostel : We have stayed at Wombats during our trip to Munich , and it was great. Their Budapest outpost is super well located, at only 3 minutes walking from Deák Ference square, Wombat’s checks every box on our list for a good hostel. The rooms – a mix of dorms and private rooms – are good and include private bathroom, the breakfast is of high quality, the staff is nice, and the hostel provides many activities that you can take part in daily. Also, it used to be a four-star hotel that was converted to a hostel but kept the charm of the old building.

Pal’s Hostel : this is not a regular hostel but rather a combination of private rooms (some have shared bathrooms) and apartments around St Stephen’s square. They also offer both dorm beds, which are limited to four people each, which means no 24 bed dorms! In 2018, it won the award the Hostelworld’s award of the 10 th best large hostel worldwide!

Staying in the Castle District (District I)

If you prefer a quieter neighborhood, with green areas and without the feeling of being in the middle of the city, we recommend the 1 st , on Buda side.

It is also very well connected in terms of public transportation, and it even includes some landmarks of the city, like the Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion.

In the 1 st district, you won’t find many hostels, but rather hotels. This is the one we suggest:

PEST-BUDA Design Hotel : This small boutique hotel, in the heart of Buda, is full of charm. It is also very comfortable, providing the rest you deserve after a day exploring the city.

Buda + Pest = Budapest – A Geography Overview

Nowadays, Budapest is one of the biggest cities in Europe (although it really doesn’t feel like it when you are exploring), but that was not always the case. Originally, there were three independent towns: Óbuda, Buda and Pest. They all united in 1873, to form the city of Budapest. 

Óbuda is adjacent to Buda, but Pest is located on the other side of the river Danube, which flows through the city, cutting it in half. This distinction is very used for referencing any spot in the city. The first thing you will need to know when going to a place is: is it in Buda or in Pest?

Also, the two areas have different vibes. Buda is quieter, more residential, hosting families and older generations. Pest has a more vibrant energy, shopping venues, and party spots.

It is extremely easy to go from one to the other, as Budapest has eight bridges connecting the two banks of the Danube.

4 Days in Budapest: a Complete 4-Day Itinerary

In the itinerary below, you’ll get a nice overview of the city, exploring a different part of Budapest on each day.

Day 1: Walking Tour, Castle District and Your First Thermal Bath

Your first day in Budapest will feel like a fairytale. You will go on a walking tour for an overview of the city, explore the picturesque Castle district and end up in a hot tub on a rooftop!

Morning: Walking Tour

As in any other city, the best way to start exploring Budapest is to do a free walking tour. This will give you an overview of the Hungarian history and culture, as well as a better understanding of where the major attraction points in the city are.

There are several tour options, but we recommend this one , as it covers a wide area and it finishes right where you will start your next visit, the Buda Castle.

Remember, these walking tours are tip-based, which is the way the guide makes money. Make sure to tip your guide at the end of the tour! We usually do $10 – $15 USD, but it’s up to you.

After a morning walking around, take a lunch break to recharge energies. Maja , with its daily changing menu, is a good option. Usually, it consists of a soup, a couple of options for main dishes, and a dessert, and it will cost you between $10 and $12. It is also 100% gluten free, so if you have Celiac disease you can eat there safely.

Afternoon: Castle District

The Castle District is one of the loveliest places in the city. In a way, wandering through the streets makes you feel like you went back in time.

Start by checking the castle complex , which was once the residence of Hungarian kings but is now home to several museums and government institutions. There you can also see the changing of the guards, which happens every hour. The guards perform an interesting choreography, which lasts only a few minutes, but it’s worth checking out.

Just a few minutes’ walk from there, you will find Saint Matthias church , which was used as a coronation church by the Hungarian kings for centuries. Have a good look at its roof, with its unique tiles.

Last, but certainly not least, is our favorite place in this area – Fisherman’s Bastion . From there, you have an amazing view over the Danube and the Pest side of the city, including the Parliament building. This is also one of the most Instagramable spots in Budapest!

See? Look at those views. It’s even better after dark, and I highly recommend an evening stroll on the Buda side of the river to see it lit up after the sun goes down.

Evening: Rudas Thermal Bath

In the evening, enjoy one of Budapest’s most iconic attractions, the thermal baths. There are a dozen of them in the city, and they all provide quite unique experiences. The tradition of the baths dates back from when the Turkish occupied Hungary, and it remained to this day. Contributing to it is the fact that Budapest lies in the Carpathian Basin, where waters are full of medicinal properties.

Head to Rudas thermal bath, conveniently located at the bottom of Castle Hill. It dates back from the 16 th century, and includes a swimming pool and six steam pools, at different temperatures. But the crown jewel is the open-air rooftop pool. From there, you can enjoy a magnificent view over the river and the city, while immersed in hot waters. This is definitely an experience that will make you feel like you are “living the life” – because you are!  

After a couple of hours at the baths, you will probably feel so rested that the only thing you will want to do is to relax at your accommodation. 

Day 2: Parliament, Margaret Island and Ruin Bars

Your second day in Budapest is full of Hungarian culture, from the sobriety of the Parliament to the incredible nightlife in the typical ruin bars. In between, a walk on Margaret Island, in the middle of the Danube. 

Morning: Tram 2, Shoes on the Danube, the Parliament

Head to Fővám square, and hop on tram 2, that will take you along the Danube. On the other bank, you can see the Castle district, that you explored the day before, from a new angle. Get off at Kossuth Lajos tér, near the Hungarian Parliament. 

Shoes on the Danube

Before you head inside for a visit to the most iconic building in Budapest, go check the Shoes on the Danube . This memorial honors the Jews massacred in the Second World War, who were ordered to take off their shoes before they were shot, falling into the river. 

Hungarian Parliament

Next up is a tour of the Hungarian Parliament !

This is a very popular place, so make sure to book your tickets in advance. If you show up expecting to buy your ticket on the spot, you’re probably going to be out of luck. You can book them online , 3 or 4 days before.

After the visit, your stomach will probably be demanding a pause for food. Not too far, you find one of our favorite restaurants in the city, Drop . It is 100% gluten free, delicious and offers everything from a burger to the most typical of Hungarian dishes: the goulash.

Afternoon: Margaret Island

After a good lunch, the best way to burn some calories is by walking on Margaret Island.

This island of approximately 1.5 miles in length is located in the middle of the Danube, between Buda and Pest. It is a calm, green place in the middle of the city, where the locals spend time outdoors, walking, jogging, or having picnics. It is also home to a couple of interesting attractions, like a small farm and a musical fountain.

The sun is probably setting by now, so head to Buda side, not far from the island. There, you will have the front row to a beautiful event: the turning on the lights in the Parliament. As the sky gets darker and the building gets lighter, you will realize that, even though you already thought this was an imponent construction, it is even more so at night.

Evening: Budapest Nightlife, Ruin Bars

For dinner, we recommend Pata Negra Pest , a Spanish tapas restaurant with plenty of great gluten free options. If you are visiting during the high season, try booking in advance, as this is one of the most popular dinner places in the city. It’s especially lovely on warm summer evenings, when you can sit on the patio and do some good people watching. We liked it so much, we ate there twice.

When the sun goes down in Budapest, there is a place guaranteed to make sure you have a good time: the ruin bars. Mostly situated in the Jewish area, in the 7 th district, these bars are an icon of the city. The mismatched decorations, the live music, the chill atmosphere, and the randomness of everything there make these bars a must-visit, even for those who don’t normally appreciate nightlife. 

The Famous Ruin Bars in Budapest

The most famous one – and the first to ever exist – is Szimpla Kert . Don‘t be scared by the line at the door, it usually moves fast. Inside, you will enjoy a bar that could also be considered a museum of the weirdness – curious?

The other one we recommend is Instant . Or should we say, “the other ones”? This bar is made up of many smaller bars, resulting in many different atmospheres, according to the room you are in. To give you an idea of how big it is, inside you will find a map of the place.

While enjoying the nightlife, make sure to try the most famous Hungarian drink, palinka. It’s a fruit brandy, with 40% to 70% of alcohol. Hungarians can get easily offended if you refuse their palinka offers while visiting them – there are very few things as engrained in Hungarian culture as this drink.

Day 3: Downtown Budapest, City Park, More Thermal Baths, and Wine Tasting

This is going to be an intense day! Starting with a visit to St. Stephen’s Basilica, moving on along Andrássy Avenue with a stop at the House of Terror, then reaching City Park where you will visit the most famous thermal baths in Budapest. Top off an amazing day with a delicious wine tasting session to explore the wide world of amazing Hungarian wine – which was a surprise to us!

Morning: Downtown Budapest

Start the day with a coffee at My Little Melbourne , whose slogan is “We love to make coffee for coffee lovers”. And we loved their coffee!

St. Stephen’s Basilica

Then, walk towards St. Stephen’s Basilica . Fun fact: it is 96 meters (315 ft.) high, exactly the same as the Parliament. The goal? Showing that both religion and legislators have equal power. Also, the number is not random, it evokes 896, the year the Kingdom of Hungary was established.

Luckily, there is an elevator that can take you up that high. For only $4, you can have one of the best views over the city, that shows you the urban tissue and lets you see as far as the Buda mountains.

Andrássy Avenue

Coming down, take a stroll on Andrássy Avenue . This could be considered the equivalent of the Champs Elysées in Paris but, let’s be honest, with a little less glamour. Still, definitely worth walking there. 

On the way, you will find the House of Terror . It’s not a haunted house, but a museum that displays the terrors endured by the Hungarians during the fascist and communist regimes, throughout the 20 th century. It takes you back to the 1950’s and see what Soviet occupation in Hungary was like, a history lesson that will give you a new point of view to understand Hungarian history and culture.

I highly recommend it – it’s my favorite museum in Budapest. It’s sobering, kind of like the Anne Frank House in  Amsterdam .

Afternoon: City Park and Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Now, it is a good time to try out the metro line 1 that we mentioned. Get off at Hősök Tere ( Heroe’s Square ), the entry to the City Park. Heroes Square is home to the towering monument in the middle of the plaza, called the Millennium Monument, which commemorates the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars who led the Hungarian people to the location in central Europe where they are today.

This green area is great to experience on foot. You should also check out Vajdahunyad Castle , located in the park. If you are lucky, there might be an event going on, as this is the venue where several festivals take place throughout the year.

Széchenyi thermal bath

Then, on to one of the most interesting places in Budapest: the Széchenyi thermal baths !

Yes, we recommend trying out two different thermal baths in the city, that’s how great this experience is. However, if you only try one, then this is the one to try. It’s the most touristy of the many that you’ll find in Budapest, but for a good reason: it’s huge, and comprises both inside and outside pools, with different water temperatures. 

The thermal baths are another must-have experience during your time in Budapest. They’re unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before. Especially on a cool, crisp day in the early fall, it’s invigorating and relaxing to sit back in the warm, mineral-rich water (don’t stay in for more than 20 minutes at a time!) and admire the amazing architecture around you.

After this, you might feel too relaxed to even want to drag yourself somewhere else. But how can you say no to wine?

Evening: Wine Tasting

For your last evening in Budapest, we suggest a wine tour. This one , more precisely, that we did on our trip and loved so much that, to this day, sometimes we still talk about one of the wines we tried.

Even though it doesn’t get much recognition for it, Hungary is a wine country and has four main regions: Eger, Villány, Somló and Tokaj.

The latter is the most famous and its specialty is sweet wine. This also means that the wine in the country is relatively cheap, especially compared to the United States. The reason you’ve never heard of it is that only a small amount gets exported, and most of that is the super sweet variety from Tokaj.

This  wine tasting class with Miki  was a hidden gem and unexpected highlight for us, and I think it’s a must-do in Budapest.

Hungary has a ton of unique grape varietals, and the best rose that Alysha and I have ever had came from this wine tasting class – we still talk about it to this day. 

You should probably not drink too much but well, if you do, your itinerary for the day is over anyway.

Day 4: Great Market Hall, Citadel and the Jewish District

On your last day, you will visit a traditional Hungarian market, climb up a hill for an amazing view of Budapest, and end up with a stroll around the Jewish District.

Morning: Great Market Hall and Citadel

To start your last day in Budapest, head to Váci street, a vibrant pedestrian area, with plenty of shops and restaurants. At number 74, almost in Fővám square, you will find a coffee shop perfect for your morning brew. Cafe Frei and is a Hungarian chain that offers coffees from all over the world, as well as some pastries, some of them gluten free.

The Great Market Hall

Nearby, you will see the hulking shape of Budapest’s fantastic Great Market Hall. On the ground floor, it is a traditional market, where you will find staple products in any Hungarian household: meats (including the traditional salami), vegetables and the most iconic item of Hungarian cuisine, the paprika!

The second floor of the market is completely directed to the tourists. It offers handicraft and typical souvenirs, and some sales ladies are dressed up in traditional costumes. It is the perfect place to buy souvenirs for your loved ones.

Gellért Hill

Up until now you might have realized that Budapest is a flat city. But there is a hill you should climb: Gellért.

Start at Szent Gellért square and go up until you reach the Citadel. On the way, pause on the several viewpoints that will give you an increasingly better view over the city, as you climb. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with the best view over Budapest!

Afternoon: Jewish District

For your last afternoon in the city, we recommend going back to the Jewish district to wander around. It has a different vibe during the day than in the night. It is full of quirky shops and cool cafes. We recommend a stop at Magvető Café , and a bite of their delicious gluten free walnut cake.

If you still have time, a visit to the Synagogue is well worth it. After all, it’s the biggest in Europe! There are guided tours every half an hour, included in the price of the ticket. 

If You Have an Extra Day…

If you are lucky enough to have an extra day in Budapest, we recommend a day trip to Szentendre .

This picturesque village is accessible by train from Batthyány tér, and the journey takes around 40 minutes. Your weekly pass doesn’t cover this journey, so you should buy a ticket at the ticket office before boarding the train.

Once you get to Szentendre, you can explore the whole place on foot. Walking on the cobbled streets, you will see plenty of nice little cafes and restaurants, as well as decoration and souvenir shops. There is even a Christmas shop, where you can buy anything related to the holidays.

Szentendre lies along the Danube, so you can also enjoy some quiet time with a beautiful view sitting on the riverbanks.

For a delicious meal, try Palapa , a Mexican restaurant that offers a couple of gluten free options. It is so famous that if you mention to anyone in Budapest that you will go to Sztentendre, they will recommend this restaurant for sure.

Where to Eat and Drink in Budapest

Matt has Celiac Disease, which means he has to eat strictly gluten free or he’ll get VERY sick and ruin his vacation. If you’re eating gluten free and heading to Budapest, make sure to read our guide to gluten free Budapest .

Eating in Budapest

• Drop – Our favorite restaurant in Budapest! The place looks great, the food tastes even greater. And it’s 100% gluten free.
• Maja – Offers a daily changing menu of delicious gluten free food for affordable prices.
• Cöli Bisztró – Little 100% gluten free cafe offering pizza, pastries and the traditional Hungarian “palacsinta” (pancake).
• Mazel Tov – Israeli food with a great atmosphere. Not a dedicated gluten free restaurant, but it has several gluten free options.
• Most burger places in the city have gluten free buns if you ask for it, even if not clearly stated on their menus. Some of the best are Las Vegan’s , Epic Burger and Burger Market . 

Drinking in Budapest

Budapest has a reputation of being the party capital of Europe. You know what that means…plenty of places to drink. Here are our top picks:

• Szimpla Kert – The first ruin bar in Budapest. Great atmosphere during the night, but also the perfect place for an afternoon drink, as it is open during the day and has some nice outdoor areas.
• Instant – Ruin bar to drink and party, one of the best nightlife places in the city.
• Kőleves Kert – Kert means Garden in Hungarian, so you can imagine what this bar is, a place with a nice outdoor area, where you can enjoy a wide variety of drinks.
• Akvárium Klub – A terrace right next to Deák Ferenc, in downtown, perfect for summer nights.
• St. Andrea Wine & Skybar – An elegant rooftop bar in the heart of Budapest. It belongs to the St. Andrea winery, from Eger, one of the most famous wine regions in the country.
• Doblo – A wine bar in the heart of the party district, offering more than 30 varieties of wine, in a cozy atmosphere.

When to Visit Budapest

Budapest has a continental weather, meaning that the winters are harsh, and the summers are hot, reaching temperatures around 100F. Still, if you don’t mind the heat, the summer is an amazing time to visit. The streets are full of life, there are plenty of events and an overall great energy across the city. 

Spring (April to June) and Fall (September-October) are also good seasons to enjoy Budapest, with milder temperatures. 

Winter is not the best time to visit because temperatures can drop to -20F and it gets dark around 3pm. However, if it is your only option, you will still find plenty of activities to do.

How to Get to Budapest

The best way to arrive in the Hungarian capital depends on your starting point. If you are in Central Europe, you can take a bus ( Flixbus is the fastest and cheapest) or a train (check Trainline for times and prices) to reach Budapest in a matter of hours.

Otherwise, Budapest is served by the Liszt Ferenc airport . Located in the heart of Europe, this city benefits from flights connecting it to all the major European cities. Flights to the US are also available although you might need to transfer.

Once you land at the airport, reaching your accommodation is easy – considering you will, most likely, be staying at the city center. There is a bus, 100E , going straight from the airport to Deák Ferenc square , right at the heart of Budapest. The ticket costs $3 and the journey takes around 40 minutes. Buses depart every 20 minutes.

If you prefer the comfort of a taxi, be advised that Uber and Lyft do not operate in Hungary. The only app to call a taxi is Bolt . But you can also take a traditional taxi. You will see them right in front of the door when you exit the airport terminal. A 25-minute ride to the center should set you back around $25, and you can pay the driver in cash or card.

Getting Around Budapest

Budapest’s size makes it perfect to explore on foot. This will also allow you to explore the backstreets and hidden alleys that make this city a wonderful place in each corner you turn.

However, if you prefer to use public transportation, you are in luck! Central Budapest has one of the best transportation systems in Europe, including metro, bus and tram, some of which run all night.

In fact, even though we recommend exploring the city on foot, we strongly advise you to take metro line 1 or, as the Hungarians call it, “kisföldalatti” (“the small underground”). It is the oldest metro line in mainland Europe and the world’s second oldest, after the London Underground.

Except for some buses, you can not buy the travel tickets on board. You must purchase them beforehand on one of the many machines in the city, located at stations and stops. A single ticket costs around $1 but if you plan on using transports often during your visit, the best option is to get a weekly pass for $16, that gives you unlimited access. You can check the different types of tickets available on the BKK page .

How Many Days in Budapest?

In general, I always recommend spending more time in each city, rather than trying to fit in as many cities as possible and avoid the feeling of needing a vacation from your vacation.

Which begs the question, how many days should you spend in Budapest?

You will want plenty of time to see all the key sights, like the world-famous thermal baths, and still have time to wander the romantic cobblestone streets and relax at one of Budapest’s best coffee shops. The last thing you want to do is turn your Budapest itinerary into a whirlwind that makes you want a vacation from your vacation.

To answer your question of how many days in Budapest, my recommendation would be at least 3-4 days . 

Well, it looks like you have a magical 4 day trip to Budapest ahead of you. I’m totally jealous – it’s one of my favorite cities in the world, and I would move there in an instant. I still might, in fact.

Between the beauty of the city, the rich culture and history, and the vibrant people, Budapest is one of the most underrated cities in Europe.

It is also one of the places where tourism has increased the most in the past few years. People are quickly realizing that Budapest might be, in fact, one of the best travel destinations in the world. I am sure you will understand why as soon as you set foot there.

About the Contributor : Diana Bernardo is a former journalist with an endless love for travel. She has been to 30+ countries in Europe and lived in 4 of them. She writes about her experiences and favorite destinations regularly on Medium and on her blog .

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

which exact location were u able to get the overview of the parliament building?was it buda hill?can u give me the direction?

Hey there! Which picture are you asking about? For the straight on view, it’s across the river right in front of Batthyány tér metro station. For the view from above with the Chain Bridge and Parliament, it’s from the railing just in front of the Buda Castle. This is the post where I discovered some of the photo spots: https://hungaryphototours.com/top-photography-spots-budapest/

Thank you for this wonderful guide! When I was in Budapest recently I googled ‘4 days in Budapest’ and fortunately for me your blog came up. While I didn’t make it through your whole list, it was a great overview. I particularly enjoyed the Rudas Thermal Baths and the wine tasting with Miki, which I wouldn’t have heard about elsewhere. Looking forward to reading more of your itineraries!

Heading to Budapest next week and this is golden! Thank you!!

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50+ Best Things to Do in Budapest (+Tips for Visiting!)

Planning a trip to Hungary soon and trying to decide exactly what to do in Budapest?

Budapest is our undisputed favorite city in Central Europe: both majestic and accessible, beautiful and bohemian, regal and down-to-earth, it’s one of those cities that has something for everyone… and in our case, there are enough things to do in Budapest that we can’t seem to stop going back.

Whether you’re hoping to see the popular highlights, to get (sometimes literally) underground, or a bit of both, we have you covered here!

More than 50 attractions is a lot for one trip, but with so many best things to do in Budapest, we have a feeling that, like us, you’ll leave ready to book your next trip back.

Table of Contents

Overwhelmed by 55 Things to Do in Budapest?

Fantastic viewpoints to sample in budapest.

• Must-See Museums in Budapest, Hungary

Epic Churches and Monuments to Visit in Budapest

Best food experiences in budapest, more fun things to do in budapest, where to stay when visiting budapest.

• Tips for Traveling Budapest, Hungary

Read More About Visiting Budapest (and Beyond)

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

If so, we completely understand!

A s much fun as it can be to do a deep-dive into a city, if you’re headed out on your first trip to Budapest and only have a few days, you probably want to know what you simply have to see in Budapest.

Here’s the short version: make sure to see at least the outside of the Hungarian Parliament building, walk across the Chain Bridge, visit Central Market Hall (and buy paprika if you like it), check out St. Stephen’s Basilica, head to Fisherman’s Bastion, try out a thermal bath, and visit at least the exterior of Buda Castle.

We’ve outlined our suggestions for 3 days in Budapest here , and our suggestions for spending one perfect day in Budapest here , so if you’re on a tight timeframe, be sure to take a look!

Soak up the views at Fisherman’s Bastion.

Fisherman’s Bastion may look like a medieval castle overlooking the stunning Danube River and Hungarian Parliament below… but it was actually built in 1902!

Despite its (relatively) young age as compared to many spots in Budapest, it is absolutely worth visiting.

T he views are truly spectacular, and its setting (right next to Matthias Church and a short walk away from Buda Castle) means that you’ll almost certainly pass by anyway while working through the best things to do in Budapest.

Be warned: Fisherman’s Bastion’s lovely views have turned it into a bit of an Instagram playground, so if you’re hoping for a peaceful moment there by yourself… I hope you like waking up at dawn.

Watch the sunset on Gellert Hill.

Gellert Hill stands high over Budapest, and sitting on top of it (perhaps with a mulled wine on a cold night) while watching the sun slip away and the lights come on over Budapest–Parliament, Buda Castle, Budapest Eye, boats on the river and all–is quite the treat.

Be sure to show up a bit before sunset in order to check out the Liberty Statu,e which commemorates those who fought for Hungary’s independence, and the 19th-century citadel.

… And also from Liberty Bridge.

Located right next to Great Market Hall, Liberty Bridge is a popular sunset spot in Budapest.

If you head out on a warm night around sunset, you’ll see plenty of Hungarians and tourists alike lined up along the bridge, hanging out and enjoying the vie

Climb to the top of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Don’t miss the climb up St. Stephen’s Basilica when you’re making your list of the best things to do in Budapest!

Modestly priced and absolutely beautiful, it’s hard to say what’s better about the view from St. Stephen’s–the city of Budapest stretching out before you, or the close-ups of St. Stephen’s intricate towers.

Take a cruise on the Danube.

… And for best results, take one at sunset.

On our own first trip to Budapest, we watched the sun go down and the city lights come on from the water, and it was one of those magical travel moments that ended up sticking with us for years.

Whether you opt for  an extremely affordable sightseeing cruise  or  a dinner cruise featuring Hungarian food and folk dancing , it’s definitely worth the splurge to hit the water while in Budapest.

Book your Danube River cruise  today!

Ride the Budapest Eye.

While not nearly as well-known as its namesake in London, the Budapest Eye gives you absolutely amazing views of the city.

Landmarks like Gellert Hill, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Parliament, and the Danube are all clearly visible, and it’s a fabulous way to get a bird’s eye view of Budapest.

At 3000 HUF (just over $8 USD/person at the time of updating this post) it’s not the cheapest thing to do in Budapest, but the long ride and the views are definitely worth it.

Hop on the Castle Hill funicular.

Perched on top of Castle Hill sit some of Budapest’s best-loved spots: Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, several quirky museums, and of course Buda Castle itself… but climbing up to see them is not fun!

You can hop on a bus to get to the top of the hill, but a far more entertaining (and less motion-sickness-inducing, for those of us who worry about such things) way to get up the hill is to ride the Castle Hill funicular .

The funicular also comes with the bonus of fabulous views of the Chain Bridge and Danube!

Stroll across the Chain Bridge.

No visit to Budapest would be complete without a stroll across the iconic Chain Bridge!

Pedestrian walkways make this bridge very simple to cross, and the views of Castle Hill, the Danube, and Parliament are wonderful.

Ride Budapest’s Tram #2.

Both useful as transportation and delightful as a nostalgic tourist attraction, Budapest’s cheery yellow tram #2 spends its days traveling along the Danube, earning its status as one of the most scenic tram rides in the world (at least according to National Geographic , who tend to know their stuff).

