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Traveling to Budapest: 20 Important Things To Know

February 16, 2024 //  by  Linda Malys Yore //   Leave a Comment

Are you traveling to Budapest soon? If yes, then you have come to the right place.

I have visited Budapest several times and can help you with all the important things to know before going to Budapest.

Budapest is a popular European city that is home to the romantic Danube River and is connected by the iconic Chain Bridge.

What I love about Budapest Hungary is that both the historical and the cosmopolitan parts of the city exist together.

So, whether you are surviving a long-haul flight to reach here or coming by road, it is essential to be aware of some Budapest travel details to help you make the most of the trip.

Do you wish to enjoy the thermal baths, delicious food, and the stunning scenery here?

If yes, then read on my list of the 20 important things to know before traveling to Budapest!

Check On Your Country’s Hungarian Visa Entry/Exit Requirements

It doesn’t matter if you are traveling to Budapest for one day or longer, you should know the Visa requirements for Hungary before planning your trip.

Thankfully, Americans don’t require a visa to travel to Budapest for a stay of less than 90 days.

If you are not holding an American passport, it is wise for you to research your country’s Hungarian visa requirements.

Check Out: Budapest: Shared Airport Shuttle Bus Transfer

Check Out: Budapest (BUD): Ferenc Liszt Airport Premium Lounge Access

Make Sure to Check Your Passport Before Traveling To Budapest

You will need a current and valid passport to enter Hungary. The expiry date of your passport should be three months longer than the intended date of departure from Hungary.

Plus, make sure you have sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket.

Hungary also requires one full blank page for stamping your entry and exit.

So, check your passport expiry date and empty pages well in advance as expedited handling fees to renew your passport are quite expensive.

Check Out: Budapest: Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel

Check Out: Budapest: City Highlights Cruise with Welcome Drink

Purchase A Hungarian SIM Card For Your Phone

When traveling to Budapest, one of the best travel tips for Budapest that I can share with you is to purchase a Hungarian SIM card or e-SIM for your smartphone.

This will allow you to have a network to send and receive messages on WhatsApp or FB Messenger. Plus, you will be able to connect to public WiFi easily as well.

You can install and activate an e-SIM when leaving from your home country or buy a local SIM card at the airport kiosks upon arrival, or in Budapest.

Check Out: Budapest: Hungary/ Europe eSIM Roaming Mobile Data Plan

Check Out: UK/Europe: eSim Mobile Data Plan

Cash or Credit Cards? What Is Best To Have?

The simple answer is when traveling to Budapest, you will want to have both!

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Budapest. However, if you are using cash, both Hungarian forint and Euros are accepted.

You will get the best exchange rate when traveling to Budapest if you use an ATM. I highly suggest you use an ATM before you leave the airport to withdraw money in the local currency.

Be aware there are fees when using an ATM. So, I suggest you withdraw a larger sum of money, less amount of times.

Also, check with your bank at home before traveling to Budapest and find out the names of fee-free “in-network”  bank ATMs in Hungary, so the out-of-network fee is not charged to you as well.

If you need to exchange money from home into the local currency, your safest bet would be a Hungarian bank.

Check Out: 3-Hour Orientation Walking Tour of Buda and Pest

Check Out: Budapest: 3-Hour Grand City Tour and Castle Walk

Notify Your Credit Card Company When Traveling to Budapest

Call your credit card company to notify them of the dates you will travel to Budapest. This ensures that your card is available for you to use and won’t be blocked when needed.

Check to see if the credit cards you are currently using charge foreign transaction fees every time you use them when you are out of the country. 

If it does, inquire about applying for a credit card that does NOT charge such fees.

Best Time to Visit Budapest Is Throughout the Year

I love that you can plan a visit to Budapest throughout the year.

If you want pleasant weather and fewer tourists, then the Spring and Autumn seasons are the best for visiting Budapest.

But if you are traveling to Budapest in winter, then you can enjoy the Christmas markets, thermal baths, outdoor ice skating rinks, and so much more here.

During summers, you can attend the largest musical festival here – Sziget Festival, or chill on one of the three public beaches.

Trust me, you cannot go wrong with a trip to Budapest, regardless of when you decide to go.

Check Out: Budapest: Buda Castle Cave Walking Tour

Check Out: Budapest: Széchenyi Spa Full Day with Optional Pálinka Tour

Use Budapest Public Transportation 

If you planning to spend at least two days in Budapest , then I recommend using public transport.

There are lots of public transport options available including subway, trams, buses, etc.

Subway is one of the best ways to get around town when visiting Budapest. Budapest was the first European mainland town to install the subway system.

Another great option is to use a tram or trolly system. The city has an extensive tram and trolly network which is the largest in the world.

Budapest  buses  stop all over the city. If you plan to hop on and off frequently, avoid the express buses.

Try a ride on the  cable railway . This funicular runs from the foot of Castle Hill to the top of the Castle District.

Check Out: Budapest: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

Check Out: Budapest: Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco

You Will Feel Safe As In Any European City While Traveling to Budapest

Let me start by saying my family and I were robbed in broad daylight in  Paris France.  

That would be 3 out of 4 of us. All on the same day. At different locations. So we are aware of unsafe circumstances.

However, we always felt safe when sightseeing in Budapest.

Of course,  remain vigilant  with your personal space and your belongings. 

Most Hungarians Will Understand Your English

Although Hungarian is the main language spoken by those living in Budapest, English is equally popular in the city.

So, you will face no issues in communicating with the locals and the shop owners.

If you still aren’t sure, then download Google Translate, which helps me communicate with locals in a foreign country.

Check Out: Budapest: Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise

Check Out: Budapest: MonsteRoller E-Scooter Tour

Bathe With The Hungarians To Experience Their Culture

On your Budapest travel itinerary, keep some time aside for a bath in the thermal baths as well. 

When my family and I visited Budapest, a resident suggested we visit the Rudas Medicinal Baths and Spa . Located on the Buda side of the River Danube, this spa is clean and very affordable. 

According to various studies, it has been found that the mineral waters have curative and restorative properties for those suffering from degenerative diseases. 

This is why I highly recommend keeping aside two hours for this quintessential experience when traveling to Budapest.

Check Out: Budapest: Full-Day Gellért Spa Ticket

Check Out: Budapest: Sparty – The Ultimate Late-Night Spa Party Ticket

Bring Along A Travel Adapter

When traveling to Budapest, do not count on your cruise line, or hotel to have enough electrical adapters  for all your devices.

Make sure to bring a travel adapter for your devices.

Paprika Is The Symbol Of Hungarian Cuisine

From sweet to spicy, from bright red to orange, seeking out Hungarian paprika is one of the top things to do on your visit to Budapest.

You can purchase it all over town, but your best bet would be to head to the Central Grand Market.

Don’t forget to try the local delicacies as well that make use of this delicious spice.

Check Out: Budapest: Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals

Check Out: Budapest: Food and Wine Tastings Tour

Should You Tip When In Budapest?

Before traveling to Budapest, I asked many friends, do you tip in Budapest?

This is why I feel one of the top things to know before going to Budapest is that there is a tipping culture here.

The standard tip in a restaurant is 10% for good service and 15% for an exceptional experience.

However, many restaurants in Budapest customarily add a 12.5% service fee to your total bill. So, check your bill carefully to avoid leaving additional tips unless you want to.

Book Attraction Tickets Online To Save Money And Skip The Lines

One of my top travel tips for Budapest is to buy tickets online for your selected places to visit in Budapest.

You will save money, sometimes significantly. Some if not most attractions allow you to skip the wait lines and walk right in.

Check Out: Budapest: Floating Bus Tour by Land and Water

Check Out: Budapest Card: Public Transport, 30+ Top Attractions & Tours

When Traveling To Budapest You Want To Know Is Drinking The Water Safe?

So, one of the biggest questions that people ask me is, can you drink tap water in Budapest?

Well, the answer is yes.

Matter of fact, tap water is the most controlled food substance in Budapest.

Bottled water is still offered in pubs and restaurants. But, when you travel to Budapest, save money on water by drinking free tap water.

Save Money By Getting Snacks And Convenience Foods At Local Grocery Stores

When you plan your travel to Budapest, I am sure you must be thinking about all the delicacies to try here.

Well, trying new dishes on your Budapest trip is great, but it can easily become expensive if you do this for every meal.

This is why I suggest going grocery shopping in Budapest. Buy snacks and sandwiches for day tours.

You can also buy fresh fruits for healthy snacking and granola bars are a great choice as well.

Yogurt, drinks, and chips/snack foods are all items to have available where you are staying or on the go, to save money when traveling to Budapest.

Check Out: Budapest: Private Insider Tour of Grand Ecseri Flea Market

Pick The Neighborhood That Is Best For You When Traveling To Budapest

One of the most important travel tips for Budapest is to choose the right neighborhood for your stay.

Varkerulet (District I) is located on the Buda side of the River Danube. It is the Castle District. Historic and charming, with the cobblestoned streets, this area is home to palaces and exquisite churches.

It is the ideal place to stay in Budapest for tourists.

Terezvaros (District VI) is for those traveling to Budapest on a budget.

Looking for nightlife? Then Erzsebetvaros (District VII) may be the right place for you. Also known as the Jewish Quarter, this neighborhood is home to fashionable bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Belvaros (District V) is a great choice to be near some of the most famous attractions Budapest has to offer.

Here you will be within walking distance of the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Shoes on the Danube Memorial, and the Grand Market Hall to name just a few.

Check Out: Budapest: Grand City Tour with Parliament Visit

Check Out: Budapest: 1.5-Hour Private Kick-Start Tour with a Local

Walking Is A Wonderful Way To Discover Budapest

When you are traveling to Budapest, plan on walking a lot! 

Walking gives you a unique experience and allows you to explore Budapest more thoroughly.

I would suggest sightseeing in Budapest on foot to explore the neighborhoods, visit lovely cafes, people watch, and so on.

Don’t Forget to Check Out the Ruin Bars

When you travel to Budapest, you cannot miss out on visiting the famous ruin bars in the old Jewish quarter! What exactly is a ruin bar?

Well, it is a pop-up bar that you can find inside the ruins of an old house, shop, or restaurant.

What I found cool about these bars is that apart from offering cheap drinks, you can also enjoy the art installations and flea markets here.

Szimpla Kert is the first-ever ruin bar to open in 2001 and should be on your Budapest travel itinerary.

Check Out: Budapest: Ruin Bar Pub Crawl with Entry Tickets

Check Out: Budapest: Festive & Jewish Quarter Self-Guided Walking Tour

Where to Stay in Budapest

Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection – If you like beautiful hotels with amazing views, then I would suggest Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection offering stunning views of downtown Budapest from its rooms that are based on 4 music styles.

They also have a spa center with a pool, a hammam, and a sauna for you to relax on your trip to Budapest.

Check Price Here

Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa – The Leading Hotels of the World – For a luxurious experience, I would recommend Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa .

Here, get the celebrity treatment with their 5-star services and facilities that include a spa and wellness center, a fitness center, a restaurant, and so on.

Stories Boutique Hotel – Stories Boutique Hotel is a gorgeous 4-star hotel located in Terézváros district of Budapest.

I love the colorful rooms and the plant-filled lobby here. Plus, it is close to several attractions in Budapest such as St. Stephen’s Basilica, Hungarian State Opera, and so on.

Packing Tips When Traveling To Budapest

Read  How To Pack Lightly  for packing tricks on how to maximize your packing space! And here for  How To Survive Long Haul Flights.

This unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors.

These  RFID  sleeves  would be handy to prevent identity theft.

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips ..

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod  for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is very easy to use.

This  world traveler adapter kit   can charge several devices at the same time.

These Bagail packing cubes   are  the exact ones I use whenever I travel . I cannot believe how much more organized I am now!  

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle.  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it will fit nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse. Also when filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry.

And the Bobble carbon  filter  ensures fresh clean water whenever and wherever you fill the Bobble. You can find  filter replacements here. 

You will want to bring a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. This   foldable water-resistant backpack  would be great. 

You may be visiting Budapest in warmer weather as I did, and you may want  a pair of sandals  to wear exploring.  I highly recommend these  Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals.  

I have several pairs of these exact  Vionic sandals in several colors that I bring with me *everywhere* I travel. They are very comfortable.

I also sometimes bring along my  Vionic Tides flip flops.  The toe post is so comfortable which makes wearing these super comfortable. 

If experiencing culture at the Hungarian baths is on your list you will want to bring along swimwear. This  lightweight men’s swim trunk is quick-drying  and affordable.

I like this  women’s one-piece bathing suit.  It has a moderately high leg cut and is lined for modesty’s sake. It has a built-in bra and comes in neat colors.

This fast-drying, lightweight and very absorbent towel  is the perfect solution. You choose what color and size you wish and it is extremely affordable.

You may want to bring along a  wet-dry bag  for your suits and towels once you are finished lounging in the baths. This  wet dry bag with handles   is a good option.

These  unisex polarized sunglasses   come in a lot of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.

If you are fond of the  aviator-style of sunglasses  these polarized aviators may interest you.

If you need  new luggage,  this  expandable hard-side spinner luggage  is affordable and comes in lots of colors. If you like hard-sided better, then you may favor this  soft-sided luggage set  better.

Both sets come with TSA-approved zipper lock s and 8 wheels per piece. Either will be great for the plane or train or even your car depending on how you are traveling to Budapest.

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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 for 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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This post has 2 comments.

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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A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Budapest, Hungary

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Embarking on your first journey to Budapest? Our comprehensive guide is tailored for first-timers visiting Budapest and covers everything you need to know—from iconic landmarks and hidden gems to local cuisine and travel tips. Make the most of your Hungarian adventure with our expert insights.

Visiting Budapest Travel Guide

Budapest, often called the Pearl of the Danube, is a city that magically straddles both time and culture . The Hungarian capital unfurls an opulent canvas of history, from its regal castles and intricate architecture to its modern-day ruin bars pulsing with youthful energy.

As you wander along the cobblestone streets, you’ll find an endless array of activities that cater to all—be it the history or culture aficionado, the art lover, or a family on the move.

A mere three days in this enchanting city will sweep you off your feet, leaving you so enamored that, like us, you’ll find yourself planning a return trip. In fact, we were so smitten by Budapest’s charm that we’re heading back there with our family this coming March.

Trust me, Budapest doesn’t just meet expectations; it dramatically exceeds them.

Where is Budapest in Hungary?

Snuggled along the sweeping curves of the Danube River, Budapest holds the title of being the capital and the largest city of Hungary , a landlocked country in Central Europe sharing its borders with seven other nations — Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia , Slovenia , and Austria .

The city itself serves as a geographical and cultural crossroads, linking the eastern and western parts of the continent.

So, when you’re visiting Budapest, you’re not just stepping into the heart of Hungary; you’re essentially stepping into a vibrant epicenter of European heritage and history.

Why Visit Budapest

No need to search for excuses, but if you’re on the fence, here are a few irresistible reasons to make Budapest your next destination:

♥ Budapest is simply enchanting. It offers experiences that stir the soul. ♥ The city is a blend of old-world charm and modern flair. ♥ It’s a food lover’s paradise. serves up culinary delights like goulash and chimney cake that will leave an indelible impression on your food memories. ♥ The thermal baths are not just a dip but a tradition. ♥ For the stunning Danube River, which splits the city into Buda and Pest. ♥ To explore its compelling history and diverse architecture. ♥ For the ruin bars—there’s nothing like it anywhere else. ♥ It’s a city that never sleeps but also lets you relax. ♥ For Buda Castle, an iconic symbol of the city’s resilience. ♥ Because of the Fisherman’s Bastion, where fairy tales come to life. ♥ Its people make you feel like you’re home, even when you’re miles away.

Feel like packing your bags yet? Because I certainly do!

Best Time to Visit Budapest

There’s no bad time to visit the Pearl of the Danube. It all depends upon your travel goals.

June to August (summer) marks the peak travel season. It’s when the weather is great, days are long, there are a host of events around the city, and all the attractions are open. However, if we talk about the cons, it’s the time of the year when the temperatures are at their highest and the hoards of tourists throng the city increasing the cost of accommodation.

November to February (winter) mark the low travel season. It’s when the weather is cold and dreary, days are short, and many of the attractions are closed. The pros include lower prices, the absence of crowds, and a chance to witness the winter wonderland.

If visiting one of the best Christmas markets in Europe is your travel goal, December is the perfect time to visit Budapest. The city comes to life during the Christmas season. With the blanket of snow covering the city’s iconic architecture, views over the frozen Danube, and the festive cheer filling the air – the city looks like a fairytale.

Hop from one Christmas market to the other, enjoy the outdoor ice skating rinks, ride the special Christmas tram, gorge on the warm chimney cakes, soak in the quintessential thermal baths, or party hard at the unique ruin bars around the city – whatever you do, you’d love Budapest in winter.

March to May (spring) and September to October (fall) mark the shoulder season. Overall, these are the best times to visit Budapest as they offer nice weather, affordable prices, and fewer crowds.

Getting to Budapest

You can get to Budapest by air, by car, by train, by bus, and even by cruise depending on where you are coming from.

Getting to Budapest by Air

You can easily fly into Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport from any part of the world. Most airline companies including low-cost airlines (LOT, Wizz Air, Ryanair, and Easyjet) offer flights to Budapest. We use Skyscanner to search and compare flights.

You can hire a Budapest airport taxi at any hour of the day which costs anywhere between 6,500 HUF to 9000 HUF or board a Budapest airport bus 100E which costs 900 HUF to get to the city center. Bus 100E leaves from Terminal 2 and runs every 20 minutes from 5 am to 1:20 am. It stops at Kálvin tér M, Astoria M, and Deák Ferenc tér M. You also have the option to book a shared airport shuttle bus transfer or private airport transfer .

Getting to Budapest by Car

Driving is one of the best and fastest ways to get to Budapest from nearby European cities. We use Discover Cars to rent a car wherever we go.

PS: It’s best to use public transport to get around Budapest so book a hotel close to the city center that offers safe parking.

Getting to Budapest by Train

Budapest is served by three main international railway stations viz. Keleti, Nyugati, and Déli offer direct connections between Budapest and other European capital cities. We use Eurail and RailEurope to book train tickets.

Getting to Budapest by Bus

Budapest is served by the Népliget Bus terminal which offers bus and coach services between Budapest and other European capital cities. We use Flixbus and Omio to book bus tickets.

Getting to Budapest by Danube River Cruise

If you’re coming from Vienna or Bratislava, the river cruise is the most scenic way to get to Budapest.

Understanding Budapest to Navigate it Better

Having a good grasp of Budapest’s layout can be a game-changer for your trip. At its core, Budapest is a tale of two cities: Buda and Pest , separated by the majestic Danube River. Each side has its own distinct personality and attractions, making it almost like visiting two cities in one.

Buda is the hilly, more residential area boasting attractions like the Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion. It’s where you’ll find winding streets, Ottoman-era thermal baths, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Pest.

On the flip side, Pest is the urban heartbeat of Budapest. This is where you’ll dive into bustling markets, edgy ruin bars, and grand boulevards like Andrássy Avenue. It’s the commercial and cultural center, home to the Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and endless shopping and dining options.

It’s also important to understand the layout of districts of Budapest to give you an even fuller picture of this vibrant city. Budapest is divided into 23 districts, each marked by a Roman numeral and often referred to by their individual names.

The districts spiral out from the center, with District I being the historic Castle District in Buda, home to the Buda Castle and the quaint, cobblestone streets that surround it. District V is another crucial area to know, as it’s the political and financial heart of the city, boasting the Hungarian Parliament Building and St. Stephen’s Basilica.

With a bohemian vibe, District VII aka the Jewish Quarter is the birthplace of Budapest’s famous ruin bars and has a lively, youthful atmosphere filled with art, music, and culture.

District VI is the hub for shopping and entertainment, particularly along Andrássy Avenue, which leads to the iconic Heroes’ Square and City Park in District XIV .

With a laid-back vibe, District XIII offers a quieter, more residential feel but still provides a variety of restaurants and cafes along the Danube.

Getting Around Budapest

The best way to explore Budapest is on foot. Buda and Pest are super pedestrian-friendly. If walking isn’t your thing, Budapest is well-served by fast and efficient public transportation. The public transportation system includes the metro, trams (streetcars or trollies), trolly buses, and buses. Outer districts and nearby towns are connected by the local suburban railway (HÉV).

PS: You can experience the first underground on the European mainland, the world’s second-oldest underground after the London Underground, and the oldest line of the Budapest Metro – Line 1 or Metro 1 or M1 or Millennium Underground Railway . Locals call it kisföldalatti or the small underground.

Tip: You must not miss riding Tram 2 in Budapest, one of the most beautiful trolley rides in the world. Boarding bus no. 16 is another amazing way to sightsee across Budapest.

We recommend buying a travel card  if you plan to use public transportation as it saves you time and money. You can buy a 24-hour, 72-hour, or 7-day travel card depending on how long you are in Budapest.

Alternatively, you can purchase a Budapest Card that not only gives free access to public transport but also gives you free entry to about 19 museums and attractions and discounts of up to 50% for other museums, sightseeing tours, and sights. That’s not all it also offers a free walking tour and free entry to Lukács Thermal Bath.

If using public transportation feels like a big hassle to you, you can safely book a hop-on-hop-off bus tour ! We booked a  48-hour Budapest Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Package  and loved the ease and freedom of exploring the city. It saves you money plus the hassle of figuring out the public transportation system in a new city. You can buy a 24, 48, or 72-hour ticket. The ticket comes with the free Danube cruise, night tour, and walking tour. Value for time and money.

How Many Days to Spend in Budapest

You need a minimum of 2 days to explore the highlights of Budapest.

If you don’t want to rush and prefer to take in the beauty of the queen of the Danube at a slower pace (vital if you’re traveling with kids), set aside at least 3 days. We recommend you spend a minimum of 3 days in Budapest.

And if you can spare 4 days (lucky you!), you can also discover the hidden gems in Budapest along with the popular attractions.

Staying Connected in Budapest

In the digital age, where would we be without our trusty gadgets and the internet, especially when exploring a new city? To truly make your trip seamless, a connected smartphone is almost non-negotiable.

Having continuous access to Google Maps transforms your travel experience from aimless wandering to targeted exploring. Navigating the city’s public transport system, discovering eateries where locals actually go, and, or even translating a foreign menu becomes easy as you stay plugged into the matrix.

Though, free Wi-Fi is widely available in public spaces, cafés, and even some metro stations.

But if you’re my type, you’ll need a connection as stable as your love for Hungarian pastries and thus, it’s vital getting a local SIM card. Major providers like Telekom, Vodafone, and Telenor offer a range of budget-friendly plans, tailored for tourists.

Just pop into a store, show your ID, and you’ll be Instagramming your goulash in no time.

And if swapping SIM cards sounds as outdated as a flip phone to you, then Airalo is your go-to for staying connected in Budapest. This eSIM service offers a variety of data plans that are not only affordable but also super easy to set up. Simply download the Airalo app, choose your Hungarian data pack, and voila—your phone will be buzzing with connectivity quicker than you can say “Egészségedre,” that’s ‘Cheers’ in Hungarian, by the way.

What’s more, Airalo’s eSIM works seamlessly across multiple countries, so if you’re extending your European escapade beyond Budapest, there’s no need to worry about changing plans or incurring roaming charges. It’s a fuss-free, ultra-convenient way to ensure you’re always connected, letting you focus more on soaking up the Budapest experience and less on hunting down Wi-Fi passwords.

Tipping in Budapest

While it’s not obligatory, leaving a tip for good service is customary in Budapest. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant, taking a taxi, or relaxing at one of the city’s famous thermal baths, a tip is a nod of approval and a thank-you for good service.

At restaurants and cafes, it’s standard to leave around 10-15% of the total bill. Some places might include a service charge (around 12.5%), but this is not a tip and goes to the establishment rather than the individual server. It’s always good to check your bill for a service charge and then decide how much extra you’d like to leave.

Taxi drivers usually look forward to a 10% tip on the fare. For minor services, like using a cloakroom or restroom, a tip of a few hundred Forints is enough. Instead of leaving spare change on the table, it’s more common to round the bill to the nearest whole number or specify the total sum you’d like to pay, tip included.

So go ahead, be generous but not extravagant, and when in doubt, 10% is a good rule of thumb. Your gesture won’t just make someone’s day; it’s a wonderful way to show appreciation and respect for the local culture.

Where to Stay in Budapest

District I (Castle Hill), District V (Downtown or Inner City or Belváros), District VI (Terézváros), District VII (Jewish Quarter or Erzsébetváros), and District VIII (Józsefváros)are the recommended neighborhoods to stay in Budapest.

If you are visiting Budapest for the first time or are short on time, staying in District V is your best bet! It’s the center of the city where most of the popular attractions, best restaurants, and hotels are located.

Some of the best hotels in District V are Aria Hotel Budapest , Prestige Hotel Budapest , and Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest .

For a quieter and more luxurious stay, you can choose District I . Buda Castle Hotel , Hilton Budapest , and Monastery Boutique Hotel Budapest  are some of the best properties in the Castle District.