This isn’t so much an “oh-wow-we-need-to-take-photos-here” view, it’s more of a “wow-this-city-is-so-cool view”, and it is well worth the (very modest) price tag.

You can buy tickets onboard, but they’re slightly cheaper if you pick them up at the station ahead of time (or simply use your Budapest Card ).

Must-See Museums in Budapest , Hungary

Visit the hungarian parliament..

Nestled right up against the Danube, Hungary’s incredible Parliament building is known as one of the most beautiful in the world for good reason!

If you’d like to take a tour inside the building, you’ll need to  book a tour  at least a few days in advance.

When updating this post in 2023, I was surprised to see how far in advance tickets are booked out–so the further ahead you can plan this visit, the better!

(If tickets are sold out for your dates and you want to be sure to visit, another option is booking  a third-party guided tour like this  that includes a visit to Parliament.

If you’d rather not fork over the forint, admiring the building up close from the outside is definitely still worth stopping by.

We make a point to walk by several times during all of our trips to Budapest!

Check out the House of Houdini.

If you have an interest in magic tricks, be sure to visit this quirky museum dedicated to all things Harry Houdini!

Complete with original artifacts and plenty of fascinating stories , the House of Houdini is a fun, offbeat Budapest attraction for magic lovers.

Tour the Hungarian State Opera House.

Whether it’s to see a show or simply to tour the stunning space, don’t miss taking a peek inside the beautiful Hungarian State Opera House while in Budapest.

Step inside Buda Castle.

Buda Castle may no longer be a royal residence, but it’s still a busy place!

H ome to several museums, just about anyone trying to decide what to do in Budapest will find something that piques their interest inside.

The most famous of the museums housed inside are the lovely Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, both of which are worth a visit.

Don’t want to step inside a museum?

The terraces in front of Buda Castle are free to visit and offer amazing views of the city, so don’t cross it completely off your Budapest bucket list!

Pay a somber visit to the House of Terror.

I’ll admit that it took me a couple of visits to Budapest to slow down and appreciate the House of Terror.

So many towns have museums with similar names that are dedicated to medieval torture techniques (seriously: why does the world need SO MANY of those), and I wrongly assumed that the House of Terror was just another museum in the same vein.

The House of Terror is absolutely one of the best things to do in Budapest if you’re interested in learning about Hungary’s 20th-century history.

H oused in the former headquarters of Hungary’s Secret Police, the museum serves as both an educational tool for those unfamiliar with Hungary’s time under two separate brutal regimes, and as a memorial to the victims who died on the premises.

Learn something interesting at the Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum.

Interesting in chemistry and alchemy of the Middle Ages?

Then be sure to add the Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum to your list of things to do in Budapest !

The eclectic displays include everything from herbs to historical books on medicine to tiny, dried bats once used in healing.

Check out the Pinball Museum.

Home to around 130 pinball machines dating from the 19th century all the way to the present day, the Pinball Museum is interactive–meaning that you can play on many of the machines!

For a completely unique museum experience, break out your inner kid and play some vintage and not-so-vintage pinball games… all under the guise of an educational museum experience.

Explore the Hospital in the Rock.

There are tons of interesting things lurking under the surface of Buda Castle, and the Hospital in the Rock is one of them.

In preparation for WWII bombings, this emergency hospital was built directly into the caverns under Buda Castle from 1939 to 1944, and was used throughout the war–especially during the Siege of Budapest–to handle the injured and dead.

Though the Hospital in the Rock was used a few more times in history, primarily during Hungary’s 1956 uprising against Soviet Rule and in preparation for possible nuclear attacks, today it has been turned into a museum focusing on its WWII-era mission.

… And the Labyrinth under Buda Castle.

Yet another piece of the caverns under Buda Castle’s long and storied history occurred here in the 15th century.

V lad the Impaler, also known as Count Dracula, was held in this prison underneath the castle for a whopping 10 years!

Though parts of the exhibition are a bit cheesy, it’s extremely interesting to dive into this labyrinth and get to know another piece of Budapest’s story.

Go see the Semmelweis Medical Museum.

If you’ve poked around the internet long enough, you’ve probably heard of Dr. Semmelweiss… even if you didn’t realize it.

In the mid-1800s , he pioneered the (now utterly common sense) idea that by having doctors wash their hands before attending to women in childbirth, the number of women who died of infection after giving birth could be lowered.

His findings were considered unfathomable–how could a gentleman’s hands cause disease?–but later developments in germ theory eventually proved Semmelweiss correct.

Sadly, Semmelweiss died before his findings were proven accurate, but this museum in his native Budapest preserves his memory, his findings, and several other items of historical medical interest, such as an early X-ray machine.

Step inside St. Stephen’s Basilica.

In addition to the stunning views from the roof that I mentioned above, the opulent St. Stephen’s Basilica is worth visiting for its interior alone.

In addition to the impressive architecture and decor, the basilica also claims to contain the mummified right hand of St. Stephen himself.

Admire the incredible Dohany Street Synagogue.

As the largest synagogue in Europe and one of the largest in the world, a visit to the Dohany Street Synagogue presents an opportunity to not only admire the gorgeous building but also to learn about the long and often perilous history of Jews in Budapest, as the city’s Jewish Museum is located in the same complex.

Visit the Cave Church.

The Cave Church is exactly what it sounds like: a church built into a cave.

It is quite an impressive site, and walking through the entrance to see the exposed rock walls towering over the gift shop definitely sets the stage for a memorable visit!

The tour is provided by an audio guide and walks you through the fascinating history of this church–including when it was sealed off with a concrete wall for decades during the Soviet era.

Tour the beautiful Matthias Church.

The interior of Matthias Church is absolutely stunning, with intricately detailed walls and a long, storied history.

This church played host to the weddings of kings (including that of Charles IV, the final Habsburg king), was used as a mosque during the Ottoman period, and in its original form (which is no longer standing) dates back over 1000 years!

Pay a visit to Heroes Square.

Home to impressive statues and monuments dedicated to several of Hungary’s most important national leaders, Heroes Square is an important part of Hungary’s history, and for that reason, is a popular site for political events to this day.

Located right next to City Park, be sure not to miss this important spot while visiting Budapest.

Step inside Central Market Hall.

Whether you’re looking for groceries like fresh fruits and vegetables, foodie souvenirs like paprika and palinka, or a quick and tasty meal of langos, stuffed cabbage, or goulash, Budapest’s Central Market Hall has you covered.

The ground floor is made up of groceries and is a great place to pick up some Hungarian paprika (and yes, you should definitely get some) to take back home.

The second floor (or first floor for Europeans) is home to souvenirs, including everything from Christmas ornaments to Hungarian lace, and, more importantly, the prepared foods section.

Taste some goulash.

This warm meat stew is the quintessential Hungarian meal, and no trip to Budapest could be considered complete without at least one serving!

… and langos.

Langos is fried bread, traditionally topped with sour cream and shredded cheese.

If you think that sounds strange, it’s just because you haven’t tried it yet!

And lots, and lots, and lots of other delicious Hungarian food.

Chicken paprikash. Solet. Jokai soup. Esterhazy cake. Sausage. Lecso. Sour cherry soup. Strudel. Palacsinta.

Hungarian food is many-layered, generally hard to pronounce for us English speakers, and uniformly delicious.

Since the names are often unfamiliar to those of us who don’t hail from that corner of the world, we recommend doing some research on Hungarian food while you’re picking out the best things to do in Budapest , or even signing up for a Budapest food tour to get acquainted with the cuisine.

Y our time in the city will be greatly enhanced by it!

B ook your Budapest food tour today!

Taste Hungarian wines.

Hungary may not have enormous wine regions, but it still manages to turn out some delicious wines!

We personally can’t stop raving about the tasting we did with Taste Hungary in Budapest!

I t’s easily one of our favorite wine tastings to date and the perfect itinerary addition to consider when you’re deciding what to do in Budapest.

We adored this wine and food tasting class , and still occasionally crave our favorite blue-cheese-and-Tokaj-wine pairing!

… Or even set off on a day trip to wine country.

It may be hard to fathom when standing in amongst the beautiful architecture of the historic center of the city, Budapest’s wine country is easy to visit as a day trip from the capital .

This popular day trip to the Etyek wine region is a fantastic way to explore another corner of Hungary during your trip to Budapest!

Munch on a chimney cake.

Known as “kürtőskalács” in Hungarian, these hollow pull-apart cakes are the perfect quick dessert to try while on the go in Budapest.

They’re popular across Central Europe these days, especially at Christmas markets –but to enjoy the original version, be sure to snack on some while visiting Budapest!

Indulge in Budapest’s cafe scene.

Budapest is known for its glitzy, glamorous cafes, complete with stunning decor, delicious coffee, and–of course–plenty of cake.

New York Cafe is the best-known and arguably most beautiful cafe in Budapest… but the prices and crowds definitely make you pay for the privilege of visiting.

We personally prefer Central Cafe, which is almost as beautiful, far more affordable (though still pricey by Budapest standards, of course), and much less crowded.

Try one of my favorite cakes in the world: Esterhazy Cake.

Spiced buttercream layered with a walnut dough and topped with icing–what could possibly be better than that?

Esterhazy cake is sweet, rich, smooth, and delicious, and grabbing (at least) one slice is always on my list of things to do in Budapest.

Buy some paprika.

Hungary is known for its paprika, and buying a bag or two makes the perfect souvenir from Budapest!

Hungarian paprika i s affordable, easy to pack, and much more delicious than the paprika sold in other parts of the world.

Go on a bar crawl through the ruin bars (or just stop by for a drink).

Nearly 20 years ago, ruin bars came to Budapest… and their popularity has only continued to explode ever since.

Known for cheap drinks and eclectic decor, Budapest’s ruin bars are housed in once-derelict buildings that have found second lives as lively pubs.

The oldest, biggest, and most famous ruin bar is Szimpla Kert, and it’s the perfect place to introduce yourself to Budapest’s ruin bars.

For nightlife lovers, signing up for a pub crawl like this can be a great way to get to know this special side of Budapest while meeting fellow travelers!

Budapest is often touted as one of the best cities for nightlife in Europe , and its incredible ruin bars are a big part of the reason why.

Check out the For Sale Pub.

Though it is not as well known as the ever-popular ruin bars, I’ve wanted to visit this place ever since seeing a picture of it years ago!

T he For Sale Pub is decorated by guests’ artwork, receipts, pictures, and just about any other form of paper you can think of hanging from the ceiling.

Add in a brick fireplace, worn wood floors with straw on them, and dark lighting, and you have the makings of a cozy spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat.

While the prices aren’t the cheapest you’ll find in Budapest (this is a bit of a tourist attraction, after all, and located right across from the famous Central Market Hall), we found them to be completely reasonable–and the portions so enormous that they actually warn people on their menu about them!

Pay a visit to (at least) one of Budapest’s thermal baths.

Budapest is known for its beautiful thermal baths, from the Instagram-famous Szechenyi Baths to the glamorous Gellert Baths to the offbeat Rudas Baths , and paying a visit to at least one of them is absolutely one of the best things to do in Budapest.

Don’t leave the city without experiencing at least one soak!

We recommend setting aside at least a couple of hours to enjoy each spa you want to try, though true relaxation lovers could easily spend a full day in places like the Gellert Baths (especially if you want to add on extras like a massage).

Book tickets to visit some of Budapest’s best thermal baths today!

Get underground and go on a caving adventure.

Budapest is built over a couple of incredible cave systems, and the best part is that some of them are open for tours!

You could opt for a standard walking tour around a beautiful cave with stalagmites and stalactites… or you could go the adventurous route.

Our adventure caving tour wit h Caving Under Budapest took us into the cave through the entrance of what was once used as a war-time bomb shelter.

From t here we descended underground and spent the next several hours squeezing through tiny crevices, climbing walls, and enjoying an incredible, naturally formed “playground” as our guide Kazer christened it.

It was amazing, and we can’t recommend the experience enough.

Swing by the statue of Imre Nagy.

Imre Nagy was a political leader in Hungary during two points in time–but most importantly, during the uprising of 1956.

In 1956, Hungarians rebelled against Soviet rule, and Imre Nagy played a key role in the movement.

However, the movement was eventually crushed by the Soviets, and Nagy was executed and buried in an unmarked grave a mere 2 years later.

Today, the statue commemorating Nagy looks over Parliament in honor of his memory.

In addition to the meaningfulness of the statue, the small square it is housed in and the beautiful view of Parliament available make this a spot definitely worth seeing in Budapest.

… And also the one of Ronald Reagan.

Ronald Reagan may seem like a surprising candidate for a statue at the edge of Budapest’s Liberty Square, but there he is–and not very far away from Imre Nagy!

The statue was placed in honor of Reagan’s efforts to end the Cold War and, by extension, Soviet influence over Hungary.

Watch the changing of the guard at Buda Castle.

Every hour on the hour, the guard outside of Buda Castle changes over in a formal, choreographed ceremony, and it is well worth taking a few minutes to stop and watch!

See a different side of Budapest on Margaret Island.

Margaret Island is completely different from the rest of Budapest!

L ocated in the middle of the Danube, this small island is full of green spaces, pedestrian walkways, and peaceful, nature-filled ways to escape the city.

Pay a visit to take a bike ride, enjoy river views, check out the Japanese gardens that call the island home, and even take a dip in Margaret Island’s thermal baths.

Visit Liberty Square.

Home to several historical monuments (including one honoring the Soviet Red Army and one honoring the victims of German occupation), plenty of green space, and the former home of the Budapest Stock Exchange, Liberty Square is a solid mix of history, modern life, and cultural touchstones.

On a completely unrelated note, it’s a fantastic place for dog watching, which is one of our favorite aspects of the square!

Check out Memento Park.

Hungary existed under Communist rule for 40 years, from 1949 to 1989.

When it was over, Budapest suddenly had a lot of fairly irrelevant and often hated monuments to Communism and its leaders… and needed to find something to do with them.

Hence, Memento Park was born.

Home to dozens of statues of monuments dedicated to the likes of Marx, Lenin, and other Communist figures, Memento Park is an outdoor museum that exists to share a very specific piece of Budapest’s history.

Release your inner Belle at the Szabo Ervin Library.

When we walked into the incredibly gorgeous art deco rooms of this library, I had two thoughts: 1) I cannot believe this place isn’t more well known, and 2) this is everything I dreamed of as a child.

Picture some of the rooms of Versailles , add books and random students who are studying, and that’s more or less the level of opulence in this place!

A s a result, I spent about half our time there having major Beauty and the Beast flashbacks.

For a small fee, you can enter the library through the pretty-but-not-so-remarkable lobby and ascend to the fourth floor, where the most beautiful wing of a library that I have ever seen is waiting to be discovered and then savored.

If you’re a book lover trying to decide what to do in Budapest, the Szabo Ervin Library should definitely be a priority!

Stroll through City Park.

This large, shady park in Budapest is the perfect place for a picnic, a quick rest away from the city, or even for some sightseeing!

Several of Budapest’s major attractions, including the Szchenzyi Baths and Heroes Square, are located in or right by City Park.

… And visit Vajdahunyad Castle.

Also located within City Park?

Vajdahunyad Castle, which is not exactly the traditional castle it may appear to be at first glance.

Built in 1896, Vajdahunyad Castle was built by combining several architectural styles popular in Hungary at different times, making the castle itself a bit of a hodge podge.

It was also originally made of cardboard and was intended to be a temporary attraction in the late nineteenth century.

Eventually , the castle’s popularity demanded a more permanent solution, and it was rebuilt out of more durable materials.

Pay your respects at the Shoes on the Danube monument.

Placed in honor of the Jewish people who were murdered along the Danube in 1944 and 1945, the Shoes on the Danube monument is both important and deeply meaningful.

As WWII hurried toward its conclusion in the mid-1940s, many Jewish people in Budapest were shot by firing squad along the Danube–but not before first being forced to part with their shoes, as they were considered valuable.

This monument is a memorial to those murders and is a must-see in Budapest.

If you descend to the bank of the Danube at the Hungarian Parliament and walk toward the Chain Bridge, that is where you’ll come across the Shoes on the Danube monument.

Visit the Cinkota Cemetery.

If you like visiting obscure places or cemeteries in general, Cinkota Cemetery is the place for you.

This cemetery has been forgotten by time, and today is overgrown, with nature steadily working to reclaim each of the gravestones.

It’s eerie and unusual, but definitely an interesting place to visit for those looking to see an often overlooked piece of history.

Admire the street art in the Jewish Quarter.

Budapest’s Jewish Quarter (which is also where you’ll find many ruin pubs) is packed with impressive street art.

The murals tend toward the gigantic and include everything from political messages to peaceful nature scenes to an enormous mural of a Rubik’s cube in honor of the Hungarian inventor of the puzzle.

You can, of course, hunt down the street art for yourself–but we found some of our favorite pieces by taking a street art tour .

If you’re curious about discovering a different side of Budapest’s art and culture, a street art tour like this is a fantastic sightseeing option!

Shop street art tours in Budapest today!

Stroll down Andrassy Avenue.

Lined with beautiful mansions and leafy trees, Andrassy Avenue dates back to the 19th century and is often considered one of Budapest’s most fashionable streets.

It begins roughly across the street from St. Stephen’s Basilica and runs all the way to Heroes Square and City Park–and if you decide to walk the whole thing, you’ll find plenty to see along the way!

Andrassy Avenue is home to the Hungarian State Opera House and the House of Terror Museum, so you’ll likely be stopping by at least once when exploring the best things to do in Budapest.

Get into the holiday spirit at the Christmas Markets.

Budapest’s Christmas markets–especially the one in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica–are beautifully decorated and full of delicious foods, drinks, and souvenirs, usually for much less than you would expect to pay in nearby Austria .

Check out the Ecseri Flea Market.

If you’re looking for something eclectic, unusual, or just plain strange to bring home, consider adding a visit to the Ecseri Flea Market to your list of things to do in Budapest.

This giant flea market in Budapest is at its best on weekends, and there is absolutely no telling what you’ll find there–except several surprises.

Go see the Zero Kilometer Stone.

Interested in transportation like Jeremy is?

Then you’ll want to see the Zero Kilometer Stone–this statue marks the exact spot from which all road distances to Budapest are measured in Hungary.

Head off to Szentendre for a day.

This small, artsy Hungarian town is colorful, beautiful, and a great way to get a small taste of Hungarian life outside of Budapest without having to travel far.

Located about 40 minutes away from Budapest by train or an hour by boat (yep, visiting Szentendre is a great excuse to take an impromptu Danube river cruise!), a day trip to Szentendre is the perfect addition to a longer Budapest trip.

Book your day trip to Szentendre today!

Wondering where to stay in Budapest ?

Be sure to first decide whether or not to stay in Buda or Pest!  We break down that decision here.

Luckily, there are plenty of options for any budget on either side of the river!

Here are a few well-reviewed picks for where to stay in Budapest.

Jackquaters  — Located right next to Vaci Utca and only 100 meters from the Danube, Jackquaters is the perfect location for anyone visiting Budapest.

Budapest highlights like the Chain Bridge and Great Market Hall are within easy walking distance.

Check rates & book your stay at Jackquaters!

Hotel Erzsébet  — With Central Market Hall and Vaci Utca at your fingertips, you definitely won’t go hungry while staying at the beautiful Hotel Erzsébet!

With modern interiors, easy access to the metro, and a central location, this well-reviewed property is a reliable and cozy place to stay.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Erzsébet!

Hotel Mika Superior  — Not only does Hotel Mika Superior offer beautiful rooms, fabulous service, and a delicious included breakfast, but it’s also located in the old Jewish Quarter of the city, near the Dohany Street Synagogue and Hungarian Opera House.

This is one of our personal favorite neighborhoods to stay in while visiting Budapest!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Mika Superior!

Tips for Traveling Budapest , Hungary

Consider grabbing a transportation pass or budapest card..

If you’re planning on hitting several of the best things to do in Budapest, you’ll likely find yourself hopping on trams, buses, and the metro on a fairly regular basis.

In most cases, it will work out better to buy a transportation card good for a certain number of days (available at metro ticket kiosks).

Alternatively, some travelers may want to buy a Budapest Card that includes public transportation as one of its benefits.

If you want to visit the Hungarian Parliament, book tickets in advance.

Tours of the Hungarian Parliament do need to be booked in advance and sell out days in advance, especially in the summer.

If you have your heart set on visiting, book your tickets ASAP!

Think carefully about which side of the river you want to stay on: Buda or Pest.

Both sides of the Danube have their advantages (Buda boasts prettier views and Pest better nightlife, for example), but they do have a different feel.

For more on this, check ou t our guide to choosing between Buda and Pest .

Hint: we personally prefer to stay in Pest.

Hungary doesn’t use the Euro, but Budapest is very card-friendly.

The Hungarian forint is the currency in Budapest, and Euros are not widely accepted (and in places where they are accepted, it’s still better to use forint–the exchange rate is generally not favorable).

However, most restaurants and tourist attractions take credit cards, so you may not need as much forint as you would think when traveling in Budapest!

We tend to use very little cash while in the city.

Plan your itinerary based on geography.

Budapest’s main attractions are spread all across the city–and while this is a bit of a challenge from a logistics perspective, it actually ends up working to Budapest’s advantage!

U nlike other popular Central European cities like Prague or Salzburg , Budapest manages to be incredibly popular without feeling extremely crowded (minus certain spots like Fisherman’s Bastion).

This does mean, however, that you’ll want to plan your days based on the attractions concentrated in certain areas.

For instance, the Castle District, home to Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and beyond makes a good focus for one day.

Another day could cover the Szechenyi Baths, City Park, Heroes Square, and Vajdahunyad Castle, which are all concentrated close together.

Don’t worry about the language barrier.

English is widespread in Budapest, especially among those who work in the tourism and customer service industries.

While it is polite to learn a few Hungarian phrases and they are always appreciated when we break them out, Hungarians don’t tend to expect visitors to know or learn their language.

Personally, w e’ve never experienced any significant language barrier challenges while visiting Budapest.

Ready to keep planning your trip to Central Europe?

We’d love to help!

You can  browse all of our Hungary blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ideal 3 Days in Budapest Itinerary (+ Travel Guide)
• 75+ Essential Europe Travel Tips You Need to Hear
• Budapest in November: Worth the Trip? (+ Tips!)
• 21+ Dreamy, Romantic Cities in Europe for a Couples Getaway
• How To Visit Auschwitz From Krakow (Do You Need a Tour?)

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Many thanks to Caving Under Budapest, Taste Hungary, and Absolute Walking Tours for hosting us on our adventures with them! All opinions are, as always, our own. 

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

24 thoughts on “50+ Best Things to Do in Budapest (+Tips for Visiting!)”

Wow – what a truly amazing and engrossing post! Such unique, interesting and fun activities that so many people would have no idea existed in Budapest. I don’t think I have a particular favorite – I would just love to visit and use this post as my list to experience them all! Such a great article and inspiration to go and visit Budapest.

Hope you get a chance to visit Budapest soon! I think you’ll love it.

I love caving, which make Budapest an interesting choice. ATM was amazing. We used to live in Tucson where they have two commercial caves – Kartchner Caverns and Colossal Cave. Colossal is the older, historic tour that even includes they parts of the cave that were used as a bomb shelter. Kartchner is a newly discovered cave with amazing formations. Much like Budapest, you can have your choice of tours.

I agree, ATM was phenomenal! I’ll have to look up those caves the next time we’re passing through Arizona–so far, we haven’t met a cave we didn’t like.

I’ve not yet been to Budapest, so I would love to climb Gellert Hill and take photos of their fantastic parliament building! The walking tour is something that really interests me, as you get to see so many great and hidden sights. The labyrinth at Buda Castle looks creepy but fun!

Their parliament building really is amazing–one of the prettiest buildings we’ve ever seen!

I have been to Budapest a couple of times but I didn’t know about any of these places before. I guess I have to go again! I had no idea that you can explore cave underneath the city. That is pretty cool! I’d love to have a coffee at Cafe Central as well, the building looks absolutely stunning! The walking tour sounds exciting as well.

Always a good reason to plan your next trip to Budapest, right? 😉 We already can’t wait to see it again!

I love Budapest so much! I’d heard about the caving but wasn’t sure about it. If I go back I’ll definitely do it now! Love all the places you went to, I definitely need to remember them for when I go again with my husband!

Hope you guys get to make it back soon! Definitely check out the caving–such a memorable way to spend a day!

Oh boy! You got me at caving!! I’d love to do that. Like you said, you can never get bored of Budapest. Hoping to tick off the 2 C’s in Budapest: Caving and Coffee, soon!! 🙂 Cheers!!

Ha, I like that! Two very important C’s indeed 🙂

I wish I’d seen this a few weeks ago before we were there! Luckily, we filled our days to the brim, so we don’t feel like we could have done much more anyway. I had to laugh about your fear of ferris wheels because I, on the other hand, would have been terrified to do the underground stuff! Heights I love; depths not so much.

So strange how the mind works, right?! I love being underground, but am still too nervous to try a helicopter tour!

I never knew that Budapest was built above an underground cave system, how interesting! That library looks so stunning, I could spend all day just taking it all in. Would love to visit Budapest one day, so many unique things to do, thanks for sharing this great list!

Hope you get a chance to see it soon–Budapest is an amazing city!

It is very interesting to know that there is something underground which is a cave system of Budapest. Exploring this city underground is so unique. Blue Hour picture taken by you is most stunning one. This city is magical during evenings. I would prefer Coffee at central cafe.