District VI is packed with history and culture and makes a good stay option for culture lovers while District VII is home to the unique ruin bars Budapest is known for and can be a good fit for those who want to experience the vibrant nightlife of the city. Home to some of the finest and most charming streets and boulevards, the Hungarian National Museum, bohemian cafes, lovely art spaces, and extravagant mansions, District VIII is also a great place to stay in Budapest.

The best hotels in District VI include Stories Boutique Hotel , Mamaison Hotel Andrassy Budapest , and Barceló Budapest and the recommended ones in District VII are Bo33 Hotel Family & Suites , Roombach Hotel Budapest Center , and Vagabond Broadway .

The best properties to stay in District VIII are Brody House and Hotel Museum Budapest .

What to do in Budapest

To help you navigate the abundance of must-dos in Budapest, here are the city’s crown jewels that promise an unforgettable experience without overwhelming you.

Marvel at the Buda Castle

Your trip to Budapest would be incomplete without visiting the Buda Castle. This historic palace complex is not just an architectural masterpiece but also offers panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location. Don’t miss the Hungarian National Gallery within the complex.

Take a Dip in the Thermal Baths

A dive into the city’s spa culture is a must! Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, thanks to a bounty of natural hot springs beneath the city. The Széchenyi Baths and the Gellért Baths are the most famous, but for a less crowded experience, try the Lukács Baths or the Rudas Baths.

Walk Across the Chain Bridge

Connecting Buda and Pest, this iconic bridge is best crossed on foot. The views of the Parliament and Buda Castle at either end, especially during sunset, are simply unforgettable.

The Danube Promenade

Wander the Danube Promenade for a breathtaking tableau of Budapest’s illustrious landmarks. As you amble, you’ll come face to face with the haunting yet beautiful Shoes on the Danube Bank, an evocative tribute to the Jewish victims of World War II.

This stroll is not merely scenic; it’s a walk through the riveting chapters of Budapest’s past.

Visit the Hungarian Parliament

You can’t visit Budapest without marveling at one of Europe’s oldest legislative buildings.

It’s one of the largest and most intricately designed parliament buildings in the world. While its exterior is magnificent, the inside is equally grand, featuring marble columns, golden accents, and the Holy Crown of Hungary.

Whether you tour the inside or admire it from the Danube, its grandeur is awe-inspiring.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

This neoclassical church is not only a functioning religious institution but also offers some of the best views of the city from its dome. You can either climb the stairs or take an elevator to the top.

Fisherman’s Bastion

This fairytale-like structure provides another excellent vantage point for city views. It looks particularly magical at sunrise and sunset.

The Great Market Hall

For a dose of local life, head to this bustling market. It’s a great place to try local foods, buy souvenirs, and observe the daily life of Budapest residents.

Discover the Jewish Quarter

Home to ruin bars, street art, and the Great Synagogue—the largest in Europe—the Jewish Quarter is a fusion of history and hipster culture. Don’t miss a visit to Szimpla Kert, the original ruin bar.

Explore Andrássy Avenue

Imagine sauntering down an elegant avenue framed by magnificent Neo-Renaissance edifices and upscale boutiques, each step bringing you closer to the legendary Heroes’ Square. Here, larger-than-life statues of Hungary’s national heroes stand in solemn tribute, watched over by two cultural behemoths—the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art.

Continue your journey, and you’ll soon be enveloped by the verdant embrace of City Park, where the enchanting Vajdahunyad Castle awaits to sweep you off your feet.

House of Terror Museum

This museum offers a dark but necessary look at the fascist and communist regimes that once ruled Hungary. It’s located in the former headquarters of the secret police, adding to its haunting atmosphere.

Cruise on the Danube

A river cruise on the Danube, especially in the evening when the city’s landmarks are lit up, is magical. It’s a wonderful way to see Budapest from a different angle.

Enjoy Hungarian Cuisine

Dive into local flavors at the Central Market Hall or at eateries like Kispiac and Mák Bistro. Make sure you try chimney cake, an irresistible local dessert.

Have a Cup of Coffee at New York Café

Often dubbed the “ Most Beautiful Café in the World ,” this cafe is a living piece of Hungarian history. With its grandiose chandeliers, opulent gold leafing, and frescoed ceilings, stepping inside feels like entering a bygone era of glamour and elegance.

It’s the kind of place where you half expect to see 19th-century poets and writers discussing their latest works over a cup of coffee. And speaking of coffee, their menu is a delightful fusion of traditional Hungarian treats and classic café staples.

Even if you’re not in the mood for caffeine, simply walking into this magnificent space to admire its historical and visual grandeur is an experience in itself.

In essence, a visit to the New York Café is like stepping into a living museum, one where the exhibits are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee in hand.

Hidden Gems in Budapest

If you’re in the mood to sidestep the well-trodden paths and discover Budapest’s less-heralded treasures, then you’re in for a treat.

Memento Park

Located a bit out of the city center, this park is a collection of statues from Hungary’s Communist period. It’s an eerie yet fascinating look into a bygone era.

Flippermuzeum

This pinball museum offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane with playable pinball machines from different eras. It’s quirky, fun, and a great way to spend an afternoon.

The Children’s Railway

Operated by children under adult supervision, this narrow-gauge railway takes you through the scenic Buda hills. It’s a unique experience that’s perfect for families.

Hospital in the Rock

A lesser-known site, this former hospital was turned into a nuclear bunker during the Cold War. Now a museum, it’s a fascinating dive into history.

Petofi Literary Museum

For the literature aficionados, a visit to this museum is like entering a time capsule of Hungarian literary history. Named after Hungary’s national poet Sándor Petőfi, the museum offers an intimate look into the nation’s literary accomplishments and struggles for freedom.

Koleves Kert

It’s a unique ruin pub where local artists have transformed discarded furniture and vintage items into an eclectic masterpiece. It’s Budapest’s alternative to mainstream nightlife, nestled in the Jewish Quarter but far enough from the crowd.

Szimpla Farmer’s Market

For a sip of Budapest’s underground culture, head to this unique market, hosted every Sunday in the renowned Szimpla Kert ruin bar. It’s a patchwork of local produce, handmade crafts, and that authentic Budapest community vibe you won’t find anywhere else.

Toth Arpad setany

Take a walk along this lesser-known promenade in Buda offering panoramic views of the city and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s one of the best spots to catch a golden Budapest sunset.

Day Trips from Budapest

The city’s central location makes it a fantastic starting point for day trips that offer a whole new set of experiences. Here are some handpicked escapes that can effortlessly fit into your Budapest itinerary.

Lake Balaton

Often hailed as the “Hungarian Sea,” Lake Balaton stands as Central Europe’s largest freshwater haven. Less than two hours from Budapest by train, this alluring destination offers sailing, swimming, and even wine tasting.

Just a short train ride away, Szentendre is an art-lover’s paradise. This charming town is home to winding streets, quaint buildings, and several art galleries and museums.

This town is a medieval marvel, complete with a royal palace and a hilltop citadel offering panoramic views of the Danube Bend.

Known for its monumental basilica, which is the largest church in Hungary, Esztergom is a treasure trove of history and architecture. It’s an easy train or boat ride from Budapest.

This southern city offers a unique blend of Roman architecture, a vibrant arts scene, and Ottoman-era mosques. Pécs is around a three-hour train ride from Budapest but well worth the journey.

Also known as the Great Hungarian Plain, it is a day-tripper’s dream, especially if you’re keen to experience Hungary’s traditional countryside. Located about 90 minutes from Budapest, this expansive flatland offers horse shows, carriage rides, and a glimpse into the pastoral life that’s a world away from the city hustle. It’s the ideal spot for those who want to see Hungarian cowboys, known as “csikos,” in action and indulge in local folklore.

Famous for its castle, thermal baths, and the historic defeat of Ottoman troops, Eger also tempts visitors with its wine culture, including the renowned Egri Bikavér (“Bull’s Blood”).

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this village offers a glimpse into traditional Hungarian life. Its Easter Festival is especially worth experiencing.

Just a half-hour train ride from Budapest, Gödöllő hosts the Royal Palace, the world’s second-largest Baroque chateau. It was a favorite summer residence of Queen Elisabeth, affectionately known as Sisi.

What to Eat & Drink in Budapest

Think rich stews and mouthwatering pastries—Budapest offers a flavorful peek into Hungary’s vibrant culture.

Goulash is the iconic Hungarian stew that’s a comforting blend of meat, veggies, and that all-important dash of paprika.

If you’re in the mood for something less hearty but equally delicious, Lángos is your go-to. This delectable deep-fried flatbread is usually adorned with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese.

Chimney Cake

Chimney Cake, or Kürtőskalács is a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry that’s crispy on the outside and soft within.

And don’t forget to try Pogácsa, a type of savory scone that’s perfect for snacking as you explore the city.

Hungarian Wine

Hungarian wine is often overlooked, but it’s a must-try while you’re in town. Venture to a local wine bar to sample a glass of Tokaji , Hungary’s famous dessert wine, or Egri Bikavér , a robust red. For something stronger, take a sip of Pálinka , a fruit brandy that packs a punch.

Where to Eat & Drink in Budapest

For a genuine taste of Hungarian cooking, head to this retro-chic eatery that revisits traditional recipes with a modern twist.

Costes Downtown

If you’re craving some Michelin-star dining, Costes Downtown offers a world-class experience right in the heart of the city.

Bors GasztroBar

This place is practically an institution for street food in Budapest. From soups to sandwiches, every dish is a burst of flavor, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Street food fans, brace yourselves for Karavan, a food truck yard serving up everything from chimney cake to gourmet burgers.

Molnar’s Kurtoskalacs

It’s the go-to place for chimney cake, a Hungarian dessert that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, literally a sugary spiral of joy that you’ll probably dream about long after your trip.

Vegetarians like me can savor plant-based delights at Vegan Love, known for its scrumptious vegan burgers and shakes.

Espresso Embassy

To soak in the city’s coffee culture, Espresso Embassy is an ideal haunt, serving artisanal coffees that are the talk of the town.

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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.

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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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18 Things to Know Before Visiting Budapest Hungary

I recently took off to spend a weekend in Budapest , Hungary for the first time and it was such a gem of a city. Although I usually travel with my family, this trip was a short getaway with a friend. My husband and I take a couple of opportunities a year to either take a quick trip together or a quick trip with a friend/other family member.

And let me tell you, if you’re a parent and you’ve never tried this, I definitely recommend! I think it ends up being a good experience for everyone (each parent + the kids).

Anyway, back to Budapest. I’d never really given much thought to visiting Budapest until I was looking for a good weekend getaway in Europe but I’m so glad that we landed on it as our destination!

The post is to help you with all of the things you need to know before planning your trip to Budapest, Hungary. These are things that I wish I had compiled for me before my trip.

*There may be affiliate links in this post. Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more.

18 Tips for Traveling to Budapest for the First Time

1. budapest is so worth a visit.

Budapest is absolutely beautiful and is definitely worth a visit. The city is split in half by a large river with gorgeous bridges that cross it and a hill on the opposite side that affords for beautiful views.

There is a lot of history, cozy restaurants, great shopping, and beautiful places to see.

2. Budapest Makes For a Great Weekend Trip

Budapest is just the right size to feel satisfied with what you can see even after a quick weekend trip. Like any place you visit, I’m sure you could spend much more time and still enjoy it, however, I found that two days of exploring in Budapest was totally perfect.

This means that if you are local to Europe, Budapest makes for a fabulous weekend getaway or if you are coming from further abroad Budapest is a great stop to add to your larger European itinerary.

3. Best time of year to Visit Budapest Hungary

The nice thing about Budapest is that you can visit almost any time of year and have an enjoyable experience as (long as you are prepared for the different weather you will encounter).

Similar to most places in Europe, the ideal months to visit to avoid extreme heat and crowds are April/May and September/October. However, I visited Budapest in early August and didn’t feel like the crowds were bad at all.

But on the other hand, if you want a cozy, Christmasy time in Budapest then you should visit from mid to late November through December when the Christmas Markets are up.

Some of the coldest months (and maybe the least exciting months) would be January-March. However, you may have a lot of attractions to yourself.

4. Budapest feels very Safe

I haven’t traveled without my husband in many years which left me feeling a little unsure of how I would feel safety-wise (I’ve just gotten too dang used to having him around 🙈). However, I’m happy to report that there was not one time that I felt unsafe in Budapest.

I traveled with one other female friend and was out late into the dark both nights in the city and we always felt safe. So if you are concerned about safety or interested in a solo trip to Budapest, I don’t think you have any reason to worry.

5. There are Lots of Amazing (yet Affordable) Hotel options in Budapest

I was pleasantly surprised to find that Budapest has some great hotels at really affordable prices. We stayed at the D8 Hotel in the Budapest city center and were soo happy with our stay. D8 Hotel felt super new, our rooms were sparkling clean and the morning complimentary breakfast buffet was great.

Not only was it just an amazing hotel on the inside, but I couldn’t stop talking about its great location! We had just a 5-minute walk to the Danube River River, a 5-minute walk to where we boarded our nighttime river cruise , and just a 15-minute walk to the Jewish Quarter full of loads of history and eclectic shops.

Not to mention we were also just a 3-minute walk to the closest metro line and a 5-minute walk to Budapest’s largest walking street Vaci (which is lined with shops and restaurants including big stores like Zara etc. )that goes all the way to Central Market Hall.

If this doesn’t give you an idea of how great the D8 Hotel is I don’t know what will. The amazing location coupled with the clean, stylish rooms, yummy breakfast, and affordable price really makes staying there a no-brainer.

Although we really loved our experience at the D8 Hotel in Budapest, there seemed to be many other affordable, nice-looking hotels to choose from that you can find by searching here .

6. Budapest has some great spots to See some Beautiful views

I am a real sucker for a good view and maybe that’s one reason why I enjoyed visiting Budapest so much. But really, if you like a good view then Budapest is for you.

My favorite spot for views was from the viewing terrace at Fisherman’s Bastion . It’s a gorgeous area with a beautiful church and fairytale-like spires. We also enjoyed some great views from Buda Castle.

Two unique places that we enjoyed views of Budapest from were the Leo Rooftop Restaurant (I highly recommend) and from a nighttime river cruise on the Danube River .

7. Nighttime is a beautiful time to be out

If you visit Budapest and don’t go out after dark, you’re really missing out. The area along the Danube River is absolutely gorgeous as the sun sets and turns everything a dusty pink. And once the sun is down, the lights along the river start twinkling, the bridges become illuminated and the Parliament Building is a stunning, lit site to see.

I recommend heading to some of the viewpoints I mentioned above right before sunset to watch the city transition from day to night. It was our most peaceful and relaxed time of the trip taking in Budapest at night.

8. A NightTime Danube river cruise Is a must-do Experience

You can take a cruise/boat ride on the Danube River at any time of day, however, I highly recommend booking a nighttime river cruise . The buildings and bridges along the Danube River come alive at night with gorgeous twinkling lights and a boat ride along the Danube is one of the best ways to experience it.

There are a lot of different tour boat companies that offer rides along the river which can make it difficult to choose. However, we booked this boat ride and were very impressed with what we got. I’ve taken a lot of sightseeing boat tours in Europe but this was one of the most comfortable and informative rides I’ve taken.

We sat in comfortably padded chairs and were given a headset that connected to a video showing on a screen at the front that was showing us images of the inside of all of the buildings we passed while we listened and learned about those buildings on the headset. Plus the crew came around to take our drink orders and then served us our complimentary drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options).

Overall our 1-hour Danube River nighttime cruise was really lovely and I recommend it as a great way to end the night.

9. You Can Find Hungarian Paprika Almost Anywhere

Little did I know, but Hungarian paprika is lauded to be the best type of paprika one can have to add a distinct paprika flavor to any dish. Hungarian paprika comes in quite a few different variations including sweet, spicy, and smoked.

The Central Market Hall (or Great Market Hall as it’s sometimes called) has rows upon rows of stalls selling paprika. I’m no paprika connoisseur so it was hard to know which kinds were better than others. However, it was still fun to shop for some paprika souvenirs to take home to family.

10. The bridges have pedestrian paths you can use to cross

Something I wasn’t sure about before visiting Budapest was whether the bridges crossing the Danube River were only for vehicles or if we would be able to walk on them.

Thankfully, the beautiful bridges crossing the river (Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, and Erzsébet Bridge) DO have pedestrian walkways.

The bridges were one of my favorite parts of visiting Budapest and I highly recommend walking them.

11. Budapest Has Some Really great places to eat

Since being an adult is basically continually figuring out what you are going to make for dinner, it’s so nice to visit somewhere with a good food scene. Some of the amazing food establishments that call Budapest home are called ‘ruin bars’.

The ruin bars in Budapest are restaurants and/or bars built in old abandoned buildings leftover from WWII and the Soviet Era. One of the most famous ruin bars is Szimpla Kert . It’s more known for its bar and nightlife, however, we visited it on a Sunday morning for the weekly (quiet) farmer’s market which is much more my scene.

We also had brunch at Mazel Tov which is a beautiful and delicious Israeli fusion restaurant built in an abandoned building. If you want to eat here, reservations are highly recommended. You can find so much Israeli-inspired food in Budapest because of the Jewish influence in the city.

Of course, there are also many traditional Hungarian establishments worth a try (which unfortunately we didn’t have time in our itinerary).

And if you’ve never tried Georgian food, there are plenty of delicious Georgian restaurants in Budapest which are also worth a try! We got Georgian food at Hachapuri and it was great!

12. There are Many vintage shopping Opportunities in Budapest

If you love strolling through cute, small shops packed from wall to wall with homemade goods and vintage garb, then the Jewish Quarter of Budapest is for you. I was pleasantly surprised at how many retro shops we stumbled upon and they were so fun to explore.

If you want a couple of vintage shops to get you started, try checking out Retrock and Ludovika VNTG Shop. Or if you are looking for handmade goodies, try Szimpla Design Shop.

A simple Google search for ‘vintage shops in Budapest’ or ‘shops in Budapest’ will give you lots of great suggestions to add to your itinerary. Or you can be like us and just stumble upon shops as you explore the Jewish Quarter.

13. Budapest has Multiple Thermal Pools open to the Public

One of the most common things to do in Budapest is to take a dip in one of the many thermal pools in the city. The largest and most popular pool is Széchenyi Thermal Spa . This is a large thermal pool complex that includes outdoor and indoor pools and from what I’ve seen it looks the prettiest.

We planned to visit the Szechenyi thermal pools , but when the time came we just didn’t feel like getting wet and everything that comes with that 🙃. However, we did pass by Szechenyi and noticed a long line outside for those who hadn’t purchased tickets ahead of time.

So from that experience, I’d recommend purchasing tickets to the pool ahead of time. You can do that here .

Another popular thermal pool complex is the Gellert Thermal Spa . The Gellert pools are a bit more centrally located (still a bit out of the way) but they also feature an outdoor swimming and wave pool which would be fun if you are traveling with kids.

I’d also recommend booking in advance for the Gellert Thermal Pools to ensure you aren’t wasting time waiting in a long line. You can do that here .

14. There is so much WWII and Jewish History in Budapest

I had no idea before visiting Budapest, but there is a lot of amazing WWII and Jewish history in Budapest. Besides wandering the Jewish Quarter for the cute shops and hip atmosphere, I also recommend stopping in to visit the Dohány Street Synagogue .

The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest Jewish temple in all of Europe and right in the heart of the Jewish Quarter of Budapest. Here you can learn about some of the devastating actions of the Holocaust and its effects on the Jewish residents of Budapest.

This entrance ticket to the synagogue includes a short guided tour of the synagogue or you can book a longer guided tour of the Jewish Quarter that includes both the synagogue plus a walk through the Jewish Quarter with additional information (I would have loved to have taken this).

You can also travel back in time to learn about the 1956 Revolution to the fall of the Iron Curtain and everything in between on this guided historical tour of Budapest including a museum visit.

15. There are Many Great, Guided Tours You Can Book in Budapest

If you’re someone who loves a good guided tour, there are plenty of great tour options in Budapest . As I mentioned above, we took this 1-hour nighttime river cruise on the Danube River . It was so cozy and the views of the lights of the Parliament Building and the bridges from the water were just lovely. Or you can even take a river cruise on an old paddle steamer which looked so quaint.

A walking tour that I’m sure would be amazing is this amazing Jewish Quarter walking tour about the past and present Jewish presence in the community. There is a lot of history there and I would have loved to learn more about it.

Or you can book this all-inclusive Budapest walking tour with a strudel stop that covers many of the main attractions in Budapest.

You can search Budapest tours yourself here to see if there are any other tours that look good to you!

16. You can Book Fun day trips from Budapest

If you want an easy way to see some of the area around Budapest, then you may want to consider booking a guided day tour to one of the popular day trips from Budapest. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time for any day trips from Budapest.

However, if we had had time, I would looked into this day trip to Lake Balaton which includes a stop at a porcelain factory and a boat ride on the lake. There is also this private day trip to Lake Balaton for those who want a more intimate experience.

Another popular day trip from Budapest is to the beautiful river town, Szentendre with entrance to Visegrád Castle . Or you can also head north on a day trip to Bratislava in Slovakia for the day to explore.

But if you’re a wine-lover, the best day trip from Budapest for you may be the half-day Etyek wine country tour from Budapest with dinner . You get to enjoy dinner outside near the vineyard in summer or in the cellar in winter.

17. The Budapest Travel Card is an Inexpensive way to cover Public Transit

Whenever I travel, I love to get a local travel card so that I don’t have to purchase public transit tickets before each journey (it’s SO much easier and often a great deal). Budapest was no different.

You can purchase a 24-hour Budapest Travel Card or a 72-hour Budapest Travel Card for unlimited travel on the metro and bus lines. These are the least expensive travel card options but keep in mind that these travel cards do not include rides on the tram lines (for example the iconic yellow tram that goes along the Danube) and the bus to and from the airport.

If you want to ride the iconic Tram 2 in Budapest (which I highly recommend) then you will need to book a separate ticket either from one of the ticket machines along the route which you can find on a map here . But I think you can also purchase the travel cards plus the one-time single tram ticket on the mobile app here .

However, another option that DOES include a ride on the tram plus the bus and metro line, two free walking tours, and free entry to some museums (plus discounts to others) is the all-inclusive Budapest Card .

The Budapest Card is a good option if you plan to visit many of the included attractions over multiple days. However, for us, it wasn’t worth it so we did the basic 72-Hour Budapest Travel Card .

18. It’s Very Easy to get from the airport to the city center

As I mentioned above, transit to and from the airport to the Budapest city center is not included in the basic Budapest Travel Card . But no worries! It’s so easy to get from the airport to the city center.

All you need to do is hop onto the 100E Airport Express bus and 40 minutes later you’ll be at your destination. You don’t even need to buy tickets in advance. You can purchase your ticket at a kiosk ON the bus using your bank card. A one-way ticket was about $6.

There were even employees at both the airport and the settle bus stops in the city center helping passengers purchase their tickets quickly and efficiently. It was super easy.

If you’re someone who likes having everything settled in advance, then you can purchase your airport bus ticket ahead of time on the Budapest Transit App .

And those are all of my Budapest travel tips that I think you need to know to help you plan the best trip to Budapest, Hungary! Please let me know in the comments below if you have any other questions about my time in Budapest, I’ll be sure to get back to you, and happy to help if I can.

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

• 8 Best Viewpoints in Budapest You Can’t Miss
• The Only Itinerary You Need for a Weekend in Budapest: 2 Days in Budapest

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8 best viewpoints in budapest you can’t miss.

The Ultimate Guide for Visiting Budapest, Hungary

• May 29, 2023

Hey there, fellow adventurers! Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we dive into the mesmerizing city of Budapest, Hungary. Nestled along the beautiful Danube River, Budapest is a treasure trove of rich history, architectural wonders, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a lover of stunning landscapes, Budapest has something for everyone. Our Budapest travel guide is your go-to resource for discovering the best attractions, hidden gems, and insider tips in the captivating capital of Hungary.

Picture yourself strolling through cobblestone streets, marveling at grandiose palaces, and indulging in mouthwatering Hungarian cuisine. Budapest seamlessly blends the old and the new, with its historic landmarks coexisting alongside trendy cafes and lively markets. From the majestic Buda Castle and the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building to the inviting thermal baths and the bustling ruin bars, this city is bursting with charm and attractions that will captivate your heart and create lifelong memories. Looking for exciting things to do in Budapest? Our comprehensive guide has got you covered with a diverse array of attractions, activities, and experiences that will make your visit to the Hungarian capital truly unforgettable.

So, grab your travel essentials, and let’s delve into this ultimate guide to visiting Budapest, Hungary!

Overview of Budapest

Brief history and cultural significance of Budapest

Let’s Dive into Budapest’s Rich History and Cultural Significance If you’re a history buff or simply intrigued by the stories of the past, Budapest won’t disappoint you. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, this city has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the triumphs and struggles of its people, and the evolution of its vibrant culture. From the ancient Roman settlements to the rule of the Ottoman Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, Budapest’s historical tapestry is captivating and awe-inspiring.

Geographical location and climate of Budapest

Discover the Geographical Location and Climate of Budapest Budapest’s prime location in the heart of Europe adds to its allure. Situated along the banks of the majestic Danube River, the city boasts stunning views of both Buda and Pest, the two distinct parts that form its name. The continental climate of Budapest brings distinct seasons, with hot summers and chilly winters, making it a year-round destination. Whether you prefer strolling through blooming parks in spring or embracing the cozy charm of Christmas markets in winter, Budapest has a unique appeal in every season.

Key neighborhoods and districts in Budapest

Unveiling Budapest’s Key Neighborhoods and Districts Budapest is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and allure. Let’s explore some of the key areas that you simply can’t miss:

• Castle District: Transport yourself back in time as you wander through the medieval streets of the Castle District, home to the iconic Buda Castle and breathtaking views of the city.
• Inner City (Belváros): Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Budapest, where historical landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament Building coexist with trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Jewish Quarter: Delve into the rich Jewish heritage of Budapest in the bustling Jewish Quarter, where you can visit the majestic Great Synagogue and explore hip-ruin bars.
• Andrassy Avenue: Step into elegance and luxury along the elegant Andrassy Avenue, lined with designer boutiques, exquisite mansions, and the renowned Hungarian State Opera House.
• City Park (Városliget): Escape the urban buzz and find tranquility in City Park, home to the picturesque Vajdahunyad Castle, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, and the iconic Heroes’ Square.

With these fascinating neighborhoods and districts, Budapest promises a delightful blend of history, culture, and modernity at every turn.

If you are looking for budget destinations, then you must read our Best Destinations for Budget Travel post.

Now that we’ve set the stage with an overview of Budapest, let’s dive deeper into the enchanting details that make this city a must-visit destination.

Getting to Budapest

Exploring transportation options to reach Budapest

Let’s Explore Your Transportation Options to Reach Budapest Getting to Budapest is easier than you might think! Whether you’re arriving from a neighboring country or traveling from halfway across the globe, there are various transportation options to suit your needs. Let’s take a closer look at some of them:

• By Air: Budapest is served by the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, located about 16 kilometers southeast of the city center. Numerous airlines offer direct flights to Budapest from major cities around the world, making air travel a convenient choice for many visitors.
• By Train: If you prefer a scenic journey or want to explore more of Europe before reaching Budapest, hopping on a train can be a great option. Budapest has several international train stations, including Keleti, Nyugati, and Déli, with connections to various European cities.
• By Bus: Bus travel is another affordable and popular option for reaching Budapest. The city has several bus terminals, such as Népliget and Árpád Bridge, which connect Budapest to neighboring countries and cities within Hungary.

Major airports, train stations, and bus terminals

Now, let’s delve into some key transportation hubs in Budapest that will help you get started on your adventure:

• Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport: This is the primary airport serving Budapest, with excellent international connections and convenient transportation options to the city center.
• Keleti Railway Station: As one of the main train stations in Budapest, Keleti provides extensive domestic and international train services, making it a crucial hub for rail travel.
• Nyugati Railway Station: Located in the city center, Nyugati Railway Station offers excellent connections to major Hungarian cities and neighboring countries.
• Népliget Bus Station: Situated in the southeastern part of Budapest, Népliget is one of the largest bus terminals in the city, serving both domestic and international routes.

Tips for navigating the city’s public transportation system

Budapest boasts a well-developed public transportation system that makes getting around the city a breeze. Here are some handy tips to help you navigate the system like a pro:

• Metro: Budapest has a reliable and efficient metro network comprising four lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4) that cover the city’s major areas and attractions. Keep an eye out for the iconic yellow metro trains!
• Trams: Trams are a popular mode of transportation in Budapest, offering scenic rides along the city’s boulevards and waterfront. Tram lines 2 and 4-6 are particularly convenient for sightseeing.
• Buses: Budapest’s extensive bus network ensures that you can reach even the more remote parts of the city. Bus routes cover both the city center and the suburbs, providing comprehensive coverage.
• Tickets and Passes: Purchase a travel pass or individual tickets from vending machines or ticket offices before boarding public transportation. Validate your ticket upon boarding and keep it handy for inspections.

With these transportation options and tips in mind, you’re all set to navigate your way through the beautiful city of Budapest and explore its many wonders. So, hop on a plane, train, or bus, and let the adventure begin!

Best Time to Visit Budapest

The different seasons and their unique appeal to visiting Budapest

Budapest offers a distinct experience in each season, so choosing the best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to explore. Here’s a glimpse into what each season has to offer:

• Spring: From March to May, Budapest blossoms with vibrant colors. The weather starts to warm up, and the city comes alive with cherry blossoms and tulips. It’s a perfect time for leisurely walks along the Danube and exploring the city’s parks.
• Summer: June to August brings warm and sunny weather to Budapest, making it the peak tourist season. The city buzzes with outdoor festivals, rooftop bars, and open-air concerts. It’s an ideal time to enjoy boat cruises on the Danube and soak up the lively atmosphere.
• Autumn: September to November offers milder temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. Budapest’s parks and gardens transform into a stunning array of red, orange, and gold. It’s a great time for exploring museums, enjoying thermal baths, and indulging in seasonal culinary delights.
• Winter: December to February brings a magical winter wonderland to Budapest. With festive decorations, Christmas markets, and the possibility of snow, the city embraces a cozy and enchanting atmosphere. It’s a perfect time for sipping hot mulled wine and enjoying the thermal baths.

Weather Patterns and Average Temperatures Throughout the Year

Budapest experiences a continental climate, which means that it has distinct seasons and temperature variations. Here’s a general overview of the average temperatures throughout the year:

• Spring (March to May): Temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).
• Summer (June to August): Temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), occasionally reaching even higher.
• Autumn (September to November): Temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).
• Winter (December to February): Temperatures range from -1°C (30°F) to 5°C (41°F), with occasional drops below freezing.

It’s important to note that weather patterns can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

Festivals and Events to Consider When Planning a Visit

Budapest is renowned for its vibrant festivals and cultural events throughout the year. Here are some noteworthy ones to consider when planning your visit:

• Budapest Spring Festival: A celebration of music, art, and culture, taking place in various venues across the city in March and April.
• Sziget Festival: One of Europe’s largest music festivals, held in August on Óbuda Island, featuring international and local artists across various genres.
• Christmas Markets: From late November to December, Budapest’s Christmas markets bring the city to life with festive cheer, delicious food, handcrafted gifts, and ice skating rinks.
• Hungarian Grand Prix: Formula 1 fans can catch the excitement of the Hungarian Grand Prix at the Hungaroring circuit near Budapest in July.
• Budapest Wine Festival: Held in September at Buda Castle, this festival showcases Hungary’s rich wine culture, offering tastings, culinary delights, and live music.

These are just a few examples of the many festivals and events that add an extra layer of excitement to your Budapest experience. Keep an eye out for specific dates and plan your visit accordingly to make the most of these celebrations.

Now that we’ve discussed the best time to visit Budapest, the next step is to explore the top attractions that await you in this captivating city!

Where to Stay in Budapest

District V (Belváros-Lipótváros)

District V, also known as Belváros-Lipótváros, is the heart of Budapest and a popular area to stay. It offers a central location with easy access to major attractions, shopping streets, and a bustling dining scene. You’ll find a mix of luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and budget-friendly options in this area.

District VII (Erzsébetváros)

District VII, or Erzsébetváros, is a vibrant and trendy neighborhood with a youthful atmosphere. It’s known for its thriving nightlife, bustling ruin bars, and alternative art scene. If you’re looking for a lively and energetic stay, this district offers a range of accommodation options, including hostels, budget hotels, and stylish boutique hotels.

District VI (Terézváros)

District VI, Terézváros, is a charming and upscale district located near Andrássy Avenue. It’s known for its elegant boulevards, historic buildings, and cultural attractions. This area offers a mix of luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and apartment rentals, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more sophisticated stay.

Castle District (District I)

The Castle District, or District I, is situated on the Buda side of the city and offers a more tranquil and historic ambiance. With its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and stunning views of the Danube, it’s a perfect choice for those looking for a romantic and picturesque stay. The Castle District features luxury hotels, charming guesthouses, and boutique accommodations.

District IX (Ferencváros)

District IX, or Ferencváros, is a lesser-known neighborhood that is gaining popularity among travelers. Located on the Pest side of the city, it offers a more local and authentic experience. This district is known for its diverse food scene, colorful markets, and proximity to the Danube. Accommodation options in Ferencváros include budget-friendly hotels, apartment rentals, and guesthouses.

Other Areas to Consider

• Budapest offers a wide range of neighborhoods and districts to suit different preferences. Additional areas worth considering include District XIII (Újlipótváros), known for its modern and residential vibe; District Várkerület (the area surrounding the Castle District), offering a historic and picturesque setting; and District VIII (Józsefváros), known for its cultural heritage and architectural gems.

When choosing where to stay in Budapest, consider your interests, budget, and preferred atmosphere. Whether you want to be in the heart of the city, immerse yourself in its nightlife, or enjoy a more peaceful stay with stunning views, Budapest has accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs.

Top Attractions in Budapest

Buda Castle and Castle Hill

• Dive into the rich history of Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about its role as a royal residence and symbol of power throughout the centuries.
• Explore the Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and the National Gallery, which showcase stunning architecture, panoramic views, and a collection of Hungarian artwork.

Hungarian Parliament Building

• Marvel at the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building, an iconic symbol of Budapest, with its neo-Gothic style, intricate details, and magnificent riverside location.
• Discover the option of guided tours to explore the interior of the Parliament, admire the Hungarian Crown Jewels, and gain insights into the country’s political history. Check the visiting hours and plan your visit accordingly.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

• Learn about the significance of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the first permanent bridge connecting Buda and Pest, and its role in shaping Budapest’s development.
• Cross the bridge on foot or by tram and soak in breathtaking views of the Danube River, Buda Castle, and the city’s skyline. Don’t forget to capture memorable photos along the way!

St. Stephen’s Basilica

• Discover the beauty of St. Stephen’s Basilica, named after Hungary’s first king. Admire its impressive architecture, intricate details, and the famous Holy Right Hand reliquary.
• Ascend to the dome for panoramic city views, attend a classical concert to experience the basilica’s acoustics, and be sure to dress appropriately for respectful visits.

Fisherman’s Bastion

• Step into a storybook setting at Fisherman’s Bastion, known for its neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque architecture. Explore its seven towers, terraces, and picturesque turrets.
• Witness breathtaking sunset views over the Danube River and Pest’s skyline from the Fisherman’s Bastion. Capture postcard-worthy photos and enjoy the magical atmosphere.

Heroes’ Square and City Park

• Discover the historical significance of Heroes’ Square, dedicated to important national leaders and events, and learn about Hungary’s rich cultural heritage represented in the statues and monuments.
• Explore City Park, home to the impressive Vajdahunyad Castle, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest Zoo, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, rent a pedal boat, or relax in the park’s serene surroundings.

Thermal Baths in Budapest

• Immerse yourself in Budapest’s renowned thermal bath culture, rooted in its abundant natural hot springs. Learn about the health benefits and relaxation opportunities these baths offer.
• Visit iconic thermal baths like Széchenyi , Gellért , or Rudas , known for their unique architectural features, therapeutic waters, and a range of amenities, including saunas, steam rooms, and massage services.

Danube River and Cruises

• Understand the significance of the Danube River as a natural divide between Buda and Pest, and its role as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a vital transportation route.
• Embark on a memorable river cruise or boat tour along the Danube, experiencing the city’s landmarks from a different perspective. Choose from daytime sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises, or even themed cruises for a unique experience.

With these top attractions awaiting you, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time exploring the remarkable city of Budapest. So, pack your curiosity and embark on a journey of discovery!

Exploring Budapest’s Cuisine and Nightlife

Hungarian Traditional Dishes

• Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Hungarian cuisine! From hearty stews to mouthwatering pastries, Hungarian dishes are known for their bold flavors and rich culinary heritage. Explore iconic dishes like goulash, paprika chicken, lángos (fried dough), and chimney cake.
• Indulge in an authentic Hungarian dining experience by visiting traditional restaurants such as Gundel , Menza , or Két Szerecsen . These establishments offer a wide range of traditional dishes prepared with love and precision, allowing you to savor the true essence of Hungarian flavors.

Ruin Bars and Nightlife

• Experience Budapest’s vibrant and alternative nightlife scene by visiting the renowned ruin bars. These unique establishments are set in abandoned buildings or courtyards, adorned with eclectic decor and a bohemian atmosphere. Each ruin bar has its own charm and personality, making it an exciting adventure to explore them.
• Budapest truly comes alive after dark with its buzzing nightlife. Whether you’re looking for trendy bars, underground clubs, or live music venues, Budapest has it all. Discover popular nightlife areas such as the Jewish Quarter, Kazinczy Street, or Gozsdu Udvar, where you can dance the night away or enjoy a relaxed evening with friends at a cozy bar.

From savoring traditional Hungarian dishes to immersing yourself in the energetic nightlife, Budapest offers a vibrant and unforgettable culinary and entertainment experience. So, prepare your taste buds and get ready to explore the city’s diverse flavors and vibrant nightlife!

Shopping in Budapest

Popular Shopping Streets and Districts

• Get ready to indulge in some retail therapy as we explore Budapest’s popular shopping streets. Váci Street, located in the city center, is a bustling pedestrian street lined with a mix of high-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and international brands. Andrassy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a blend of luxury fashion stores, elegant boutiques, and charming cafes along its tree-lined boulevard.
• Beyond Váci Street and Andrassy Avenue, Budapest offers a range of other shopping districts worth exploring. Visit Ráday Street for its vibrant mix of art galleries, bookstores, and trendy shops. Explore the fashion-forward boutiques and design stores in the up-and-coming District VII, known as the Jewish Quarter. Don’t forget to check out WestEnd City Center, one of the largest shopping malls in Central Europe, for a wide selection of international and local brands.

Traditional Hungarian Souvenirs

• When it comes to taking a piece of Budapest home with you, consider authentic Hungarian souvenirs that reflect the city’s rich culture and craftsmanship. Look for hand-painted porcelain, intricately embroidered folk art, Hungarian paprika, traditional clothing items like embroidered blouses or vests, or even unique Hungarian wines and spirits.
• To find a variety of authentic Hungarian souvenirs, head to the Great Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok), a bustling indoor market where you can browse stalls filled with local produce, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. For a more unique and eclectic shopping experience, explore the independent boutiques and concept stores in the downtown area, such as Printa, a store that combines design, art, and sustainability.

Whether you’re strolling along Váci Street, exploring the charming districts, or hunting for traditional Hungarian souvenirs, Budapest offers a delightful shopping experience. So, put on your walking shoes and get ready to discover hidden treasures and bring home a piece of Budapest’s vibrant culture and style.

Day Trips and Excursions from Budapest

• Step back in time as you visit the charming town of Visegrád, located along the picturesque Danube Bend. Learn about its rich history as a royal residence and strategic fortress during the Middle Ages.
• Immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere by exploring Visegrád Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Danube River. Take a stroll through the Royal Palace ruins and visit the Solomon Tower for a glimpse into the town’s past. Outdoor enthusiasts can also indulge in hiking, biking, or boating activities in the surrounding scenic landscape.
• Just a short trip from Budapest, Szentendre welcomes you with its artistic vibe and colorful streets. Discover the town’s unique blend of Hungarian and Mediterranean influences, evident in its Baroque architecture and cobblestone alleys.
• Explore Szentendre’s art scene through its numerous galleries and museums showcasing works by local artists. Wander through the Open-Air Ethnographic Museum to learn about traditional Hungarian village life. Don’t miss the opportunity to browse the charming shops offering handmade ceramics, jewelry, and other local crafts.
• Venture into the Eger region, known for its excellent wines and beautiful vineyards. Discover the unique terroir and indulge in wine-tasting experiences that highlight Eger’s renowned red blend, Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood).
• Visit Eger Castle, a symbol of Hungarian resistance against the Ottoman Empire, and explore its fascinating history and architectural features. Discover the charming streets of the old town, where you’ll find the famous Dobo Square, the Minorite Church, and the Eger Cathedral.

Take a break from the bustling city and embark on day trips from Budapest to uncover the hidden gems nearby. Whether it’s exploring the medieval town of Visegrád, immersing yourself in the artistic ambiance of Szentendre, or discovering the wine region of Eger, these excursions offer a delightful escape and a chance to further explore the cultural and natural wonders of Hungary.

Practical Tips for Visiting Budapest

Currency and Money Matters

• Familiarize yourself with the local currency, the Hungarian Forint (HUF), and exchange some currency before your trip or withdraw cash from ATMs in Budapest. Be aware of the current exchange rates and keep small bills for convenience.
• Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops, markets, and local vendors.

Language and Communication Tips

• While Hungarian is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Hungarian phrases and greetings to show your respect and appreciation for the local culture.
• Download a translation app or carry a pocket-sized English-Hungarian phrasebook for easy communication.

Safety and Security Considerations

• Budapest is generally a safe city, but it’s important to take common-sense precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places, and be cautious of pickpockets.
• Stay in well-lit and populated areas, particularly at night, and use licensed taxis or trusted transportation services.
• Stay updated on any travel advisories or safety information before your trip.

Etiquette and Cultural Norms in Budapest

• Hungarians value politeness and respect. Greet locals with a friendly “Jó napot” (Good day) or “Szervusz” (Hello) and use “Köszönöm” (Thank you) when receiving services or assistance.
• Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites or more formal establishments. Modest clothing is recommended.
• Tipping is customary in Budapest. In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is appreciated, and it’s customary to round up the bill in taxis or leave a small tip for hotel staff.

By keeping these practical tips in mind, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Budapest, navigate the city with ease, respect the local customs, and make the most of your time in this beautiful Hungarian capital.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A. What is the best time to visit Budapest?

• The best time to visit Budapest is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. However, Budapest has something to offer year-round, with festivals and events taking place throughout the year.

B. How do I get from the airport to the city center?

• Budapest offers convenient transportation options from the airport to the city center. You can take a taxi, use a ride-sharing service, or opt for public transportation such as the Airport Shuttle Bus, Airport Minibus, or Airport Express Bus. There are also direct train and bus connections available.

C. Are credit cards widely accepted in Budapest?

• Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Budapest, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops, markets, and local vendors.

D. What are the must-visit thermal baths in Budapest?

• Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and some of the must-visit ones include Széchenyi Baths, Gellért Baths, and Rudas Baths. Each offers a unique experience with different architectural styles, pools of varying temperatures, and additional wellness services.

E. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Budapest?

• Yes, Budapest has a growing vegetarian and vegan food scene. You can find a variety of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, cafes, and even dedicated vegan food tours that cater to plant-based diets. Some popular options include Napfényes Restaurant, Great Bistro, and Vega City.

F. How much should I budget for a trip to Budapest?

• Budapest offers a range of accommodation options, dining choices, and attractions to suit different budgets. On average, a mid-range budget for accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities would be around €70-€120 per day per person. Prices may vary depending on your preferences and travel style.

G. What are the top day trips from Budapest?

• Some popular day trips from Budapest include visiting towns like Visegrád, Szentendre, and Eger, exploring the Danube Bend, or even venturing further to the stunning Danube Bend region or the charming town of Gödöllő.

H. Is Budapest a safe city for solo travelers?

• Budapest is generally considered a safe city for solo travelers. However, it’s always advisable to take common-sense precautions, stay in well-lit and populated areas, and be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places. Stay updated on any travel advisories or safety information.

I. Do I need a visa to visit Budapest?

• The visa requirements for Budapest depend on your nationality. European Union (EU) and Schengen Agreement member country citizens can enter Budapest with a valid passport or national ID card. Non-EU citizens should check the visa requirements for Hungary based on their nationality.

J. Are there any unique local customs I should be aware of?

• While visiting Budapest, it’s appreciated to greet locals with a friendly “Jó napot” (Good day) or “Szervusz” (Hello) and to use “Köszönöm” (Thank you) when receiving services or assistance. Hungarians value politeness and respect. It’s also customary to tip in restaurants and to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites or more formal establishments.

Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the enchanting Buda Castle and the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building to the relaxing thermal baths and the lively ruin bars, Budapest has something for everyone. We explored the city’s top attractions, including Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Fisherman’s Bastion,  Heroes’ Square, and the famous thermal baths. We also discussed the best time to visit Budapest, practical tips for navigating the city, and popular day trips and excursions. Budapest’s cuisine, nightlife, shopping districts, and unique customs all contribute to its charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, an art connoisseur, or simply seeking a memorable travel experience, Budapest is sure to captivate you.

Now that you have a comprehensive guide to Budapest, it’s time to start planning your trip and experience the city’s charm firsthand. Explore the magnificent architecture, indulge in traditional Hungarian cuisine, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife, and unwind in the healing thermal baths.

Budapest’s rich history, stunning landmarks, and warm hospitality await you. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with your family, Budapest promises to create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, embark on a journey to this remarkable city, and let Budapest mesmerize you with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.

With this ultimate guide in hand, you’re well-equipped to embark on a memorable adventure in Budapest. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, indulge in its culinary delights, soak in the thermal baths, and embrace the unique charm that sets Budapest apart. Get ready to create lifelong memories in this captivating capital. Happy travels!

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Travel Tips For Budapest: A Complete Guide

Last updated on February 15th, 2024 at 09:35 am

If you’re planning to visit Budapest soon, we’ve compiled this thorough list of useful travel tips for Budapest to help you plan your trip.

With its diverse dining scene, beautiful architecture and unique spa culture, Budapest is one of the best places to visit for a city break in Central Europe. In this guide, you’ll find all the Budapest travel tips you need to plan your escape to the Hungarian capital.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Also, this article contains sponsored content. For more information, visit our Disclosure page .

Top 10 Things To Do in Budapest

Is Budapest worth visiting? you may be wondering. Before checking out our travel tips for Budapest, have a look at this list of the best things to do in Budapest and we’re sure your question will be answered.

• Relax at the best Budapest spas
• Have drinks at one of Budapest’s famous ruin pubs
• Visit the Hungarian Parliament building
• Wander around Fisherman’s Bastion
• Walk along the Danube River
• Join a river cruise
• Taste and buy the best paprika
• Explore the city’s coffee culture and diverse dining scene
• Step inside the oldest metro in mainland Europe
• Ride the UNESCO-listed Buda Castle Hill Funicular

This list is only an appetiser. For the main course, click here to read our detailed and carefully planned 3-day Budapest itinerary!

To fuel your wanderlust even more, here’s our Budapest YouTube video!

Resources & Travel Tips For Budapest

• Find the best deals for your flight to Budapest here .
• Get to Budapest by Flixbus here .
• Get to Budapest by train here .
• Find the best deals for your accommodation in Budapest.
• Buy your Budapest Card here .
• Book the best guided tours with GetYourGuide or Viator in Budapest.
• Venturing out of Budapest on a road trip across Central Europe? Rent your car here!
• Grab your Wise Card and make your transactions in foreign currency simple!
• Travel without worries.  Click here  to buy your travel insurance.

Where Is Budapest

Known as the Spa Capital of The World, Budapest is the capital of Hungary , a landlocked country in Central Europe. Budapest is in the northern part of Hungary, close to the border with Slovakia.

Budapest is the second largest city on the Danube River. The latter divides Budapest into Buda and Pest. Buda is on the western side and Pest is on the eastern side of the river. Together with Obuda in the city’s north, Buda and Pest were unified to form Budapest in 1873.

Best Time To Visit Budapest

Given that summer can get hot in Central Europe and, apparently, you’re not going there for the beaches – you would probably go to our home country Greece for that – the best time to visit Budapest is either spring or autumn. April, May, September and October are the best months to plan a trip to Budapest, especially for first-timers, since the weather is mild and crowds are fewer then.

However, if you’ve visited the city before and done the bulk of your Budapest sightseeing, you could easily visit Budapest in winter to spend most of your time at the numerous thermal spas that are scattered across the city. We know we will at some point.

How Many Days in Budapest

Many people consider Budapest a typical weekend destination. However, you need three days in Budapest to make sure you enjoy all the main attractions at a slow pace, making time for a relaxing day at one of the best thermal baths in Budapest, too.

One of the great things about Central Europe is that you can combine more than one city on the same trip. One of our favourite travel tips for Budapest is that you can pair it magnificently with some other Central European capitals, such as Vienna , Bratislava and Prague . Budapest is about 240 kilometres from Vienna, 185 kilometres from Bratislava and 500 kilometres from Prague.

Read our guide to the best photo locations in Prague here!

Is Budapest Safe?

Like most cities in Europe, Budapest is safe for tourists. Petty crime, like pickpocketing in crowded places and touristy areas, isn’t uncommon. Yet, Budapest is a safe city to visit for everyone, solo female travellers included, as long as you use your common sense when it gets dark and avoid sketchy places.

To feel safe when travelling, buy your travel insurance for your trip to Budapest.

Money in Budapest

Even though Hungary is a member of the European Union, the local currency isn’t the Euro but the Hungarian Forint . You may find that some shops or restaurants accept other currencies, like US dollars or Euros. However, it’s always best to pay in Hungarian forints to avoid scams and overcharges.