Thanks! Jeremy took that blue hour photo, it’s one of our favorites too. 🙂

I haven’t made it to Budapest yet so I probably would want to check out some of the touristy spots, but I ALWAYS appreciate an off the beaten path list for any city I travel to. I love the underground caves – they remind me of caves I went to near Vinales, Cuba. Our guide also turned off our headlamps and let us sit in complete darkness for a moment, just to see how quiet it got and what that felt like. I would love to check out all these places when I visit Budapest!

Oooh, that Cuba experience sounds wonderful! We’ll definitely have to remember that for when we eventually go.

Is there any good mobile apps you recommended for city maps etc

I’ve heard of one called My Budapest City to find attractions, but I’ve never used any!

Honestly, we just pin things to do on Google Maps and then download them offline if needed. 🙂

Greetings from Israel! Thank you for this great article. We just booked a 3.5-day trip to Budapest and are excited to follow your Budapest in 3 days plan + a few extras from this article. We’re so jealous that you are doing this as a lifestyle!

Thank you so much, Inbal!! I hope you guys have an amazing time in Budapest–it’s a magnificent city.

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The 15 Best Things to do in Budapest, Hungary

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Divided in two by the River Danube, Budapest is one of Europe’s most aesthetically astounding and historically intriguing capitals. You’ll love how many fascinating things there are to do all over Hungary ’s largest city! 

Budapest is really a tale of two cities: Buda and Pest. On one side of the roaring Danube, the tall towers and mighty bastions of Buda Castle stand on a prominent rocky outcrop high above the city. Buda is where the royalty of centuries past lived, and you’ll find iconic landmarks like Fisherman’s Bastion, the Castle Hill Funicular, and the Liberty Statue to explore. 

On the other side of the Danube, the flat neighborhoods of Pest are home to the Hungarian Parliament, to long, elegant 19 th -century streets like Andrassy Avenue, and to the coolest pubs, clubs, and Ruin Bars in the city. Enjoy long walks along the banks of the Danube, escape the city with a cruise along the river, and quickly fall in love with a city that’s as historic as it is trendy.

With so many cool things to see and do in Budapest, you might not know where to begin. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Budapest for you. Stick to these fun and unique Budapest bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’re going to have an amazing time exploring this gorgeous European city!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Budapest

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 15 Best Things to do in Budapest

1. take a bath in budapest.

At the top of any Budapest bucket list should be taking a bath. No, we don’t mean in your hotel room (although we’re not stopping you!), but in one of the city’s many traditional thermal baths. 

Budapest is built above hot springs, and the Hungarian capital has a long history of bathing that stretches back to the Romans. The Ottoman Empire refined bathing to an art, and even today, the oldest baths you can visit are the Turkish-style Kiraly Baths, which date back to 1565. 

There are many spa options to consider, but if it’s your first time in the city, then one of the best things to do in Budapest is to spend the day at Szechenyi Thermal Bath . Located in City Park, these are the largest public baths in Budapest. 

You’ll find there are three enormous outdoor pools surrounded by a brightly colored baroque palace, where you’ll also find a whopping 15 indoor pools. Everything is heated, except for the ice-cold plunge pools, which you can brave in between sauna and steam room sessions!

If you’d like to get away from the crowds, though, then you can book a slot at the Lukacs Baths instead. Located across the river in Buda, this is a local favorite that dates back to the late 19th century and is complete with modern infrared saunas. While you’re in Buda, you can also visit the Gellert Baths , an art nouveau-style spa that’s said to be the most architecturally beautiful of all Budapest’s bathhouses! 

2. Tour the Parliament Building

You really can’t miss Budapest’s magnificent parliament building. Standing tall on the Pest side of the River Danube, you’ll instantly recognize the red dome and red roof of the Hungarian Parliament Building from almost any skyline photographs you might have seen of the city.

The Hungarian Parliament Building really is an iconic landmark, so if you’re wondering what to do in Budapest when you first arrive, we recommend heading here. Start by strolling along the eastern bank of the Danube and admiring the tall, almost dreamy architecture as it rises high above you.

Once you’ve found the entrance of this mammoth building, you can find out more about its history and inner workings by joining a tour. You’ll discover how the parliament building was first opened in 1902 and remained the largest building in all of Budapest. 

The unique architecture, as you’ll also discover, is a contrasting mix of Gothic and Renaissance Revival, while Hungary’s National Assembly only ever meets in the Lower House of the building, leaving the Upper House to be used for conferences, meetings, and events. 

3. Admire Architecture On Andrassy Avenue

You have to take a stroll along Andrassy Avenue because it’s one of the must-do things in Budapest! Andrassy Avenue is one of Budapest’s longest, most elegant, and most famous boulevards, and you’ll love admiring the beautiful architecture and soaking up the history as you stroll from one end to the other.

Andrassy Avenue is found on the Pest side of the river, and it was designed as a central thoroughfare that could be lined with impressive neoclassical buildings. Opened in the 1870s, so important is the street’s architecture to the city’s image that Andrassy Avenue is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

You can start at either end, but we recommend beginning your walk at Erzsebet Square, the side closest to the River Danube. From here, you’ll stroll past townhouses, the opera house, museums, cafes, and restaurants as you walk for almost 2 miles to the endpoint at Hero’s Square.

We recommend walking this way because once you reach Hero’s Square, you can continue on through the park and take a dip in the pools at Szechenyi Thermal Bath !

4. Stroll Along the River Danube

Make sure you bring a sturdy pair of shoes when you’re visiting all of the top Budapest attractions because walking is often the best way to explore the city. 

One of our favorite walks anywhere in Europe is along the banks of the River Danube in Budapest. This is the geographical feature that defines the Hungarian capital more than any other – and we think it’s important to see it from the ground level! 

You can walk for miles along the river in either direction and on either side, but for a taste of what the banks of the Danube have to offer, we recommend starting at the Szechenyi Chain Bridge on the Pest side of the river. 

Walk north, and you’ll soon reach a moving monument known as the Shoes on the Danube Bank , which remembers the Jewish citizens who were killed here during World War II. Continue, and you’ll be walking under the spires of the Hungarian Parliament Building before you reach Margaret Bridge and the southern end of Margaret Island. 

That’s a good 45 minutes of walking, not counting stopping time, and if you cross over the river, you can continue the walk on the Buda side of the river. This time you can walk south toward the Szechenyi Chain Bridge. Along the way, you’ll pass below Castle Hill and enjoy spectacular views across to the Parliament Building you visited earlier. 

Of course, if you’re tired, worn out from too much sightseeing, or just don’t want to walk, you can always take a river cruise along the Danube instead of walking!

5. Ride the World’s Second-Oldest Metro System

The flat streets of Pest are made for walking, but there’s also a much quicker way to get around when you’ve got no time for a leisurely stroll. Deep underground, you can find the Budapest Metro, a rapid transit system that can get you almost anywhere in the city (especially when combined with the iconic yellow trams above ground).

But this isn’t any ordinary metro system. In fact, you’ll be happy to hear that a ride on the Budapest Metro is an experience unto itself because this is the second-oldest underground metro in the world!

The oldest in the world is the London Underground, and that dates back to 1863. It took a while for Europe to catch up, and Budapest opened its first underground line in 1896. The first line to open was, of course, Line 1, and today Line 1 is of such historical importance to the city that it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

6. Visit the Castle on the Hill

Cross over the Szechenyi Chain Bridge from Pest, and you can walk or ride the funicular to the top of Castle Hill. Since at least the year 1265 AD, Castle Hill has been the site of royal castles, built to control the River Danube and the flat plains below.

The medieval castle was destroyed in the endless wars between Hungarians and the Ottoman Empire, and the large, baroque-style palace you see on the hill today was built in the 18th century. It was then destroyed in World War II before being rebuilt again. 

You’ll find a tumultuous history on top of the hill, but today, things are calm and peaceful around this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a guided tour through the palace itself or a guided walking tour through the surrounding Castle Quarter where you’ll find famous landmarks like Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church, as well as formal ceremonies like the changing of the guard. 

You’ll also find that Castle Hill is home to some of the best museums in Budapest, including the Budapest History Museum and the National Hungarian Gallery . You’ll need at least an entire day to see everything, so get an early start before making the journey to the top of Castle Hill!

7. Eat Everything at the Great Market Hall

Are you a big foodie? If so, you’re going to love visiting the Great Market Hall, which we guarantee is one of the most fun things to do in Budapest!

Eating and drinking your way through this extravagant local marketplace is one of the best Budapest activities for hungry travelers. You’ll be spoiled for choice as you peruse the stalls and dig into the local cuisine. 

The market hall itself is a thing of beauty, as the building dates back to 1897 and is the largest of its kind in Budapest. But the real action is among the traders on the ground floor, where you can try local wines and fiery Hungarian spirits, Kolbasz sausages, pickled vegetables, and smoked fish. 

You can take a guided tour to learn more about the local delicacies and dishes, but if you’re particularly hungry, then head to the upper floors, where the local eateries serve up hearty Hungarian food at excellent prices. You can order steaming bowls of goulash, langos flatbreads smothered in sour cream, or the famous fisherman’s soup! 

8. Drink Beer in a Ruin Bar

One of the coolest things to do in Budapest is a tour of the city’s unique Ruin Bars. Ruin Bars aren’t your average bar or pub, although they are incredibly trendy. Ruin Bars began to pop up in the 2000s, as abandoned buildings were taken over and turned into cool and unusual places to drink beer, hang out, and play music.

These peculiar bars are quite unique to Budapest, and they are found primarily in District VII, which was the old Jewish Quarter of the city with the largest concentration of derelict buildings. You’ll love how Ruin Bars are characterized by unique themes and designs, where nothing is in the right place or where nostalgia has been allowed to take over.

The first Ruin Bar to make it big was Szimpla Kert , and there you’ll find a labyrinth of bars and cafes surrounding a central garden. There are free concerts, great craft beers, and an old East German car for decor. Another favorite is Red Ruin , where you can try local beers in a Communist-themed bar that even Lenin would be proud of!

Many of the best Ruin Bars are hidden away, so we recommend taking a Ruin Bar tour to help you uncover the quirkiest places to drink in Budapest. 

9. Take a Walking Tour of the Jewish Quarter

Just as Budapest is a tale of two cities, so too is the Jewish Quarter. Today, you’ll find some of the city’s coolest pubs and bars in the old Jewish Quarter, where tourists and locals flock when night falls over Budapest. 

You’ll also find some of the best restaurants, including the delectable Middle Eastern cuisine of Mazel Tov . There are vintage shops, design cafes, co-working hubs, and so much more for the savvy modern traveler to experience, but there’s also the history!

While the Jewish Quarter is always one of the trendiest things to see in Budapest, a walking tour will show you the darker side of the district. This was where the Budapest Ghetto was built during World War II, as the city’s Hungarian population suffered immensely under the fascist regime. 

Most did not survive the war, however. In the 1990s, the Dohany Street Synagogue was fully restored to its pre-war glory and is now the second-largest synagogue in the world. Enjoy the modern outlook of the Jewish Quarter, but try not to forget the past while you’re enjoying craft beers in the Ruin Bars. 

10. Brave the House of Terror

Budapest endured many decades of fascist and then communist rule in the 20th century, and the locals suffered many privations throughout the reign of totalitarian regimes. While little remains visible in the streets themselves of this often dark history, you can learn more with a visit to the quite terrifying House of Terror . 

This is no haunted home or theme park-style house of horrors. This is a museum dedicated to telling the story of Hungary’s secret police. It’s also a museum dedicated to the many victims of both fascism and communism. 

The House of Terror will take you on a journey through the horrors of World War II and then into the often bleak days that followed until Hungary became a democracy in 1989. You’ll see mock prison cells, a Russian T-34 tank, and come face to face with pictures and portraits of those who died fighting either the fascist regime or the communist regime.

11. Experience the Communist Past at Memento Park

Regimes loved to build statues, but despite enduring five decades of communist rule, you’ll notice that the streets of Budapest are firmly entrenched in their 19 th -century character rather than the more recent 20th century.

That’s because much of the socialist-style architecture, particularly the statues, was completely dismantled or torn down when Hungary became a democracy. You may be wondering where statues end up once they’ve been taken down, and in Budapest, it’s a place called Memento Park . 

This is one of the most unique Budapest attractions, and a visit to Memento Park will throw you back in time to the communist era. Located in an old sports field on the outskirts of the city, Memento Park is home to statues of Lenin, Stalin’s Boots , and many other communist statues that were removed.

You can tour through the resurrected statues in this Disney-esque theme park for nostalgics before learning more about communism in the attached exhibition hall. 

12. Attend a Summer Festival

Budapest is a glorious city to visit in the summer, not only because the sun is always shining, but because the Hungarian capital hosts so many events throughout the season!

There really is something for everyone. Sziget Festival is held every August on an island in the Danube, for example, and it’s now one of Europe’s biggest and best outdoor music festivals.

The Budapest Summer Festival sees classical music concerts held in open-air venues across the city and on Margaret Island, while the Budapest Beer Festival will need little introduction. 

And then you have the outdoor baths, the alfresco dining, and so much more to experience throughout those long summer days in Budapest.

13. Shop at Budapest’s Christmas Markets

Budapest is a wonderful city to visit any time of the year, but you’ll find that in the winter, things here are very different from summer. Wrap up warm because Budapest gets cold, but there will be plenty of opportunities to warm up with mulled wine and hot bowls of goulash!

The winter season sees Budapest’s central squares bursting with holiday joy as market stalls crowd the streets and impromptu concerts and carol-singing events fill the city with music. You’ll love trying all the traditional food and drink on offer at this time of the year because Hungarian winter food is designed to be hearty, and it’s designed to be served piping hot.

The traditional markets pop up all over the city, from Andrassy Avenue across the Danube to Castle Hill. Rest assured, you’ll find plenty of excellent souvenirs that will make for fantastic presents back home. 

14. Visit Margaret Island

If you’re looking to escape the city, then you don’t have to go far, because one of the best sights in Budapest is Margaret Island. Located in the middle of the River Danube, you’ll find Arpad Bridge at the northern end and Margaret Bridge at the southern end of the island. 

You can quickly reach Margaret Island by boat, tram, or just by walking over from either Pest or Buda. Once you’re there, you’ll have several square miles of beautiful urban parklands to explore. You’ll feel like you’re worlds away from the city!

There are lots of things to do on Margaret Island. You can rent a bicycle or golf cart and traverse the length of the island, you can climb the water tower for views over the city, or you can stroll through the many gardens that are all open to the public.

Best of all, Margaret Island is home to its own set of thermal swimming pools. The Palatinus Baths is an outdoor, open-air swimming pool that’s fed by thermal hot springs. There are slides, plunge pools, and fountains. Plus, the baths are open throughout the year.

15. Take in the Views from Liberty Statue

Are you looking for one of the best views in Budapest? Then you’ll love the 360-degree panoramic views from the Liberty Statue. This is one of the best Budapest attractions because the Liberty Statue is located high on top of Gellert Hill, and it’s here that you’ll have a complete view of all of Budapest below.

The statue itself is an impressive monument, and it was built in 1947 to commemorate all those who lost their lives fighting during the Second World War. The statue was built next to the Citadella, which saw fierce fighting and action at the end of the war.

A network of steep walking trails leads from Szechenyi Bridge and the Danube below, all the way to the top of the hill. Visit when the sun is about to set, and you’ll have colorful views over the skyline before seeing the city lit up spectacularly at night. Bring your camera because this viewpoint is one for the photographers!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Budapest. What’s your favorite thing to do in Budapest?

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Frequently Asked Questions

At the top of any Budapest bucket list should be taking a bath. No, we don’t mean in your hotel room (although we’re not stopping you!), but in one of the city’s many traditional thermal baths. There are many spa options to consider, but if it’s your first time in the city, then one of the best things to do in Budapest is to spend the day at Szechenyi Thermal Bath. Located in City Park, these are the largest public baths in Budapest.

Are you a big foodie? If so, you’re going to love visiting the Great Market Hall, which we guarantee is one of the most fun things to do in Budapest! Eating and drinking your way through this extravagant local marketplace is one of the best Budapest activities for hungry travelers. You’ll be spoiled for choice as you peruse the stalls and dig into the local cuisine.

Budapest is a glorious city to visit in the summer, not only because the sun is always shining, but because the Hungarian capital hosts so many events throughout the season! There really is something for everyone. Sziget Festival is held every August on an island in the Danube and it’s now one of Europe’s biggest and best outdoor music festivals.

Cross over the Szechenyi Chain Bridge from Pest, and you can walk or ride the funicular to the top of Castle Hill. Since at least the year 1265 AD, Castle Hill has been the site of royal castles, built to control the River Danube and the flat plains below. This hill has a tumultuous past, but today, things are calm and peaceful around this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the coolest things to do in Budapest is a tour of the city’s unique Ruin Bars. Ruin Bars aren’t your average bar or pub, although they are incredibly trendy. Ruin Bars began to pop up in the 2000s, as abandoned buildings were taken over and turned into cool and unusual places to drink beer, hang out, and play music. These peculiar bars are quite unique to Budapest, and they are found primarily in District VII, which was the old Jewish Quarter of the city with the largest concentration of derelict buildings.

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Budapest

When I first visited Budapest , the gritty, rundown streets charmed me. Budapest felt edgy. This was a city of underground bars in abandoned buildings , hearty food, and serious people.

Originally founded by the Celts around 1 CE, the region was later annexed by the Romans, who founded the city of Aquincum here (which present-day Budapest now covers). The Magyars eventually invaded the region after being pushed out of Bulgaria , founding the Kingdom of Hungary around the year 1000 CE. In 1361, the king built Buda Castle here, solidifying present-day Budapest as the capital and cultural hub of the kingdom.

In 1873, the towns of Buda and Pest were merged with the third area of the city, Óbuda (Old Buda), to form modern-day Budapest.

Over the years, I’ve seen the city change as tourists discovered this hidden gem and made it not so hidden anymore. And, while no longer as edgy as it once was, Budapest is still one of the best cities in Europe . It offers some of the best nightlife on the continent, beautiful districts, tons of spas and hot springs, stunning historic buildings and museums, and lots of green space.

To help you make the most out of your next trip, here are my top 25 things to see and do in Budapest.  

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

2. Soak at the Baths

Budapest is known for its thermal spa baths (it’s one of the best things about this city). There are more than 120 mineral hot springs here, many dating back to the Roman Empire.

The most popular is the Széchenyi Baths in City Park. With 18 pools, it’s the largest and most famous in Europe. The historic buildings that house the spa were built in 1913, and it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Don’t forget your bathing suit and flip-flops (you can rent towels and lockers).

Other baths, such as Lukacs and Gellert are also worth a visit.

Állatkerti krt. 9-11, +36-20 435 0051, szechenyifurdo.hu. Weekdays from 7am-8pm and weekends from 8am-8pm. Admission starts at 9,400 HUF on weekdays and 10,900 HUF on weekends (11,900 HUF on holidays).  

3. Party at the Ruin Bars

For a more detailed list, check out my post on the best ruin bars in Budapest!

Even if you’re not a big drinker, these bars are still worth seeing (Szimpla Kert especially; it’s one of the most unique bars in the world).  

4. See Castle Hill

Located on the hilly Buda side of the city, this historic area is home to baroque houses and Habsburg monuments. Cobblestone streets and narrow alleys that hark back to the city’s medieval roots parallel panoramic views of Pest and the Danube. This section of the city is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the Old Town in the north and the massive 13th-century palace to the south. You can get up the hill by bus or funicular, but you often have to wait. The hill isn’t really that steep so I prefer to walk. It’s a beautiful spot to come at sundown.  

5. Tour Buda Castle

Fun fact: Beneath the castle, Vlad the Impaler (colloquially known as Count Dracula) was imprisoned for 14 years. In the dungeon area, there is also a labyrinth which is super cool. There are some museums here as well (see below).

Szent György tér 2, +36 1 458 3000, budacastlebudapest.com. The courtyards are open 24/7 while the castle has hours that align with the museum and gallery (see below).  

6. Explore the Hospital in the Rock

Over the years, this museum has served as a hospital, bomb shelter, prison, and nuclear bunker. Here you can learn about the impacts that World War II, the 1956 revolution (a countrywide revolution against the Soviets that was crushed after 12 days), and the Cold War had on the city and its people. Opened in 2008, it’s one of the most popular attractions in town. Admission includes a one-hour guided tour of the museums, which has all sorts of wax figures, tools, equipment, and furnishings.

On Friday nights, they offer a flashlight tour, where you explore the below-ground museum with the lights off using a flashlight.

Lovas ut 4/c , +36 70 701 0101, sziklakorhaz.eu/en. Open daily 10am-7pm. Admission starts at 9,214 HUF. Daily tours available in English.  

7. Visit the Hungarian National Gallery

Opened in 1957, this museum focuses on Hungarian artists and history (of which I knew very little before my first visit). The gallery is located in Buda Castle, home to paintings and sculptures from the renaissance and middle ages, including wooden altarpieces from the 1400s. World War II damaged the palace severely and it was restored again in the 1960s before becoming home to the National Gallery in 1975. During your visit, you can also check out the underground Habsburg Palatine Crypt and climb to the top of the iconic dome for panoramic views of the city.

The gallery hosts rotating temporary exhibits too so check the website to find out what’s on during your visit.

1014 Budapest, +36 20 439 7325, mng.hu. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm (last tickets sold at 5pm). Admission is 4,200 HUF.  

8. Wander the Budapest History Museum

Be sure to get the audio guide as it provides a lot of good supplemental information. It’s worth the cost.

2 Szent Gyorgy Square, +36 1 487 8800 , btm.hu/en. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm. Admission is 3,800 HUF).  

9. See the Cave Church

In the 1920s, Catholic monks built this church in a large cave system that had been previously used by a hermit monk. Known as Saint Ivan’s Cave, the cave was used as a hospital during World War II. When the communists came to power after the war, they covered the entrance in concrete and executed the head monk. In 1989, as the Iron Curtain fell, the church was reopened and is now a popular place for tourists as well as a place of worship for locals. Get the audio guide to make the most out of your visit. There is a lot of history here.

Szent Gellért rakpart 1, sziklatemplom.hu/eng. Open Monday-Saturday 9:30am-7:30pm. Admission is 1,000 HUF which includes an audio guide.  

10. Visit Matthias Church

During the Turkish invasion of the 16th century, it was converted to a mosque, which is why it has vibrant colors and designs that aren’t as common in European churches (the church has a colorful roof that almost makes it look like it was built from Lego). Once inside, you’ll see huge, vaulted ceilings and ornate décor. In the Royal Oratory, you’ll find the Matthias Church Collection of Ecclesiastical Art, which has stunning artifacts like chalices and replicas of the Crown of St. Stephen.

Szentháromság tér 2, +36 1 355 5657, matyas-templom.hu. Open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am–12am, and Sunday 1pm–5pm. Admission is 2,500 HUF (2,900 HUF including the tower).  

11. Visit Fisherman’s Bastion

Szentháromság tér, +36 1 458 3030, fishermansbastion.com. Open 24 hours a day. Admission is free, with an additional charge of 1,200 HUF to visit the upper turrets. Tickets for the upper towers are available from 9am-7pm (8pm in the summer).  

12. Admire the Hungarian Presidential Palace

The Hungarian Presidential Palace has been the workplace of the president since 2003. Known as Sándor-palota (Alexander Palace), it’s not nearly as impressive as the surrounding buildings, but if you time your visit right you can see the changing of the guard ceremony at the top of each hour from 9am-5pm (excluding Sundays). Sometimes the palace is open for tours (but this rarely happens so don’t get your hopes up).

Szent György tér 1-2, +36 1 224 5000. Admission to the changing of the guard is free.  

13. See Buda Tower

This reconstructed “tower” is all that remains of the Church of Mary Magdalene, which was originally built in the 13th century but was destroyed during World War II. When the Turks occupied the city between 1541-1699, the church was converted into a mosque. It reopened in 2017 and you can now climb the 172 steps that lead to the top. That said, the views from Castle Hill are just as good — and free — so I’d skip climbing the steps and just admire this historic tower from the outside.

14. Walk Across the Chain Bridge

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge connects Buda with Pest and is a wrought-iron and stone suspension bridge. The bridge originally opened in 1849 but was damaged during World War II and had to be rebuilt. Spend some time strolling across the bridge and taking in the view. Don’t miss Gresham Palace, located on the Pest side. It’s an Art Nouveau building that is now a luxurious Four Seasons hotel.  

15. Visit Parliament

Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, +36 1 441 4415, parlament.hu. Open daily 8am-6pm (4pm in the winter). Admission is 12,000 HUF for non-EU adults, 6,000 HUF for EU adults.  

16. Stroll Along the Danube

17. Eat at the Great Market Hall

This is the oldest and largest indoor market in the country. Built in 1897, there is mostly produce, meats, baked goods, and candy on the ground floor while the upper floor is home to restaurants and souvenir shops. It has a lot of traditional places to eat, so be sure to walk around and explore first. Yes, it’s touristy (it’s the central market, after all), but I still found the food quite good (and affordable). Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s still worth a quick visit to walk around.

They also have a guided Market Hall Tour with Tastings for 9,900 HUF on Saturdays at 11am (you can book directly on their website below).

Vámház körút 1–3, budapestmarkethall.com/great-market-hall-budapest. Open Monday 6am-5pm, Tuesday-Friday 6am-6pm, and Saturday 6am-3pm. Closed on Sundays. Admission is free.  

18. Admire St. Stephen’s Basilica

Szent István tér 1, +36 1 311 0839, bazilika.biz. Open Monday from 9am-4:30pm, Tuesday-Saturday from 9am-5:45pm, and Sundays from 1pm-5:45pm. Entry is 2,300 HUF or 6,000 HUF to visit the church, tower, and treasury. Tours are available in English starting at 25,000 HUF.  