If you want to exchange some money to have cash, compare and double-check rates at the various exchange offices before you do.

That said, it’s always best to use a credit card to avoid crazy conversion fees and commissions. You can pay by card almost everywhere in Budapest. During your trip to Budapest – and everywhere else in Europe for that matter – we recommend a card like Wise to top up, exchange currency at the best rates and pay for everything easily through your mobile app.

Grab your Wise card and travel without worrying about foreign currency.

Tipping in restaurants and bars is not mandatory in Budapest but expect to be prompted to use the tip button on the POS device. Usually, tips are around 10% – 15% of the bill.

Languages Spoken in Budapest

Hungarian is the official spoken and written language in Budapest. It’s one of the hardest languages for foreigners to learn. Thankfully, compared to the past, after the fall of communism and the rise of tourism in the years that followed, English is widely spoken by Hungarians.

What To Pack For Budapest

As rain is very common in Budapest throughout the year, packing a raincoat and a travel umbrella is essential. If you travel in spring or autumn, pack light clothes for the warm temperatures during daylight and warm layers for the night. Don’t forget to pack your plug adaptor if you come from the UK or the USA.

Whatever season you plan to travel to Budapest, pack a swimsuit and flip-flops for the thermal baths. Keep in mind that a swimming cap is mandatory in the swimming pools of spa complexes, so pack your cap if you are an avid swimmer. Otherwise, you can buy one at the spa complex, as there’s usually an on-site shop there.

Read our guide to the best Budapest spas here!

How To Get To Budapest

Budapest has one international airport, located 16 kilometres from the city centre. It’s a big hub for Ryanair and Wizz Air, Hungary’s low-cost airline, and it’s connected with almost every country in Europe. Find the best deals for your flight to Budapest.

You can get from the airport to Budapest city centre by bus. The direct airport bus line is 100E and runs every 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can book an inexpensive airport transfer to drop you off right at your hotel.

As mentioned above, Budapest is usually combined with other major cities in Central Europe on the same trip. Budapest is well connected with Bratislava, Vienna and Prague by bus and train. Check out prices and routes with FlixBus or travel sustainably and comfortably by train within Central Europe.

If you’re visiting Budapest as part of a long road trip across Central Europe, find the best deals on the most reliable search engine for car rentals here .

Read our guide on how to travel more sustainably here!

How To Get Around Budapest

Budapest is a flat city, very easy to explore on foot. While Pest is completely flat, in the Buda part of the city, you’ll inevitably have to climb up Buda Castle Hill and Gellert Hill at some point.

Buda Castle Hill is home to some of the main attractions in Budapest, such as Buda Castle, Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion. Apart from walking, you can get there by riding the historic Buda Castle Funicular or by hopping on the Budapest Castle Bus which is free with a Budapest Card . On Gellert Hill, you can’t miss the Cave Church, the Citadella and the Gellert Baths.

Although walking is the best way to get around Budapest, sometimes the weather conditions may not be ideal or you may want to save some time. In those cases, public transport can take you everywhere in Budapest.

Trams in Budapest are frequent and quick. On a rainy day, you can hop on tram 2 for a fun and relaxing sightseeing ride along the Danube River. Tram line 2 is one of the most beautiful tram routes in the world.

There is also a reliable metro system in Budapest. Apart from a means of transport, metro line M1 is also one of the main Budapest attractions, as it’s the oldest metro line in mainland Europe. If you plan to use public transport in Budapest, it’s worth purchasing a Budapest Card . Among other benefits, Budapest Card holders can use public transport for free.

Is The Budapest Card Worth It?

This question comes up a lot and our travel guide for Budapest couldn’t leave it without an answer. As mentioned above, Budapest Card holders enjoy unlimited public transportation for free , including transfers to Buda Castle with the Official Budapest Castle Bus.

Moreover, the Budapest Card includes free entrances to main Budapest attractions like the Budapest History Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Buda Tower and many more, free entrance to the Lukacs Thermal Baths and two free sightseeing walking tours , one in Buda and one in Pest.

In addition, by purchasing a Budapest Card , you get discounts on several other activities, entry tickets and thermal baths. Depending on how many days you plan to spend in Budapest, you can buy a Budapest Card which is valid for 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days. The most popular version is the 72-hour Budapest Card , valid for three days.

Apart from the regular Budapest Card, there is also the Budapest Card Plus , which comes in a 72-hour version only. Some of the extra benefits of the Budapest Card Plus are free airport transfers , a free Danube Cruise , free entrance to Matthias Church and free return tickets on the Buda Castle Funicular .

Make sure you check the list of all Budapest Card benefits on the official website , as new Budapest activities and attractions are added frequently.

In our opinion, buying a Budapest Card is worth it not only because it helps you save time, money and the trouble of standing in line to buy tickets every once in a while, but also because it inspires you to visit some of the lesser-known Budapest attractions included in the card, most of which you probably wouldn’t think of visiting otherwise.

One thing we didn’t like was that the Hungarian Parliament, the top place to visit in Budapest, wasn’t included in the Budapest Card. Hopefully, this will change before too long. Other than that, though, the Budapest Card is great value for money and buying one is one of the best travel tips for Budapest.

Check out the latest prices and grab your Budapest Card here!

Where To Stay in Budapest

The first decision you have to make before booking your stay in Budapest is whether to stay in Buda or Pest. Buda is situated on the western side of the city. It’s home to many historical attractions and it’s an overall calm residential area.

On the other hand, Pest is on the eastern side of Budapest. It’s flat and easy to walk around, vibrant and full of bars and restaurants. Some of the most famous attractions in Budapest are located in Pest. In our opinion, downtown Pest is the best area to stay in Budapest.

Below you will find our suggestions for the best hotels in Budapest. In any case, try to avoid booking an Airbnb for your stay in Budapest. If you’re wondering why, have a look at this article we wrote about the Airbnb effect .

Situated near Chain Bridge and the Danube River, the 4-star Prestige Hotel is set in a renovated historic building, ideal for a luxurious and unforgettable stay in Budapest. Book a luxurious room at Prestige Hotel here or read the hotel reviews on TripAdvisor here .

Stories Boutique Hotel , a 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of Pest, is the ideal hotel to create your own story in Budapest. Find the best deals for your stay at Stories Boutique Hotel or read the reviews on TripAdvisor here .

A few steps from Saint Stephen’s Basilica, the 4-star Hotel Moments Budapest is one of the most imposing buildings on Andrassy Avenue. Check available dates and prices for a unique stay at Hotel Moments Budapest or read the reviews on TripAdvisor here .

What To Eat & Drink in Budapest

Although traditional Hungarian cuisine is heavily meat-based, Budapest is a pleasant surprise for vegetarians and vegans. The city’s diverse food scene abounds with vegan and vegetarian options. You can even find the country’s national dish, goulash , in its vegan version in Budapest.

Goulash may be Hungary’s national dish but langos is probably the most popular comfort food in Budapest. If you haven’t tried langos before, you don’t know what you’ve been missing. Langos is a sinful piece of deep-fried dough, topped with sour cream, cheese and any other topping of choice, like veggies or olives.

Apart from traditional Hungarian dishes though, in Budapest, you can try cuisines from all over the globe. The city is home to exquisite restaurants that feature ethnic food from all corners of the world.

Moreover, Budapest has a remarkable coffee scene, with several independent cafés taking great pride in their top-quality brews. From the famed New York Café – often called the most beautiful café in the world – and the gorgeous Café Gerbeaud with its fancy cakes to more down-to-earth yet utterly cosy cafés, such as Madal Café and Flow , Budapest has a coffee place for everyone.

In terms of dessert, Budapest won’t disappoint. While in Budapest, don’t miss the chance to try the iconic kürtőskalács (chimney cake) or the lesser-known palacsinta (Hungarian pancakes) and rétes (Hungarian strudel). Speaking of dessert, a stop at Gelarto Rosa for its Instagram-perfect rose-shaped ice cream is a must.

Best Restaurants in Budapest For Veggie & Vegan Food

• Napfenyes Restaurant for the best vegan version of Hungarian goulash soup.
• Las Vegan’s and Epoch Vegan Burger for delicious vegan burgers.
• Retro Langos for scrumptious langos.
• Dobrumba for mouthwatering Middle Eastern food. We loved the zaatar fries and the harira soup!
• Mazel Tov for its fantastic setting, the divine grilled cauliflower with tahini and the falafels!
• Qui if you missed Thai food while travelling.
• Karavan for a lively food court with many veggie and vegan options, right next to the most famous ruin bars.

For more recommendations, buy us a beer to get a copy of our PDF with our 3-day Budapest itinerary and a Budapest Map with all the points of interest you need!

What To Buy in Budapest

If you’re wondering what to buy in Budapest as a souvenir for your loved ones back home or as a way to keep the memory of your Budapest trip alive for a while longer, here are some suggestions:

• Paprika: Paprika is an essential part of Hungarian cuisine. In Budapest, you can find top-quality paprika in many types, such as hot, sweet, smoked hot and smoked sweet.
• Palinka: A traditional liqueur made of fruit.
• Hungarian Secret Boxes: Carved in wood, these boxes come in various sizes and colours. At first glance, they look like ordinary jewellery boxes. However, their uniqueness lies in the fact that it’s impossible to open them until the shopkeeper shows you the secret way to do it.
• Rubik’s Cube: You can buy a Rubik’s Cube anywhere in the world. But why not grab one at its birthplace? Erno Rubik, a Hungarian architect and sculptor, invented this game in Budapest in 1974.
• Hungarian Dolls: Dressed in traditional folk clothes, these dolls are a great gift not only for children but also for collectors.
• Hand-painted Eggs: Although they are most popular around the Easter holidays, you can find these beautiful hand-painted eggs all year round in Budapest.
• Lavender: Hungary has its very own lavender fields and lavender-themed items are among the best things to buy in Budapest.

We hope that this thorough Budapest travel guide helps you plan an amazing trip to the Hungarian capital. Do you have any unique travel tips for Budapest you’d like to share with us? Let us know in the comments!

WORDS & IMAGES: Katerina EDITING: Maria

Disclosure:  The Budapest Tourism Board offered us press Budapest Cards. As media and marketing specialists, we often visit destinations on press tours or as part of marketing campaigns, but under no circumstances does this affect our opinions about the places we visit and the experiences we try. Rest assured that you will find nothing but honest reviews throughout our content.

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Hi, where can I find them pdf for Budapest? Thanks so much! Love your work.

Hi Lucy! Thanks so much for your love and support! Our Budapest PDF is now available for a small fee here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/itsalltriptome/e/220871 Thanks!

Budapest una muy espectacular ciudad

It is an amazing city indeed! Thanks for your comment!

I recently visited Budapest and I have to say, it’s one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities I’ve ever been to. The stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination

Hi Alice, thanks for your comment! Budapest is a great city to visit indeed!

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130+ Travel Tips For Budapest, Written By A Local

Are you planning your trip of a lifetime to Europe and want to see the best of Budapest? You’re at the right place. This post is a massive collection of the best things to do in Budapest, including seasonal and lesser-known attractions, what to eat and drink in Budapest and tips for getting around .

We are Hungarians, and Budapest was our home for about a decade. Who knows, maybe it’ll be our home again someday – or it never ceases to be home, because some of our family, friends and part of our hearts are still there. It’s a vibrant, wonderful city, one of the most exciting European cities! Call us biased, but read on: this post is our chance to tell you why.

Budapest has stunning architecture, exciting museums and festivals, rich history, a wonderful river panorama and busy nightlife. It has something for everyone, and we’re here to help you find that something that’ll make you fall in love.

Whether you’ll be here for the first time or the fifth, Budapest never gets boring. Let’s see…

Best place to stay in Budapest:

• luxury : Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest
• mid-range : The Magazine Hotel & Apartments
• budget : Maverick Urban Lodge (hostel)

Best things to do in Budapest for first timers

Walk on Váci Street. It’s the main walking and shopping street of Pest with fashion stores and gift shops. And with amazing architecture. It leads you to Vörösmarty Square. This lively and newly renovated square hosts different festivals throughout the year.

Take a walking tour in the city center. If you prefer to be taken to the most famous spots and told the best stories about them by enthusiastic local guides, choose a guided walking tour. This one is a small group tour that also includes a dessert stop on the way, to taste the delicious Hungarian strudel.

Take pictures of our Parliament from every angle. It’s beautiful! See it from Kossuth Square, from the Danube Bank, from Margaret Bridge, from the Buda side. It’s an iconic building in the Hungarian capital, and you can even see it from the inside…

Take a tour of the Hungarian Parliament. Yes, you can go inside. Sign up for a guided tour in the visitor center on Kossuth Square. Or book it online in advance, especially if you visit in the summer or on a weekend. If you choose the latter option, buy your ticket directly here – it’s the same audio guide tour everyone else is selling, but for half the price.

Shoes on the Danube Bank. Not a large but a moving monument close to the Parliament. It’s a memorial to the Jews who were killed by the fascists in Budapest during World War II. Why empty shoes? These people were ordered to take off their shoes, then they were shot at the edge of the Danube so that their bodies would be carried away by the river.

Hop on Tram 2 for great views. Every Budapest travel guide mentions Tram 2, we call it “the tourist line”. It’s a regular tram line, but its route is along the Danube, and it offers amazing views of the city all the way. You can get off at the Parliament at the end. Just try to avoid the rush hours.

Look around on Vigadó Square. It’s a lovely square by the Danube River. Its famous concert hall “Vigadó” looks like a palace with its lovely little formal garden, and there are pretty statues in front of the garden. And you have views of Buda Castle and the Danube.

Walk through Chain Bridge. It’s one of the most famous icons of Budapest. Opened in 1849 it was the first permanent bridge across the River Danube in Hungary. And it’s still the most beautiful of all the Budapest bridges with great views of both Buda and Pest.

Walk up or take the funicular to Buda Castle. Once the seat of Hungary’s kings, it’s not a furnished castle these days. But most of its inner courtyards and gardens are open to the public for free. Its upper terraces look towards the Danube and offer stunning panorama over Budapest. Matthias Fountain is a pretty piece of architecture, and there are other fountains and statues there waiting to be found in the courtyards. Then you can continue to the lower terraces that have been renovated and reopened recently.

Read this, too: The Best Castles In Hungary

Walk in Buda Castle District. Its narrow streets impress with medieval, Baroque and 19 th -century houses and churches. We like taking a walk there in any season. Don’t miss Trinity Square (Szentháromság Square in Hungarian) where Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion stand next to each other. They offer more unique architectural beauties and more amazing panoramas, and they’re among the best photo spots in Budapest.

Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica. This Neo-Classical church is 96 metres tall – which is the same as the height of the Parliament. They are the highest structures in Budapest. St. Stephen’s Basilica has a stunning interior, and entrance is free. You find the mummified right hand of St Stephen in a glass case to the left of the main altar. Yes, his hand. He is the patron saint of this church and the first king of Hungary.

Visit the second largest synagogue in the world: Budapest’s Great Synagogue . Built in the Moorish Revival style, it hosts the Hungarian Jewish Museum, and there’s a Holocaust Memorial Park in the courtyard. Even if you don’t have time for the interior tour, include it in your walking route as the buildings looks very impressive from the outside, as well.

Join this guided Jewish Heritage Tour that takes you to the important Jewish sights in the city, including the Great Synagogue.

Learn about history at Heroes’ Square. This square played an important role in Hungarian history and has been a place for many political events. Enclosed by two pretty buildings, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Műcsarnok, there’s an iconic statue complex in its center: it features important national leaders of Hungary. In front of it lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – not a real tomb but a memorial for all the heroes who gave their lives for the freedom of Hungary.

Walk on Andrássy Avenue. This avenue that connects the City Park and Heroes’s Square with the city center is recognized as a World Heritage Site. It’s home to amazing Eclectic Neo-Renaissance palaces, houses and embassies, including the neo-Renaissance State Opera House and elegant boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Ermenegildo Zegna or Gucci. Take a guided tour to see the amazing interior of the Opera House!

Take a walk in the City Park ( Városliget in Hungarian). It’s one of the first public parks in the world, and it hosts some spectacular sights like Vajdahunyad Castle, Széchenyi Thermal Bath or Budapest Zoo. It’s right behind Heroes’ Square.

Relax in a thermal spa. Budapest is the city that has the most spas in the world. Five of them are famous historical thermal baths: the amazing Art Nouveau building complex of Gellért Thermal Bath , Széchenyi Thermal Bath with its 21 different pools, Rudas Thermal Bath with its amazing panorama pool, Lukács Thermal Bath and Király Baths – a small Turkish Bath. Dandár Baths on the other hand is located a bit outside the city center, in an Art Deco building, and it offers a much more local experience.

Escape the city by visiting Margaret Island ( Margitsziget ). It’s our favorite park in Budapest. As its name suggests, it’s an island in the Danube. It’s a popular recreation area, and it’s home to medieval ruins, pretty fountains and gardens, running tracks, an open-air theater stage and open-air baths. Cars are not allowed to enter.

See the night lights from the Danube. Cruise along the river after dark. Some cruises even include dinner . Here’s a short one that only takes one hour. Or if you want the views for free, just walk on the Danube Bank, walk on Chain Bridge and Margaret Bridge to see the Parliament and Buda Castle lit up.

Buy the Budapest Card and get unlimited public transport, free museum entries and discounts at restaurants and spas for 24, 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours.

Even more beautiful views in Budapest

Walk up to Gellért Hill. This hill is in the heart of the city, and it’s our favorite place to enjoy the panorama of Budapest day and night. The hill itself is especially colorful in spring and autumn.

Climb up to the bell tower of St. Stephen’s Basilica for panoramic views. Check the opening hours here .

Take a walk through Margaret Bridge, then walk to Chain Bridge on the Buda side. It’s a panoramic Budapest walk that offers great views of our Parliament standing proud at the bank of River Danube on the Pest side.

Take a ride on the Budapest Eye. The 65 meters height ferris wheel on Erzsébet Square offers fantastic views. It goes more rounds and you can stay for 5-10 minutes.

Enjoy city views from a thermal pool. 450 years old Rudas Thermal Bath has a unique rooftop panorama pool – and you can’t miss visiting a thermal pool when visiting Budapest, anyway.

Watch the sunset from a rooftop bar. 360 Bar at Andrássy Avenue 39 or High Note Skybar at Hercegprímás Street 5 are popular places to enjoy views above the city while drinking a cocktail – or two.

Hike to Elizabeth Lookout on János Hill. This easy hike in the Buda Hills takes you to a pretty lookout tower with distant views of Budapest. It’s the nicest in spring with all the blooming flowers. János hill is reachable by chairlift, too, if you’d spare the walk.

Read this, too: Your Complete Guide To Danube Ipoly National Park, Hungary

Adventurous things to do in Budapest

Take a driving tour in a 2-stroke Trabant. Trabants were produced from 1957 to 1990 by a former East German car manufacturer, and this was the usual car of everyday people in the Communist era.

Have fun in one of the countless escape rooms. How could one make use of the basement of old houses in the city center of Budapest? By turning them into quirky and exciting escape rooms. Lots of these escape games can be played in English and are suitables for families, as well. As Star Wars fans we really liked the Star Wars game of Magic Rooms Escape Empire .

Crawl through a cave system under Budapest. It’s among the most thrilling, unique things to do in Budapest! Those hot springs that feed the famous thermal baths of Budapest also carved out huge cave systems in the limestone rocks under the city. Pál-völgyi Cave , the most popular one, offers marvelous limestone formations and dripstones, as well. Guided tours start hourly throughout the year.

Join a Pálvölgyi Cave guided tour here.

Go diving in the flooded cellars of a beer factory. Okay, Kőbánya beer factory is not in operation anymore. But as its underground cellars got flooded by water from the wells, it turned into a unique dive site. Most of the tunnels are only accessible to certified full cave divers. They’re worth the effort though, since the pure fresh water offers perfect visibility, and different artefacts which were left behind when the factory closed are still there. Here’s a short video to get a taste of it.

Dive in the underwater Molnár János cave below Buda. This natural thermokarstic cave system is filled with water which is between 20 and 28°C. It’s an actively forming cave even today. There are also cave diving courses organized – more info here . It’s one of the most unusual things to do in Budapest, surely an unforgettable experience.

Have fun at a bath party. Budapest has a lot to offer for party lovers, and the city of thermal spas is home to pool parties, as well. Széchenyi Baths has crazy Summer Sparties with live DJs, a laser show, acrobats and dancers on Saturdays between April and November. Lukács Baths hosts parties in the autumn-winter season.

Go paragliding above the Buda Hills. If you’ve never tried it before, you can choose tandem paragliding with a skilled pilot. Or you can do a course if you have more time.

Go canoeing or kayaking on River Danube. If you long for something more active than just sitting in a boat, enjoy the scenery from a canoe or kayak. You can find most rentals on the outskirts of the city. Kolonics György Water Sport Centre in Csepel has kayak and canoe rentals. Béke Csónakház (on Római Part) is an even more popular place to rent out kayaks and canoes.

Go wakeboarding on Lake Lupa in Budakalász. They call themselves the “seashore of Budapest”, and they do have a long sandy beach. But Lake Lupa offers tons of other fun summer activities, like three wakeboard parks. Different courses are designed for beginners, intermediate and pro wakeboarders. You can also get individual coaching.

Take the kids to the Palace of Miracles. Or become a kid yourself. The Palace of Miracles is an interactive science museum designed for kids. Learn in a playful and fun way!

More museums in Budapest

Museum of Fine Arts on Heroes’ Square. Reopened in 2019 after two years of restoration work, this museum is to charm all art lovers. The building itself is very impressive, and the museum hosts exhibitions about the European and Hungarian arts, and also about ancient Egypt, Hellas and Rome. There are exciting temporary exhibitions, too. But what we found the most breathtaking are the two main halls, the Marble Hall and the Roman Hall.

Buda Castle is home to the National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum and the National Széchényi Library. Established in 1957, National Gallery covers Hungarian art in all genres, including the works of modern artists. The Budapest History Museum showcases the city’s history from the Middle Ages to the present day, including traditional rooms in Hungary’s traditional culture or the magnificent Gothic and Renaissance Halls and 14 th -century Tower Chapel.

House of Terror on Andrássy Avenue. This museum inside the building that once headquartered the Communist secret police has exhibits about the fascist and communist dictatorial regimes in the country, and covers everything from Second World War to everyday life in the communist era. Buy your ticket in advance here.

Hungarian National Museum. Again, an impressive Neoclassical building. It hosts Hungary’s most important collection of historical relics such as King St Stephen’s coronation mantle or a piano used by both Beethoven and Liszt Ferenc. There’s a nice garden with statues around the museum.

Museum of Applied Arts. This gorgeous Art Nouveau building decorated with Zsolnay ceramic tiles is home to Hungarian and European furniture collections from the 18 th and 19 th centuries, other Art Nouveau artefacts and objects related to trades and crafts.

Hospital in the Rock. Hospital, bomb shelter, prison, nuclear bunker – this place served several functions throughout the years. Opened in 2008 as a museum, you can learn about the impacts of World War II, the 1956 revolution against the Soviets and the Cold War on Budapest. Admission includes a one-hour guided tour.

the new House of Music in the City Park

House of Music in the City Park. It’s one of the newest museums in Budapest, built between 2019 and 2021. Its permanent exhibits give you an introduction into Hungarian and worldwide music history, and it’s home to various concerts, workshops and other musical events throughout the year. The building itself looks very impressive, designed by Fudzsimoto Szószuke, and it’s one of the best examples of sustainable public buildings in Budapest.

Museum of Ethnography in the City Park. This museum got a new home for its 150th anniversary in 2022, and it’s also in the City Park, a short walk away from the House of Music. It’s a modern building, with a green roof where visitors can walk and enjoy nice views of the City Park and the surrounding area. The interior is home to permanent and temporary exhibitions, but also to a café, restaurant, bookshop, visitor and event center. We visited it for the first time on our visit to Budapest in December of 2022 (the first visit as non-residents…) and found it quite spectacular.

the green roof of the Museum of Ethnography

Ruins of Aquincum in Óbuda district. Looking for ancient ruins in Budapest? Aquincum was an ancient city in the province of Pannonia within the Roman Empire. Ruins of houses, baths, courtyards, fountains and sophisticated underfloor heating systems can be seen there today. And Aquincum Museum has a collection of Roman daily life objects and wall paintings.

Vajdahunyad Castle. Modelled after Corvin Castle, a fortress in Transylvania , it hosts the biggest museum of agriculture in Europe. It’s one of the best attractions in the City Park.

Hungarian Railway Museum. A fleet with locomotives of the Hungarian State Railways – of which some are still operational. Hand-powered cars. Soviet Chaika – an automobile that was the official car of a Hungarian Prime Minister once. A ridable miniature railway for children. Many of the exhibits are open-air. It’s one of the best family-friendly museums in Budapest.

Pálinka Museum . It’s actually a museum, shop and bar, and it’s all about pálinka . But what’s pálinka? It’s the national spirit of Hungary, a unique distillate made from fruits, mainly from plums ( szilvapálinka ), apricots ( barackpálinka ), cherries ( cseresznyepálinka ) or pears ( körtepálinka ). In this museum you can learn about the long history of pálinka, its role in Hungarian gastronomy and culture, and you can buy a few bottles, of course.

Flippermúzeum . Another very Hungarian thing: flipper – or pinball. What is it? Well, go figure it out, because Flippermúzeum is the largest interactive pinball exhibition in Europe, with 115 pinball machines and some more old-school arcade games. It’s located in a windowless Budapest basement, illuminated only by the light of the machines. Sure, it has a unique vibe!

Chocolate Museum with chocolate tasting. Learn about chocolate, make chocolate, eat chocolate. You need to book the chocolate tour in advance though. They have English tours, as well – see more info here .

House of Houdini in the Buda Castle District. This small museum is dedicated to the Hungarian-born magician and escape artist Harry Houdini. It features Houdini artifacts and also treats visitors with a short magic performance at the end.

Béla Bartók Memorial House. This small museum is a bit further from the city center, located inside the house where composer Béla Bartók lived before leaving Hungary. You can see his phonograph and metronome on display, and folk clothes and other items that he collected on his trips in Transylvania.

Goldberger Textile Museum. An interactive exhibit about the Goldberger family’s thriving textile manufacturing business which even Habsburg Emperor Franz Joseph paid a visit to in the glory days. Learn about the company’s development, the Goldberger family history and blue-dyeing in this museum.

Places to visit in Budapest for history lovers

Kerepes Cemetery. Also called Fiumei úti sírkert in Hungarian. You find gravestones of statesmen and national heroes like Lajos Kossuth, Ferenc Deák or Lajos Batthyány, and graves of many who died in the 1956 Uprising. Get a map that indicates the location of noteworthy graves at the entrance.

Explore the Jewish Quarter. Walk on the streets of the former Ghetto, visit synagogues, monuments, kosher restaurants and kosher shops. It’s a colorful neighborhood with a tragic past and a lively present.

Marvel at giant statues in Memento Park. What to do with statues of Lenin, Marx or Béla Kun after the Communist era? Instead of being thrown away, they were moved to Memento Park. Called the “socialist Disneyland”, this park showcases 42 pieces of art from the Communist era between 1945 and 1989. You can also watch old propaganda films in the on-site cinema – funny, or not so much. Buy your ticket in advance here.

Visit some lesser-known, beautiful churches. Like the Neo-Gothic Church of St. Elizabeth with its rose garden on the Square of Roses ( Rózsák tere ). Or the medieval Jewish Prayer House on Táncsics Street in the Buda Castle District.

Reflect on the past in the Holocaust Memorial Centre. It’s in the Páva Synagogue since 2004. The building complex itself is an interesting mix of classical and modern architecture.

Relax in the prettiest parks in Budapest

Sit out on Erzsébet Square. Just a stone’s throw away from majestic St. Stephen’s Basilica and Fashion Street, there’s a lovely park with benches, fountains and playgrounds on Erzsébet Square. Take some time to relax here in the middle of a busy sightseeing day. (You can get drinks and ice-cream, too.)

Have a picnic on the lawn on Liberty Square. Surrounded by some of the most impressive old palaces of Budapest, there’s a nice green park on Liberty Square. Check out the interactive fountain, too!

Visit the cool social space and playgrounds in Olimpia Park. Redesigned and renovated in 2014, it’s only a short walk from the Hungarian Parliament, and also rewards with pretty Danube views.

Take a walk at Millenáris Park. In place of a factory Central Europe’s largest recreational park was built, along with an exhibition and conference center. Walk among its 300+ trees, lie on the lakeshore, marvel at the hanging gardens, the blossoming cherry trees (usually some time in April) and the water displays. Millenáris Park is one of the best parks in Budapest, but even more than that: a social and cultural space.

Enjoy a drink at Kopaszi gát. Located a bit out of the city center, Kopaszi gát is one of the most beautiful places to relax by the Danube. Countless restaurants and bars offer tables outside along the promenade. It’s also a popular place among bikers, runners and yoga practitioners.

Relax in Thurzó Park in Újlipótváros. Haven’t you ever heard about it? Fair enough, it has been recently opened in 2023, and it occupies a place which was home to an old and quite ugly parking area. 80% of this park is covered by green, including 70+ trees. You can choose your bench, sun lounger or hammock, and kids will appreciate the giant wooden swing. It’s one of the lesser-known places in Budapest that locals love and appreciate so much. Moreover, it’s located in Újlipótváros district – a hip area not many tourists know about. Stroll the streets and keep your eyes open for quirky cafés, bookstores and fascinating modernist buildings from the 1930s and 1940s on Pozsonyi Road.

Hidden architecture gems in Budapest

Take a walk around Nyugati Train Station. It might not be so hidden since it’s one of the busiest railway stations in Budapest, but it’s not a typical sight that people include in their sightseeing walk. (Except those who travel to Budapest by train.) But you definitely could. This giant iron-and-glass building built in 1877 is quite impressive.

Visit a library that takes place in a palace. Neo-Baroque Wenckheim Palace hosts Szabó Ervin Library since 1931. This is the place where many local students go to study. Buy yourself a day ticket and look around inside.

Take a walk in the Palace District ( Palotanegyed in Hungarian). This area is roughly from Astoria to Múzeum Avenue. This was a prestigious place to live so lots of wealthy families built their palaces here in the 19 th and 20 th centuries. Some magnificent pieces are Festetics Palace (Pollack Mihály Square 3), Károlyi Palace (Pollack Mihály Square 10), Keglevich Palace (Bródy Sándor Square 9), Bókay Palace (Múzeum Street 9) or Eszterházy Palace (Pollack Mihály Square 8).

See the colorful interior of Kazinczy Street Synagogue. Built in Art Nouveau style, it’s one of the largest operating orthodox synagogues in Europe.

Wander on the streets around Liberty Square. Find the amazing Art Nouveau building of Royal Postal Savings Bank with its colourful tiles and folk motifs (Hold Street), Walkó House, one of the first Art Nouveau buildings in Budapest (Aulich Street 3), the House of Hungarian Art Nouveau (Honvéd Street 3) or the National Bank of Hungary.

Take an interior tour of Liszt Music Academy. Or go for a concert. The interior of this Art Nouveau concert hall has been renovated and is richly embellished with Zsolnay porcelain and frescoes.

Enjoy luxury in the Four Seasons Gresham Palace Hotel . The Art Nouveau Gresham Palace facing Chain Bridge houses this luxury hotel today. If you’re on budget, take a look at it from the outside, that’s worth a photo, as well.

Visit the Cave Church of Gellért Hill. This small chapel was built into a cave on Gellért Hill in 1926. It’s free to enter, and masses are held there regularly.

Hunt for even more stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Find the National Institute for the Blind, Miksa Róth Memorial House, Sonnenberg House (Munkácsy Mihály Street 23), Sipeki Villa (Hermina Way 47) or Fasori Reformed Church – all near the City Park. The Hungarian Royal Geological Institute with its roof decorated by Zsolnay ceramics is a bit longer walk from the City Park. Dob Street High School in the city center (Dob Street 85) has a beautiful, colorful facade. You can even find an Art Nouveau piece in Budapest Zoo: the Elephant House.

Find award winning modern architecture. Namely the Palace of Arts (MÜPA) near Rákóczi Bridge. It’s home to Béla Bartók National Concert Hall, a modern Festival Theatre and a gallery of contemporary art. New additions to the best modern buildings in Budapest are the Museum of Ethnography (opened in 2022) and the House of Music (opened in 2021) – both are in the City Park.

Get romantic at Barabás Villa at Városmajor. This Neo-Classicist building, once the summer home of Miklós Barabás, a famous Hungarian painter, is a popular wedding venue these days.

Walk on the bridges. Budapest has eight bridges. Though Chain Bridge is the oldest and most famous one, there are some more that look pretty and offer pretty views of the city – Liberty Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge, Margaret Bridge or Rákóczi Bridge.

Mihály Kolodko’s tiny sculptures. The tiny statuettes are created by Mihály Kolodko , and they depict random aspects of Hungarian life. Dotted around Budapest, you can find them near famous sights and vantage points. Like big-eared cartoon character “Kockásfülű nyúl” at the upper station of the Funicular, a Rubik’s Cube and a “Sad Tank” along Bem rakpart by the Danube, or a Trabant statue at Margaret Bridge (on the Buda side).

Climb the stairs to the tomb of Gül Baba for pretty views. Gül Baba was a muslim monk who died in 1541, the year when Ottoman Turkey occupied Budapest. You find his tomb ( türbe in Hungarian) on a tranquil hillside in Buda. Start from Mecset Street, walk in the rose garden, and leave on the other side, down to Gül Baba Street.

What to eat and drink in Budapest?

Eat goulash or Fisherman’s soup. They are the most iconic and quite fulfilling Hungarian dishes. Goulash is somewhere between a soup and stew, with beef, carrot, potato and paprika. Fisherman’s soup is prepared from mixed river fish and with a great amount of hot paprika that gives it a typical red color. You can find them in any Hungarian restaurant, but they’re often sold as prepared street food at festivals and markets, as well.

Visit the Great Market Hall to taste some local food. This large indoor food market is close to Váci Street. It’s not only known for the great variety of food offerings, but also for its amazing architecture. Prepared food are sold on the second floor – try stuffed cabbage, goulash soup, lecsó (a local ratatouille), sour cherry soup, lángos (somewhat like a donut, but it’s salty, not sweet) or Hortobágyi palacsinta (a salty version of crêpes filled with meat).

Check out one of the ruin pubs in Budapest – or many of them. What’s a ruin pub? The recipe is as follows: find an old abandoned building in downtown Pest, occupy it (rent it, I should say), fill it with furniture as old and rickety as possible, invite some contemporary artists to decorate the walls, serve some drinks, and people will love it. And well, people do love ruin pubs. They are among the most funky places to visit in Budapest, and locals love them just as much as visitors. Szimpla Kert is the oldest one, but there are dozens more. If you need help, take part in a guided pub crawl or a local guided small group ruin bar tour.

Go where the locals go for fresh produce: Lehel Market. This quirky (or ugly, it depends on your taste) postmodern building is home to one of Budapest’s liveliest markets. Less touristy than the famous Great Market Hall, but full of Hungarian cold cuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade jams and prepared food. Prepare to practice your Hungarian here. 🙂

Taste Hungarian street food. Lángos, roasted sausage with mustard, pogácsa (something like a biscuit, but it’s not sweet), palacsinta, fánk (the Hungarian donut) or kürtöskalács (chimney cake). The latter is an essential part of any Hungarian Christmas Markets.

Eat typical Hungarian sweet pasta dishes. Not every Hungarian dish has meat as an ingredient. These pastas are cheap (not in the elegant restaurants though) and can be easily made. You’ll unlikely to see any Hungarian eating it in a restaurant, because we eat it at home. And any Hungarian kid can name their favorite – noodles topped with jam ( lekváros tészta ), ground walnuts ( diós tészta ) or poppy seeds ( mákos tészta ).

Spoil yourself with a special Hungarian dessert. Rétes (the Hungarian version of strudel) filled with apple, cherry, cottage cheese or poppy seed is a popular dessert, especially at Christmas time. Somlói Galuska is made of sponge cake, layered with chocolate cream, walnut kernel, rum and whipped cream. Legendary Dobos Cake was invented in 1885 by the Hungarian confectioner József Dobos. It’s made of sponge cake, layered with chocolate buttercream, and topped with crispy caramel. Then there’s chestnut purée – made from chestnut (yepp, they’re not just for roasting).

Cook some easy Hungarian dishes yourself. There are those foods that Hungarians would never order in a restaurant. They’re typical and easy to make. Like layered potato casserole ( rakott krumpli ), green pea stew ( zöldborsó főzelék ) or lecsó.

Cook a traditional three-course Hungarian lunch. This tour takes you through the process, and you can also dive into the secrets of Central Market Hall with your guide.

Try a typical dish – savory or sweet – with cottage cheese. If you ask us, cottage cheese ( túró ) is the best ingredient used in lots of Hungarian dishes. Some of these dishes are savory, some are sweet – and there’s one that can be both (though there could be serious fights in the family about which version is the original 😀 ). Our favorite is cottage cheese dumplings ( túrógombóc ) that you’re unlikely to find outside of Hungary. Then palacsinta filled with cottage cheese is a typical street food. Rákóczi túrós is a sweet-pastry topped with cottage cheese and apricot jam. Baked noodles can also be made with cottage cheese and sour cream ( túrós csusza ) – in certain families it’s a savory dish with crispy pork cracklings, in others it’s turned into a sweet dessert by using powdered sugar instead.

Drink pálinka . It’s a popular and strong Hungarian alcoholic beverage that’s traditionally distilled from different kinds of fruits – plums, pears, peaches, cherries or grapes. When you drink it, it warms you up from the inside.

Taste a famous Hungarian wine. Because Hungary is famous for wines. A sweet dessert wine called Tokaji aszú is an authentic and unique wine from Hungary’s most well-known wine region, Tokaj.

Try the special sweets and handmade bonbons at Szamos Gourmet Palace and Cafe on Váci Street. It’s one of our favorite places to go for sweets – or delicious ice cream in the summer.

Sip gourmet coffee at New York Café. It’s probably one of the most beautiful places in the entire world to have a coffee. Or hot chocolate. Or tea. Or apple pie.

Visit a milk bar. Yes, it’s a thing in Budapest. Offering a large selection of pastries and dairies, they’re great places to have a delicious breakfast. The most well-known milk bar is Cserpes Tejivó .

Buy Túró Rudi in any supermarket. This chocolate bar is filled with sweet cheese and also available in flavoured versions, like with different jam fillings. Pöttyös is the most popular brand.

Taste the best lángos at Ufo Lángos . It’s a small business run by mother and son, and they offer a variety of this popular Hungarian street food: the traditional ones with garlic and cheese-sour cream, but they also have unique ones, topped up with lecsó or bacon.

Seasonal goodies in Budapest

Visit the Christmas Markets in December . Marvel at the decorations, try delicious meals, drink hot mulled wine and share some good laughs with your friends.

Go ice-skating on the rink in front of Vajdahunyad Castle in the City Park. This is a lovely artificial lake in summer and an open ice rink in winter.

If it’s cold outside, treat yourself with a hot chocolate. Here are our favorite places to get one!

We could continue the above advice differently: if it’s cold outside, drink mulled wine. Sweet, spicy and hot. It’s not only popular at Christmas markets but anytime in winter.

Have a fröccs in the summer. Though this drink exists throughout the year, people usually drink it on hot summer days. It’s red or rosé wine mixed with different quantities of soda water.

Have fun at Sziget Festival in August. Each August the island of Óbuda turns into one of the largest music festivals in Europe: Sziget Festival. It offers more than a thousand different performances and a unique atmosphere.

Go roving in front of Vajdahunyad Castle in the City Park. Ice rink in winter, lake in summer. It’s not just New York’s Central Park where you can go roving even though that’s what we usually see in movies. 😀

Marvel at fireworks over the Danube on the 20 th of August. This national holiday celebrates Hungary’s first king, St Stephen, and the foundation of our state. It ends with spectacular fireworks in the evening.

Visit one of the open-air bars in Budapest in the summer. Some of them are truly quirky – like Pagony, AnKERT or Fellini Római with its own little beach.

Stroll beneath blossoming trees in spring. Blossoming cherry trees included. Some nice places for a spring walk are Baross Street, Reviczky Street, Gellért Hill, Kopaszi-gát, Erzsébet Square, Károlyi Gardens or the streets of Buda Castle District. Or you can visit Füvészkert, the botanical garden of ELTE University.

Visit Budapest Spring Festival in April. Taking place at multiple venues across the city, you can enjoy concerts, listen to readings or see theater shows.

Experience a traditional Hungarian Easter at the Open Air Ethnographic Museum (Skanzen) in Szentendre. Take part in Easter activities like egg painting and other arts and crafts.

Get impressed by unique architecture pieces during Budapest100 each May. It’s an annual celebration of 100-year old buildings in the city, first held in 2011. You may visit residential houses, schools, museums and offices that are otherwise closed to the public.

Enjoy wildflower blooming in the Buda Hills in spring. Countless popular trails start from Normafa, Hűvösvölgy or Csillebérc.

Marvel at the countless shades of autumn in the city parks and in the Buda Hills. Budapest has four seasons, and autumn can be just as spectacular as spring blooming. You already know the parks and trails, but what’s the best time? Usually, autumn is the most colorful in October.

Read this, too: Why Should You Visit Budapest In Autumn?

Choose your festival for autumn. Several festivals take place in Budapest in autumn. Budapest’s Pálinka and Sausage Festival. Budapest Wine Festival. Two-weeks Café Budapest Contemporary Art Festival that’s focused on contemporary arts like film, dance, music, photography and theater.

Best photo spots in Budapest

Pose next to a Trabant in Memento Park. Trabant is the famous “people’s car” of the communist era, it was made of pressed plastic units.

Take a picture with Ronald Reagan on Liberty Square. The statue honors Reagan’s efforts to end the Cold War. Ironically, it looks directly to the monument commemorating the Red Army.

Sit next to The Little Princess. This statue of a little girl sits on the railings of the Danube promenade at Vigadó Square.

Hug the Fat Policeman. The statue of a policeman stands on the corner of Zrínyi Street and Október 6 Street since 2008. It’s said that patting his belly will bring good luck.

Join Attila József, a famous Hungarian poet, staring at the Danube near the Parliament. He is one the most significant Hungarian poets whose poems are taught in every school. He had a difficult life and committed suicide at the age of 32.

Stroll the Ecseri Flea Market. This will be a cultural experience, and you’ll see the quirkiest things offered, including retro clothing, artworks and staff from the Communist era. If you like photographing weird subjects, you’ll be obsessed with this place!

Get your shot at Fisherman’s Bastion. One of the most popular Instagram spots in Budapest is definitely Fisherman’s Bastion. With the views and the architecture, it’s not really surprising.

Take a picture with a historical tram. Several lines run on the streets of both Pest and Buda. Famous tram 2 running along the shore of the Danube is also a historical tram.

Take a picture with Columbo near the National Comedy Theatre. What the greatest detective of all times has to do on a street in Budapest? Peter Falk, the actor who played Columbo, was born from a Jewish Hungarian mother.

Take your shot with the Millennium Underground Railway. Metro Line 1. It’s the oldest metro line in Budapest, having been in operation since 1896. Both its trains and stations have a retro look.

Get your retro shot at Csepel Művek. Csepel is famous for being the working-class borough in socialist Hungary, with several factories. Though this neighborhood changed a lot since that era (and for the better if you ask me), you still find places that have that vibe. Like Csepel Művek, once a busy iron and metal factory, today merely a shadow of it. This abandoned feel is what makes it special.

Watch the sunset over the city from Liberty Statue at the top of Gellért Hill. And, of course, don’t forget to take tons of pictures.

Budapest travel tips for getting around

You don’t need a car, public transport is good. Actually, a car only causes headaches because of crazy traffic and limited parking. Public transport is okay even during the night. Tram 4 and Tram 6 have a 24 hours service; otherwise night lines have different routes and timetables than regular ones so check it if you need to use them.

Get the Budapest Card for getting around and visiting the best places in Budapest. This tourist card offers unlimited public transport, free museum entries and discounts at restaurants and spas. Cards are available for 24, 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours.

Get to Budapest from Liszt Ferenc Airport by public transport, too. 100E is the express bus from the airport to Deák Ferenc Square, you need a special ticket for it. Bus 200E and metro line M3 also takes you to the center with regular line tickets or passes. Between 12 am to 4 am in the night, check the night service.

Plan public transport routes in Budapest with the BKK Futár app. Alternatively, you can plan with Google Maps, as well, it’s pretty accurate for Budapest public transport.

Use Mobiljegy app to buy tickets and passes for Budapest public transport. Metro stations and most of the main bus and tram stops have ticketing machines where you can pay with card or cash. But if it’s not working or there’s no machine, you can buy your ticket or pass on your phone with Mobiljegy app. As a last resort, you can buy it when getting on the bus, but it’s more expensive then – and drivers rarely have change, so you need the exact amount in cash.

Parking is usually free in the city center on weekends. No guarantee though that you actually find a free spot anywhere, and there are a few parking zones where a fee is charged even on weekends. We prefer public transport.

Use the Simple app to buy parking tickets with your phone. Of course, the app tells you whether you’re in a toll zone or whether a toll is charged on that particular day. You can also use this app to pay for toll roads, taxi, or buy different kinds of tickets.

Über is not available in Hungary, but you can use Taxify/Bolt. Download the app to your phone, request a taxi and pay through the app. It’s the safest way to get a taxi for a reasonable price.

Easy to get around by bike. The city center of Budapest is quite walkable, but there’s also a bike-sharing system that you can make use of if you prefer exploring it by bike. More info about “MOL Bubi” bike-sharing and their available tickets here .

Now you tell us, what did you like the best in Budapest? Or what would you like to see the most, if you haven’t been yet?

Disclosure: Please note that affiliate links are used in this post, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase.

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Which are the best lesser-known hikes in north america, sign up to get your free e-book and join the community:, by beata urmos.

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

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Budapestbylocals.com

Budapest travel guide, essential information to plan your trip to budapest.

Are you thinking of traveling to Budapest? The Hungarian capital is a beautiful city with stunning architecture, a vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine.

Use our Budapest travel guide to plan your visit well.

Here we collected all the information you need for a carefree vacation from

• Choosing the best time to visit, and
• Best way to get here, to
• How to get around the city along with other
• Essential tourist information about Hungary’s capital.

We’ll also give you some tips on why you should visit and how long you should stay. Let’s get started on planning your visit with our guide!

Table of Contents – Budapes Travel

Budapest travel info & facts.

Budapest Accommodation

Choosing the right Budapest  accommodation  is very important to really enjoy your stay in the Hungarian capital. Many  new hotels , apartments and pensions have been built …

Why Visit Budapest?

Many travellers might ask the question “Why visit Budapest?”, and what to do in Budapest that one should include it in her/his travel plans.

Budapest Information

Learn about some essential information about Budapest for a carefree vacation. The  Basic facts  give you the bare bone essentials.

Budapest Weather

When is Hungary’s Capital the Most Favourable For a Visit? The weather in Budapest is definitely not boring.

Costs, Prices in Budapest, Currency in Hungary

Price of Food, Eating Out, Transportation and Other Services See how much the most …

Public Holidays in Hungary – National Days

Shops, food markets are closed in Budapest on public holidays and National Days.

Safety in Budapest

Although Budapest is safer for tourists than most big cities, there are some common tourist traps..

Basic Budapest Facts

The following information about Budapest covers the basic facts one should know when …..

Budapest for First Time Visitors

Browse our guide to to help you get the most of your stay!

Budapest Travel Passport and Visa Information

If you’re planning a trip to Budapest, you may need to check the visa requirements based on your nationality .

EU and EEA (European Economic Area) citizens don’t need a vis a to visit Hungary or stay for up to 90 days.

Citizens of some other countries like the USA, Canada , and Australia are also allowed to stay for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it’s essential to check the latest visa requirements before traveling, as regulations can change at any time.

If you do need a visa, you can apply for a Schengen visa , which allows you to travel to any of the 26 Schengen countries, including Hungary.

The application process may take several weeks, so it’s best to apply as early as possible.

What Will You Need For Your Visa Application?

You’ll need to provide documentation like

• a passport,
• flight tickets,
• travel insurance, and
• proof of accommodation to support your visa application.

The embassy or consulate of the country you’re applying from can provide more information on the requirements and the application process.

Who Needs What Document To Visit Budapest/Hungary?

• Visitors form the U. S. and Canada need a valid passport to enter Hungary.
• Visitors from the European Economic Area can enter with valid personal identification card (no passport is required) and can stay for 90 days without visa.
• These countries are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Netherlands, Poland, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Rumania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain.
• Swiss travellers , though Switzerland is not member of the ECA (European Economic Area), but member of the Schengen zone, can also enter with a personal ID card.
• Denmark, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, and Norway don’t issue personal identification cards, so people from these countries can visit Hungary and Budapest with a valid passport.
• Swedish citizens can enter Hungary either with a valid passport or a personal ID card issued after 1. October 2005. For up to date information on entry and visa requirements to Hungary please visit the official site on the

Best Ways to Get Here – By Air, Train, Ship or Bus

Flights to Budapest

Best Air Travel Options to Hungary’s Capital Many international airlines ..

Budapest Airport

lights to Budapest land at  Liszt Ferenc International Airport  (BUD) some 25 km far from the city centre.

Budapest Airport Transfer

This  affordable  and reliable Budapest airport transfer service will take you to your  hotel  …

Flights, Cheap Airlines In Europe

Due to the Central Europena location Budapest can be easily accessed from most European cities by air within around 2 -3 hours .: Paris, London, Dublin, Edinburgh, Barcelona, Moscow, Kiev, Brussels, Warsaw, Vienna, Prague, Rome, Amsterdam, Helsinki, Zurich, Lisboa, Istanbul

Many European airlines offer flights to Budapest, including budget airlines like

• Wizz Air, and
• easyJet (Berlin, London, Paris),
• Jet2 (from Manchester, New Castle, Birmingham, and Leeds Bradford),
• germanwings (Cologne-Bonn and Stuttgart).