19. See Dohány Street Synagogue

Also known as the Great Synagogue, this is the second-largest synagogue in the world (it seats 3,000 people). Built in 1854, the synagogue offers guided tours that shed light on the building and its place in the city’s history. You’ll learn all about the construction of the synagogue, Jewish life in the city, and much more. As a follow-up to your visit, check out Wallenberg Memorial Park (right behind the synagogue) and the nearby Hungarian Jewish Museum.

Dohány u. 2, +36 1-413 5584, jewishtourhungary.com/en. Hours vary from month to month; call ahead or check the website for details. Admission to the synagogue is 10,800 HUF.  

20. Hike Gellért Hill

21. Visit the Museum of Terror

Life in Budapest under the fascist and communist regimes was brutal. The building that houses this museum was used by the ÁVH (Secret Police) and Arrow Cross Party (the Hungarian Nazi party) during their reigns of terror. Over 700,000 Hungarians were killed or imprisoned by the Soviets, and the museum does an excellent and moving job of highlighting just how terrible their daily lives were. The museum’s permanent exhibits are spread over four floors and house all sorts of propaganda, weapons, and informative multimedia displays. They also host temporary exhibits too (for information on those, check the website for the most up-to-date information).

Andrássy út 60, +36 (1) 374 26 00, terrorhaza.hu/en. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm. Admission is 4,000 HUF and you cannot order tickets online.  

22. Stroll Around Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square (Hosök Tere) is the largest square in Hungary. Here there are statues of Hungarian kings and other historical figures, including the seven chiefs who led the Magyars (modern-day Hungarians) in the 9th century. The monument was built in 1896 to celebrate Hungary’s 1,000th anniversary and originally included Hapsburg monuments (as the Hapsburgs ruled the country at that time). The square is also home to the Millennium Monument, a large stone cenotaph dedicated to those who gave their life for Hungary’s independence. It’s located on the Pest side of the city.  

23. Go Island-Hopping

There are a few islands on the Danube that you can visit to escape the city. The most popular is Margaret Island. It’s connected by the Margaret and Árpád Bridges and has a large park, swimming pools, and a musical fountain. Óbuda Island is known for its outdoor activities, including wakeboarding, jet skiing, and golf (there’s a driving range here). In August, they host the Sziget Festival of music and culture, which brings in thousands of people (there are over 1,000 performances during the festival).  

24. Visit the House of Houdini

Born in 1874, Harry Houdini was a famous escape artist and illusionist. He was best known for his elaborate and sensational escape tricks, including escapes in handcuffs, chains, and even a grave where he was buried alive! Born in Hungary, this is the only museum in Europe dedicated to the Budapest native. The museum, which requires you to solve a small mystery before you can even visit, is home to original Houdini props and pieces of memorabilia, as well as props from the Houdini film starring Adrien Brody.

11 Dísz Square, +36 1-951-8066, houseofhoudinibudapest.com. Open daily from 10am-7pm. Admission is 3,400 HUF.  

25. Day trip to Lake Balaton

From its wild ruin bars to its relaxing spas, Budapest offers everything you can find in Western Europe — but for a fraction of the price. Plus, it also sees a fraction of the crowds that you’ll find in cities like London , Paris , and Prague .

With tons to see and do and budget-friendly prices, it should come as no surprise that Budapest keeps becoming more and more popular. It’s a city that won’t disappoint!

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Budapest: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay in the city are:

• Carpe Noctem

If you’re looking for more places to stay, here is a complete list of my favorite hostels in Budapest !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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This Central European City Is 'Paris of the East' and Boasts Michelin-Starred Restaurants, Contemporary Museums, and High-End Shopping

Budapest is emerging as Central Europe's most modern city.

Where to Eat

Where to stay, where to see art, where to shop.

Stuart Westmorland/Getty Images

With its history dating back to the Roman times and its grand palaces and cultural institutions, Budapest is one of Europe's most beautiful and architecturally significant capitals. Dubbed "Paris of the East," the Hungarian city comprises Buda and Pest, sitting on the opposite banks of the Danube River, linked by the spectacular Chain Bridge.

The city is recognized for its cultural significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , offering spectacular architecture, riverfront views, and thermal baths. But Budapest, while rooted in the past, is also emerging as a modern world-class destination with Michelin-starred restaurants, a globally acclaimed art scene, top-notch hotels, sleek spas, and countless independent boutiques and design shops.

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"Budapest has been an 'over-cultured' city for about a hundred years, with more theatres, symphony orchestras and museums than the country could have afforded," said András Török, a Budapest-based author and lecturer, whose latest book "Budapest Gem" was published by Assouline in April. "Nowadays, Budapest, a city just the right size, offers all the sophistication of much larger cities, especially after the gastro revolution of the mid-2010s."

Read on for a curated list of Budapest's best hotels, restaurants, spas, and galleries that reveal the city's modern spirit. 

Overlooking the Danube River, Felix occupies a stunning neo-renaissance building and a former pumping station for the Royal Palace. The elegant eatery, often frequented by celebrities, boasts multiple dining rooms, including a breezy (and shaded) terrace with spectacular Gresham Palace and Buda Castle vistas. With seasonal, globally-inspired menus and a few year-round classics like oysters and caviar, Felix sources the freshest local ingredients and prime cuts of Australian and Japanese meats. Patrons also enjoy an impressive selection of hundreds of bottles of classic and rare Hungarian and international wines. Try the 1995 Oremus Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos, a sweet dessert wine from Hungary's most renowned wine region, or indulge in a bottle of dry white 2021 Balassa X Czinki Szent Tamás Furmint, the result of a collaboration between one of the country's best vineyards and master sommelier Tamas Czinki, who's behind the restaurant's wine list.

In 2022, the Michelin Guide launched its inaugural Hungary guide, awarding two stars to just two eateries, including the Budapest-based Stand . The cozy downtown restaurant is helmed by award-winning chefs Tamás Széll and Szabina Szulló, whose elaborate dishes are rooted in traditional Hungarian culinary traditions but prepared with modern palates in mind. The result is a fine dining experience that showcases modern techniques and takes guests on a culinary journey around the country in an elegant yet cozy dining room.

Courtesy of W Budapest

Another highlight of the modern Budapest dining scene is Babel , which, like Stand, has been part of the Michelin Guide for two years. There is something whimsical and homey about its dining room, which features exposed stone walls, lush greenery, and warm wood accents. The eight-course menu is a refined celebration of Central European flavors and ingredients with a touch of Scandinavian minimalism. 

Nightingale by Beefbar , the sleek Art Nouveau restaurant and bar of W Budapest, draws the city's cool crowd. Handcrafted cocktails, live DJ sessions, and shareable plates of Asian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes are complemented by front-row views of the city's Opera House across the street on elegant Andrássy Avenue. 

It's easy to see why luxe hospitality brands love Budapest — the city has no shortage of grand palaces and mansions oozing Old World charm that have been transformed into five-star hotels.

But a roster of new openings blends past and present, marrying the best of two worlds and aesthetics.

W Budapest , which opened its doors in the summer of 2023 and was a finalist on this year's Travel + Leisure It List , is a prime example of the timeless sophistication of the city's historic buildings. Housed in the UNESCO-listed Drechsler Palace on Andrássy Avenue, the property's spectacular interiors reference the building's past — at one point, it served as the headquarters for the Ballet Insitute, so all bathrooms are outfitted with dressing room-like mirrors and lighting fixtures are inspired by delicate pearl earrings that ballerinas wear — with the brand's design-forward approach to hospitality. There are spacious accommodations with custom furnishings, a spa with an indoor heated pool, an impossibly chic hidden speakeasy, and a very Instagram-worthy courtyard covered by a wave-like glass ceiling.

With 84 rooms, the splendid Kozmo Hotel Suites and Spa , falls into the boutique hotel category and bills itself as the "modern reinterpretation of luxury." The five-star property, also housed in a historic landmark building, proves sophistication is in the small details such as Penhaligon toiletries, poster beds, bathtubs, and expansive city views.

Spanning three buildings, Dorothea Hotel, Budapest, Autograph Collection debuted in November 2023 at the heart of the city's downtown, just a few blocks from the Danube River. With 216 rooms, all impeccably furnished by the Milan-based Lissoni & Partners studio and featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, soaking bathtubs, and private balconies, the property's interiors balance old and new.

In recent years, the art landscape in Budapest has changed thanks to the growing recognition of Hungarian artists abroad and the rise of younger Hungarian collectors at home.

"Hungarian people have become more open for contemporary art," Márton Nemes , one of Hungary's most prominent contemporary artists, explained in his downtown Budapest studio. He said more young people are encouraged to pursue careers as professional artists at home. Nemes studied in London and divides his time between New York City and Budapest. His colorful abstract work is currently on view at the Hungarian Pavilion at the Venice Biennale.

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The Hungarian capital's art scene is ripe with galleries and spaces showcasing a diaspora of art media by established and up-and-coming artists. acb Galéria , housed in a neo-Renaissance building a few city blocks from the city's Opera House, was founded in the early 2000s but has since become one of the most prestigious art galleries in Hungary with three exhibition spaces and focuses on emerging local and international artists. (Nemes's work was displayed here in 2023.) 

In September 2021, 37-year-old Hong Kong art collector Queenie Rosita Law opened Q Contemporary , a non-profit art center dedicated to Central and East European art, housed in the elegant 19th-century Rausch Villa on Andrássy Avenue. Law has been a champion of Hungarian art for over a decade after spending time in the region as a student at the prestigious Central St. Martins School of Art and Design in London. The space was renovated and now has whitewashed walls where travelers can peruse some one hundred works of art by dozens of the region's most prominent multidisciplinary contemporary artists like the internationally acclaimed László Fehér, Ilona Keserü, and Mira Brtka. 

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

For decades, The Studio of Young Artists' Association has supported Hungary's art professionals, and its FKSE Stúdió, a permanent exhibition space in Budapest's bohemian 7th district on the Pest side, promotes the work of the country's youngest artists and most recent art school graduates. The dynamic space also hosts lectures, discussions, video presentations, and other events where the general public can meet the artists in person.

And among the many galleries and art spaces along Bartók Béla Boulevard on the Buda side, you'll find Godot Intézet (the entrance is through a coffee shop), a small and beautiful gallery space with huge circular windows that regularly showcases art by local newcomers. Godot Intézet is associated with Budapest's Godot Galéria, an Independent Museum for Contemporary Art , which is also a worthy stop.

Nanushka , the sustainable fashion brand with a cult following among fashionistas on both sides of the Atlantic, was founded almost two decades ago in Budapest by Sandra Sándor and is now one of the best-known Hungarian labels worldwide. The company's aesthetic blends traditional Hungarian folklore details with urban simplicity and impeccable craftsmanship. Nanushka's Budapest store is fronted by a trendy coffee shop serving pastries and caffeinated drinks, hinting at the company's lifestyle appeal. The curated boutique collection includes women's and men's wear, including accessories like bags and sunglasses.

Dan Glasser/Courtesy of Nanushka

A few steps from Nanushka is the bright and airy boutique of Aeron , another well-known Hungarian brand in fashion circles, offering pieces that showcase its designer's penchant for sustainable practices and materials and exquisite tailoring and timeless design.

On the complete opposite of the creative spectrum is Eszka , whose brightly colored patterns and bold knitwear are designed to boost a wearer's confidence.

And if you need some high-end R&R, head to Omorovicza Insitute . The serene spa and store of the celebrity-favorite beauty brand (Anne Hathaway, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Uma Thurman are fans) uses minerals from the city's thermal waters. Book a detoxifying facial with Omorovicza's Moor mud products that refine and nourish or boost your skin's hydration levels with the brand's Hydrafacial Skin Therapy Session, blending its proprietary healing concentrate for instant glow and rejuvenation.

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Home » Europe » Budapest

16 BEST Places to Visit in Budapest (2024)

Nicknamed the Paris of the Easy, Hungary’s capital city of Budapest is a treat for the senses. It boasts beautiful historic architecture, is famous for classical music, has many thermal spas, and there are plenty of places to sink your teeth into traditional Hungarian cuisine.

Split in two by the Danube River, today’s city of Budapest is actually an amalgamation of three former cities. Many people know about Buda and Pest, but the third area – Obuda – is often overlooked. Lots of travelers tend to stick in the area that they are staying and thus miss out on many of the city’s highlights.

I’ve created the ultimate guide to the best places to visit in Budapest so that you don’t miss a thing. Combining places in all three parts of the city and a mixture of well-known Budapest must-dos and places that are more off the beaten track, there’s no better list to arm yourself with when exploring Hungary’s vibrant capital.

Spoiler alert: Some of these best places to visit in Budapest are sure to blow you away!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Budapest:

These are the best places to visit in budapest, faq on the best places to visit in budapest, some more of the best places to visit in budapest.

District VI, Terézváros, is one of the smallest yet most densely populated neighbourhoods in Budapest. Located on the Pest side of the Danube, this lively district is a hub of excitement and activity.

• Dive deep into Hungary’s communist and fascist history at the House of Terror Museum.
• Wander along the iconic Andrassy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Get back to nature and take a relaxing stroll through Városliget, one of the largest public parks in the city.

And, without further ado, here are the best places to visit in Budapest:

I know you are absolutely rip-roaring ready to go to Budapest already. So, check out where some of the best Airbnbs in Budapest are and book yourself an excellent home away from home before embarking on your adventure.

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#1 – Hungarian Parliament Building – A great place to see in Budapest if you love architecture

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• Prominent landmark;
• Guided tours;
• Impressive architecture;
• Riverside setting.

Why it’s awesome: If it’s your first time visiting Budapest then you may wonder what the awesome building sat on the river banks is. The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most famous landmarks in Budapest. Sitting on the edge of the Danube River, the cream and red architectural gem is a beautiful sight. Open since 1902 it is one of the biggest buildings in Hungary. Inside, there are more than 650 rooms (including two identical parliament halls), 10 courtyards, and 29 sets of stairs.

The interiors are symmetrical and there’s lots of impressive artwork, statues, stained glass, and other decorative features. The striking Gothic Revival building also has Baroque and Renaissance elements. Topped with a mighty dome, the spires, turrets, and towers look especially fairytale-like when illuminated at night time, and the building casts gorgeous reflections on the shimmering waters of the Danube.

What to do there: Admire the handsome building from the outside, both from across the river and from a closer perspective to see the many sculptures of Hungarian leaders and other historical figures that adorn the external walls. Take a 45-minute guided tour of the interiors to be further dazzled by beauty. (

Top tip: book your tickets online to save queuing!) Climb the grand staircase, flanked by lion statues, to reach the main entrance. Inside you can marvel at exquisite frescoes, more sculptures, mosaics, and stained glass. Step into the impressive hall, visit the old House of Lords, peek inside a decadent lobby, and view the alluring Hungarian Crown Jewels.

#2 – Széchenyi Thermal Bath – Great place to visit in Budapest for couples!

• Beautiful architecture;
• Romantic atmosphere;
• Natural hot springs;
• Various spa treatments.

Why it’s awesome: The largest and most famous of Budapest’s thermal baths, Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a great place for anyone looking to unwind and add something different to their trip. Although suitable for groups of friends, families, and solo explorers, it’s also one of the most romantic things to do when you travel to Budapest.

The naturally heated spring waters were first discovered in the late 1800s and the bathhouse later opened in 1913. The waters have medicinal and soothing properties, thanks to the diverse mineral content and constant heat. With indoor and outdoor bathing areas, it’s possible to bathe here all year round. The palatial building itself is impressive, built in a neo-Baroque style, and there are various ways to treat yourself to some TLC while at the spa.

What to do there: Ogle the handsome palace and explore its diverse areas, from the beautiful yellow façade and the main hall with its chequered flooring to the gigantic outdoor pool filled with deep blue water and the smaller interior pools.

Choose your favourite from the 18 pools and hop in to soothe away any stresses and strains, aches, and pains. You will probably want to spend at least a couple of hours at the spa trying out several of the pools. There are also a bunch of saunas and if you’re feeling brave, some plunge pools too. Though I much prefer bathing in the 36-degree pool. Lush.

Book a massage for some extra pampering—special couples’ massages are available too. Enjoy features like saunas, steam rooms, water jets, and whirlpools. On a sunny day, you can unwind alongside the water with a nice cool drink.

With a Budapest City Pass , you can experience the best of Budapest at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Castle Hill – One of Budapest’s coolest historical sites!

• Diverse attractions;
• Long history;
• Awesome views;
• Interesting caves and tunnels.

Why it’s awesome: Perched on top of Castle Hill, the UNESCO-listed Buda Castle is one of the most famous places in Budapest. The Buda Castle is the former residence and stronghold of Hungarian kings of old, the stunning palace can trace its history back to the 1200s. Most of the present-day Baroque beauty, however, was built in the mid-1700s, and the oldest remaining section was constructed in the 1400s.

Today, the Buda Castle is home to the Budapest History Museum, the Széchenyi National Library, and the Hungarian National Gallery. To be honest, the Buda Castle isn’t Hungarian National Gallery which proves that you should never judge a book by its cover – the inside is stunning! Mathias Church on the other hand is one of the main reasons to venture up the hill. Just the roof is worth checking out, as it’s made entirely from porcelain and intricately designed.

In addition to the Buda Castle and Mathias Church, Castle Hill boasts many other cool things to see and do. There are caves and passageways beneath the hill, used for various purposes over the years. Some of the underground chambers were used as air-raid shelters and a hospital during World War II. Other points of interest in Budapest’s Castle Hill include the Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and several charming walkways and squares.

What to do there: Explore the streets surrounding the hill to see the eye-catching blend of quaint homes and churches in various architectural styles, including Baroque, Medieval, and Neoclassical. Stroll along the atmospheric street of Uri Utca (Gentlemen’s Street) and appreciate the architectural beauty.

Enter the Labyrinth beneath the hill to walk through subterranean passages and caves, visit an old war-time hospital (now converted into a museum, the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum), stand in a nuclear bunker, and learn more about past uses of the caves, caves around the world, war-time history, and nuclear weapons. The Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum is probably one of the coolest and yet most underrated museums in Budapest.

See ancient Turkish tombstones that stand in front of the hill. Ride the funicular up the hill and get an impressive up-close view of the spectacular palace. Visit the museums inside the castle and marvel at the lavish interiors. Walk through pretty squares like Trinity Square and Andrew Hess Square, admire the views over the city, see various statues and memorials, and have a look inside landmarks like the House of the Hungarian Culture Foundation, the old Town Hall of Buda, and the ruins of St. Nicholas Tower.

Two major hotspots in Budapest are located on Castle Hill: Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. The Baroque Matthias Church dates back to the 1260s and was once used as a mosque. The whimsical Fisherman’s Bastion has splendid designs and offers great views over the Danube river.

Look out for interesting statues and sculptures as you explore the complex, including the Fountain of the Fishing Children, Matthias Fountain, the War and Peace memorial, Turulbird, Horseherd, and the Monument of Prince Eugene of Savoy.

#4 – Szabo Ervin Library – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Budapest

• Off the beaten track;
• Opportunities to relax and escape the crowds;
• Beautiful surroundings;
• Secret feeling.

Why it’s awesome: Close to the Palace Quarter, the charming Szabo Ervin Library is an offbeat hidden gem to add to your Budapest itinerary. A peaceful retreat in the bustling heart of the city, it takes visitors back in time and offers a sanctuary of calm.

Located in the historic Wenckheim Palace, built by a local aristocrat in the late 1800s / early 1900s, it has since been surrounded by a modern library. The elegant and intimate library is quite difficult to find, but it’s well worth seeking out to admire the interiors and relax in splendour. It’s a pretty cool place to stay in Budapest .

What to do there: Explore the Central Library and seek out the hidden Szabo Ervin Library within the larger complex. The former mansion now forms the reading rooms of the library. Travel back in time and feel like you’ve stepped into a lavish abode, complete with dark wood walls, a spiral staircase, and atmospheric chandeliers.

Settle into a comfy leather seat and bury yourself in the pages of a great book. Your surroundings and the words on the pages help to transport you to another time and place and the neo-Baroque designs are impressive.

#5 – Hungarian State Opera House – One of the most amazing places in Budapest!

• Historical building;
• Beautiful designs;
• Excellent acoustics;
• Hosts varied program of musical events.

Why it’s awesome: The Hungarian State Opera House is one of the grandest attractions in Budapest. Construction began on the handsome building in the 1870s and the opera house opened in 1884. Today, it is the country’s second-biggest opera house. Built in a neo-Renaissance style with several Baroque details and a musical theme, it is beautiful both inside and out.

It has hosted a number of famous performers over the years and is the home of the traditional Budapest Opera Ball. Performances at the opera house continue to draw large crowds and the acoustics are world-class. Indeed, it is often said to be one of Europe’s most beautiful opera houses with some of the best acoustics in the continent.

What to do there: Appreciate the fine details of the symmetrical building, taking in the opulent decorative touches and artistic features. See the statues of Franz Liszt and Ferenc Erkel (composer of the Hungarian national anthem) that stand proudly in front of the building, and take a daily guided tour (available in several languages) to admire the gorgeous interiors.

The marble columns and ceiling murals of the nine Muses inside the foyer help to set the scene. Ascend the wide stone steps, lit by wrought-iron lamps, be dazzled by the sublime main hall (complete with a huge chandelier and paintings of Greek deities), see the royal box with its symbolic sculptures, and spot other art throughout the building. You can also book tickets to attend a high-class performance.

If you are travelling to Budapest in the summer, make sure to check out Heroes Square, which also has some live performances and events during the weekends.

#6 – House of Terror – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Budapest

• Vital educational experience;
• Learn more about Hungary’s turbulent and troubled past;
• Memorial to victims;
• Audio tours available.

Why it’s awesome: The House of Terror is an informative, moving, and thought-provoking museum and a memorial to those who suffered under the Nazi and Communist regimes in Hungary. It is a Budapest must-do for anyone who wants to know more about the nation’s past.

While a visit is sure to stir up a range of emotions, it’s a vital place to teach lessons from times gone by. The stern-looking building was once the city’s Nazi headquarters. Despite only being in control for a short period, the group tortured and murdered hundreds of victims, mainly Jews, in the underground cellar, dead bodies later tossed into the river.

A short while later, the Soviet Union took control of the city and used the building as the head office of the State Security Authority. A brutal and feared organisation, it sought to control the people through fear and oppression.

Spies kept an ever-watchful eye on the population and many people were tortured and killed. The building is a painful reminder of the scars left behind in Budapest and Hungary by power-hungry and cruel regimes. It has been open as a museum and memorial since 2002.

What to do there: Shudder as you look at the imposing and drab building from the outside and mentally prepare yourself for the harrowing scenes to come. While there’s good information in English, an audio tour really helps you to delve deeper into the city’s tragic story.

Explore displays and see gruesome exhibits that bring the country’s horrifying past to life, learning more about the times of Nazi and Communist control. One of the biggest items is an old tank. You’ll see how the building played a pivotal role in the past and learn about the hardships faced by Hungarian people.

For many visitors, the most jarring section is the cellar network. Descend underground and stand in rooms and tunnels where horrific events took place.

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#7 – Vajdahunyad Castle – One of the most romantic places to visit in Budapest!

• Whimsical and unusual sight
• Lovely grounds
• Interesting museum
• Blend of architectural styles

Why it’s awesome: One of the most charming, romantic, and attractive landmarks to see when visiting Budapest, Vajdahunyad Castle is located in City Park. Despite its ancient appearance, the fairytale-like building is only a little more than a century old. The original castle was built from cardboard and wood as a temporary feature for the Hungarian Millenarian Festivities.

It had become such a popular landmark by the time that it was dismantled that it was subsequently rebuilt in sturdier materials. Sitting alongside a lake and surrounded by verdant nature, the folly blends various architectural styles from across the country. From Renaissance and Baroque to Gothic and Romanesque, the different styles certainly help to create a visual treat.

What to do there: Take a stroll around the lovely grounds, hand in hand with your significant other. There’s no charge to enter the castle’s gardens and courtyards and appreciate the magnificent building from the outside. You can also see a number of large statues.

Go inside to visit the Hungarian Agricultural Museum, home to a wide selection of farming tools and implements as well as folk and everyday objects. Exhibits include clothing, tools, weapons, and more. When you’ve finished, why not keep the romance alive for longer with a boat trip on the lake?

#8 – St. Stephen’s Basilica – One of the most religious places to see in Budapest

• Large place of worship;
• Fascinating artefacts;
• Photogenic building;
• Terrific city views.

Why it’s awesome: Named after the first king of Hungary, St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of the largest churches in all of Hungary. The fabulous building can fit up to 8,500 worshippers at any given time. Located on the Pest side of the River Danube, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Budapest.

Standing on the site of an old theatre, the construction of St. Stephen’s Basilica began in the mid-1800s. Built in the shape of a Greek cross, two soaring bell towers flank the main Neoclassical dome-topped structure. Filled with religious art and artefacts and with an air of tranquil spirituality, the church is also home to several gigantic bells (including the biggest in the country, which only rings out on very special occasions).

What to do there: Gaze in wonder at the fantastic place of worship before letting your eyes adjust to the dim light inside. There is no charge to look around the main part of the church or attend a religious service, but a guided tour will provide many more insights and help you to spot the finer details that you may otherwise miss. Fees are payable to visit the tower and treasury, but both are well worth the costs.

Take the elevator (or climb the 360-plus stairs) up the tower for far-reaching panoramic views across Budapest. See an incredible array of religious memorabilia in the Treasury. Don’t miss visiting the reliquary, which is said to contain the corpse hand of Saint Stephen I of Hungary! During the summer, you can hear the Basilica Choir sing each Sunday, and there are regular musical performances at St. Stephen’s Basilica throughout the week too.