Other airlines like Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France also operate flights to Budapest.

Flighst From The U.S.

Direct flights to Budapest are available from two cities of the US:

• New York, and

Airlines from North America fly via major European capitals (American Airlines via London or Helsinki, Delta via Paris or Amsterdam).

Budapest has fairly efficient airport, the Ferenc Liszt International Airport , which lies about 16 kilometers southeast from the city center.

Flights land at and depart from the Terminal 2 .

Budapest Travel: Getting To Budapest By Train

If you prefer traveling by train, Budapest has good railway connections with other European cities.

Trains are an affordable and comfortable way to travel to Budapest from neighboring countries like Austria, Slovakia, and Croatia or go on daytrips to these countries.

Main Train Stations

The city has three international railway stations, all of them accessible by one of the 4 metro lines of Budapest and other public transport:

• Déli Pályaudvar = Southern TS – M2 (red) metroline
• Nyugati Pályaudvar = Western TS, and
• Keleti Pályaudvar = Eastern TS). M3 (green) metroline termini

Trains are available to Hungary’s countrys ide and other countries on intercity and express railway lines. You can reserve tickets online or buy them at the ticket offices at the stations.

See more on the National Railway Company’s (MÁV) website.

Travelling To Budapest By Coach/Bus

Probably the cheapest way to come here is with an international coach service.

Coaches arrive at the central bus station at Népliget.

The Népliget station is on the blue metro line so you can easily get to your Budapest hotel or other place in the city. See our Metro page .

You can also take tram No. 1 to get to your destination within Budapest.

More information on international coach travel and tickets at Volanbusz Transport Company’s website .

Getting To Budapest by Car

Motorways are in good conditions so you can reach the capital city quite quickly from all directions.

Most lower-level roads in Hungary however are in bad condition and especially during summer, road construction works slow down the traffic.

Not to mention bad driving manners, particularly in Budapest. You’ll also have problems finding parking space in the Hungarian capital.

If you must come by car I suggest you leave your car in one of the P+R parking places (if you aren’t staying in a hotel where you can leave your car in the hotel’s garage) and use public transportation for travelling within the city.

TIP: If you however need to park somewhere in the city centre check parking prices here.

Travel To Budapest By Boat

Certainly the most romantic way to come here is by ship on the Danube.

If you are already in Europe, you can take a river cruise from Vienna or Bratislava to Budapest.

There are also several companies, the best known is Viking Cruises that offer river cruises from other European cities such as Amsterdam, Paris, and Bucharest, which include a stop in Budapest.

Hydrofoils used to run between Vienna and Budapest from April to early November run by Mahartpassnave company, but sadly they ceased to operate the service in 2017.

It took you to the downtown in 5-6 hours. You can admire the breathtaking Danube bend during your journey. Schedule in 2013: From Vienna: 29. Apr – 26 Sept: Tuesday, Thursday at 9.00, at 14.30

FAQs About Visiting Budapest

When is the best time to visit.

You will most likely enjoy your visit to Budapest between March – May and September – November.

Visiting this time will reward you with more pleasant weather (not to hot not too cold), less crowd , and lower accommodation prices than in peak season (June-July-August).

Is Budapest safe for tourists?

Budapest is a fairly safe city for tourists, no less safe than other big cities in Western Europe. Use your common sense and you will be quite alright.

Notwithstanding the Hungarian capital has its share of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas like major tourist attractions and public transportation. Read our detailed guide to how to stay safe in Budapest!

How long should you stay in Budapest?

Budapest offers plenty of things to do, and how long you stay depends on your interests.

You can spend 2- or 3 days or a weekend in Budapest, but if you want to explore the city fully and perhaps go on a daytrip to visit nearby cities like Szentendre or Lake Balaton, we recommend staying for at least five days .

This will give you enough time to see the main attractions and experience the local culture, nightlife, and cuisine as well as a bit of other parts of Hungary.

13 of the best things to do in Budapest

Nov 15, 2023 • 7 min read

Experience Budapest with our guide to the best things to do © Balazs Kofarago / Getty Images

There are many fantastic experiences to be had in Budapest . From soaking in muscle-melting waters at centuries-old thermal baths , to romantic meeting points above the city and traveling back in time at a 19th-century coffeehouse, this guide to things to do in Hungary ’s vibrant capital will keep you busy.

Here are some of Budapest's best activities.

1. Visit Budapest's neo-Gothic Parliament building

Budapest’s neo-Gothic Parliament building dominates the curve of the Danube and is a true postcard superstar. It houses the Holy Crown (used to crown the country’s monarchs since the 12th century), as well as other royal jewels.

Not too far from Parliament, you’ll find one of the city’s most moving memorials – the Shoes on the Danube . The poignant monument honors the victims of the Holocaust who were marched to the riverbank on a dark winter’s day and ordered to remove their shoes before being shot and falling into the fast-flowing river beneath. 

Planning tip: English-language guided tours of Parliament are available, but it’s best to book ahead.

2. Soak at one of the city's incredible thermal spas

Budapest sits on a patchwork of thermal springs – mineral-rich water spouts from the ground – hence the abundance of thermal spas, many dating back to Turkish times. These waters are said to be capable of curing just about anything, and soaking in a thermal pool is a top Budapest experience. 

The world-famous Széchenyi Baths is the biggest spa complex in Europe, and while the location could certainly be described as a tourist trap, its majestic architectural elements and outdoor pools still make it an unmissable place to visit. Other spas dotted throughout Budapest also have special amenities, such as the rooftop hot tub at Rudas Baths .

Planning tip:  Gellért Baths , with its stained-glass windows and colorful porcelain tiles, is a wonderful place to go if you want more peaceful plunging. 

3. Explore the Castle District

The Buda side's rolling hills are crowned by the former Royal Palace , one of the city’s most emblematic buildings. Razed and rebuilt several times through the ages, today it houses the Hungarian Natural Gallery and major temporary exhibitions. 

Other iconic landmarks include  Fishermen’s Bastion , with its unparalleled panorama of Pest's skyline over the Danube. The Gothic Matthias Church is just steps away on twisting cobble-stoned streets. 

For coffee and cake , be sure to stop by Ruszwurm , the longest-running confectionery in Hungary. The Hospital in the Rock Museum , packed with wax figures and original medical equipment, was once a functioning hospital beneath the Royal Palace. The vintage funicular – one of the oldest funicular railways in the world – whisks you up to the palace in minutes. Alternatively, hop on bus 16, which has many stops throughout the city, or just hike up (it’s not as far as it seems, we promise).

4. Take a ride through downtown on Tram 2

Frequently cited as one of the most panoramic tram journeys in the world, Tram 2 travels all along the Danube shore between the Margaret Bridge (Jászai Mari tér) and south Pest. It chugs alongside everything you need to see downtown, all for the price of a regular public transport ticket. 

Planning tip:  A boat trip serves as a lovely alternative to the tram. If you don’t want to spend money on a sightseeing cruise, you can use the public boats with a regular transport ticket. 

5. See the religious relics of the Basilica

The ornate St Stephen’s Basilica is the city’s biggest church, found steps away from Deák Square. Inside, the basilica hides the country’s most revered (and eerie) religious relic – the embalmed right hand of St Stephen, the founding king of Hungary. Climb the 193 steps (or take the lift) to the basilica’s dome for some of the best views of Budapest. 

6. Stroll along Andrássy Avenue and in City Park 

Full of fancy shops, cafes and gorgeous buildings, tree-lined Andrássy Avenue is Budapest’s version of the Champs-Élysées. It begins behind the basilica and stretches all the way to Heroes’ Square , one of the city’s most famous monuments. Along the way, you’ll see the Hungarian State Opera and the harrowing House of Terror Museum , the former headquarters of the secret police, where victims of cruel regimes were once tortured. 

Where the avenue ends, City Park begins. The Pest side's biggest park is home to a rowboat-filled lake, which is an ice rink in winter, fairy-tale Vajdahunyad Castle and Széchenyi Baths.

Planning tip: Should you find the walk too long, the Millennium Underground, the oldest metro in continental Europe, runs the whole length of Andrássy.

7. Have a coffee at a historical coffeehouse

Budapest’s coffee-drinking culture dates back centuries, and its classic coffeehouses are a sight to behold. Many were cradles of culture and haunts for Hungary’s literary greats. The most prominent is New York Café , once chosen as the most beautiful coffeehouse in the world, where gilded and marble surfaces, crimson colors, crystals, frescoes, chandeliers and often live Hungarian music bring back that fin-de-siècle finesse. Gerbeaud Café , Hadik or Centrál are equally great choices for a trip back in time. 

8. See the city from a viewpoint or rooftop bar

With the curving Danube, beautiful bridges and stunning landmarks, Budapest is especially beautiful – and photogenic – from up above. If you fancy a bit of a walk, climb up to the Citadella and Budapest’s Statue of Liberty on Gellért Hill for a rewarding view. If you’d rather sit back with a drink and enjoy a front-row seat to all of Budapest, try any of the city’s many rooftop bars . 

Planning tip:  Several areas of the Citadella are under renovation and may be closed to visitors.

9. Spend a day on Margaret Island

Margaret Island is Budapest’s biggest green oasis – accessible by foot from the middle of yellow Margaret Bridge. The whole island is a huge park, home to the ruin of a medieval church, a lovely Japanese garden, century-old towering trees and endless picnics.

Planning tip: Head for the centerpiece of the island – a large fountain that lights up and “dances” to music every hour from spring to winter. The 9pm show is enhanced with a multimedia screening that displays images of Hungary’s greats projected onto a water curtain.

10. See the distinctive architecture of the Great Synagogue

The largest Jewish place of worship outside New York City, the Moorish-style Great Synagogue is one of Budapest’s most eye-catching buildings. Built in 1859, the distinctive structure, with its crenelated red-and-yellow glazed-brick facade and two enormous towers, stands next to the Hungarian Jewish Museum. In the courtyard is the poignant Holocaust Tree of Life Memorial , designed by sculptor Imre Varga.

11. Experience the best nightlife at ruin pubs and garden clubs

Budapest's nightlife is world famous, and a visit during the long, hot summer is not complete without an evening in one of the city's many so-called kertek , literally "gardens," but in Budapest, any outdoor spot that has been converted into an entertainment zone. These often rough-and-ready venues, including courtyards, rooftops and romkocsmák (ruin pubs) that rise phoenix-like from abandoned buildings, can change from year to year and are seasonal, but some of the more successful ones, like Szimpla Kert , are now permanent and open year-round.

12. Explore history in Memento Park

Containing statues and other memorials from the communist past,  Memento Park can only be described as a cemetery of socialist mistakes, or a well-manicured trash heap of history. In southern Buda, it’s home to about four dozen statues, busts and plaques of Lenin, Marx and home-grown henchmen like Béla Kun. Ogle the socialist-realist works and try to imagine that some were still being erected in the late 1980s and remained in their original locations until the early 1990s.

13. Ride the rails in the Buda Hills

They may be short on sights – though Béla Bartók’s house , where he spent his final year in Hungary, is open to visitors here – but the Buda Hills  are a very welcome respite from the hot, dusty city in the warmer months. Perhaps the hills' biggest draw is the unusual transportation: a narrow-gauge cog railway dating from the late 19th century will get you up into the hills, a train run by children takes you across them, and a chairlift will glide you back down to terra firma.

This article was first published February 2020 and updated November 2023

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Budapest Airport Guide

Public Transportation

Neighborhoods to Know

72-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Budapest

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Best Museums

Thermal Baths

Shopping in Budapest

Hungarian Dishes to Try

Best Restaurants in Budapest

Ruin Bars to Visit

Your Trip to Budapest: The Complete Guide

Jennifer Walker is a freelance writer specializing in art, travel, and culture. Jennifer's work has appeared in many publications, including Matador Network and CNN Travel.

Budapest is one of Europe's most photogenic capitals. Divided in two by the Danube River, many of the city's most famous sites cluster around the river. But no matter where you walk, especially if you remember to look up, you'll always find some unique detail that captures your imagination. Once your camera has run out of battery or you're done with sightseeing (whichever happens first), you can take a dip in one of the stunning thermal water baths or grab a drink at an iconic ruin bar . Whether you're into architecture with a touch of drama, old-world cafes, thriving nightlife, grand thermal spas, or even communist history, Budapest has something for you. You'll find history etched into its bullet-scarred walls and life buzzing around its boulevards and promenades downtown.

Here’s a complete guide about when to visit, where to stay, what to do, how you can get around, and more on your visit to the Hungarian capital.

Planning Your Trip to Budapest 

• Best Time to Visit : The shoulder seasons like fall and spring are the best time to visit Budapest. The temperatures are the most pleasant and it’s not too crowded this time of year.
• Language: Hungarian 
• Currency: Hungarian Forint 
• Getting Around: Budapest has an excellent public transportation system, which makes it very easy to get around. It’s also a very walkable city, so if you are centrally located you can walk everywhere. Otherwise, you can take the metro, tram, bus, or even the local public transport boat, which runs along the Danube in the summer. 
• Travel Tip: Make sure you validate your single tickets correctly when you get on the tram, bus, or metro. Plainclothes ticket inspectors may fine you if you’re caught with an unvalidated ticket.

Things to Do

First-time visitors should head up to Castle Hill for fantastic views over the river and the charming historic streets winding around Fisherman’s Bastion and the Royal Palace of Buda Castle. Once you’re done with the historic Buda side, cross the Chain Bridge on foot to downtown Pest for St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament.

Art lovers and history buffs have no shortage of excellent museums to explore. Be sure to make a stop at Memento Park—a large park where communist statues go to die. If you enjoy nature, head up to the Buda Hills for hiking, or go for a ride on the Children's Railway. The only capital where caves run below the city   , Budapest offers many caverns to explore as well, including Pálvölgyi and Szemlőhegy Caves. Some things every visitor to the city should do are:

• Take a boat up the Danube. See the city from the river on a boat tour or take the local public transport boat for a couple of dollars.
• Bar hop in the Jewish District. Explore Budapest’s most famous ruin bars by night. Grab a drink at Szimpla, the first ruin bar of the city, and head over to nearby Instant-Fogas.
• Visit a thermal bath . Boasting more thermal baths than any other capital city   , Budapest has rightfully earned its title as the City of Spas. There are more than 80 geothermal springs and 10 thermal baths here, so you have plenty to choose from. If you want grand architecture, head to the Széchenyi or Gellért Thermal Baths. For a spot of history, go for a dip in one of the historic 16th century Turkish baths like the Rudas Baths.

Get more information about activities in Budapest with our guides to the city's best museums and top things to do in Budapest .

What to Eat and Drink

Hungarian food is rich and hearty. Meat, especially pork, dominates the cuisine, which tends to be spicier than its Central European counterparts. Most typically Hungarian dishes like goulash, catfish soup, or chicken paprikás bear a deep red color thanks to their generous paprika content. Other specialties you may want to try are street food like lángos, a deep-fried savory dough topped with cheese and sour cream, or chimney cake, a grilled brioche-like cake rolled in cinnamon, cocoa powder, or ground nuts. If you have a sweet tooth, try some of the amazing cakes in one of the historic cafes or confectionaries. The chocolate-caramel Dobos cake or the nutty Eszterházy cake won’t disappoint.

When it comes to drinking, Hungary has got you covered. Hungarian wine is gaining a solid reputation, and it’s incredibly diverse. You have the famous sweet dessert wines from the Tokaj region, the dry, crisp whites from Badacsony, and the rich reds from Eger or Villány. The beer scene is growing, so if you want to sample some Hungarian craft beers, an excellent place to try them is Élesztő, a ruin bar with 20 local brews on tap. If you’re feeling adventurous, maybe you can try some pálinka, a potent fruit brandy, or Unicum, a bitter herbal liqueur.

Budapest has six Michelin-starred restaurants   and plenty other award-winning dining establishments. You can still find more traditional restaurants scattered around town, but street food, craft burgers, and chic bistros are popping up more and more in Budapest’s Inner City and Jewish Quarter.

For more culinary inspiration, see our guide to the top restaurants in Budapest and Hungarian dishes you should try .

Where to Stay

Castle District: The Castle District puts you among some of the city’s most famous sites and charming bistros. If you like to sleep on quiet streets, this is a perfect choice as there are no clubs and very few late-night bars up here.

Inner City: You’ll find the best hotels in the Inner City in Pest’s V District. Not only will you be around the top shops and restaurants, but you can find the best hotels like the Four Seasons, the Aria Hotel, the Intercontinental, the Kempinski, and more in this district. You are also only minutes away from the main transport hubs, like Deák Ferenc tér, where you even have a direct bus to the airport.

Jewish District: If you want to be at the heart of the action, and don't mind having late nights, then you may want to stay in the Jewish District. You’ll find many hostels here—most of them party hostels—so it’s a part of town buzzing with youthful energy. Some of the hostels even have their own ruin bar.

Palace District: The Palace District is close enough to downtown to be within walking distance from the major sites, but is also a much quieter neighborhood than the neighboring Jewish District.

For more about accommodations, see our guide to the city's best hotels.

Getting There

Budapest’s Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) offers direct flights to and from New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago via major airlines like LOT Polish Airlines and American Airlines.

From the airport, it's a 30 to 40 minute drive to downtown. You can rent a car, use a rideshare like Bolt, hail a taxi, or take the 200E bus directly to Deák Ferenc Tér in the center of the city, or take the 100E bus which connects you to the metro line 3.

Money-Saving Tips

• Come to Budapest during the off-season. Since hotel rates can be very high in the height of summer or around Christmas, you can save a lot by visiting at a quieter time like April or October.
• If you’re planning to use public transport a lot and hit many of the museums, you may want to invest in a Budapest Card. This card gives you free public transport access, discounts or free entry to some of the museums and even the entrance to the Lukács Baths. 
• Go for the lunch menu. Most restaurants, even the high-end ones, will offer a good value lunch menu. You can also eat out pretty cheaply by opting for street food or picking up a picnic from one of the local market halls and heading over to the Danube Banks or one of the many parks in the city. 
• Take one of the free walking tours in the city center to get your bearings and learn a little about Budapest’s history.

Budapest Festival & Tourism Centre . "The Caves of Budapest Open to the Public."

Budapest Festival & Tourism Centre . "Baths."

MICHELIN Guide . "Budapest Restaurants."

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Budapest Travel Guide

Home / Budapest Travel Guide

Budapest is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and is ideal for those who want to relax at high-class  spas, enjoy the Hungarian cuisine, shop and live luxuriously without having to spend a fortune.

Budapest is a city that is very close to my heart, partly because I have family from Hungary, but also thanks to all the city has to offer. 

In this travel guide, I share my best advice both before and during the trip.

Tourist Attractions in Budapest

Hungarian parliament.

The Hungarian Parliament is one of the world’s most famous landmarks, and daily guided tours are available that showcase all the sculptures, statues, paintings and the beautiful interior and exterior.

It is also here that you can have a look at the holy crown of St. Stephen and the Hungarian crown jewels. The best views of this magnificent building can be seen from the other side of the river, at the Fishermen’s Bastion.

Address: Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3. Metro station: Kossuth Lajos ter. Line M2.

Heroes Square

Heroes’ Square is a beautiful attraction that’s also included on the UNESCO list of world heritages. On this square stands the Millennium Monument with statues representing the seven chiefs who founded Hungary in the 800s.

In the middle of the monument stands a giant statue depicting the archangel Gabriel. On the same monument, you can see 14 sculptures of various compatriots who have made great contributions to Hungary throughout history.

Metro station: Hősök tere. Line M1.

Matthias Church

Matthias Church in Budapest is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve put my foot in. The church was founded in 1015 and offers a dreamlike architecture, both on the inside as well as the outside.

Matthias Church is located on the Buda side next to the Fisherman’s Bastion; about 5 minutes walk from the castle. It costs about 40 SEK to go into the church, but it is well worth it if you like old buildings.

It is a magical feeling and certain calm that hangs over this church which is still used by locals, both for praying and weddings.

Address: Szentháromság tér second

St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of Budapest’s most visited tourist attractions. The basilica is Hungary’s main church building and located right in the heart of the city, near Vaci Utca. This church is also where they keep King Stephen I’s mummified hand.

St. Stephen’s Basilica offers a fantastic architecture, including a beautiful spiral stair leading up to the dome. For about 4 Euros, one can go to the top of the church and enjoy an excellent view of the city.

Address: Szent István tér first Metro: Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út. Line M1.

Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall in Budapest offers a classic marketplace that attracts both tourists and locals. People come here to buy Hungarian sausages, fruits, vegetables and other local delicacies.

In addition to food, there are also plenty of crafts, porcelain, and lots of souvenirs. If you get hungry, there are plenty of food stalls serving traditional Hungarian dishes at reasonable prices.

The large market hall is a must place to visit, and although there are a lot of people, there’s still a homely atmosphere and mood.

Address: Vámház utca 1-3. Metro station: Fovam ter. Line M4.

Hungarian State Opera House

Classical Music and Opera is not my personal favorite, but if there is anywhere in the world to go to the Opera, it is in Budapest. The Hungarian State Opera House was built in the late 1800s and is considered one of the best and most beautiful opera houses.

Best of all is perhaps that it’s so cheap, but still give you a five-star performance.

Address: Andrássy út 22nd Metro Station: Opera. Line M1.

Buda Castle

Budapest Castle is located on the other side of the river, more precisely, on top of a hill on the Buda side.

This tourist attraction is also a part of the Unesco world heritage, and on the castle grounds awaits royal architecture, great views and fun activities such as crossbows and traditional Hungarian archery.

For those who are more interested in what’s inside the castle, there are guided tours to attend

The fastest way to get here is by cable car which goes all the way up, but it is just as easy to walk (about 10-15 minutes). It is free to enter the castle grounds, but it costs if you want to get into the castle itself.

Address: Szent György tér second

Spa & Thermal Baths

With over one hundred different thermal springs, it is not surprising that Budapest is nicknamed “the world’s spa capital”. Budapest is a city that will make your body and the soul smile.

Here are everything from old Turkish baths to traditional Hungarian spas and thermal baths, which both offer a great bathing experience, but also history and beautiful architecture.

Király Bath and the Rudas are two Turkish baths that I highly recommend, both built during the 1500s where much of the old architecture has been preserved.

Gellért

This bath opened up its gates as early as 1918 and is perhaps the most famous Spa in Budapest. Here awaits a magnificent bath house in pure Art Nouveau style. Gellért has both outdoor pools and indoor pools at different temperatures.

The water comes from a mineral-rich spring that is particularly rich in magnesium, calcium, sulfate, and chloride, to name a few. The water is said to heal several ailments and will be particularly effective for people with musculoskeletal, metabolic disorders and nerve pain.

Besides swimming, you are also offered a wide variety of treatments and massages. It is also possible to book a romantic spa experience with a private pool for two people.

Address: Kelenhegyi out 4. On the Buda side.

Szechenyi bath

In another part of Budapest, you will find another famous spa – The Szechenyi Bath, which is at least as impressive as Gellert. Szechenyi Bath is a bit outside the center, thus offers a more local and traditional experience.

There are many pools to choose from, just as it is with their spa treatments: mud baths, foot massage, and medical healing massage just to name a few.

In the summers you’ll also see old Hungarian men playing chess in the pool area.

Address: Állatkerti körut 11. Just next to the metro station. Metro station: Szechenyi Baths. Line M1.

Budapest has a broad range of stores and shopping centers and has in recent years emerged as one of fashion cities in Europe. Here you’ll find everything from exclusive designer boutiques to local designers and international chains.

When it comes to shopping, Budapest has something for everyone, regardless of taste and budget.

A popular pedestrian street lined with shops and international restaurants. H & M, Pull & Bear, and Zara are some of the stores located here. Personally, I’d rather go to one of the shopping centers, but a walk along Váci Utca is always nice.

Metro station: Ferenciek tere. M3 line.

Andrassy ut

Do you have a slightly more upscale taste than what is offered on Vaci Utca? Then you should go to the Andrassy Avenue. Here are all the major fashion houses represented along with luxury designer jewelry and other branded stores.

Andrassy Avenue runs all the way from the Hungarian State Opera to Heroes’ Square, but the majority of shops are located in the part that lies closest to the State Opera.

Andrassy Avenue is also one of the World Heritage sites of Budapest, in addition to shopping, you can also go and admire the beautiful architecture and the well-preserved houses.

Metro Station: Opera – Opera. Heroes Square – Hősök tere. Line M1.

Westend City Center

WestEnd is one of Europe’s largest shopping center and, with its 400 different shops, it offers a broad range of shopping to suit all tastes. Here is everything you can imagine including a food court with various restaurants. Metro line number 3 stops just below the mall.

Address: 1062 Budapest. Váci út 1-3. Metro station: Nyugati Pályaudvar. M3 line.

Arcade shopping center

Arcade is not as large as WestEnd, but virtually all international chains are represented, such as H & M, Mango, Zara, and Bershka just to name a few.

Address: Örs vezér tér 25th Metro station: Örs vezér tér station. Line M2.

Arena Plaza

This shopping center has a similar range as WestEnd and Arcade. Maybe it’s just a coincidence, but most of the clothes I purchased in Budapest have been found at Arena Plaza.

Address: Kerepesi út 9th Metro Station: Keleti pályaudvar (Train Station). Line M2. Next one, or take bus 178 or 95th

All around Vaci Utca and the central parts, it is easy to get around by foot, but if you want to go to attractions in the outer part of the city, it’s better to use public transport.

Public transportation in Budapest is both efficient and well-developed. You can choose between the metro, bus, and tram that takes you around to the different parts of the city. If you know that you’ll use public transportation a lot, it pays to buy 24 or 72-hour ticket.

Tickets cost about 6 and 13 Euros.

The underground system is easy and goes to most places of interest. Hungarians are generally very helpful and kind, so even if it’s unlikely to get lost, you can always ask someone who walks by.

Taxis, however, should you be used with caution. Always use an official taxi company such as Buda Taxi or City Taxi. Or even better, get an Uber, it’s both cheaper and more convenient.

Recommended hotels in Budapest

Four seasons hotel gresham palace.

A luxury hotel that opened its doors already in 1906. The hotel is located just in front of the Chain Bridge and offers a beautiful view of Buda and the Danube. Rooms at the Gresham Palace are spacious and nicely decorated. The staff also does their utmost for their guests. Nor should I forget to mention the hotel’s luxurious spa, indoor pool, and sauna.

From here you have walking distance to most of the city sights. The hotel restaurant is of high class and serves Italian and Hungarian cuisine.

Looking for a luxury experience in Budapest? Then Gresham Palace is an excellent choice.

Price level: Luxury. Star rating: Five.

Click here to see photos, reviews, and prices

Eurostars Budapest Center

A relatively new hotel that has existed since 2010. The Eurostars Budapest Center is close to Vaci Utca and the Ferenciek Tere metro station. From here you can enjoy most attractions within walking distance while staying at a budget hotel with high standards.

The hotel’s restaurant serves Hungarian and international gourmet dishes at reasonable prices. Eurostars is a hotel that I highly recommend.

Price level : Medium. Stars : Four.

Queen’s Court Hotel & Residence

This hotel is located near all the famous sights in Budapest. Queen’s Court Hotel & Residence is the perfect choice when you want to feel pampered without having to empty your wallet.

The hotel’s suites are spacious and fresh decorated. As if that were not enough, you also have access to the spa, featuring an indoor pool and whirlpool.

Price level: Medium. Star rating: Five.

Click here to see photos, reviews and prices

K9 Residence

For those who prefer to travel cheaply and put the money on experiences and other things, K9 Residence is a great option. The hotel is about two minutes away from the metro station Deak Ferenc Ter and has everything you could possibly need when traveling to Budapest.

The hotel is centrally located and all the rooms have a kitchen, bathroom, and free wireless Internet access.

The standard is admittedly simple, but to be a budget hotel so keep K9 Residence a high budget class, which is also reflected by all the top reviews from previous guests.

Price level: Budget. Star rating: Three.

Food and Drinks

Hungary has a strong food culture that goes way back in time, all the way to the mongols and the seven chiefs. The most famous dish is goulash, which of course is a must to eat when visiting Hungary.

But Hungarian cuisine has a lot of other good dishes to offer, including my personal favorites: Pörkölt, paprikáscsirke, langos, Hortobágyi palacsinta, rántott Csirke and Töltött káposzta.

Besides great food, there are also good wines to enjoy. The finest Hungarian wines come from Tokaj region, but also Egri Bikaver and Törley is popular. If you prefer beer, there is no reason to be disappointed.

Hungary, has a whole bunch of domestic beers, of which the best known are: Dreher, Kaiser, Borsodi and Arany Ászok.

Last but not least are two liquors that Hungarians are very proud of. These are Palinka (a kind of brandy) and Unicum (liquor made from herbs). Palinka is a personal favorite that comes in several varieties of flavors, with peach, plum and pear the most famous ones.

Drinking pálinka is definitely one of the must things to do when you travel to Hungary.

Good things to know

Budapest: GMT +2.

Average temperature in Budapest

From April to October the average temperature is between 15-25 degrees. During the summer months it can be up to 30-35 degrees. From November to February, the temperature drops and lies about 5 degrees with some days around 0 degrees and some days with temperatures upwards of 10 degrees.

The climate of Budapest is pleasant for most of the year and the best time to visit the town according to me is from May to June and September to October. When it is less tourists, yet comfortable weather.

Currency and debit cards

Hungarian Forint (HUF). Cards are accepted in many shops and at most major hotels and restaurants.

Visa & Passport Conditions

Hungary is a member of the EU and thus no visa is needed if you’re from Europe. For other nationalities please check current visa status. A valid ID card should be enough, but I still recommend everyone to bring your passport to be on the safe side.

Electrical outlets

220 volts. No adapter needed if you have a standard European plug.

Tap Water in Budapest

It’s fine to drink the tap water in Budapest. Tap water is safe to drink, but can contain a different bacterial flora that cause a minor reaction for sensitive people, such as diarrhea. However, it will be just fine for most people.

Approximately 1.7 million people.

Hungarian. English is also widely spoken, at least among younger people. Older generation often speak less english, but within the city most people speak basic english.

Christianity (Catholic).

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Budapest Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do in Budapest [2023]

· everything you need to know to travel to budapest and have a great time without breaking the bank. ·.

Budapest is epic. Central and Eastern Europe have recently exploded onto the radars of American travelers, and for good reason. Cities like Prague , Vienna , and Krakow are incredible cities that come with a much more affordable price tag than their western European counterparts. However, in all of my travels through Eastern and Central Europe spanning over 11 countries, I’d easily call Budapest one of the three most beautiful cities I’ve visited in the region.

With magnificent architecture, mouth-watering food, a resilient culture, and an extremely interesting history, the capital of Hungary is a city I could return to time and time again, and I always enjoy it just as much. This Budapest travel guide will cover all of the best things to do in Budapest, plus how to get around, the best airports near Budapest, and more.

This post contains affiliate links through which we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.

We have some sippets from Budapest In this YouTube video.

Best Things to Do in Budapest

Budapest is incredible, and it is especially cool for people who like a little bit of history and culture. While the buildings in Budapest are beautiful and unique, the history behind each of them tends to be even cooler. This list will cover the top Budapest attractions, including some fascinating museums, some unique attractions, and some spots with epic panoramic views.

The city is split by the River Danube into two parts: Buda on the west and Pest on the east. Until the mid-1800s these two sides were actually separate cities, and a newly-built bridge connected them and spurred them to officially unite under the new name of Budapest. Nowadays, although well-connected by both the Margaret Bridge and the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, each side retains its own unique characteristics.

Since the two sides are different, I’ve split this section into two parts – one for Buda and one for Pest.

Best Things to Do in Buda

1. absorb the city views from the fisherman’s bastion.

The Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the most epic-looking places in all of Budapest, and it sits at the top of Castle Hill in the Buda Castle District. The area around the banks of the Danube River and Margaret Island is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Fisherman’s Bastion provides some of the best views of it.

While getting up to the Fisherman’s Bastion requires a bit of a hike, there is a restaurant and a Starbucks within the bastion where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat. Due to this prime real estate and the epic views, I commonly reference this Starbucks as one of my favorites in the whole world.

Stopping into Matthias Church is also a must-do while at the bastion. The Fisherman’s Bastion allows free entry for visitors to walk around and explore its spectacular views.

2. Descend into the Buda Castle Labyrinth

The Labyrinth under Buda Castle is a nifty place to check out. While walking through it doesn’t seem too scary or ominous, there is one detail that makes this place unique; Dracula was once imprisoned there. Now, Dracula the vampire wasn’t actually a real person, but the character was created in the image of Vlad the Impaler, a Romanian ruler from the middle ages.

This guy, though widely regarded as a Romanian hero, was hated by the Ottomans that were in control of Budapest, and thus thrown into an underground prison. This is that prison. Visiting the Labyrinth is definitely a unique experience!

3. Admire the Grandeur of Buda Castle and its Museums

Built originally in the 13th century, Buda Castle dominates the Buda side of the city, as it sits on the top of a steep hill and overlooks everything. Buda Castle can be toured, and there are endless cool rooms and chambers to see within its walls. The Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum are both located within the castle, too.

One of the best things about Buda Castle actually isn’t even inside of it; it’s the view you get from outside! From the top of Castle Hill, you can see the entire side of Pest as well as a large amount of Buda and Margaret Island off in the distance. The best views of the city and the Danube promenade are easily found here, at the Fisherman’s Bastian, and at nearby Gellért Hill.

The best views of the city and the Danube promenade are easily found here, at the Fisherman’s Bastian, and at nearby Gellért Hill.

4. Check Out the Church in the Cave

Inside of Gellert Hill, you can find a Catholic church run by Pauline monks. This cave was rumored to have been the home of a hermit monk who used mud to heal people centuries ago, and its history only developed further from there. The Pauline monks built this church into the cave and ran it until 1951. Nowadays it sometimes goes by the name Rock Church.

In 1951, the communist government threw the monks into labor camps, executed the head monk, and sealed the cave behind concrete. In 1989 the Pauline monks reclaimed the church, broke down the concrete wall, and reopened it to the public.

To add to the mysterious feel of the church, there is a famous Black Madonna painting located inside. This little church is so unique that it is absolutely worth a visit, even if you only have a little time in the city.

Best Things to Do in Pest

1. take a bath in one of budapest’s famous thermal spas.

If you didn’t know this, Budapest is known all around the world for its natural thermal baths, or hot springs. The water in these thermal springs is supposed to be very good for your skin and body and has been used for healing purposes for centuries.

While there are baths on both sides of the city, the best ones are in Pest.

We went to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths , and it quickly became one of our favorite things we did on our trip. You pay an entry fee that gives you access to all of the spas on site as well as a locker for your personal belongings. You can also add on additional services if you wish.

The spas are co-ed, and you must bring a bathing suit. You can rent towels on-site at most of the spas, but the bathing suit must be your own. Right next door to Szechenyi baths is a Thermal Beer Spa , which is basically the same as the regular spas, except with a lot of beer. We didn’t have the time to go, but wow. That sounds really cool.

2. Look at Jaw-dropping Architecture on a Free Walking Tour

The Pest side of the city is a lot busier and more urban than the Buda side, but that doesn’t take away from its charm. The Hungarian Parliament Building is absolutely striking and is one of the most iconic and recognizable postcard images of the city. St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Hungarian State Opera House, the Royal Palace, the Central Market Hall, and the Great Synagogue are all stunning, too.

Wandering around in Pest you’ll find endless eye-popping buildings, and one of the best things to do in Pest is to simply admire your surroundings. There is no better way to do this than on a free walking tour with a local guide who can add context about all of the stunning buildings. After your guided tour, the perfect place to grab a bite to eat is the Great Market Hall, which is loaded with delicious food options.

3. Learn About the Country’s Sad Past at the House of Terror

The House of Terror is not a Halloween-esque haunted house; it’s a former torture facility. The period during and after World War II was a very rough time in Hungarian history, as the country struggled immensely with problems stemming from fascist and communist regimes.

The House of Terror was a torture facility used by the secret police forces of these same fascist and communist leaders that hosted the torture and death of countless Hungarians as the country navigated itself back to democracy. The museum is extremely informational and staggeringly sad, but it is absolutely worth a visit. This is one of the best cultural sites to visit in all of Budapest.

4. Grab a Drink in One of Budapest’s Ruin Bars

What is a ruin bar you might ask? It is exactly what it sounds like: a bar made out of ruins. Recently, developers have started buying up old, abandoned buildings and turning them into trendy bar spaces. We spent an evening at Racskert and really loved it, but there are so many great places to choose from including the internationally famous Szimpla Kert .

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These ruin bars offer cheap drinks, a great, uniquely bohemian atmosphere, and often even live music. Hanging out at a ruin bar is a great way to enjoy a night in Hungary’s capital city, and it is also a great place to meet local friends.

5. See St. Stephen’s Mummified Right Hand in St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen was the first king of Hungary, and the Catholic cathedral in the city center is dedicated to him. The church itself is gorgeous, is the largest church in Hungary, and it is easily one of the best places to check out in Budapest. However, something that makes this basilica especially worth visiting is that it houses the mummified hand of St. Stephen himself, preserved in a glass observation box on the right-hand side of the church.

St. Stephen is regarded as one of the greatest Hungarian kings to ever live, and having a church dedicated to him in the Hungarian capital is the perfect testament to his legacy.

6. Walk Around the Old Jewish Quarter

Budapest used to have a huge Jewish population, and walking around the Old Jewish Quarter is a testament to that. From seeing Jewish restaurants and bakeries to the massive Dohány Street Synagogue , there are a lot of nifty things to do in this area of the city that make it pretty unique.

Dohany Street Synagogue is the largest synagogue not just in Hungary, but in all of Europe. This Moorish-style building can fit up to three thousand people at once, and it is a sight to behold. While the synagogue itself is very pretty, there are two additional parts of it that I recommend checking out.

Firstly, there is a Holocaust Memorial located within the synagogue that I recommend checking out. Hungary’s Jewish population was very affected by the Holocaust, and this memorial is an incredibly solemn place to visit. You can learn more at the Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives , which is also located within the synagogue complex.

7. Get Some Fresh Air at Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square is a city park located on the eastern end of Pest. This is where the Széchenyi Thermal Baths are located, and it is also where you can find the famous statue of Archangel Gabriel. If you are interested in local Hungarian history, I recommend checking out Vajdahunyad Castle , which is a history museum and is where our Budapest YouTube video begins!

There are a couple of other museums located here, like the Museum of Fine Arts , but I recommend just going for a walk around the park after spending an afternoon at the thermal spas. Heroes’ Square offers a refreshingly different angle of Budapest as a city.

How to Get to Budapest

Budapest is a big city, and regionally it is very well connected. Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) serves many regional flights as well as a handful of direct flights to countries outside of the region, like the United States. Since Budapest is a lot less popular than a major hub like Paris , you’ll probably need to have a layover if you’re coming from anywhere outside of Europe.

For example, there is currently only one direct flight from the United States to Budapest, and that is out of New York City. Still, a quick stop in London, Munich , or Paris isn’t the worst thing in the world! Since Budapest isn’t a major hub airport, a flight from the United States may be a bit more expensive than a flight to a bigger European city. For some tips on saving a little money on your flight, I’d recommend that you check out my detailed guide to finding cheap flights .

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If you do decide to fly right into Budapest, the best way to get from the airport to your hotel is by booking a private transfer with our partners at Welcome Pickups . Welcome Pickups offers personalized, private, comfortable rides from the airport into the city for about the same price as a standard taxi. They monitor your flight status while you are in the air, and a driver will be waiting for you holding a sign with your name on it as soon as you arrive.

If you’re already in Europe or will be when you travel to Budapest, things get much easier and cheaper. Firstly, flights to Budapest from within Europe are extremely affordable thanks to budget airlines like Ryanair and Easyjet.

Using these airlines is one of my favorite parts of European travel because they make it so affordable! You can find flights for as little as $15, and as long as you don’t need luggage, there are no more fees. A carry-on won’t cost you much, either.

For tips on using budget airlines, check out my post on flying with budget airlines.

If flying on a budget airline doesn’t sound appealing to you and you’re close enough to Hungary, you should consider taking a bus. Flixbus is an awesome, reliable bus company that offers very competitive prices. Like, $5.

I’ve ridden with them many times and only had great experiences. I actually took a Flixbus from Bratislava to Budapest once, and it was fantastic. They even have free wifi.

– R E A D –

How to Get Around Budapest

TAXI | METRO | ELECTRIC SCOOTER

When it comes to how to get around Budapest, you have three main options: taxis, public transportation, and electric scooters. Unfortunately, there is no Uber or Lyft in Budapest. If you want to use taxis, download the Bolt or Taxify apps. Both of these function similarly to Uber, but they call you a true taxi instead of a privately owned car.

These apps are perfectly safe, and they make the trip much easier as you don’t need to negotiate prices in Hungarian! We used Taxify and had nothing but positive experiences.

There is no Uber or Lyft in Budapest.

As far as public transport goes, the metro system of Budapest is actually the oldest in Continental Europe and the oldest in all of Europe other than London’s Tube. It is decently connected, but pretty pricey compared to your other options. A single ride on the metro costs 350 HUF, or a bit over a dollar, and a 24-hour pass costs a bit over $5.

If you plan on using the metro line several times a day, you can’t beat the day pass. They also sell passes that can be used over a 72-hour period if your trip is a bit longer. If the metro stops are convenient to your origin and destination, I’d recommend using the metro, but if there’s a lot of walking involved, just grab a taxi or a scooter.

The third option is my favorite, not just in Budapest, but everywhere that has them – electric scooters. If you haven’t heard of or used shareable electric scooters before, I have written the internet’s most comprehensive guide to using them. Basically, these are battery-powered scooters that travel up to ~20 miles per hour that can be unlocked and used within city limits with an app on your phone.

We love them because they’re fun to use and connect you directly from point A to point B without any waiting or negotiating in between. These scooters are everywhere in Budapest, and for getting around the main parts of the city, they are the best way to get around.

Budapest Card: An All-Access Pass to Budapest

What is a budapest card.

A Budapest Card is a tourism pass offered in Budapest that gives visitors unlimited access to public transportation, free entry into several museums and a thermal bath, and steep discounts on many other attractions, like river cruises.

Is a Budapest Card worth getting?

Budapest Cards offer extreme value to visitors who want to see as much of the city as possible in a short time span. They are quite cheap given all that they include, and they are sold at 24, 48, and 72-hour durations.

Where do you get a Budapest Card?

Budapest Cards are sold online on the official Budapest Card website , as well as in convenient locations around the city, like in the airport. I recommend purchasing one online in advance if you have the time.

Best Time to Visit Budapest

While every season offers a different perspective on Budapest, the best times to visit are during the spring and the fall. Hotel rates drop during these seasons, crowds diminish, and the weather remains fairly pleasant until November and after February.

Many visitors prefer to capitalize on the city’s beautiful weather in the summer or the Bohemian Christmas vibes in the winter, but the overarching best time to visit is while crowds are at their smallest during the spring and fall.

Is Budapest Worth Visiting?

Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe. When you add in the great museums, unique attractions, delicious food, and bustling nightlife, there is no doubt that Budapest is one of the top cities to visit in all of Europe.

Budapest is one of the top cities to visit in all of Europe.

Budapest is a city that has a little something for every kind of traveler. The thermal baths are as fun as they are iconic, the ruin bars are unique and enjoyable, and the architecture and heritage within the city are enough to please anyone. Few cities in Europe pack as much of a punch for tourists as Budapest, and Budapest does it at an affordable price.

That’s all we have for you about traveling to Budapest! Hopefully, this Budapest travel guide helps you to plan an unforgettable trip and save money next time you head to Hungary’s capital city. If you have any questions about planning your own trip to Budapest, be sure to drop a comment!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Haha! That is awesome. I’m so happy my post was useful…for both of you! Thanks for reading!

Budapest will always hold a special place in my heart. It was where I had my first solo travel experience, and I fell in love with the city’s beauty and charm.

That is so precious! Budapest is so amazing. I hope we both get back there some day!

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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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Budapest Guide

Budapest guide, places to visit, central market hall, buda castle, st. stephen's basilica, shoes on the danube bank, hungarian state opera, fisherman's bastion, matthias church, hungarian parliament building, széchenyi chain bridge, dohány street synagogue, vajdahunyad castle.

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Home » Europe » Budapest

EPIC 3-DAY BUDAPEST ITINERARY (2024)

Budapest is a city like no other! Unfortunately, it doesn’t land on everyone’s travel destination list. I’m here to change that!

In this Budapest itinerary, you’ll explore its exciting blend of Eastern and Western Europe, this is a dynamic place with a truly unique charm. Budapest is full of romantic boulevards, incredible architecture, and all kinds of attractions! However, the city still has a fascinating edge- something that comes from its communist past.

The capital of Hungary offers visitors so much to see and do! Your itinerary will be full of fun activities- from visiting historical sites to relaxing at a spa or eating unforgettable food! Luckily, this is also an affordable city, so your trip to Budapest can be filled with more for less!

Here is my ultimate 3-Day Budapest itinerary to help you make the absolute most out of your stay. With all that this city has to offer, I’m sure you will fall in love with beautiful Budapest the moment you arrive! This might just become your new favorite destination in Europe.

Let’s get right to it!

Looking for accommodation for your trip? Check out our epic Budapest Hostel Guide for the best places to stay!

A little Bit about this 3 Day Budapest Itinerary

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If you are thinking about what to do in Budapest in two days, then don’t worry about any lack of activity! There are so many awesome places to visit in Budapest , with a variety of things to suit all kinds of people. Before you start planning though, it is important to know how to get around.

Budapest is a well-connected city with a fantastic public transport system! Traveling between the different districts is quick, easy, and efficient. One of the easiest ways to get around Budapest is by using the metro. The M-1 metro line is actually the oldest underground railroad in Europe! There are four metro lines in this city- all being accessible, affordable, and simple.

The city can be split into two main districts: the Buda side and the pest side. They are separated by the Darude river and offer very interesting attractions and hotspots. Buda is on the west, Pest side is on the east. They merge together into one big city, but they couldn’t be more different and unique. Buda is known for its grandeur monuments, while the Pest side is more lively, filled with bars, pubs and incredible cafe culture. I’ve included both areas equally in my 3 days in Budapest itinerary so you’ll get to experience the city to the fullest.

Budapest has a brilliant bus service as well. With over 200 routes, you can reach any corner of the city by bus. Bus travel is the most affordable way of getting around Budapest , but to new visitors, it can be a little confusing!

There are also trams which run across the city. The tram network is well developed and is an easy way to get between different parts of the city. Riding the tram is also a fun, beautiful way to see the city! For the easiest direct transport, Budapest does have a pretty extensive taxi network. However, taxi drivers here have been known to overcharge tourists, so be sure you know what you are doing when catching a cab here!

While the city has such great transport options, I recommend trying to walk as much as possible. So much of the city’s charms are experienced while strolling along the gorgeous streets. This is the best way to get a true feeling for the city while backpacking Budapest!

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3-Day Budapest Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1 in Budapest: Parliament Building , Buda Castle Hill Funicular , Buda Castle , Central Market Hall , Andrassy Avenue , Heroes Square  
• Day 2 in Budapest: The Fisherman’s Bastion , Chain Bridge , St Stephen’s Basilica , The House of Terror , Margaret Island , The Jewish Quarter
• Day 3 in Budapest: Szechenyi Thermal Baths , Budapest Street Art Tour , Boat Tour Down the Danube , Visit the Faust Wine Cellars
• More Places to See in Budapest: Danube Promenade , Szabo Ervin Library , Hungarian State Opera House

With a Budapest Card 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!

Budapest can seem like a big, overwhelming place at first. The city is made up of a wide variety of neighborhoods- each one offering a unique vibe and perspective. Choosing where to stay in Budapest can be tricky, as each district comes with its own appeal.

For a very central tourist location, try staying in the Budapest 1st District, also known as the Castle District. This area is fairly upscale, and it is loaded with cultural attractions! Due to its general appeal, the 1st District is possible the best place to stay in Budapest. The Castle district is seriously charming, and simply walking around here is an attraction. However, the Castle District is not the most walk-able area to the rest of Budapest. It is also very quiet at night.

Another great choice of places to stay would be the 5th District, or Belvaros (Downtown in Hungarian). Staying here will probably allow you to see the most for 3 days in Budapest, plus it has excellent transport links to Budapest airport. This is a central area with many of the cities best tourist sites being located nearby. You’ll find loads of Budapest’s best hostels in this area as well – perfect for backpackers and budget travellers!

If you stay in the 5th District, getting around is really easy. You will be able to walk nearly everywhere, with loads of cafes, shops, and sights all around you. This area is the most popular choice for tourists, and it has a really elegant feel to it!

Other great districts to stay are Terezvaros and the Jewish Quarter. These are located on the pest side of Budapest and generally attract a younger crowd. If you aren’t sure exactly where to base yourself, here are some of my favorite places to stay in Budapest!

Onefam Budapest – Best Hostel in Budapest

Onefam Budapest is so much more than just a place to stay- this is a total social experience! Staying here will have you meeting amazing people, partying and being guided around the city. Of course, the place is comfortable and clean, with modern facilities. The location is great too! The real charm here though is the overall service and Budapest exposure that the hostel provides.

Centrally located apartment for 2 or 4 – Best Airbnb in Budapest

Located just 100m from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Andrassy Avenue and 30m away from the Budapest Terez Korut, this apartment is perfect anyone visiting Budapest for the first time. There is a variety of Hungarian, Indian, Thai, vegetarian restaurants within close reach and the famous Ruined Pubs of Budapest are within a walking distance, as well as the house of Opera, Parliament, and the Danube river. I’d definitely consider this place one of the best Airbnbs in Budapest !