#9 – Margaret Island – A perfect place to visit in Budapest if you are on a budget!

• Ancient ruin;
• Different leisure activities;
• Musical fountain;
• Pretty parks.

Why it’s awesome: Budapest can be expensive at times so this is a great place to come if money becomes a bit tight. Located in the River Danube, the charming Margaret Island is 96 hectares (238 acres) in size. It is connected by a bridge. Mainly covered in lush parks, there is no charge to wander around the island and soak up the sights. (Do note that some attractions on the island do have entry fees, though.)

There are some medieval-era ruins on the island, legacies from times gone by when the island was filled with religious buildings, convents, and monasteries. They include the remains of a Premonstratensian church from the 12 th century and Dominican and Franciscan churches from the 13 th century. Today, there are diverse sightseeing and leisure opportunities.

What to do there: Cross to the island on the Margaret Bridge, pausing to enjoy the great views along the Danube. Travel back in time as you explore ancient ruins, climb to the top of the 1911 Art Nouveau Water Tower for great views, stroll through the Japanese Garden, watch squirrels scampering through the parks, and see animals typical to the island at the small zoo.

See the 1973 Centennial Memorial, which was erected to celebrate the 100 th anniversary of Budapest’s unification. In the summer, watch the beautiful musical fountain in action. You can visit the large swimming pool, thermal baths , running tracks, athletics centre, too.

#10 – Semmelweis Medical Museum – Quite the quirky place in Budapest!

• Learn about medical developments;
• Discover the interesting life story of Dr. Semmelweis;
• Old medical equipment;
• Unusual museum.

Why it’s awesome: Located at the bottom of Castle Hill, Semmelweis Medical Museum is housed in the birthplace of its namesake—Dr. Semmelweis. It’s one of the most unusual things to do in Budapest and also one of the most underrated. Dr. Semmelweis was a pioneering doctor in the mid-1800s who tried hard to make other medical professionals aware of the need for cleanliness.

He had a basic awareness several years before Louis  Pasteur came up with the germ theory of disease. Sadly, Dr. Semmelweis passed away before he saw medical advancements, and his insights were confirmed. He did, however, lower the death rates in his hospital through his efforts. The museum shows how Western medicine has advanced over the ages and contains some unusual items.

What to do there: Learn more about the developments of medicine from prehistoric times to the 1900s and discover more about the life and work of the interesting Dr. Semmelweis. See how, through actions considered the bare basics today in medicine, the doctor helped to prevent the needless deaths of pregnant women and new mothers. He understood the importance of washing hands in the hospital and cleaning surgical instruments in between operations.

You can also see an array of medical instruments and objects used in research and teaching from yesteryear, including a shrunken head, a rare and delicate anatomical sculpture by Clemente Susini, surgical implements, and an old X-ray device.

#11 – Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden – Awesome place to visit in Budapest with kids!

• Many species of animals;
• Lots of plant life;
• Beautiful Art Nouveau architecture;
• Diverse tourist attractions for kids.

Why it’s awesome: One of the top things to include on your Budapest itinerary if visiting the Hungarian capital with children, Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is home to more than 1,000 species of animals from all over the world. Open since 1866, it is one of the oldest zoos in the world and the oldest zoo in Hungary.

Operating as a nature reserve, it is also home to many interesting plant species. Furthermore, visitors can admire the various Art Nouveau buildings scattered throughout the well-maintained grounds. There are interactive displays, various demonstrations, play areas, places to eat and drink, and, in short, everything you need for a great family outing.

What to do there: Take time to fully explore the zoo’s different areas and see the various creatures and plants that live in the zoo and botanical gardens. Step inside the palm house of America Tropicana to see wildlife from the tropical Americas. Journey to Africa at the Savannah Zone, home to creatures like zebras, rhinos, gazelles, and giraffes. Spot hyenas and lions in the India zone, animals from Southeast Asia in János Xántus House, and kangaroos, wombats, and other Oceanic creatures at the Australia Zone.

Other animals that call the zoo home include elephants, monkeys, gorillas, marmosets, birds, snakes, and the fearsome Komodo dragons. Watch animals being fed and learn about the zoo’s breeding and research programs. Don’t miss taking the kids to Holnemvolt Vár too.

Standing on the site of an old amusement park, the complex offers tons of fun for younger members of the family. The four-level Hetedhét Palace houses a fabulous play area with each room designed around traditional Hungarian stories. There’s also a small petting zoo, an aquarium, art events, small fairground rides, and horse riding.

#12 – Wekerle Estate – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Budapest!

• Art Nouveau architecture;
• Delightful main square;
• Workers’ housing;
• Green suburb.

Why it’s awesome: Located in Budapest’s 19 th District, the Wekerle Estate is an often overlooked place. It’s named after a former Hungarian prime minister. Charming and picturesque, the village dates back to the early 1900s.

Built-in a vernacular secession from Hungary style (Art Nouveau), a number of pretty buildings surround a quaint main square, with two large gateways leading into the estate. Inspiration came from rural peasant architectural styles from the past. Although initially built to provide housing for local workers, the eye-catching village is a pleasant place to simply walk around and admire the designs.

What to do there: Take a walk around the photogenic estate and see the various buildings created in the Garden Style. There are houses and apartments, shops, schools, churches, a post office, a cinema, and various other amenities.

Stand in the main square and admire the surrounding buildings, designed by eminent architect Károly Kós. You could also consider taking a guided tour of the area to learn more about its construction and purpose as well as hearing local stories and anecdotes.

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#13 – Central Market Hall – A great place in Budapest if you love to shop!

• Local food;
• Souvenir shopping;
• Wide array of goods;
• Oldest market hall in Budapest.

Why it’s awesome: The Central Market Hall is one of the best places to visit in Budapest for shopping and browsing. Open every day except Sundays, the great market hall has been in operation since the late 1890s. The building was eventually restored in the 1990s following damage during World War Two. It’s the biggest and most attractive great market hall in the city, with orange walls and a colourful roof.

As well as being a Budapest must-do for people who love to shop, it’s also a top place for window shopping and people watching. There are stalls spread across three levels, offering all manner of goods. It’s also among the best hotspots in Budapest for foodies, with a huge selection of tasty treats to tempt hungry visitors. It’s one of the top places to eat in Budapest for quick and easy local fast food and snacks. Another bonus: it’s an ideal all-weather attraction.

What to do there: Join the crowds and make your way through the stalls laden with a huge selection of goods. Pick up traditional souvenirs like Hungarian dolls, glassware, embroidered items, and hand-painted ceramics, as well as trinkets and souvenirs. You can also browse fashions and accessories and come across stalls selling household items, footwear, kitchen accessories, toiletries, and more.

There are many stalls selling fresh produce, dried goods, and typical Hungarian products. Look out for paprika, jars of pickles, Hungarian wines, Pálinka (a fruity brandy), confectionary, and salami. Savour some local fare from food stalls as you wander, or sit down for a meal in the affordable café. You’re sure to get some great photos of the bustling market. Some of Budapest’s best hostels are located nearby in this central location too!

#14 – Cinkota Old Cemetery – A nice quiet place to see in Budapest

• Abandoned cemetery;
• Sleepy village;
• Off the beaten track.

Why it’s awesome: Rather eerie and with a forgotten feel, the peaceful and historic Cinkota Old Cemetery can be found on the outskirts of the city. All but abandoned with the passing of time, nature is trying hard to reclaim the land, engulfing tombstones from days long past. An old church stands next to the graveyard and adds to the atmosphere. Definitely away from the typical tourist trail, the cemetery is usually empty.

What to do there: Experience a sense of the stillness of time as you look at the aged tombstones among a tangled mess of overgrowth. Statues adorn some of the graves and it’s difficult to stop your imagination from running wild as you imagine the lives of those who have long since departed from this Earth.

The sounds of nature fill the air. The surrounding village also has a timeless feel, with old homes at the edges of the winding streets, chickens pecking at the dirt in back gardens and a slower pace of life than in the heart of the city.

#15 – Old Jewish Quarter – A great place to visit in Budapest at night

• Famous ruin bars;
• Cool street art;
• Lively area;
• Interesting architecture.

Why it’s awesome: One of the most fascinating neighbourhoods to visit when you explore Budapest, the Old Jewish Quarter is a hotbed of activity both by day and by night. Whispers from the past echo along the streets and the Jewish heritage is evident in the synagogues, homes, and former ghetto area. Colourful street art covers now-crumbling walls, and the neglect of many parts of the area enhances the atmosphere.

Far from being sad, however, many of the once derelict and abandoned properties have been given a new lease of life in the form of so-called ruin bars. Scruffy buildings that were slated for demolition were taken over by fun-loving locals, artists, and entrepreneurs and turned into bars full of character. Visitors can sip a drink while surrounded by the ravages of time for a night out that’s different to the norm.

What to do there: Visit one of the biggest synagogues in Europe (the Dohány Street Synagogue ) and contrast the religious practices and architecture with the synagogues on Rumbach Sebestyén Street (no longer in active use) and Kazinczy Street. See the houses, once designated with the Yellow Star label, where Jews were forced to live in cramped conditions and see what remains of the old ghetto wall.

Admire interesting street art, sample tasty street food, and peek inside cool and quirky shops. Stay in the old Jewish Quarter until nighttime to experience the famous ruin bars . Whether you’re looking for laid-back and chilled-out establishments or places that know how to rock, there’s a ruin bar for all tastes.

#16 – Evening Dinner River Cruise on the Danube

• See all the best landmarks from the river danube.
• A romantic evening for couples.
• Delicious food and an affordable price.
• A relaxing activity after a day of exploring.

Why it’s awesome: One of the most famous rivers in the world, the Danube, runs right the way through Budapest, separating the Buda and Pest side. The Danube river is also the centerpiece for many historical tourist attractions and events. The Buda Castle and Mathias church can be seen perched on top of Castle Hill from the waters, and on the pest side, the river passes all the way from the central market hall towards Margaret Island, passing by the Hungarian Parliament building and the Danube promenade too.

In the summer, tourists and locals flock to the bridges across the Danube river and hang out in the sunshine. The Danube promenade is a lively place lined with luxury hotels and restaurants, but when the sunsets, the river really comes to life as it glows in the orange sun. Budapest sunsets are out of this world. It’s not something that is widely talked about, but if you know, you know.

What to do there: One of the best ways to see the Danube river is on an evening sightseeing cruise with dinner . There is usually some light entertainment and plenty of wine to go around. If you’re travelling as a couple, this is the ideal romantic setting to catch the sunset and marvel at the best Budapest attractions from the dinner table.

Before the cruise, I highly recommend taking a stroll along the Danube promenade, where you will find a monument called ‘Shoes on the Danube Bank’, a fine art installation placed to mark the remembrance of all the jews who died there during World War II. This sobering installation is one of the most important tourist attractions, aside from the House of Terror, to learn about the history of World War II in Budapest.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Budapest

What should I not miss in Budapest?

You cannot take a trip to Budapest without trying a thermal bath…or two!

What is Budapest famous for?

Budapest is famous for its mix of romanesque, gothic, renaissance, and baroque architecture, historical landmarks, thermal baths and ruin bars.

Is 3 days enough in Budapest?

If you just want to see the highlights, then you can see them all in three days. However, you would need to rush. Ideally, five days would be ample amount of time to see everything and have some chilled days in the thermal baths too.

Why is Budapest so cheap?

Although being part of the EU, Hungary is not part of the Eurozone and has therefore not adopted the Euro. This means their own currency, the Forint, has decreased in value over the years and means tourists can get more bang for their buck.

Step away from the beaten path and wander around the quaint Óbuda Main Square, a neighbourhood that is often forgotten by locals and tourists alike. The Old Town Hall is especially impressive. Soak up the views from the top of the Budapest Eye, located in the vibrant Erzsébet Square, enjoy the beauty and peaceful air in Füvészkert Botanical Garden, and see the unusual statues in the offbeat Memento Park.

Tour Budapest’s many museums around Heroes Square, including the Hungarian National Museum, Budapest History Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Franz Liszt Memorial Museum, the Museum of Ethnography, the Hungarian Railway Museum, and the quirky House of Houdini. There are museums in Budapest to suit all tastes and interests.

Go hiking in the scenic Buda Hills and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and spend a few hours (or longer!) exploring the diverse spots around Gellért Hill. You can explore the mighty Citadella on top of the hill, one of the most famous places in Budapest, and soak up the splendid vistas. Other highlights include Gellért Hill Cave, walking trails, and the Liberty Monument. A visit to the Dohány Street Synagogue is also highly recommended.

Once you’ve covered most of the best places to visit in Budapest, take day trips to exciting nearby destinations like Esztergom, Szentendre, and Lake Balaton. You certainly won’t have any reason to feel bored when visiting the Hungarian capital city!

Start planning your memorable trip and don’t forget to include these best places to visit in Budapest when exploring the diverse city.

Agness and Cez

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50 best things to do in Budapest in summer

Summer’s here and you’re in Budapest! Here’s where to find the best festivals, the buzziest outdoor parties, the splashiest pools and all the big-name concerts. In between, chill in City Park, ride the Chairlift, take in a panoramic sunset – and even learn how to surf.

Ride panoramic tram 2

One of the most panoramic tram journeys in the world, the rattling old-school streetcars of tram 2 are a beautiful and cheap way to see the sights of Budapest . Scooting alongside the Danube, the trip showcases the historic landmarks above the Buda bank, all for a price of a regular transport ticket. Starting at Jaszai Mári tér by Margaret Bridge, the route skirts past Parliament and the five-star hotels of the Pest embankment, taking in Chain Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge and Liberty Bridge, before heading south past Petőfi Bridge to the National Theatre.

Laze around a pop-up park

On a cobblestoned square in the heart of Budapest, a pop-up park has opened for summer, beckoning passers-by to chill on colourful wave-shaped wooden seats. Designed by the creative crew of Hello Wood, this rainbow-coloured recreation zone on Városháza Park makes lazing around cooler than ever. Accessed free of charge, dotted with palm trees and sunshades, the park offers ping-pong, Teqball and a street-workout facility with a rubber floor. More details

Bask in a Budapest sunset over a panoramic cocktail

Offering breathtaking views of Budapest landmarks, rooftop hangouts across the city come to life in summer. Some are located atop luxury hotels, others above historic buildings at prestigious locations. These include the 360 Bar on Andrássy út, the High Note Sky Bar crowning the Aria Hotel and the Intermezzo occupying the roof of the Hotel President. Overlooking Chain Bridge on the Buda side, LEO allows you to take in the Pest cityscape while sat amid lush greenery. Quality cocktails feature throughout – and top-notch reds and whites at the St. Andrea Wine & Skybar. More details  

Make a splash on Lupa Beach

For the third year running, palm-lined, sandy Lupa Beach brings the seaside closer to Budapest. Spread over two kilometres of waterfront near Budakalász, this leisure park offers a real holiday experience. Like any seaside resort, there are sports a-plenty, including beach volleyball and handball, but you’ll also find street workout and teqball. There’s also the biggest wakeboard centre in the region , flyboarding, diving, plus any number of buffets, restaurants and cocktail bars.

Devour lángos

It’s what a Hungarian summer’s all about. Two thousand calories, irresistible enjoyment and instant regret crammed into a deep-fried dough – this is lángos , a national dish and the superstar of local street food. Devoured all-year round, the lángos sees its popularity peak in summer when long queues stretch around the snack stands at lidos. Drenched in as much oil as the body can possibly handle and slathered with a messy assembly of calorie-busting toppings, it’s as irresistible as it sounds. More details

Ride the Chairlift over the Buda hills

When summer in the city becomes overwhelming, you can escape the crowds with an easy day trip to the Buda hills, where the  Zugliget Chairlift  will take you up the side of  János Hill  in about 15 minutes. From here, the Erzsébet Lookout Tower , the highest point in Budapest, can be reached after a calf-strengthening uphill walk. It can be reached by taking bus 291 from  Nyugati station  to its final stop. Whether for a special date or just a relaxed outing in Buda – a trip on the Chairlift is a unique experience.

Take a VR tour through the Castle District

A unique VR tour allows you to take a trip back in time and explore the eventful past of Budapest’s most historic neighbourhood, the Castle District . Battles, sieges, wars, revolts and terror are all brought back to life – you just need to don the goggles. Beginning at the office on Lánchíd utca, the tour guides you through the seven most important eras of Hungarian history, from the 13th century to the 1956 Revolution, so that you can relive it all first-hand. When you stop and put your goggles on, you travel back in time to watch it all happen right where you’re standing. More details

Sip a top-quality G&T

Summer isn’t summer without a G&T – and a new specialist spirits bar in Budapest’s party quarter, Schrödinger macskája can provide a number of high-end brands to sip and take the edge off the heat. Cool and sleek, Schrödinger’s Cat is overseen by owner-bartender Martin Schlnágl, happy to guide you around the world of top-quality spirits at this District VII venue. Served in 3- and 5cl glasses, drinks here are ideal for a warm-up before a big night out. More details

Party on the Pride March

The Budapest Pride Festival is a month-long extravaganza set up to celebrate LGBTQ culture and to generate support. More than 100 events, including concerts, performances, talks and workshops, all feature before the festival is brought to a colourful conclusion by the grand parade, the Budapest Pride March, on 6 July. The procession normally spans City Park and Kossuth tér by Parliament, the crowd marching all along Andrássy út, the city’s showcase avenue, while music plays and people parade in costumes. After the procession, an alfresco  Rainbow Party   awaits revellers at Budapest Park. For more details and the full schedule, check out the  Budapest Pride website . More details

Take the plunge at an outdoor pool

Budapest is a city of spas, best enjoyed in summer, when these baths become family-friendly lidos, with slides, wave pools and sunbathing zones. Many feature freshly added amenities, some, such as Csillaghegy and Dagály , have been overhauled completely over the last year. The outdoor plunge zone of the Palatinus on Margaret Island is as synonymous with a Budapest summer as lángos and ice cream while the legendary Széchenyi in the City Park fills to the brim – though this won’t stop old regulars playing chess in the water. Many open until late, the main ones until 10pm. More details

Cool down with a delicious ice cream

Budapest specialises in natural, traditionally made, quality ice creams and you’ll find something to your taste in almost every part of town. Enjoy rose-petal shaped inventions at Gelarto Rosa (‘Give in to temptation!’), superfood variations at popular Fragola and creative combinations at three artisanal ice-cream outlets opened in recent months – including up to 100 varieties at Fagyi . All kinds of sprinkles, cones and sauces are also on offer, as are lactose- and sugar-free options. More details

Party alfresco with live sounds

Summer sees Budapest, and its party spots, move outdoors. If you’d rather not pay for a concert ticket, you can always catch live sounds on the top deck of the A38 Ship , a music venue and events boat moored near Petőfi Bridge, or at popular party spot Pontoon near Chain Bridge. Near Nyugati station, alfresco drinking hangout Zsiráf also stages live sounds. Upstream from the A38, the TRIP Boat has its own cultural agenda, while party organisers Random Trip stage a regular Tuesday music sessions on the terrace of Akvárium , right in the city centre. On the Buda side, you’ll also find live music on Tuesdays, outside the Hadik coffeehouse, close to the constant terrace bustle of Bartók Béla út. More details

Ride the Children’s Railway

Timeless and charming whatever the season, connecting some of the loveliest spots in the Buda hills, the  Children’s Railway  (Gyermekvasút) is one of Budapest’s most unique attractions. The line runs from Széchenyi Hill to Hűvösvölgy, crossing with the  Cogwheel Railway  and serving  Normafa  and  János Hill . The lookout points, forest playgrounds, places of pilgrimage and other hilly attractions lie close to stations, making the Children’s Railway the ideal jumping-off point for a day’s outing. And, of course, it’s staffed by schoolchildren, who check tickets and act as guards. Grown-ups do the driving.

Welcome back Sting

We just can’t keep Sting away from Budapest. After a successful free show with Shaggy a few months ago on Heroes’ Square, the former Police frontman has another Budapest concert lined up for the summer. On 2 July, the Grammy-winning singer brings his retrospective My Songs tour to the Papp László Aréna, where he will be taking the stage with his own band. From Englishman In New York to Every Breath You Take , the set should include Sting’s biggest hits for everyone to sing along to. Tickets are currently still available from 12,900 forints on the  Live Nation  website. 

Take a hike

To get close to nature and possibly scale a panoramic lookout tower at the same time, Budapest and surroundings can offer a number of hiking trails and destinations, most snaking over the Buda hills. Favourite choices include Normafa and János Hill but take bus 65 from Kolosy tér in Óbuda to the Fenyőgyöngye restaurant and you can join the National Blue Trail, with its outstanding views. More details

Tuck into classic Hungarian cake

Simply irresistible any time of year, Hungarian cakes are renowned for their fine, decorative confections, influenced by Austrian and French pastry making with that unique Magyar touch. From the caramel-glazed Dobos torte to the masterfully layered zserbó slice , classic cakes are essential to local gastronomy. You can sample the cream of these delicacies at traditional pastry shops around the city centre or at sweet spots known only to locals. More details

Try an exciting new sport

For 2019, Budapest is European Capital of Sport , and what better way to celebrate this than try out a new sport at all kinds of scenic locations across the city. There’s indoor skydiving, paragliding, even surfing. Within easy reach of the city centre, you can also find caving, wakeboarding and mountain biking. In nearly all cases, equipment can be rented on-site, and basic training is given. More details

Find a hidden terrace for summer lunch

By a park, at the foot of a hill, alongside a pretty garden, there’s nothing better than beating a retreat to a restaurant terrace and escaping the heat of the day over an affordable lunch. While the city centre is full of busy terraces, there are a handful of lesser-known places only locals know, where a tranquil daytime meal can be had by all. More details

Take a free walking tour

Discover Budapest on foot, always the best way to explore any city. Follow local guides who volunteer to show the city’s key landmarks and hidden secrets as part of a group tour. Many companies offer this tip-based service daily, in English and other languages.  Free Budapest Walking Tours  run two generic and a couple of themed trips. Booking is not required, just show up with a smile at the meeting point by the Budapest Eye.

Relax in the National Museum gardens

One of Budapest’s major landmarks, where demonstrations took place as part of the 1848 Uprising, the stately Hungarian National Museum has long needed a brush-up. The constant traffic along this section of the Small Boulevard that takes its name has taken its toll over the decades. Now, after a major revamp, the gardens at the National Museum have reopened, providing the perfect spot to bask in the summer sunshine. New benches and water features sit amid urban greenery, five minutes from focal traffic hub Astoria. Small fountains complete the picture, while the side nearest Pollack Mihály tér is still being worked on, with a café due to open. More details

Enjoy summer spritzers in the heart of town

Where there once was a bustling bus station, there are now two key venues where you can indulge in Hungary’s ultimate summer drink: fröccs , wine with bubbly soda water. Occupying pedestrianised Erzsébet tér, Fröccsterasz specialises in this seasonal cooler, just find a place on the spacious terrace. The other side of the communal water feature, Akvárium is more than just a late-night live-music venue and DJ club. The terrace tables on the huge staircase are packed from noon until the late hours with intertwined couples and chatty friends communing over the national tipple.

Set up an impromptu picnic

During summer, Budapest’s green urban spaces spring to with life – couples share romantic moments, children run around playgrounds, and elderly people relax on a shaded bench. Passing by these spots of greenery, you might be inspired to spread out the picnic blanket and break out a few tasty treats for an improvised open-air feast. Options include Károlyi-kert in the heart of town, close to the National Museum and the student quarter, and Szent István Park , overlooking the Danube in up-and-coming District XIII. More details

Soak in a rooftop jacuzzi

At the foot of Gellért Hill, the panoramic jacuzzi and sun deck on the roof of Ottoman-era  Rudas  allows bathers to soak and gawp at the cityscape at the same time. A 21st-century overhaul and modernisation have been kind, retaining the Ottoman atmosphere while this lofty feature. Night bathing takes place between 10pm and 4am on Friday and Saturdays, though the sauna area only operates between 8am and 10pm. The Rudas is single-sex during the week (ladies on Tuesdays) and co-ed at weekend.

Tuck into an alfresco meat-free meal

Set in Budapest’s party quarter, food-truck hub Vegan Garden is back in full swing for the summer, bringing chili non carne, magic mushroom burgers and aubergine shakshukas to the meat-free dining crowd. First launched in 2018 and aptly called  Vegan Garden , this convivial culinary space provides a permanent parking spot for outlets selling culinary delights from around the world, Mexican, Indian and Hungarian, all of them plant-based. More details

Go for a spin on Budapest’s big wheel

A huge Ferris wheel in the middle of Budapest provides carnival fun and a fine panorama over Deák tér, Andrássy út, the Basilica and the Buda hills. A total of 42 six-person cabins reach a height of 65 metres and a ticket is valid for three complete revolutions of the wheel. Open from mid morning until way after dark, the Budapest Eye becomes an illuminated backdrop to the city’s nightlife, and even those who don’t take the rotating ride can still enjoy admiring the LED-lit spectacle after the sun goes down.

Do lunch at the Downtown Market

Killing two birds with one stone, at Budapest’s Downtown Market you can shop then tuck into quality gastro fare for lunch. Renowned chef Lajos Bíró initiated this gastronomic transformation, expanded by Michelin-starred chef  Tamás Széll  at the Stand25 Bisztró , winner of a Bib Gourmand from Michelin. In recent months, marketgoers have been able to sample sushi at Husikám , have a champagne breakfast at Champoint 4 monkeys and enjoy a specialty coffee at By Beans . More details

Take a Danube cruise

From sightseeing trips along the city’s downtown waterway to thrilling speedboat rides , Budapest boat companies offer a cornucopia of voyages. Run by the Mahart riverboat services, the  Duna Corso cruise takes passengers on a one-hour leisurely tour several times a day. Trips start at the Vigadó tér docking station and shuttle between Margaret Bridge and Rákóczi Bridge.

Try top tipples at the Budapest Wine Festival

Hungary’s grandest wine gala takes place in the majestic location of the cobblestoned terraces surrounding the Royal Palace in the Castle District, where four days of imbibing, folk music and dancing are backdropped by unbeatable views over the city. Hungary’s top winemakers and some of their global counterparts gather to sample their year’s work. Meet the most famous names in the business while the warming rays of September sunshine envelop these historic surroundings. From 5 September. More details

Go rowing in City Park

Városliget  (City Park) has been attracting generations of locals seeking green space and tranquillity for over a century. Once the main venue for the 1896 millennial celebrations, today this urban oasis contains two lakes, one immediately behind Heroes’ Square, the other by Vajdahunyad Castle. If you don’t fancy taking a rowboat out with your loved one, you can just sit and feed the ducks and enjoy cool shade by the water.

Take the kids to Budapest Zoo

Budapest Zoo opened its gates in 1866, making it one of the oldest of its kind in the world. As well as a menagerie, the zoo is also an architectural wonder, the Art Nouveau buildings of the early 1900s designed by Károly Kós and others. Visit the Palm House for its tropical birds and wildlife from the Americas. All tolled, some 1,000 creatures can be observed – look out for new-borns and feeding times. Other attractions include Holnemvolt Castle , which combines vintage rides with a petting zoo, and a recently installed  Shark School , showing young marine predators interacting with trainers and other aquatic animals.

Go alfresco and see a show on Margaret Island

The city’s green heart, Margaret Island  lies in the middle of the Danube between  Margaret Bridge  and Árpád Bridge. Nearly everything here is geared to relaxation in some way or other – the Hajós Alfréd National Sports Swimming Pool , the popular  Palatinus  lido, the petting zoo, the musical fountain and the Japanese Garden. Featuring a rubberised jogging track nearly five kilometres long, pedalo rental and cycle paths, not to mention any number of picnic places, Margaret Island is ideal for a summer’s day. Towards the north end of the island, in the shadow of the Water Tower, an open-air concert venue hosts the Budapest Summer Festival . This year it features star violinist Nicola Benedetti on 4 July, an opera gala on 20 July and the National Georgian Ballet on 16 and 17 August.

Admire sunset from Citadella

From almost any point in Budapest, look up and you see the statue of  Lady Liberty, a palm frond raised high above her head. Set atop Gellért Hill  this emblematic symbol of Budapest stands before the Habsburg-built fortress of Citadella. As well as a vantage point for Austrian forces, this lookout point is a prime location for wedding photos, couples backdropped by the beautiful bridges straddling the curving Danube. Once the last buses have whisked away the tourist hordes, Citadella is the ideal destination to bask in that slowly setting, orange-glowing summer sunset as it illuminates one of the world’s most gorgeous cityscapes. It’s a steep climb up, or let bus 27 do most of the work from Móricz Zsigmond körtér to the Búsuló Juhász (Citadella) stop within easy reach of the top.

See the fastest race in town

Always in the height of summer, the Formula 1 circus comes to Budapest when the Hungaroring hosts the Hungarian Grand Prix . Venue for the event since it was established as Formula 1’s first venture behind the Iron Curtain in 1986, the Hungaroring is located outside Budapest in Mogyoród . Given the balmy conditions and the city’s penchant for a party, the Hungarian Grand Prix is always a fans’ favourite, with special events taking place across the city. For those who can’t make it out to Mogyoród by car, free shuttle bus, taxi or helicopter, the Grand Prix is broadcast live at numerous sports bars around Budapest. The event takes place during the first weekend in August – buy tickets .

Scale the dome of the National Gallery

Open during the warmer months, the cupola hall of the  National Gallery  allows visitors to climb the narrow staircase that winds up to a panoramic terrace. Here, by the somewhat discoloured green dome of the Royal Palace visible from around the city, you get far-reaching views over Buda, the Danube bridges and the Pest cityscape. It’s an attraction that even few locals know about. Inside, the cupola doubles up as an exhibition space. More details

Tuck into a good ol’ Budapest barbecue

What’s summer without a good old barbecue? BpBARbq is a veritable feast for carnivores, who come from far and wide for the famed Reuben sandwich of smoked brisket and sour cabbage, the monster burger or the pulled pork sandwich. Zsolt Serényi  and  Roland Urbán  cook up a storm with their D-Oven Pit Box, working with charcoal and small chunks of wood for that all-over smoke-infused flavour. The ‘D’ stands for duck – the famous Peking variety can be hung up in the oven with hooks. They don’t water down the sauces, either, putting into practice the complex yet thrilling skill that is BBQ technology rather than just something that is squirted out of a bottle. More details

See the fireworks on August 20th

Every year on August 20th , fireworks blast across the night sky over Budapest. For the spectacular pyrotechnics show that evening, thousands gather at prime spots by the Danube, or even on the Danube itself, booking tables in alfresco restaurants or even rooms in hotels. During the day, processions, gastronomic gatherings and concerts are held at city landmarks, while major museums and Parliament offer free admission to visitors. The national holiday celebrates Hungary’s first king, St Stephen, and the foundation of the Magyar state. More details

Catch all kinds of live music for free

Zenélő Budapest is a summer-long music initiative around Budapest, involving local virtuosos playing at 16 iconic locations around the city. Anyone passing the Várkert Bazaar , the Hungarian National Museum or Millenáris Park at the right time can look forward to live classical music, jazz or rock, all being performed for free. The series runs until 18 August. Among those taking part are the National Philharmonic, the Hungarian State Opera Orchestra, folk performers, jazz bands, Gypsy musicians and renowned choirs. More details

Soak away at a historic spa

Budapest’s historic thermal spas encapsulate centuries of bathing culture and provide a soothing experience at the same time. Making use of the natural thermal waters that make this city the spa capital of Europe, baths such as the Lukács , the Gellért and the sprawling Széchenyi allow you to relax tired muscles and soak away your worries,

Browse and dine at the Chinese Night Market

Beside Budapest’s Chinatown, the Monori Centre trading zone in District X, the aroma of exotic spices mingles in the air as unpretentious stalls do a roaring trade. At the regular Night Market set up each day after 5pm in summer, these eateries come together in a communal cooking party under a marquee, transforming the tent into a street-food spectacle. Hot pots, yakori dishes, spectacular seafood and bubble teas await, along with ginger-infused tripe, hot crayfish and spicy pork trotters. Expect an Oriental culinary jaunt and delightfully organised chaos near the  Kőbánya railway overpass . More details

Zip around Budapest by electric scooter

For a trial period until 30 July, 200 lime-green electric scooters are available for zipping around Budapest. In a shared scheme also seen in Paris and London, you download an app to get one started. Find a scooter in the green area on the app’s map, between Gellért tér and Batthyány tér, and Bartók Béla út to Móricz Zsigmond körtér on the Buda side. On the Pest side, it’s between Boráros tér and Fővám tér, plus Kálvin tér. You can leave the scooters over a wider area indicated in red. The price varies – pay an initial 250 forints, followed by 50 forints per minute, usually up to around 1,000 forints. More details

Let loose at a ruin bar

Ruin bars and Budapest are now synonymous. This after-dark trend took off in the empty residential buildings and urban wastelands of District VII, where skip-found furniture, bohemian décor and DJ decks created a new genre of nightspot. Pioneered by the Szimpla Kert , elevated to industrial-scale proportions by the Fogas Ház/Instant complex, Budapest’s ruin bars buzz all summer long – although mainly with a foreign clientele these days. More details

Spend the weekend at Liberty Bridge

Friends hang out in hammocks, musicians give impromptu concerts and couples canoodle and lovebirds tie the knot – the Liberty Bridge picnics are running again this summer. Since 2016, the city’s historic central span has turned into a car-free public hangout on certain weekends. This year, during every Saturday and Sunday in July, take a picnic, bring a guitar and be prepared for some spontaneous yoga. And it’s all free! More details

Catch a major act at Budapest Park

With a line-up including Iggy, Ziggy Marley and 30 Seconds to Mars, the city’s prime outdoor concert venue Budapest Park is stronger than ever this summer. For the new season  Budapest Park is looking funkier than ever, with a revamped design and graphics evoking the atmosphere of the 1990s. Offering a lot more than just a place to party, Budapest Park has installed three Skyboxes and two lounge terraces for those who want to chill and catch a top act at the same time. And after the show, you can dance till the sun comes up. An easy hop on trams 1 or 2 to Közvágóhíd, Budapest Park hosts 30 Seconds To Mars on 23 July, Iggy Pop the next day and Ziggy Marley on 30 July. More details

Observe animals in the great outdoors

Just past the Budapest city boundary, the  Budakeszi Wildlife Park  spreads over nearly 30 hectares, with watch posts and lookout towers to help you observe residents such as pheasants, steppe eagles, lynx and bear. Although this sprawling outdoor attraction mainly focuses on species native to Hungary and Carpathian Basin, creatures such as moose and bison have made their way here. Recently, they were joined by a new resident: Bella the snowy owl, from Ostrava in the Czech Republic. Usually at home on the northern tundra, snowy owls are rarely seen in Central-European zoos. To see Bella and her friends, take bus 22, 22A or 222 from Széll Kálmán tér and alight at Szanatórium utca. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk through the woods. More details

Go beserk to banging techno

While the biggest summer festivals around Hungary attract some of the world’s top pop and rock acts, hardly any focus purely on electronic music, particularly techno. This situation is resolved by the Katlan Festival , being staged 12-13 July, half-an-hour’s drive from Budapest at the Tarnoki Stone Quarry. A collaboration between the city’s Premier Club, the local Der Morgen techno events team and Rattus (‘Rat music for rad people’), Katlan promises hard and fast techno from the likes of SPFDJ and Terence Fixmer.

Watch a gravity-defying circus

Acclaimed Hungarian contemporary-circus company Recirquel have been highly active around Budapest since bringing home their critics’ award from the 2018 Edinburgh Fringe Festival . At the prestigious Müpa Palace of Arts on 7 July, Recirquel give two performances of  Paris de Nuit . Influenced by Hungarian photographer Brassaï, the show recreates Paris between the wars, the audience sat on café tables around the gravity-defying cast. Spectacle is the word you’re looking for. The company return to Müpa on 13-14 September to stage Edinburgh smash, My Land . More details

Get active in the park

Budapest has the role of European Capital of Sport for 2019. Many of its parks and recreation zones have been renovated recently, most notably City Park , where sports courts are complemented by an outdoor public gym, a four-lane athletics track and an illuminated running course. While in term-time, local schools are given first priority, in summer you can usually play football, basketball and streetball to your heart’s content. Elsewhere in town, Normafa and Margaret Island have excellent rubberised tracks for jogging while Városmajor even has a parkour course. More details

Admire a Renoir masterpiece

On view until 20 August in the Michelangelo Hall of the revamped Museum of Fine Arts, Renoir: Reclining Nude celebrates the purchase of this famous painting. First displayed at the National Salon in 1907, the painting by foremost Impressionist Auguste Renoir wasn’t kept in Budapest then as there weren’t the funds to pay for it. Recently, more than a century later, this situation was rectified and Renoir’s masterpiece now has a permanent home here. The reconfigured Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit in any case, with its magnificent Roman Hall and priceless items in the da Vinci Hall. More details

Sip coffee at a historic coffeehouse

Budapest’s gilded palaces of coffee and cake, its coffeehouses are forever linked to the Hungarian literary heyday at the last turn of the century.  The classiest coffeehouses in town  include the  New York  on the Grand Boulevard, the Művész on showcase Andrássy út, the Gerbeaud  on focal Vörösmarty tér and the downtown  Centrál .

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33 Budapest Travel Tips: How to Best Visit Hungary’s Capital

• Post author: Naddya
• Post category: City Travel
• Post published: January 27, 2021

The Capital of Festivals .

The Queen of the Danube .

And the Capital of Spas and Thermal Baths all refer to the same gorgeous European city.

Located in the heart of Europe on the banks of the mighty Danube River, Budapest will enchant you with its diversity. The Hungarian capital offers visitors unparalleled experiences you can’t find elsewhere.

The following 33 Budapest travel tips will help you prepare for your visit to this magnificent city.

In the travel guide, you’ll find how to avoid the most common scams, what bars you should visit, and what peculiar customs you must be aware of.

Use the navigation below and explore all of Budapest’s secrets!

Start Planning Your Trip to Budapest with Our BEST Recommendations:

⭐ Top Tours in Budapest ⭐

📍 Budapest Grand Tour – the highlights of Buda and Pest, including the Parliament.

📍 Danube Cruise with Prosecco – unlimited prosecco and Budapest at night.

⭐ Best Accommodations in Budapest ⭐

🏨 Monastery Boutique Hotel Budapest – our top pick near Buda’s main attractions.

🏨 Bohem Art Hotel – this funky, hip hotel has the vibe of an art gallery.

⭐ Easiest Transportation Options in Budapest ⭐

🚍 Budapest Card – enjoy discounts, free travel, and entrances to museums.

🚍 Discover Cars – compare and find the best rates for car rentals.

✅ Note : This article contains affiliate links . In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

Preparation – Things to Do Before You Visit Budapest

Before you visit Budapest , there are a few technicalities you need to know and prepare for . From the visa requirements through the language hacks to the unusual clothing you must pack, carefully read the following Budapest travel tips.

Note : If you want to be able to get ready for a trip within minutes, better yet grab our battle-tested Travel Checklist .

• Do you need a visa to travel to Budapest? Hungary is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. If you travel with a U.S. passport, valid for at least another 6 months, you can explore the country for 90 days max without a visa. Find the whole list of visa requirements on the official website of the European Union .
• Hungarian is the official language of Hungary. Also known as Magyar, Hungarian is a Uralic language. Approximately 13 million people speak it natively worldwide. In the tourist spots of Budapest, you’ll get along with English. Many of the signs and menus come in multiple languages. However, if you want to impress locals and show respect to their culture, here are several common phrases for you:
• Is Budapest safe to visit? Be cautious around landmarks and crowds. Pickpockets and bag-snatchers are quite the plague. Other than that, Budapest is a very safe place to travel to. Naddya explored the city on her own and never had any issues during her four-day trip.
• Never clink beer glasses in Budapest. In 1848, the Hungary Revolution was overthrown by the Habsburgs. To celebrate their victory, Austrians cheered with beer. 173 years later, Hungarians have not forgotten and never clink their beer glasses. While it won’t put you in trouble, it would be advisable to avoid raising your beverage.
• Pack your best swimsuit. The Hungarian capital was crowned the Capital of Spas and Thermal Baths for an obvious reason. One of the coolest facts about Budapest is that it boasts five huge spa complexes, featuring a total of 47 mineral pools. Visiting a thermal bath is not only a must but also a great way to relax and rejuvenate. The city’s first bath – Szechenyi Bath – opened in 1913. Apart from being the oldest, it is also Budapest’s largest, grandest, and busiest spa.

Weather – When Is the Best Time to Visit Budapest

The moderate climate of Hungary offers four distinctive seasons. In Budapest, it’s often windy due to the city’s location on the banks of the Danube River.

Summers are hot and winters are snowy. You’ll find spring and autumn to be the best time to visit Budapest as they are less rainy than other major European cities.

The Christmas holidays and the summer vacations bring the most visitors. However, you’ll find enough awesome activities in all seasons .

• Winter Budapest seduces with Christmas markets, outdoor ice-skating rinks, and thermal baths. The city is magical under the snow duvet. Explore the landmarks and the Christmas Markets stalls. Keep yourself warm with hearty foods and steaming-hot drinks. Get your heartbeat pumping with ice skating. Or spend a relaxing day at the spa.
• In spring, the city awakens for new adventures. You can picnic between the cherry blossom trees in the Füvészkert Botanical Gardens . If you’re an art fan, the Budapest Spring Festival in April is for you. It brings together a diverse range of performances. Tens of venues invite to everything from classical music, opera, and jazz to dance, contemporary circus, and visual arts. And if that’s not enough to seduce you to visit Budapest in spring, how about Hungarian Ice Cream Day ? On May 8, popular parlors provide extraordinary gelato foodgasms at great discounts.
• In summer, Budapest holds one of the largest festivals in Europe. The Sziget Festival takes place in August. The week-long event is one of the largest musical and cultural gatherings on the Old Continent. The 266-acre Óbudai-sziget (Old Buda Island) in the Danube River hosts 1,000+ performances. If the music fans aren’t your crowd, you can relax on one of the three public beaches. Palatinus Beach, Római Beach, and Csillaghegy Bath welcome visitors from May to September.
• Fall is the most photogenic season in Budapest. When autumn arrives, the countless parks and gardens in the Hungarian capital change their crowns to uncountable shades of gold, amber, and red. To make your visit even more tempting, Budapest hosts its own Design Week in October. During this time, the city boasts various events at over 100 locations. Add a fashion twist to your stay by attending one of the talks, exhibitions, projections, design tours, or fashion shows. Also in autumn – at the end of November – Budapest holds the Wine and Cheese Festival . You get the chance to taste the first vino of the season accompanied by artisanal cheese from local farmers.

Money-Saving Travel Tips: How to Stretch Your Bucks in Budapest

Despite being an EU member, Hungary still doesn’t use the Euro. The national currency remains the Hungarian forint . That’s why one of the most important travel resources in your arsenal should be a currency converter .

The following Budapest travel tips will teach you how to stretch your budget and not overpay when you shouldn’t.

• Be careful with the banknotes’ denominations. The forint is quite inexpensive. A banknote of 1,000 HUF currently trades for about $3.35 (€2.77). Don’t get tempted to pay your bill in dollars or euros as the exchange rate won’t be in your favor. When you withdraw cash, avoid the Euronet ATMs. Their exchange rates are the worst. Instead, search for a bank and use its cash machines to withdraw forints .
• Budapest is very walkable. You can wander from one end of the city center to the opposite in about 45 minutes. Still, if you don’t want to use your feet everywhere, public transportation is quite comfortable and affordable ( see the section on transport below ).
• The tap water in Budapest is safe to drink. If you want to stretch your budget, drink tap water. It is healthy and safe to consume. In fact, it is the most strictly controlled substance in Hungary. You can also order a glass of tap water in restaurants. Just make sure it’s not the only thing you order. 😉
• Do you tip in Budapest? In sit-down restaurants, it is customary to leave a 10% tip on top of the bill. If you found the service exceptional, leave 15%. Give the tip to the waiter or drop it in the tip jar. Just make sure the establishment hasn’t already charged you a service fee ( szervidij ). It is usually 12.5% of the total check.
• You can find many free things to do in Budapest. Marvel at the most famous landmarks of the Hungarian capital for free. The Heroes Square , the Parliament Building , Castle Hill , and the Great Market are just a few of the places you can explore free of charge.
• Avoid eateries around tourist attractions. This Budapest travel tip has to be obvious, but every once in a while, even the most well-traveled among us fall for it. Instead of overpaying for a mediocre meal, check the foods & drinks section of the Budapest travel tips.

Food & Drinks in Budapest: What You Shouldn’t Miss Tasting

You can have an extraordinary culinary experience with the Queen of the Danube . Find the hidden gems of Budapest and the quintessential spices of the Hungarian cuisine with these food & drinks travel tips .

• Budapest rivals Paris and Vienna for the coffee house culture. Hungarians love to start their day with a strong brew. The tradition of the cafés – kávéház – started at the beginning of the 16 th century. The Turks brought coffee to the Hungarian lands. The boom of the cafés started three centuries later. Many of the coffee houses still keep their rich history alive.
• If you want a quick and cheap bite, try lángos . The fried flatbread is served with different toppings. They vary from garlic and butter through grated cheese, sour cream, ham, and bacon to powdered sugar and jam.
• Sample at least one of the most famous Hungarian dishes. The quintessential goulash is a thick soup of red meat and vegetables seasoned richly with paprika. Chicken paprikash is the most popular Hungarian stew. The ample use of paprika gives the dish its name. The chicken typically simmers for a long time in a paprika-infused roux sauce. And if you haven’t noticed from this food tip, we’ll spill it out for you. Hungarian cuisine uses paprika . A lot.
• Try the mouth-watering pastries. Budapest’s sweet treats seduced even royalties like Sisi, the Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary ! If you’re looking for a sugary delight, try the scrumptious Strudel . You can order the filo pastry with a filling of apples, cherries, plums, apricots, poppy seeds, cheese, or custard crème. Not craving sugar? Then, the savory variation with cabbage is for you.
• Taste the Bull’s Blood if you’re a wine lover. Winemaking traditions in Hungary date back to Roman times. Although the best-known wines are the white dessert Tokaji Aszú and the Villány red wines, we recommend that you try Egri Bikavér . This dark, full-bodied red wine is also known as Bull’s Blood . Legend says that the name originates from the Siege of Eger. The outnumbered soldiers were served delectable food and plenty of red wine to keep them motivated. A rumor started among the enemy that bull blood was mixed into the wine. The enemy couldn’t otherwise explain the strength and resistance of the castle’s defenders.
• Include a visit to a ruin bar on your itinerary. Budapest’s old Jewish Quarter hosts the most unusual establishments in the city. Housed in the ruins of crumbling, abandoned buildings, these bars offer an unparalleled experience. The hype started with Szimpla Kert in 2001. Currently, there are numerous ruin bars in Budapest and they are as big attractions as the Buda Castle and the Parliament Building. Apart from drinks, you’ll also find art installations, dance parties, and arts & crafts markets in the recycled spaces.

Traveling in Budapest: How to Get There and Getting Around the City

You’ll barely find another city on the planet with a UNESCO World Heritage subway and funicular. If that’s not enough to make you want to ride the public transport in Budapest, how about the ferry boats included in the travelcard price or the historic trams?

Discover what other peculiarities the transportation system of the Hungarian capital hides in this section of the Budapest travel tips.

• The transfer from Budapest International Airport (BUD) to the city takes half an hour. Public transport provides easy access to the city center. You’ll find the bus stop at the arrivals level. The direct, non-stop bus 100E operates around the clock between Terminal 2 and Budapest’s center. From there, you can quickly get to every part of the city. Alternatively, you can book a shared transfer directly to your hotel via this link .
• Budapest is easily reachable from neighboring countries. If you’re visiting Austria or Slovakia, for example, consider adding Budapest to your itinerary. These countries are members of the EU and the Schengen Zone, so traveling between them is a breeze. Ticket prices vary from €4.85 ($6.00) all the way up to €57.00 ($70.00). Here are some of the distances and trip durations:
• From Vienna to Budapest, you’ll arrive in about 2:40 h by train.
• From Bratislava to Budapest, you’ll travel approximately 4:00 h by train.
• The best way to explore the city is on foot . We always recommend this way of transportation, especially for walkable cities like Budapest. Wear your best pair of sturdy shoes and immerse yourself in the Hungarian capital’s vibrant atmosphere. Cross at least one of the eight bridges over the Danube, stroll the pedestrianized shopping Váci Street, and take a leisurely walk along the Danube Promenade.
• The public transportation system is vast and easy to navigate. It consists of four metro lines, trains, trams, buses, trolleybuses, and the Buda Castle funicular. You can buy your ticket in advance online, from a vending machine, or from the vehicle operator. Have in mind that the pre-sold tickets are cheaper than the ones you can buy onboard. The single pre-sold tickets currently cost 350 HUF ($1.20), but if you purchase them in the vehicle, you’ll have to pay 100 HUF ($0.35) more and have exact change. A 10-ticket block costs 3,000 HUF ($10.35), while a 24-hour Budapest travelcard is 1,650 HUF ($5.70). The 72-hour Budapest travelcard comes at 4,150 HUF ($14.30). The travelcards also have group options. Plan your trip on this website .
• Ride the Buda Castle Funicular which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The most authentic way to travel in Budapest is riding the Buda Castle Funicular. It links the banks of the Danube River with the fortification and has been operating since 1870. The track is 312 ft. (95 m) long and surmounts an incline of 164 ft. (50 m). The panoramic views of the city during the short ride are captivating. The 95-second journey costs 1,400 HUF ($4.85) for a one-way ticket and 2,000 HUF ($6.90) for a return ticket. 
• Two historical trams and one vintage bus operate in Budapest. You can ride them every weekend from May to October. Their routes are along the Danube Corso and pass near the Buda thermal baths. The single-ride ticket costs 500 HUF ($1.72) and the daily pass comes at 2,000 HUF ($6.90).
• Ride the iconic subway M1 line. The Budapest Metro is the second-oldest underground railway system in Europe. Only London’s tube is older than it. Budapest’s Line 1 was inaugurated in 1896. Its significance is so big that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site .
• Boats connect the two sides of the city. If you want to get from one riverbank to the opposite, crossing the majestic Danube River is possible either on one of the eight bridges or via a boat. Four boat lines transport passengers from Buda to Pest and back. You have to either purchase a single ticket for 750 HUF ($2.60) or use your Budapest travelcard. If you want to indulge in a longer, fancier ride on the Danube River, we recommend this awesome cruise .

Where to Stay in Budapest: Best Neighborhoods and Accommodations

The city on the banks of the Danube River offers entertainment for every type of traveler. Find out the best area to stay in Budapest for your personal interests in this section of the travel guide.

• Stay in Belváros if it’s your first time in Budapest. The Inner City is packed with fantastic sights and excellent restaurants. From there, you can also easily stroll to the Parliament Building, find a lush park to relax in, or venture out for more sightseeing in the Castle District. Accommodations can suit any budget .
• Várkerület is the most romantic area of the Hungarian capital. What can be more romantic than staying near a white castle and going sightseeing with your loved one? The captivating views over the Danube River, the Gothic churches, and the world-class museums in this district will make your stay unforgettable. Visit the Fisherman’s Bastion , cross the square to enter Matthias Church , stroll around Castle Hill , and then wander to the Buda Castle .
• Book a room in the Jewish Quarter for unparalleled nightlife. The area is one of the best entertainment hotspots in Europe. Among the historic buildings and monuments, the unique ruin bars serve inexpensive beverages and offer the perfect setup for socializing. During the day, they turn into arts & crafts markets and offer great food as well.
• If you’re traveling with children, you’ll love Margaret Island . Located just outside the city center in the middle of the Danube River, this part of Budapest is a quiet recreational area. Medieval ruins, thermal baths, and outdoor activities will entertain the whole family. The island is easily reachable from other parts of Budapest by tram and bus, so you won’t miss the sightseeing.

Which Are Your Favorite Budapest Travel Tips?

There you have it, all the things you need to know before traveling to Budapest, Hungary.

The Queen of the Danube offers peculiar transport modes, unusual bars and festivals, delectable snacks, and awesome activities for every season and budget.

And with these Budapest travel tips, you’ll navigate the Hungarian capital as if you’ve lived there your whole life.

Now, we’re curious:

Have you visited Budapest before?

Which travel tips were most helpful?

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My husband and I are traveling to Budapest on Monday 10/17/2022 for a week. We love walking tours, food and wine related things. One tricky thing is I am a vegetarian and most of the food experiences mostly involve lots of meat. Any suggestions with this criteria?

Hey Amy, so jealous of you and your husband for heading to the Queen of the Danube soon! The city is great for exploring on foot and you’ll find amazing wines to taste for sure. As for vegetarian food, you can try langos with different meat-free toppings as a quick meal. Don’t miss sampling various strudels, if you have a sweet tooth. And for main dishes, vegan and vegetarian options have become quite popular everywhere in Europe, including Hungary. You can choose from vegetarian soups, stews, and pasta dishes, for example. We’ve seen non-meat options in the lunch menus as well. Enjoy your time in gorgeous Budapest and happy travels! 🙂 Naddya and Svet

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13 BEST Things to Do in Budapest in Summer

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Looking for the best things to do in Budapest in summer? From relaxing at Széchenyi Baths to partying at Sziget festival, check out what to do now!

Let me set the scene. You’re in Budapest, Hungary. A city split by the winding Danube river, abundant in art nouveau architecture and no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. 

Here, you’ll find thermal baths (it’s the world’s spa capital after all), urban beaches, grand museums, beautiful buildings and so much more.

Basically, you’re about to have the best summer ever. Because Budapest in summer really is something else, and I’m about to tell you why.

I can’t tell you how much I love Budapest. A lot of former Soviet block countries all get tarnished with the same brush as being dull and boring, but Budapest couldn’t be further from that. Firstly, it is so damn beautiful. And second, there is some much to see and do here!

You can go for a sunset river cruise on the Danube, head to the local beauty spot of Lake Balaton, and if you’re visiting at the right time you’ve got the Hungarian Grand Prix and Sziget Festival to enjoy too.

This is one of my favourite times of year to head to Hungary’s capital, so keep on reading to discover the best things to do in Budapest in summer!

Planning a trip to Budapest but want to see more of Hungary? Then check out the best day trips from Budapest . Also, if you’re visiting the city in winter, then here are the best things to do in Budapest in winter !

Budapest summer weather

Things can get pretty toasty during summer (which I absolutely love by the way).

From as early as June, you’ll find temperatures at a minimum of 15°C (59°F), rising to 26°C (78.8°F). Throughout July and August, expect lows of 17°C (62.6°F) and highs of up to 28°C (82.4°F). 

In terms of rainfall, expect around 5 or 6 days per month, and even then it’s usually just a shower. Like most European cities, just pack lots of dresses for women and shorts and t-shirts for men.

Are you planning an amazing holiday to Budapest? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in Budapest:

• Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa (best rated 5* hotel)
• Eurostars Ambassador  (best rated 4* hotel)
• Butik Art Hotel (cheap with great reviews)

Best activities and tours in Budapest :

• Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco (top rated tour)
• Sightseeing Tour by Segway (great way to see the city)
• Full-Day Gellért Spa Ticket (the ultimate relaxation)

Best things to do in Budapest in summer

Relax and unwind in a thermal spa.

Budapest is renowned for its spas and baths, so much so that it’s frequently titled “the Spa Capital of Europe “. The historic spas use natural thermal waters, which makes them the perfect place to soothe aching muscles and wash away your worries. Or a hangover.

Spas are a pretty big deal here, so you’ve got plenty of choice: some of the most famous baths include Gellért Thermal Bath and Széchenyi Thermal Bath , though Rudas Baths is a good choice too. This is definitely one of the top Budapest attractions though, so make sure you add it to your itinerary.

Or take a dip at the beach

Hungary might be a landlocked country, but that doesn’t mean a trip to the beach is out of the question. Actually, it’s one of Budapest’s best summer activities.

Within the confines of the city you’ve got places like Sho Beach , which is a proper urban beach, but you’ve got lakeside beaches. I also prefer the fresh water of the lake too.

Head out to Lupa Beach for a day trip. Here, you’ve got sports like volleyball and handball, the biggest wakeboard centre in Budapest, the warm summer waters of Lupa Beach, as well as restaurants and cocktail bars. It really is a great day out!

Spend a day at Margaret Island

Margaret Island is one of Budapest’s best green spaces, conveniently placed in the middle of the Danube between Margaret Bridge and Árpád Bridge. 

There’s tons to do here. From taking a dip in the Palatinus pool to wandering around the Japanese Garden, getting a glimpse of the musical fountain, or enjoying the petting zoo, there’s literally something for everyone. 

But if none of that takes your fancy, it’s a great place for a picnic too, and throughout the summer you can catch performances at the open-air concert venue. 

Ride the Children’s Railway

The Children’s Railway, or Gyermekvasút , is one of Budapest’s most unique attractions. It runs between Széchenyi Hill and Hűvösvölgy, with some pretty amazing sights along the way. 

The most notable thing about it though is hinted at in its name; Gyermekvasút is serviced almost entirely by children (obviously, adults actually drive the thing). Kids act as guards and check tickets, and take a lot of pride in their unique place of work. It’s a very quirky thing to do, and the kids love it!

Or see the sights from the picturesque tram 2

One of the best ways to see all of the sights and landmarks in Budapest in summer is unbelievably simple. It also costs just one single euro.

Tram 2 is one of the most beautiful, panoramic tram journeys you’ll take within Europe. It takes you across all of the most important landmarks: the Hungarian Parliament building, Liberty Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge. You get some great views of the Danube too.

Cruise along the Danube river

Speaking of the Danube, I recommend taking a cruise along it. There are lots of different options to do this, from slow and scenic sightseeing trips to nighttime cruises to mega thrilling speedboat rides . Alternatively, combine with dinner or enjoy cocktails on the water. 

Personally, I think this is a must on any Budapest itinerary. It really is such a great way of seeing a lot of the sights in the city, and the sunset/nighttime cruises are wonderfully romantic too when the city sparks to life.

Explore museums after hours

I’m a big believer in embracing local culture and history when you visit a new place. Museums are a great way to do this, and Budapest has some really cool ones. 

In June, museums and galleries in Budapest have extended opening hours well into the evenings. This includes the big well known ones like the Hungarian National Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts , as well as smaller, more specific places. There’s loads to see, so get your culture on!

Attend the Hungarian Grand Prix

If you’re a Formula 1 fan, you won’t want to miss this one. The Hungarian Grand Prix is hosted every summer at the Hungaroring, which is located just outside of Budapest in Mogyoród.

It’s one of the very best Budapest summer activities – even if you’re not the biggest Formula 1 enthusiast ever, it’s a pretty cool experience, and Hungary loves a party afterwards. 

Experience Sziget Festival

Sziget Festival (also known as Island of Freedom Festival) is a weekend packed full of live music from some of the biggest musicians out there. It’s held every August on the Óbudai-sziget, a leafy island on the Danube. It’s also one of the coolest events in Budapest in summer. 

This fest has it all: an on-site beach, art performances, speakers, and of course lots and lots of music. Some of 2023’s acts include Billie Eilish, Florence + the Machine and David Gueta. It’s the biggest festival in Hungary, and one of the most iconic in Europe.

Spend a day hiking

Speaking of Buda hills, it’s a good place to go hiking. In fact, this is one of my favourite Budapest summer activities: there are loads of good trails here, particularly around János Hill and Normafa Park. 

Alternatively, explore the National Blue Trail , Hungary’s largest hiking trail. You won’t be able to complete the whole trail in one day, but sections 13 and 14 are fairly close to Budapest. 

Not confident about taking public transport to reach a trail yourself? There are hiking tours you can take from Budapest.

Go on a day trip to Lake Balaton 

Fun fact: Hungary is home to the second largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Balaton. Along its shores, you’ll find an abundance of coastal towns, villages, and even resorts. Some of these are a mere hour from Budapest, so they can make a great day trip. Explore the towns, unwind on a beach, or enjoy watersports.

Catch the views from the Buda Hills Chairlift

The beautiful Buda hills are a popular day trip from Budapest – they’re a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Here, you can experience something pretty incredible – the Zugliget Chairlift , a mountain cable car that’ll take you all of the way up János Hill. Once at the top, you can climb up to the Erzsébet Lookout Tower, where you’ll catch some of the most breathtaking views near Budapest as a reward for your efforts. 

Cool down with an ice cream

Ice cream is one of Budapest’s specialties. Natural and traditionally made, you can find spots to enjoy it all over the city. Some of them are pretty unique too – head to Gelarto Rosa for icy bites in a rose-petal shape.

Fragola’s creations use fresh, original ingredients for tasty flavours. Levendula offers floral flavours alongside the classics; wonder what a lavender flavoured ice cream would taste like? Find out here.

Where to stay in Budapest in summer

Luxury: mystery hotel budapest.

Step back in time at Mystery Hotel Budapest. This is a historically-themed, luxury hotel, conveniently placed in downtown Budapest. 

I guarantee this is like nowhere you’ve stayed before – mainly since the building is a 19th century palace! If you’re an art connoisseur, you’ll love it even more, since many of the bedrooms are decked out with replicas of some of the world’s most iconic paintings.

Mid-range: BALTAZÁR Boutique Hotel at Buda Castle

If you ask me, BALTAZÁR is one of the coolest hotels in Budapest. You’ve got luxurious interiors in warm, ambient colours – not to mention beautiful decor and comfy furniture.

In terms of amenities, you’re sorted – beneath the hotel you’ve got an à la carte grill restaurant right on your doorstep, a delicious free breakfast served daily, and well-equipped rooms. The location is great with some of Budapest’s best attractions within walking distance.

Budget: D8 Hotel

Want to save your funds for exploring the city? I get it. Consider staying at D8 Hotel in the centre of Budapest. The best part of this hotel is location; you’re a stone’s throw from the Chain Bridge and a short walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica.

With bright, cosy bedrooms and amenities like flat screen TVs, private bathrooms and a buffet breakfast, there’s also a shared lounge and a bar to meet other travellers.

If you’re interested in learning more about Budapest and why this is such a fascinating place to visit, then check out my fun facts about Budapest here!

Planning a visit to Budapest in the summer? I hope this blog helped with your planning! Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below, and as always, happy travels!

Another place nearby well worth visiting is Vienna . If you’re thinking of travelling here, then check out the best things to do in Vienna in summer !

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About the Author

Georgie Cunningham is a freelance content writer and strategist based in Bristol. When she’s not writing (or thinking about) content, she’s writing fiction, travelling, or chasing after her crazy cocker spaniel, Cosmo.

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21 things only Budapest locals know (that you really should know, too)

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

While Budapest is welcoming and safe but it helps to know a few key tips © Drazen_ / Getty Images

Budapest’s elegant boulevards and world-famous thermal baths welcome travelers from all over the globe – yet some aspects of navigating the city aren’t the most visitor-friendly.

Even seasoned travelers can have unpleasant interactions with ticket inspectors on the tram after incorrectly validating their tickets. One unfortunate recurring story in Budapest is one of male visitors getting scammed by pretty women at shady bars, while crooked taxi drivers can quite literally take unwitting passengers for a ride around the city. 

Luckily, the Hungarian capital is a safe place for visitors, and you can easily avoid these scenarios with a little planning and by following our list of things to do – and things to avoid – when visiting Budapest . 

1. Learn a few words in Hungarian before arriving 

Knowing how to say “please” and “thank you” in Hungarian goes a long way with the locals. Before your trip, buy a phrasebook and learn the basics of this idiosyncratic language, such as “hello” and “cheers.” One very important tip: make sure you get the accent right on the “é” in “egészségedre” (“egg-ees- sheeg -ed-re”), and don’t accidentally say “egészsegedre” (“egg-ess- shegg -ed-re”). The first means “to your health,” but the other is “to your whole ass.”

2. Pack for the pool

Soaking in Budapest’s thermal baths is one of the city’s most treasured experiences, so pack your stuff for swimming, including a pair of flip-flops or pool sandals and a beach towel. You can rent a towel if you prefer not to bulk out your bags, but be prepared to pay as much as 5000 HUF (about US$15). 

3. Wear a swimming cap in the bathhouse pools 

You can enter the swimming pools at the thermal baths only if you’re wearing a swimming cap, a rule in place to stop stray hairs from clogging the pool drains. Many bathhouses sell swimming caps at the ticket office for up to 2000 HUF. Note that this rule does not apply to the thermal baths themselves, only to the on-site swimming pools.

4. Bring an umbrella 

It’s a good idea to bring an umbrella to Budapest, even in the summer. The city can get sudden heavy downpours, especially in the warmer months.

5. Pack comfortable walking shoes (but not sneakers) 

Since Budapest is a highly walkable city, you’re going to be on your feet all day. Pack shoes that you’ll be comfortable wearing for hours while you’re out exploring – while keeping in mind trainers will likely single you out as a tourist in an instant.

6. Book tickets in advance for popular museums

If you’re visiting Budapest during peak season, especially in the summer or around Christmas, or have your heart set on seeing a seasonal exhibition, you can skip the long lines by booking tickets in advance. Some popular sites have introduced caps on numbers, so it pays off to plan ahead and ensure you can visit what you want to. If you buy a ticket before you arrive, download it to your phone, show the QR code and walk right in without waiting. 

7. Bring forints, not euros

Though Hungary uses the forint as its currency, some hotels, restaurants and shops will accept euros, giving change back in forints. Since establishments can be reluctant to accept large bills (like 20,000 HUF), try to withdraw smaller bills from ATMs. Some cash machines let you choose what bills to withdraw; if yours doesn’t, pick an amount like 9000 HUF or 19,000 HUF to ensure smaller change.  

8. Avoid Euronet ATMs

You’ll see Euronet ATMs all around town, especially in bars, but they charge exorbitant bank fees. The convenience is not worth the cost.

9. Download taxi and transport apps

To navigate the city on the go, download the BKK ( Budapest Közlekedési Központ ) app, issued by the city’s official public transport agency, or CityMapper . For taxis, get a taxi app like Bolt . Note that Uber is no longer available in Hungary.

10. Never hail a taxi 

Flagging taxis on the street is risky because some rogue operators rip visitors off by driving around the city or using other tricks. This has been happening less and less in recent years, but it’s still better to call a cab or use an app to order one. 

11. Validate your public transport ticket

The ticketing system for Budapest’s public transport can be confusing for first-time riders. The most important thing to remember is that you must buy a ticket before getting on public transport, validate it when boarding, and keep it until the end of your journey. Most tram and metro stops have machines where you can purchase tickets; on the bus, you can buy them from the driver. Check that your ticket has a date, timestamp or punched holes – these mean it’s validated and that you’re good to go. If not, you risk getting caught by a roving ticket inspector and charged a hefty fine.

12. Learn how to board the bus

Most of the time, you can get on the bus in Budapest through any door, and there’s no need to show your ticket to the driver. If you have a single ticket, validate it using the onboard machines (if you have a longer pass, keep it on you), and you’re ready to ride. Some buses, however, are front-boarding only. If you notice a bus that opens its front door only to boarding passengers, get in line and have your ticket or pass ready to show the driver. 

13. Tip at restaurants

Some restaurants include a service charge on the bill, so it’s a good idea to ask if this is included when paying (it usually appears on the bill as szerviz ). If not, it’s customary to tip around 10%. Hungarians often round up the bill and tell the server how much they want to pay, including tips (especially if they still need change back). If you give a banknote that’s more than your bill and say “thank you,” your server will likely see that as an invitation to keep the change. 

14. Don’t clink your beer glasses with Hungarians 

Hungarians don’t say “cheers” with beers – or at least they haven’t for the past 150 years. When Habsburgs Austria defeated Hungary in the 1848 revolution, Austrians in Vienna celebrated the defeat by toasting and clinking beer steins. As a form of subtle protest, Hungarians vowed never to do this same – and haven’t raised their beer glasses since. You might notice some of the younger crowd forgoing this rule, so if you’re in the company of Hungarians with beer, follow their lead.

Note that this rule doesn’t apply to drinks like wine or pálinka (a local fruit brandy); Hungarians even consider it rude not to look the other person in the eyes and say “cheers” when raising a glass of anything other than beer.

15. Don’t smile too much (Hungarians don’t) 

Hungarians are not the smiliest people, and smiling at strangers or while out and about is much less prevalent in Hungarian culture than it is in, say, the United States. Walking around with a big smile on your face at all times will probably make it clear to locals that you’re not one of them. There’s no harm in smiling – but you might just attract a tout trying to sell you a bus tour. 

16. Greet staff when you enter a shop 

If you go into a smaller shop, it’s polite to say “ Jó napot ” (“good day”). 

17. Watch out for the Budapest bar scam 

Unfortunately, one of the main risks in visiting Budapest is getting ripped off – and there’s one recurring scam that’s a tale as old as time. Male travelers will often be approached by attractive, friendly young women who invite them to a bar. Once inside, the men get presented with a huge bill, along with threats of calling the police if they don’t pay. The moral of the story? Try to resist tagging along with any women who approach you – or at least avoid any bar they suggest. 

18. Take precautions with your belongings

Pickpockets are common on rush-hour public transport and in busy, touristy areas. Keep your belongings in a safe place, such as in a money waist belt or in a zipped-up compartment inside a bag, and don’t put your wallet or phone in your pocket, the easiest place for a pickpocket to swipe it from. 

19. After midnight, take a taxi back to your accommodations

Budapest’s city center (especially District VII) is fairly nocturnal, and the central districts inside the Grand Boulevard are safe after midnight. If you’re staying in Budapest’s outer neighborhoods, however – such as Districts VIII or IX, beyond the Grand Boulevard – it’s safest to take a taxi to your accommodations if you’re having a late night. 

20. Be aware of the recent LGBTIQ+ laws 

Hungary is earning a bad reputation with LGBTIQ+ travelers because of recently enacted laws, such as one making it impossible for trans people to legally change their gender. Another, the so-called “Anti-Pedophile Bill,” draws lamentable parallels between pedophilia and homosexuality and bans LGBTQI+ representation in media available to people under 18. 

The good news is that Budapest is more liberal, especially if you stay around downtown. A vibrant population of progressive activists keeps up the fight for LGBTQI+ rights in Hungary, and Pride gets bigger every year, with thousands joining in solidarity. You’ll find many places welcoming LGBTQI+ visitors; Budapest Pride maintains a helpful  directory of LGBTQI+ safe and friendly venues . 

21. Know how to get medical help if needed

For peace of mind, it’s a good idea to get insurance before traveling. The Hungarian public health system is often understaffed, and it can be hard to find English-speaking doctors or nurses in public hospitals and clinics. Many good private clinics are popular with the local ex-pat community, including First Med and Swiss Clinic . If you need a pharmacy, you’ll find them all across the city center, with a few that are open 24/7.

This article was first published Feb 14, 2022 and updated Mar 6, 2024.

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16 Budapest travel tips & hacks | First-timers in Budapest

Things to do in Budapest Budapest Travel Guide Budapest Travel Tips

An architectural treasure trove, Budapest flaunts a wonderful harmony of natural and man-made elements. With epic tales of its history woven into its everyday life, Budapest’s thriving culture draws a diverse crowd. The city's transitioning blend of Western and Eastern Europe makes it like no other European city. With its healing hot springs, umpteen ruin bars and breathtaking Art Noveau architecture, Budapest is a much-needed respite for those keen on a cultural chaos. Our Budapest Travel Tips will help you find order in this chaos and make the most of your visit.

Budapest Essentials

Starting with the essentials, here's what you must know before getting to Budapest. Make sure you brush up a little Hungarian!

Language Hungarian

Time zone GMT+2

Country Code +36

Socket Type C & F

Currency Hungarian Forints (HUF)

Best Time To Visit Budapest

Blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year, it is hard to zero in on one the best time of the year to visit Budapest. However, with affordable rates and little to no crowd, it is spring that makes an ideal season for those looking for a relaxing getaway. Summer witnesses an upsurge of crowd, however, the Budapest Summer Festival, which takes place between June to August, is definitely something you shouldn’t miss out on. Fall in Budapest also is a great time to visit, considering the drop in temperature. However, if you don’t mind the a snowy vacation, December to February is also a great time to enjoy its quaint Christmas markets and events that take place around the festive season.

Read more about the best time to visit Budapest .

Budapest Travel Tips 101 - A First Timer's Holy Grail

Below are the tips and hacks you're here for. Read on and thank us later!

#1 Sample Local Wines

Home to some of the most well-known brands of wine, there's no leaving Budapest without trying some of its piquant alcohol. While there are several opportunities to try wine (in restaurants and pubs), look out for historic cellars or wine tasting tours that take place in the city on a frequent basis. Pair the tasting with a romantic cruise to make the most of your evening in the city!

#2 Don’t Clink Beer Glasses!

A funny, yet interesting tradition the locals in Budapest follows comes from 1848 when the Hungary revolution was overthrown by the Habsburg. To celebrate their victory in Vienna, Austrians everywhere clicked beer to show their joy for the same. Though 167 years have passed, Hungarians have not forgotten and have vowed to never clink beer glasses! While it may not land you into trouble, it would be an advisable option to avoid the regular ‘cheers’!

#3 Dine at Butcher Stores

Butcher’s stores in Budapest are not just for buying your weekly meat ration; they are a dining experience in itself. From sausages to pork knuckle, duck and blood sausage served with saeurkraut, chips and, of course, mustard - it's a gastronomical delight in here. While it is a stand-only dining affair, you cannot miss out on this experience in the city. Checkout Belvárosi Disznótoros for one of the most famous in-butcher dining experiences in Budapest.

#4 Forget The Euros

Although Hungary is a member of the European Union, the country hasn’t adopted the Euro as its official currency. Though the Euro is widely accepted through the country, be prepared to receive change in the form of Forints if you choose to exchange your currency locally. Restaurants in Budapest also don’t prefer a card, so make sure you hit the ATM before heading for a meal. It is advisable to go through a legal money exchange instead of opting for easily available options within the city.

Exploring Budapest on a Budget

#5 explore the coffee house culture.

Hungarians love to start their day with a strong brew! Cafés, or kávéház, have been around in Budapest since the early 16th century after the Turks brought in coffee cultivation as an occupation. In fact, you may also stumble upon some coffee houses that has a deep history to it! Although many of these coffee houses have been restored to match their former glory, the old-world charm is still alive within its four walls!

#6 Insist on Using the Meter in a Taxi

Taxi drivers in Budapest are known for overcharging tourists. Hence, insist on asking for a meter. While taxis are a convenient way to travel in any city, it is also one of the most expensive modes of transport. Consider buying the Budapest Card which allows unlimited public transport if you're planning to use the public transit system as your primary mode of transport .

#7 Visit Ruin Pubs of Budapest

Owing to its historic background, Budapest houses a number of ruin bars. What were once merely considered crumbling, abandoned buildings have today been transformed into swanky bars and pubs that are a favorite of many. Ruin bars began as an experiment by Szimpla but have slowly taken over the city as many recycled spaces have begun popping up after the initial success. Make sure you include one of the many ruin bars in the city on your itinerary for a unique experience during your stay.

#8 Watch Out for Signs of History Along the Way

Budapest has signs of history scattered around the city. What was once almost demolished due to the ill effects of World War II, today houses several memorials across the city for the lives that were lost. One of the most notable exhibits include the 60 pairs of shoes at the Danube, which were designed by sculptor Gyula Pauer. The memorial is dedicated to the Jews who lost their lives in the Danube by the Cross Arrow Military.

#9 Sign up for a Guided City Tour

Opt for a cultural walk from Buda to Pest with local guided tours that take you through the history of the city. Available in English and Spanish, these tours take place twice a day and have skilled guides on board who could brief you on some of their exciting stories about the city. With tours on the history, pub culture and Jewish legacy, there’s something for everyone in these walking tours.

Guided Tours, Walking Tours, Segway Tours and More

#10 tipping is norm in budapest.

Although not mandatory, tipping in Budapest is considered courteous and is followed by locals as well. It is considered polite to tip in hotels and concierge services. A 10% to 15% tip can be applied to restaurant bills as well unless service tax is already added. While tips can also be added to spas and bathhouses in Budapest, the locals also tip the taxi drivers.

#11 Tram over Taxi, any day!

While taxis are considered to be convenient, taking the tram in Budapest is perhaps a more viable option. With 40 lines running between 4:30 am to 11 pm, the tram is an ideal way to tour the city on a budget. Connecting almost every important attraction in the city, you can buy a day’s pass or choose to opt for a Budapest card to use the tram freely during your stay.

#12 Come Hungry

Hungarian food is delicious and anyone who tells you otherwise does not have the taste for a hearty fare. With stews and meat as well as potatoes and dumplings, the food is light on the stomach but lingers on your taste buds long after. Potatoes are pretty much the only thing "vegetarian", but the meat fest otherwise is a sensory treat.

#13 Stroll the Length of Andrassy Út

The grand tree-lined boulevard of Andrassy Út is a UNESCO Heritage Site that connects the Opera House and City Park, and is best explored on foot. It runs by the city’s most expensive real-estate, so have a great time craning your neck and spotting the best houses in town. By the end of it, you'll surely be pining for a piece of land here!

#14 Catch a Show at The State Opera

Unlike most other European cities, entertainment in Budapest is cheap! You can catch a show at the State Opera for as little as 500 HUF ($1.80), and if you come during rehearsal performances, you can find seats starting from 200 HUF ($0.72)!

#15 Why not a Beer & Pizza Cruise?

With the River Danube running majestically right through the middle of the city, cruises in Budapest are a much sought after affair. While there different cruises to suit all budgets, our top favourites are the Beer & Pizza Cruise and the Operetta & Folklore Cruise. Check out the other top selling Danube cruises in Budapest and grab your tickets right away!

#16 Hop on the Second Oldest Metro in the World

The Budapest Metro is the oldest electrified underground railways system in Europe and the second oldest electrically operated system in the world. It was opened in 1896 and runs till date - on time, every day. While traveling through this metro, you're traveling with years of history etched in the walls of these trains. Cherish the journey and enjoy the cheap and easy accessibility throughout the city.

What To Do | Budget Tips | Day Trips and More

Tips for saving money on transportation in budapest.

• The Budapest Card provides free, unlimited public transport throughout its validity. Apart from this, it also includes entry to select museums, complimentary tours as well as various discounts across platforms in the city. Here's all you need to know about the Budapest Card before buying it
• Opt for the MOL Bubi if you’re someone who prefers cycling around a city.
• Students can avail discounts on all modes of transport by flashing their student card.

Tips For Saving Money On Eating In Budapest

• Look out for street carts selling local food. Lángos, a variant of pizza but with thicker dough, is one of the few street foods sold cheaply in Budapest.
• Bread and bakery items in Budapest are inexpensive as compared to other items. Get yourself breakfast at a local bakery, and relish a pastry which is essentially considered to be a part of the Budapest breakfast!
• Several restaurants in Budapest offer a tourist menu which is comparatively cheaper. It offers modest portions of a three-course meal enough for one.
• The central market steam tables are a great place to try anything beginning from stews to strudels on a budget! Keep a watch for vendors that can be easily spotted around the entrance of the market.
• If you’re craving Chinese takeout in Hungary, stopping by at Kinai Bufes (affordable Chinese steam tables) would acquaint you with some delicious Asian cuisine in Budapest.

More Tips To Save Money In Budapest

• Accommodation Tips:
• An Airbnb or Couchsurf which guarantees an off-beat, local experience on a modest budget is highly recommended in a city like Budapest.
• If you're in a fix between staying in Buda or Pest, know that Buda is the calmer, residential side of the city while Pest sees a more active nightlife with more ruin bars and night clubs. Depending on your agenda, choose the side of the city that suits you best.
• It is common to bargain with hotels in Budapest, as they can offer you a better deal or an upgrade.
• Most hotels in Budapest don’t have an air-conditioner. It is a good idea to check up on your hotel online before booking it online.
• The Europeans refer to twin beds as a double room. Make sure to specify if you require a room with a double bed instead.
• Free Attraction Tips
• Samples the taste of Budapest at the Great Market located in a large hall opposite to Liberty Bridge for free all day, everyday.
• Make the most of the free walking tours are available every day from Buda to Pest, at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm respectively.
• Wander across the Jewish quarter which is dotted with great cafes as well as ruin bars.
• There are several free art galleries across the city which house their unique exhibitions. Telp on Madach street is one of them that showcases photography, sculptures, and paintings.
• Free Museum Days
• If you’re a citizen of the EEA, and under 26, you can gain free to the Museum of Fine Arts , the Hungarian National Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.
• The Military Museum has free admission on the last Sunday of every month for people under the age of 26.
• Hungarian National Gallery, Museum of Applied Arts and Nagytétény Palace can be visited for free on every third Saturday of the month.
• Museum of Ethnography and Hungarian Natural History Museum can be visited for free on the first Sunday of the month.
• Visit the Transportation Museum, Museum of Military History as well as Ludwig Museum for free on the last Sunday of every month.
• Tips For Guided Tours in Budapest
• Guided tours with a local guide allows you to explore the city through a local's eye - a chance to witness lesser known gems and walk through lanes that are probably not on Google Maps!
• Budapest has a famous Segway City Tour that takes you across the city without tiring you, but covering maximum grounds. Check it out!
• A self-guided tour is also a great idea if you’re looking out for an economical way of touring the city at your own pace.
• It is a good idea to invest in an audio guide if you’re touring by yourself, as it can help in acquainting you to the local history of the area.
• Tips For Buying Tickets Online
• Choosing to book tickets online can not only help you to avoid last-minute price rise but can also help you avoid the crowd.
• Online tickets may also come with perks such as skip the line, VIP access as well as several other combo offers.
• Booking tickets online can also provide you with an option of flexible dates and various cancellation offers.

Top Things To Do In Budapest

Here are the top 10 things you must do in Budapest . If any of these are missing from your itinerary, make sure you squeeze them in!

1 Budapest Parliament

The Hungarian Parliament, often known as the Budapest Parliament, is one of the city's most distinctive buildings, and no photo of Budapest can be considered complete without some aspect of it being shown. The current seat of the Hungarian Parliament is this stunning building, which provides a fascinating look into Hungary's political history.

2 River Danube

The magnificent Danube River, the fairytale waterway cutting through Budapest, is a must-do when you visit Budapest. Locals frequently claim that the greatest way to sense the romance in Budapest is to go on a Danube River Cruise.

3 Castle Hill

Castle Hill is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Budapest. The hill is home to a number of historic landmarks and attractions, including the Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the Fisherman's Bastion. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city from atop the hill, or take a walk through the beautiful gardens and parks that surround it.

4 Budapest Baths

Budapest, also known as the "Spa City," is a city rich in thermal springs, many of which date back to the 16th century. A mecca for spa and wellness fans, 'taking the waters' is just as regular as shopping. A visit to Budapest isn't complete without a tour of the ancient baths.

5 Budapest - Hop On Hop Off tours

Budapest is best seen on a Hop On, Hop Off tour, which is full of life and action. Budapest is a wonderful city to explore because of its bustling atmosphere, rich history, and interesting architecture. The Hungarian capital is known for its vibrant nightlife and natural beauty as well as numerous baths, spas, and hot springs.

6 Hungarian State Opera

The Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház) is a neo-renaissance opera house located in central Budapest, on Andrássy út. Originally known as the Hungarian Royal Opera House, it was designed by Miklós Ybl, a leading architect of his day. The building was completed in 1884, and is considered one of the finest examples of 19th-century neo-renaissance architecture in Hungary.

7 Margaret Island

Margaret Island (Hungarian: Margitsziget) is a 2.5 km long island, 500 metres wide, in the middle of the Danube in central Budapest, Hungary. The island is mostly covered with landscape gardens and parkland, and is a popular recreation area for tourists and locals alike

8 Great Synagogue

The Great Synagogue of Budapest is one of the largest and most spectacular synagogues in Europe. It was built in 1859 in Neo-Classical style, with a capacity of 3,000 people. The beautiful building has a stunning Moorish Revival interior, with ornate chandeliers and an Ark made of carved cypress wood.

9 Great Market Hall

Write about Great Market Hall Budapest The Great Market Hall (Nagycsarnok) is the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest, Hungary. It is a true paradise for food lovers. You can find almost anything here, from the finest Hungarian cheeses and meats to the freshest fruits and vegetables. The market also has a wide selection of Hungarian wines and spirits. If you're looking for a souvenir to take home, the market has a great selection of traditional Hungarian handicrafts, including pottery, embroidery, and folk art.

10 The House Of Terror

The House of Terror, located in Budapest, Hungary, is a museum that commemorates the victims of both Communist and Nazi regimes. The building itself was used as a secret police headquarters during both regimes, and it now stands as a reminder of the terror that those regimes inflicted upon the Hungarian people.The House of Terror contains a number of exhibits that detail the atrocities committed by both the Communist and Nazi regimes.

Deals, Offers & Promo Codes in Europe

Ready to explore budapest.

Here are a few recommendations to help you plan your visit.

How long should I stay in Budapest to make the best of my visit?

If you're counting how many days it will take to see everything in Budapest, two days is enough to tour the city and see all of its attractions if you work hard. A three-day itinerary may allow you to visit more of Hungary's top sights at a slower pace while also allowing you to relax and unwind in one of the thermal baths.

What are the things I should avoid doing in Budapest?

Some of the things you should definitely avoid doing in Budapest is, to validate your metro ticket, to forget to pack your bathing suits, and to confuse Buda with Pest!

Can I drink the tap water in Budapest?

Yes, the tap water in Budapest is extremely safe to consume.

Is there anyway I can budget my Budapest trip?

You can foresee the average costs for your Budapest trip by using the budgetyourtrip tool.

Is Budapest safe for solo female travellers?

Budapest is a relatively safe city for single women, whether during the day when visiting the city's many magnificent historical sites or at night, when experiencing fantastic nightlife and delicious food.

Does Budapest have a good nightlife?

Budapest nightlife is fantastic, with enjoyable ruin pubs, various sorts of wine, excellent local cuisine at top-notch restaurants, dancing in discos, and a variety of cultural activities.

Do I need to pre-book the Budapest baths?

Yes, Budapest Baths are a ticket attraction and it is recommended to pre-book your tickets to avoid standing in long queues.

What's the best time to visit Budapest?

From March through May and September through November, Budapest is at its most beautiful. These off-peaks are ideal because the weather is pleasant and the city isn't clogged with visitors.

See more Budapest. Save more money.

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Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Your Guide To Planning a Trip Budapest: When to Go and How Long to Stay In Hungary’s Gorgeous Capital City

W e might be biased since we used to live here, but man, Caleb and I think Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe.  It’s got hearty food that feels like your grandma is hugging your taste buds, mind-blowing wine, gorgeous architecture, and a stunning river. Did we mention the wine?

With all that goodness, it can make trip planning hard! We struggled with what to prioritize when we first visited, so we’re here to help with our beginner’s guide to planning a trip to Budapest! The quick overview is that you should spend at least 2 days in Budapest and the best months are April, May, September and October!

In this guide, We’ll go deeper into what you need to know to decide how many days to spend in Budapest and when to visit so you can have a memorable central European getaway! Let’s dive in!

Quick Navigation For This Guide: when to visit / How many days to stay

✔️ Essential Info:

📍 Location: In northern Hungary, which is in Central Europe

✈️ How to get there:  Fly into Ferenc Liszt International Airport or take a train.

☀️ Best months to go: April and May or September and October

🚗 Getting around:  Walking or public transport

⏰ How long to stay: at least 2 days, but longer is better!

💰 Budget: $300-$500 total for a weekend is an excellent, mid-range budget for two people, excluding flights/trains.

💴 Tipping: we recommend 10-12% in restaurants, and many restaurants add it to the bill already.

📞 Phone and Internet: We recommend getting Google Fi service , as you have data in basically any country worldwide. We LOVE it!

Let’s Choose When To Visit:

The “tldr:” our personal advice is to visit in spring or summer .

If you’re like us and have the attention span of a worm (do they even have attention spans? Life’s great mysteries), you really just need to know that we think the best time to visit Budapest is in April and May or September and October.

The weather is the nicest, the prices are the cheapest, and it’s less people-y. Of course, December is an option if you want Christmas markets, but as much as it hurts our Budapest-loving-hearts to write this, we think it’s one of the worst Christmas markets that we’ve ever visited.

Don’t throw a chimney cake at us.

Other Stuff You Should Consider: 

When planning how many days in Budapest, here are some other tips and tidbits that you should keep in mind:

• Prices: The best prices will always be the off-season – so basically anytime from January through May and then September through October.

The Summer and November/December are the most expensive months due to holidays and Christmas markets.

• Weather:  If you want the best weather, plan your visit for May or September/early October. That is when we’ve had the nicest, warm-but-not-face-melting weather.
• Tourists: Avoid June-August and December if you want Budapest without as many tourists.

Said a tourist. The irony.

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• Worst time to visit: Personally, we did not like visiting in the Summer or December. We were battling it out with selfie sticks and sticky, sweaty faces in the Summer and the Christmas market brigade in December.

Plus… it’s really cold then. Trust us, we lived there in the winter.

Month by Month Weather To Keep In Mind

While we are not weather people, here is what you can expect month-by-month according to Weatherspark , so you can use it as a guide to determine the best months to visit Budapest for you:

• January has an average temperature of 32°F or 0°C and 3 days of rain on average. 
• February has an average temperature of 34°F or 1°C and 3 days of rain on average. 
• March has an average temperature of 43°F or 6°C and 5 days of rain on average. 
• April has an average temperature of 53°F or 11°C and 6 days of rain on average. 
• May has an average temperature of 62°F or 16°C and 9 days of rain on average. 
• June has an average temperature of 68°F or 20°C and 8 days of rain on average. 
• July has an average temperature of 71°F or 22°C and 8 days of rain on average. 
• August has an average temperature of 70°F or 21°C and 7 days of rain on average. 
• September has an average temperature of 62°F or 16°C and 6 days of rain on average. 
• October has an average temperature of 52°F or 11°C and 6 days of rain on average. 
• November has an average temperature of 41°F or 5°C and 5 days of rain on average. 
• December has an average temperature of 33°F or 0°C and 4 days of rain on average. 

I MPORTANT:  These average temperatures are the average between the daily high and daily low temperatures. So, the daily high temperature is usually around 10°F higher than what is listed here.

Choosing How Many Days to Spend

Considering we lived there, we think you could spend endless days in Budapest. But, in reality, you need at LEAST 2 days in Budapest to see all the main tourist sites. But, to be honest, these are going to be really packed, and you’ll need a vacation from your vacation.

We *strongly* (like we wish we could shake you through the screen) urge you to resist trying to get it done as quickly as possible and really spend more time: at LEAST 3 days but ideally 4-5 or more to experience all the things that make us say it’s a top destination for couples!

Please, for the love of all things chimney cake, don’t just spend one day!

Ideas for choosing your perfect trip length:

With 2 days, you could:

If you have 2 days, it will give you enough time to see the main sites on the Buda side of Budapest – the chain bridge, Buda castle, and Fishermans Bastion – in one day. Then, you could zip around St Stephen Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament building one day. These things are featured in the video at the top of this post.

It would give you just enough time to try some Hungarian food and AMAZING wine (seriously, it’ll change your life) wine. But, your days will be rushed!!

If you had 3 days, you could:

If you had 3 days, you could do the above at a much more leisurely, enjoyable pace and even sleep in a little bit as you’re not rushing around.

You would have time to do a Hungarian wine tasting at our FAVORITE wine bar in all of Europe (no lie) and even do our favorite river cruise one night. We tried 3 of them, and this one is by far the best. Did we mention free wine?

If you had 4-5 days, you could:

Now things start to get really fun! You could do all the above and add this epic Budapest cooking class (with free wine!) so that you can experience the true local culture and flavors. It’s also a fun way to be able to recreate your trip at home!

You can eat more delicious Hungarian food and explore more of District 9 (our favorite, more local and trendy area where your wine tasting was)

You could also explore some of the gorgeous Hungarian bathhouses for a thermal bath! Romantic!

If you had a week, you could:

Do ALL THE THINGS listed, plus have some time to just get lost, explore, and find things to do.  Or, do it all really slowly and leisurely.

When we did this, we stumbled upon the cutest little deli with amazing Charcuterie called Falu Delikat – you should absolutely go if you like wine, cheese, and sausage! 

We also suggest a day trip to Lake Balaton Szentendre or Eger – the first and last options there are great for wine lovers.  White wine and red wine, respectively! 

Consider These Things When Choosing Your Itinerary:

Your budget:

While Budapest is a relatively cheap vacation, especially in relation to some other European countries, it still isn’t free! The longer you stay, the more you will spend.

Unfortunately, we’ve found that inflation is quite bad in Budapest , and it is no longer nearly as cheap as it was when we visited a few years back. Others noted this too, especially around the Christmas season.

“The prices are simply unreal, regardless of whether it’s for tourists or for Hungarians.” Margit Varga, local Hungarian

Where you’re staying in Budapest:

If you decide to stay in the city center, you will be able to see more quickly as you can walk basically everywhere. However, if you opt to save some bucks and stay outside the city center, you will need to factor in longer walks or metro/bus/train rides, meaning you may need more days to see more things!

You’re arrival and departure: 

The recommendations provided are primarily for entire days. Spending a couple of days in Budapest, where you arrive at night and depart in the morning, differs significantly from the opposite.

How you’re getting around:

While Budapest is very walkable, you have to consider transit time getting between these areas if you do take public transit or rideshare.

Time of year: 

If you’re visiting Budapest in the Summer, there are more tourists, so you will have to move a little more slowly, so you may want to spend an extra day or two. It will also be quite hot, so you may want to move slower and have more days so you can seek some AC while walking in the hot sun!

If you go in the winter, you may want to go slower so you can have time to seek warmth between walking! Hello, forralt bor! (Hungarian for mulled wine.)

Well, people, that’s a wrap on our personal guide for the basics of planning a trip to Budapest! If you have any questions, just leave a comment and we’ll get right back to you!

But, planning the perfect time and length doesn’t matter if you choose the wrong district to stay! We’re to help with our guide on the 3 best districts to stay in Budapest for first timers!

Other posts you might like:

• A Guide To Europe For Foodie Couples
• Where To Go In Europe: Couples Guide
• Couples Vacation Survival Guide

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USA TODAY 10Best

From bus services to buffets, best wallet-friendly travel ideas

June 26, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors June 26, 2024

Travel doesn't have to be expensive. Some of the best attractions in the United States are completely free, and it's possible to find an inexpensive hotel room while still staying in style. Rental car? Skip it by visiting a walkable city.

To find the best wallet-friendly options, a panel of travel experts and USA TODAY 10Best editors selected their top picks in five budget travel categories, then readers voted for their favorites over four weeks — and the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Advertisement Advertisement

Best Budget-Friendly Hotel Brand: Motel 6

Well-loved and easily recognized by those traveling the roadways of the United States, Motel 6 has made a name for itself by being clean, friendly, dependable, and most importantly, affordable. Expanded cable TV and pet-friendly rooms make this hotel a good choice for those looking to stay within their budget. Free coffee in the mornings makes getting up and going a pleasure.

Full list of winners: Best Budget-Friendly Hotel Brand »

Best Buffet Restaurant: Shady Maple Smorgasbord in East Earl, Pennsylvania

Shady Maple Smorgasbord, claiming to be "the largest buffet in America," serves delectable Pennsylvania Dutch dishes in East Earl, Pennsylvania. The well-prepared comfort food is offered on a 200-foot-long smorgasbord, and the space is designed to offer a cafeteria-style ambiance. A gift shop is open to visitors, and their birthday specials are popular.

Full list of winners: Best Buffet Restaurant »

Best Bus Service: Yankee Line

In operation for more than 45 years, Yankee Line serves the Northeast, from Boston to New York City. In addition, the company offers charter services for corporate events, school trips, and much more. Their fleet of custom-built coaches features free Wi-Fi, an onboard restroom, and power outlets.

Full list of winners: Best Bus Service »

Best Free Attraction: Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Florida

Situated in Juno Beach, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center is focused on ocean and sea turtle conservation, and it’s free and open to the public each day. Since the goal is to rescue and return wildlife to their natural habitats, the number of resident sea turtles will vary when people visit. Additionally, there are plenty of other sea creatures to observe, and volunteers are helpful and willing to answer questions from visitors.

Full list of winners: Best Free Attraction »

Most Walkable City to Visit: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is beloved for its cultural and historical attractions, and its walkability is appreciated by residents and visitors. Tourists would likely most enjoy strolling Center City — home to the historic Old City and gorgeous Rittenhouse Square neighborhoods.

Full list of winners: Most Walkable City to Visit »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.

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Party vibes, scenic views, grand hotels and spas: fun karlovy vary ideas when not seeing fest films.

A funicular ride to a picturesque panorama, food and drink, or other pampering experiences, anyone? The Czech spa town has it all.

By Georg Szalai

Georg Szalai

Global Business Editor

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The 58th edition of the Karlovy Vary  International  Film Festival (KVIFF) is ready to bring film buffs and industry folks a selection of movie world premieres and some of the highlights from the film fest circuit.

But no trip to the famous Czech spa resort would be complete without a bit of Bohemian hospitality, food and drink, picturesque views and maybe some other forms of pampering.

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With that in mind, here is a brief, and definitely not complete, list of ideas for some fun things to do in Karlovy Vary in between film screenings.

KVIFF.TV Park Right next to the Hotel Thermal, the headquarters of KVIFF, is the KVIFF.TV Park, a pavilion and its surrounding area that is open for work and play alike.

After all, this is one of the places for public forums and filmmaker Q&As, as well as networking meetings, and food and beverage stalls.

Plus, there is a lot of late fun to be had here, including the opening-night concert and much evening entertainment, particularly music.

So whether you want to schmooze, take a break in between panels or screenings, if you want to party or chill, the KVIFF.TV Park is one of the key fest locations to hang out at.

Grandhotel Pupp If the brutalist Hotel Thermal is the KVIFF headquarters, one of the fest’s most iconic socializing spots is the Grandhotel Pupp. The hotel, which opened in 1701, plays host to the VIP guests of the fest and special social occasions. Its Becher’s Bar entices visitors with its selection of cocktail and musical offerings. Plus, those so inclined, can enjoy the Pupp’s casino.

The Pupp’s website also lists the likes of 2006’s Last Holiday with Queen Latifah and Gérard Dépardieu, as well as 2003’s Shanghai Knights with Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson as having shot at the hotel. And the Pupp has been described as one of the inspirations for the Grand Budapest Hotel of the famous Wes Anderson movie.

Lovers of Czech desserts, or anyone else with a sweet tooth, can enjoy the traditional Café Pupp. Among its delights is the famous Pupp Cake, which, among other ingredients, contains the traditional local herbal liqueur Becherovka.

Grandhotel Pupp in Karlovy Vary

Picturesque Views Right next to the Grandhotel Pupp, you will find the entrance to a funicular that takes passengers to the Diana Lookout Tower every 15 minutes. Yes, there is a fare, which can be paid either in Czech cash or via cards.

The approximately five-minute ride through the local forest takes you 167 meters (548 feet) higher to panoramic views of the town below and the nature around it. 

View of Karlovy Vary from the top of the funicular

Once at the top, you have some options. You can enjoy not only the lookout tower but also a mini zoo, the Butterfly House, a restaurant, and more. This is also a good starting point for a potential hike, relaxing walk, or romantic stroll through the spa forest. “Senior citizens, cyclists, and parents with prams can take advantage of the paved asphalt road, and more experienced hikers can take the forest paths,” notes the funicular’s website. And it adds: “He who has not been to Diana has not seen Karlovy Vary.”

The importance of the spas is in the town name itself. Karlovy Vary is named after its founder Charles IV, who was Holy Roman Emperor from 1355 until his death in 1378 and also King of Bohemia, and literally means “Charles’ Baths.”

With 15 springs made available to the public, including 12 that are used for drinking, Karlovy Vary has long been a spa destination for visitors from around the world, including celebrities. It quickly built a reputation for its spas in the 19th century and remains a magnet for people looking to relax, swim or enjoy spa treatments to this day, including at the Hotel Thermal.

The pool at the Hotel Thermal in Karlovy Vary

The most famous local spa opened in 1895: The Imperial Baths. The website touts: “The Imperial Spa in Karlovy Vary is the largest, architecturally and artistically most richly equipped spa house in Karlovy Vary and perhaps in the whole Czech Republic.”

It was originally named after the Austrian Emperor and Czech King Franz Joseph I who visited only once during his visit to Karlovy Vary in August 1904. Explains the spa’s website: “He toured the building, but never bathed in the baths and the bathhouse that bear his name.” After the establishment of Czechoslovakia around the end of World War I, it was however forbidden by law to commemorate the Habsburg monarchy, eventually leading to the Imperial Spa becoming simply Spa I. Nowadays, both names are in use.

Take a Walk Even aimlessly walking around Karlovy Vary ensures joy, as well as photo and Insta opps galore — whether it is the lovely colonnades and bustling street cafes, souvenir and other shops, or the fountains and the hills around the town.

Tourists love to try the famous Karlovy Vary oplatky, or oblaten — thin wafers that come in a whole range of flavors, from chocolate, caramel and vanilla to lemon, apple-cinnamon, eggnog and beyond, which can be bought in stores or from street vendors who quickly warm them up for you.

An evening stroll also often brings you past concerts. And while you may not understand that Czech band’s lyrics, you may find yourself stopping and joining in with the grooving and clapping crowds.

And for film industry insiders who have had enough of box office doom and gloom or talk about the decline of the entertainment business, just look around and soak up the joy and love that often radiates from lines of passionate movie fans buying tickets or getting ready for a screening. You can see them all around Karlovy Vary during the festival, and it might make for a bit of a mental holiday from any Hollywood negativity.

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