D8 Hotel – Best Budget Hotel in Budapest

Located in downtown Budapest, the D8 hotel is the perfect base for your Budapest itinerary! The rooms are well equipped, and there is an awesome shared lounge and bar here. The location couldn’t be better for a central stay, while the price offers great value! This is a comfortable and smart choice for any kind of traveler.

If you’re only spending 3 days in Budapest, you’ll have to use your time wisely. The first day of your trip will allow you to see all kinds of historical and cultural attractions. Of course, there will be some delicious food, drinks, and relaxation as well! I’ll start on the Buda district for the first couple of attractions and then move over to the east of the river, into the pest side of the city.

Every map that you see in this article includes a hyperlink to an interactive version on Google Driving. After clicking the map image, the interactive version will be opened in a new tab.

9 AM – Take a Tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is a truly amazing sight. If marveling at this building from across the river is not enough, take a guided tour inside. Your tour will include walking through the great vaulted hall, the detailed central staircase, witnessing the Hungarian Crown Jewels and the Hungarian Holy Crown.

A tour of this building is a great combination of interesting information on Budapest, as well as experience inside one of the most magnificent buildings in Europe!

This is a fantastic start to your Budapest itinerary as it will set you up with a better understanding of the city as a whole.

Be sure to take some time to witness the building from all angles, as each side you view it from is seriously impressive!

Insiders Tip:  For the best photo opportunity of the Parliament Building, cross over to the other side of the river for a full view.

• Cost –  $30
• How long should I stay here?   45min-1 hour
• Getting there  – Take the tram for awesome views of the city!

10:00 AM – Catch the Buda Castle Hill Funicular

Head to the top of Castle Hill for the most breathtaking views in Budapest! The easiest and most fun way to get to the top is by catching the old funicular. Dating back to 1870, this is the second oldest of its type in the world.

The ride up is really enjoyable, but the real highlight is when you reach the top! Here you will be faced with the most magnificent panoramic views across the Danube river.

Once you have enjoyed everything to do at the top of Castle Hill, take a peaceful walk back down. This is a brilliant addition to your 3 days in Budapest.

After the walk down, look out for a cafe to get some tasty breakfast into your belly. The next stop will include quite a lot of walking, so you want to be fully recharged!

• Cost –  $4
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour
• Getting there  – It’s a 20min walk or a short tram ride.

11:00 AM – Visit Buda Castle

Guided tours are available of the historic Buda Castle, a fascinating stop to add during your days in Budapest. When looking at what to do in the city, a visit to the castle is always high up on the list!

Besides being an amazing building to witness, Budapest also has castle houses of the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, the Szechenyi Library, and many more interesting areas.

One could spend a great deal of time here, learning all about Hungary and its exciting history.

Take some time to walk around the outside of the castle and admire its grandeur. This is an unforgettable experience. If you want to know a bit more about the castle and its history, you can also book a guided tour with a local!

• Cost –  $11 (or $50 for a tour)
• How long should I stay here?   1-3 hours
• Getting there  – It’s in walking distance from the previous spot.

14:30 PM – Shop the Central Market Hall

The central market hall in central Budapest is the ultimate stop for shopping and being surrounded by Hungarian produce. The market is both a popular place for locals to buy their groceries, as well as for tourists to shop and explore.

The lower floors are full of fresh foods and local produce, while the upper floors offer many souvenirs and crafts- perfect for buying a memento of Budapest!

If you go to the top floor, you’ll find loads of traditional food stalls as well – perfect for filling up your hungry stomach again after the castle tour!

You can visit this market on all 3 days in Budapest if you’re getting hungry between attractions since it’s connected to pretty much all public transport options. It’s also a great way to save some money instead of going to expensive eat-in restaurants.

Insider Tip:  This is a brilliant place to taste some  truly Hungarian flavors  and discover some authentic foods, so don’t be afraid to sample something new!

• Cost –  Free
• Getting there  – Take the Tram 19 or 41.

15:30 PM – Walk Down Andrassy Avenue

Walking down Andrassy Avenue is one of the best ways to witness some of the Budapest landmarks. This avenue is a world heritage site, due to its brilliant cultural heritage.

It’s also very conveniently located between two amazing hotspots, so you’ll be using your time in Budapest efficiently.

While walking around here you will get to see the Hungarian National Opera House, as well as a variety of amazing architectural displays and styles.

A stroll down here will allow you to experience just how fantastic and rich in culture Budapest really is!

If you feel yourself getting tired after a long day of exploring, sit down for a bit in one of the cute cafes you’ll find on the avenue. It’s also a great spot to do some people watching.

Insiders Tip:  There are many amazing bars and cafes around here, so take the time to stop for a drink or bite to eat.

• Cost  – Free
• Getting there  – Tram 4-6 will get you there but it’s a 24min ride

16:30 PM – Visit Heroes Square

Heroes Square is found at the end of Andrassy Avenue, and it is a historic place to visit during your 3-days in Budapest itinerary. There is a big monument built on the square which is an iconic symbol of Hungary.

This monument depicts the Seven Chieftans of the Magyars. They are believed to have led the Hungarian people from central Asia to the Carpathian Basin. On either side of the square are two amazing art galleries- both of which are well worth a visit!

For those that love history and important city sites, then a stop at Heroes Square is an important addition to your Budapest itinerary.

• How long should I stay here?  Just for a stroll.
• Getting there  – It’s a 15min walk or take the Metro M1.

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Your second day in Budapest will have you experience some of the top tourist sights, lots of culture and history, as well as some unique and interesting areas of the city! Here are some of the best Budapest attractions for your 3-Day itinerary.

8:30 AM – Explore the Fisherman’s Bastion & St. Mathias Church

The Fisherman’s Bastion sits up on Castle Hill, and it offers unbeatable views over the city! Not only is this attraction an impressive sight, but it also has some interesting historical significance.

The viewing terrace was built between 1895 and 1902, and it is a truly beautiful structure. The neo-gothic construction was built to celebrate the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian state.

It might seem like a tourist place, but you’ll find lots of locals enjoying the stunning view of the city as well.

Take the time to explore this building, climb the towers, and take lots of epic photos of the city!

Located at the top of the Bastion is St Mathias Church, a beautiful and ornately decorated church with the most stunning porcelain tiles. You can go inside for a small fee, but to be honest, the best view of the St Mathias church is from the outside. As least in my opinion.

If you need your coffee fix in the morning, there’s a 200-year-old patisserie close to the Bastion that serves delicious cakes, strudel and coffee! It’s the perfect way to start exploring the second day in Budapest.

Insiders tip:  Most of the areas are completely free to access, while the upper towers have a small entrance fee.

• Cost  – Free unless you climb the towers.
• Getting there  – Take the tram or metro, depending on where you stay.

10 AM – Stroll Across the Chain Bridge

The Chain Bridge connects the two parts of the city- Buda on the west, and Pest on the East. The bridge extends over the Danube River, and it is one of the most iconic Budapest attractions.

Locals take pride in this famous monument as it represents the beauty of the city and offers amazing views. 

Take some time to stroll along the bridge while taking in the incredible views all around you. The walk along the bridge should take about 15 minutes, and it will allow you to see both the fantastic architecture and detail in the bridge, as well as many important sights of the city.

This hotspot can also be visited during all other days in Budapest as you’ll likely walk over it to get from one spot to the next. But if you don’t want to rush, take a bit of time and experience the monument as an individual attraction.

Insider Tip: Witness the bridge at night when it is all lit up!

• Cost  – Free!
• How long should I stay here?   Just a short stroll…
• Getting there  – It’s a 10min walk from the Bastion.

11:30 AM – Witness St Stephen’s Basilica

St Stephen’s Basilica is one of the most iconic Budapest landmarks, and it is a must-visit location during your trip here.

The church is enormous (the biggest in Budapest), and it can be seen from many areas of the city. Inside this cathedral sits the first king of Hungary, St. Stephen, kept in a glass case – kinda creepy, right?!

There are so many fine details found in this brilliant church, and wandering around it will have anyone awe-struck.

You can explore the Basilica by yourself or get a private tour. These will grant you access to the towers as well and fill you in with everything there is to know about the city’s and churches history.

• Cost  – Free (or $18 tour)
• Getting there  – 10min Walk or Bus line 16/109/990

1:00 PM – Visit the House of Terror

This museum is an important stop to learn all about the Fascist and Communist history of Hungary. The House of Terror is located inside the old Fascist Arrow Party’s headquarters, and you can explore exciting areas – such as the basement prison!

For those wanting to learn more about World War II history, and Hungary’s interesting past, then this is one of the best Budapest points of interest.

Just like the name indicates, it’s a rough historic topic, but worth checking out! For those that are definitely not into exhibitions and learning more about Budapest, you can easily skip this spot and spend the rest of the afternoon strolling around the streets in the district or getting back home to let your feet breathe and get changed for the last spot of the second day.

• Cost  – $11
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour max
• Getting there  – Take the Metro or Bus line 979.

2:00 PM – Explore Margaret Island

Margaret Island is found on the Danube River, and it offers a total peaceful escape from the city! Covered in lush gardens and outdoor attractions, this island is the perfect place to enjoy a sunny day in Budapest.

The island has various picnic areas, romantic walkways, playgrounds, a waterpark, swimming pools, musical fountains, a rose garden, a small zoo, and many more attractions!

If you enjoy the fresh air and being outdoors, then set aside some time to explore Margaret Island.

There’s a small but famous bar located on the island that serves drinks and delicious food. Make sure to fill up your belly as this is pretty much the last spot of the day before exploring Budapest’s nightlife.

• How long should I stay here?  1-3 hours
• Getting there  – Take the Tram 4-6.

6:00 PM (or later) – Experience the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter, also known as the 7th district is an exciting hub of activity in Budapest! If you are spending two days in Budapest, then you must come and visit this area!

This district is well-loved for its nightlife. There are loads of cool bars and clubs around here, as well as amazing food places. By day this district is an interesting place to walk around and explore – a unique and fun part of Budapest city!

You’ll head to the Jewish Quarter around the evening time, so there is still enough time to grab a bite or a beer before the night really gets going! 

If you want to meet locals and make new friends, the 7th district is the perfect opportunity.

• How long should I stay here?  Up to you!
• Getting there  – Take the Bus line 76.

If you are planning a three-day itinerary in Budapest or longer, then you will need to add a few more activities to your list. Here are some more fun activities to add to your Budapest itinerary! 

9:30 AM – Relax in the Szechenyi Thermal Baths

After last night, you might want to start the next morning nice and slow. The Szechenyi Thermal Baths are the perfect place to visit for a bit of relaxation during your 3 days in Budapest.

This massive thermal pool complex has a variety of different pools available, as well as saunas and steam rooms. This is a very typical feature of the Hungarian lifestyle.

The minerals found in the waters are supposed to help people with different medical issues. A soak in these pools will definitely make you feel a lot more rejuvenated and relaxed! If you spent a lot of time walking around the city, then your body will be very happy to swim in these baths.

Insiders Tip:  Enjoy the warm steamy pools on a cold, dark night for a dramatic experience!

• Cost  – $21
• How long should I stay here?  2 hours
• Getting there  – Take the tram or bus, depending on where you stay.

11:00 AM – Explore Budapest’s Street Art

Budapest isn’t just known for amazing history and castles. There’s a whole new and exciting side to the city as well. 

Exploring Budapest’s Street Art scene has to be one of the most unique things in the city that not a lot of tourists get to experience. However, you’ll need to hire a local guide to find all of the hidden gems. 

If you’re into modern art and appreciate the skill behind street art, this tour is the right one for you. It’s also perfect to get that new Instagram post you were going to post anyway!

Insider tip: Ask your guide for recommendations on food and restaurants in the city. They’ll know the best spots to fill up your belly without having to fall into the tourist traps!

• Cost  – $44
• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours
• Getting there  – Confirm the docking station and take the bus to get there.

3:00 PM – Go on a Boat Tour Down the Danube

If you would like to witness the beauty of Budapest from a new perspective, consider a boat tour down the Danube! These tours are not only really informative, but they offer a unique view of the city that just can’t be seen from anywhere else.

At night, the tours offer you a stunning perspective of the city all lit up! You can slowly cruise down the river with a drink in your hand and unbeatable evening sights all around you.

By day these tours are just as stunning, with clear views out over the many Budapest landmarks and attractions.

The banks of the River Danube are actually a UNESCO world heritage site. There really is no better way to experience them than aboard a comfortable boat. Audio Guides are available to further inform your tour.

This is a truly special way to experience Budapest, and it is something you definitely won’t forget any time soon! Whether you’re  backpacking through Budapest  or traveling as a family, this boat tour is exceptional.

• Cost  – $16
• How long should I stay here?  70min

5:00 PM – Visit the Faust Wine Cellars

If you love wine or want to learn more about this magnificent drink, then take a visit to the Faust Wine Cellars! Located underneath the Buda Castle, these ancient cellars become the perfect setting for your own special wine tasting.

Hungary has 22 different wine regions, each with their own particular tastes and notes. A visit to these wine cellars will include an informative guided tasting by a knowledgeable sommelier.

Through this, you will learn all about the different wines, styles, and tastes of Hungary.

As this is the last stop on my 3-Days in Budapest Itinerary, you can really enjoy this experience without having to worry about the next stop. Some of the wine cellar tours also include an evening cruise on the Darude, but if you want to do it individually, I’d recommend making a reservation as it’s a very popular evening activity!

• Cost  – $35
• Getting there  – Really depends on where you ended up after stop 2 (but taking the bus always works).

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

District I Várkerület, or the Castle District, is one of the most iconic neighbourhoods in Budapest. Located on the Buda side of the River Danube, this district offers quaint cobblestone streets, grand medieval architecture and picturesque views.

• Climb (or drive) to the top of Gellért Hill and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Wander throughout Buda Castle, the Hungarian Royal Palace which is home to the National Gallery and Budapest History Museum.
• Warm up with a cup of coffee at Ruszwurm coffeehouse, one of the oldest cafes in Budapest.

Got more than 3 days in Budapest? Awesome – there is so much more to see in Budapest. To help you out a bit, I’ve listed a couple more hotspots in the city. Use those as an inspiration or a rough guideline in case you’re clueless on what to visit!

1. Walk Along the Danube Promenade

The Danube Promenade is one of the best places in the city to take a slow walk and enjoy the surrounding architecture. Along this walk, you will pass many beautiful sights.

The Shoes on the Danube Bank is an eerie memorial paying tribute to the Jews that were shot along here by the Nazis. This memorial consists of 60 pairs of steel shoes, and it is a powerful thing to take in.

Hungary suffered a great deal during World War II, and this is a reminder of that. Be sure to be respectful when walking past this monument as it means a big deal to locals and Hungarian history.

Walking along this iconic river is a lovely way to experience the best of Budapest up close. You’ll find lots of little coffee shops and spots to do some people watching as well.

• Getting there  – Take the closest tram from your place to get to the river.

2. Szabo Ervin Library

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.

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.

This is a great spot to visit during your days in Budapest if you need some peace and quiet.

• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours
• Getting there  – Take the tram to the Weckenheim.

3. Hungarian State Opera House

The Hungarian State Opera House is one of the grandest attractions in the city and should definitely be visited during your days in Budapest. 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.

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.

• Cost  – $34
• Getting there  – Easy to reach by bus or tram.

4. City Park & Vajdahunyad Castle

If you visited the Széchenyi Thermal Bath as I told you to, then you probably walked through City Park to get there. But this park is not somewhere you should just stroll through to get from A to B. It’s actually a gorgeous park, that has been used as the center of events in Budapest for more than a century, including motorsport events in the 50s.

City Park connects Heroes Square to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Vajdahunyad Castle. The castle is actually a copy of the Hunyad Castle, or Corvin Castle, in Hunedoara, Romania.

It was built as part of the Millennial Exhibition in 1896. This was the year that Hungary celebrated 1,000 years of Hungary since the Hungarian Conquest of the Carpathian Basin in 895. It’s a stunning piece of architecture. You can go inside, but it’s not really worth it. The outside is the most spectacular.

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Spending your days in Budapest will probably involve plenty of walking and outdoor sightseeing. It is therefore ideal to visit during a sunnier time of the year to experience the best in the city. Luckily, Budapest has fairly mild weather all year round, without ever getting too hot.

Winter here can get pretty cold, with the potential of snow. However, many people love experiencing Budapest during this time- with its mulled wine, Christmas markets, and snowy backdrop. This makes any time of year a good time to visit!

For the ideal vacation in Budapest, try to visit between March to May, or September to November. These are the shoulder seasons when the weather is wonderful but there aren’t too many tourists! This is when you can achieve the most in Budapest.

Although this is a popular destination, it never really gets too crowded with visitors. This makes the peak seasons completely bearable! Wondering when to visit Budapest? Check out the cities weather below in order to plan the ultimate 3-days in Budapest itinerary.

Getting around Budapest is easy, thanks to the city’s great public transportation system. You’ll want to go ahead and buy a transit card and validate it before boarding any metro, city bus, or tram.

As with many other European cities, Budapest is on the honour system. If you’re caught travelling without a valid ticket, you can be hit with a big fine.

There are vending machines at most stations that are quite easy to use. Most backpackers will want to just go ahead and grab a 72-hour card for about $15. This will allow you to use the metro, bus, and tram lines as much as you want for three days.

Budapest is also a pleasant city to walk around, especially along the Danube River. At some point in your trip, be sure to walk across the Chain Bridge that connects Buda and Pest. If you’d rather have some wheels, you can rent a bicycle or even a scooter.

Be sure to try a free walking tour at some point. Free walking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land and to learn about the culture and history, plus it’s free, you just pay a tip of however much you feel like tipping at the end.

Uber is not available in Budapest and taxis are known to overcharge tourists. The only time you might need one is late at night when you’ve been out partying. Just make sure to agree to a price or that the meter will be used, and even then be sure to keep an eye on it.

Hungary is pretty much like most other central European countries. Depending on when you’re visiting, your bag needs to be packed appropriately (warm clothes in winter, shorts in summer – it’s a no brainer really…). To make sure you’ve got all the essentials with you, check out my Europe Packing List !

Now that you know what to see in Budapest in two days, it is important to keep your safety in mind before you go. Like most European capitals, Budapest is a very safe city in general . It is definitely safer for tourists than most big cities, and as there are so many annual visitors, Budapest is well prepared for them and their safety.

However, it is important to take the necessary precautions when traveling here to ensure your safety. One thing that is fairly common in Budapest is scams against tourists. These can be seen in clubs, bars, and taxi cabs, where prices are raised excessively.

Be cautious if walking at night, and avoid being alone at late hours. Also be wary when catching the metro by yourself, as there have been incidents with pickpockets here.

Besides taking some common security procedures, Budapest is a safe city overall. Any visitor should feel comfortable here, and should not have to worry during their visit. When planning a trip to Budapest, show caution where you normally would, but don’t worry about any major dangers.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Budapest

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Budapest itinerary.

How many days are enough in Budapest?

3 days are enough to cover Budapest’s top attractions. Of course, having a couple of extra days means you can take your time and get a better feel of the place.

What should you include on a Budapest 3 day itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these Budapest highlights! – Buda Castle – The Great Market Hall – Fisherman’s Bastion – Szechenyi Thermal Baths

Where should you stay for a weekend in Budapest?

If you’re only visiting Budapest for a short time, you’re best off staying central. The 5th District is our top recommendation – it’s an easy walk from many cultural sights and is buzzing with shops and cafes. If nightlife is what you’re after, the Pest side of the city is ideal.

Is Budapest worth visiting?

Definitely! This magnificent city is full of history, unique architecture, amazing food and awesome ruin bars. Its nightlife is also some of the best in Europe!

Budapest is a fascinating and beautiful city. This destination can suit any kind of visitor, and it is one of the most enchanting cities to visit while traveling around Europe .

Travel to Budapest for an experience like no other! There is so much interesting Hungarian history and rich culture wherever you go in this city, and you will be sure to fall in love with it the moment you start exploring the romantic boulevards.

Hungary is a highly recommended destination, and its capital city is a total gem! I hope that this 3-Days in Budapest itinerary will help you to make the most out of your trip. Take your time when visiting this place, as there really is so much to see and do!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Agness and Cez

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Budapest.city

Your Essential Budapest Travel Guide

Discover Budapest: Your Essential Travel Guide

Welcome to Budapest! This is your ultimate guide to the heart of Hungary. Immerse yourself in this stunning city’s vibrant culture , rich history , and breathtaking scenery.

From the iconic Chain Bridge to the stunning architecture of Parliament , Budapest is a feast for the senses.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family adventure, our expertly curated travel guide has everything you need to plan your perfect trip. So what are you waiting for? Let us take you on a journey to discover the magic of Budapest!

Budapest city

Welcome to Budapest.city – The ultimate travel guide to one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Our team of travel experts provides insider tips, top attractions , and hidden gems to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, we’re here to make your trip unforgettable. Join us and discover the best of Budapest!

Attractions

Accommodation, transportation.

Expert advice and top suggestions

Insider tips and local’s recommendations for lesser-known places in Budapest.

sightseeing

Top attractions

Buda Castle

Dominating the city skyline , Buda Castle is an iconic landmark. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is home to the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. The panoramic views of the city from Castle Hill are simply unforgettable.

Parliament Building

One of the largest parliament buildings in the world, this magnificent structure is a perfect example of neo-gothic architecture. The guided tours offer a glimpse into Hungary’s political history.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

Named after the first King of Hungary, St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest. The stunning interior, combined with the breathtaking views from the dome , make this a must-visit attraction.

Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion offers the best views over Budapest, a beautiful neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque style terrace. It’s one of the most visited sites in Budapest, particularly loved for its fairy-tale-like architecture.

Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths , and Széchenyi is the largest in Europe. Relaxing in its thermal waters is a quintessential Budapest experience.

The Danube Promenade

Strolling along the Danube promenade, particularly at sunset, is a mesmerizing experience. The river beautifully separates the city into Buda and Pest , each offering unique charm.

What’s more?

Travel guides

Discover budapest like never before with budapest.city travel guide.

Welcome to Budapest, the heart of Hungary and the crown jewel of the Danube! Our comprehensive travel guide, www.budapest.city , is your essential companion in uncovering the layers of history, culture, and vibrancy this city offers. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or a spontaneous traveler, we’ve got you covered.

Dive Deep into Budapest’s Rich History

Start your journey with our detailed section about Budapest, delving deep into its storied past. From the enigmatic Great Age of Migrations and the pivotal rule of the Clan of Árpád to the impactful times of the Turkish Occupation and the Habsburg Rule , each epoch leaves its indelible mark on the city’s architecture, streets, and psyche. Relive the events of March 1848 and explore the influences of World War I and Soviet Power , understanding Budapest’s resilience and its phoenix-like resurgence.

A Treasure Trove of Experiences

Our ‘Explore’ section brings to you the glittering array of top sights, picturesque neighborhoods , and atmospheric districts . Whether it’s the iconic thermal baths that promise relaxation or the lush parks and gardens offering a slice of tranquility, we guide you through it all. And for those seeking a cultural immersion, Budapest’s churches , synagogues , museums , galleries , and landmarks are sure to mesmerize. Don’t forget to delve into our detailed segments on the city’s stunning palaces and historic buildings – a testament to Budapest’s architectural grandeur.

Beyond the City’s Bounds

But there’s more! Just a stone’s throw away from Budapest, discover attractions that promise an equally captivating experience. Whether it’s a castle, a quaint village, or natural wonders, you’ll find it listed in our ‘Near Budapest’ section.

Your Practical Guide to Budapest

Navigating a new city can be daunting, but fret not! From detailed transportation guides on reaching Budapest by bus , plane, or train to invaluable local tips , we ensure your journey is smooth and enjoyable. Our sections on accommodation , currency exchange , and even a list of what not to do, equip you with all the practical information you’ll ever need.

Unlock the City’s Secrets

For the explorers at heart, our ‘Insights’ section is a goldmine. Dive into local tips, uncover hidden gems, and discover offbeat attractions that only the locals might know of. We guarantee experiences that will make your trip truly memorable.

So, why wait? Let www.budapest.city be your trusted guide in exploring Budapest’s magic. Dive into our site, craft your own journey, and let the city’s charm unfold before you. Every alley, every bridge, every spire has a story. Come, discover yours!

Discover the magic of Budapest with our comprehensive guide — bookmark it now and share the love on Facebook and other platforms, so your friends and family can also embark on this unforgettable journey!

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Budapest travel blog — the fullest budapest travel guide for a great trip to budapest for the first-timers.

The Danube river flows through the center of Budapest, Hungary’s capital city and divides the city into two parts: Buda on the left bank is built on a hill with many beautiful castles. The right bank is the newer city of Pest, which covers two thirds of the area and is built on a plain including buildings from Middle Ages. Buda and Pest are connected by nine bridges across the Danube river, each bridge has its own beauty and and plays an important role in connecting the two cities. Dubbed as a little Paris, it is no coincidence that Budapest was given that name because of the mixture of ancient and modern beautiful features, the city as a capital of light when night falls. There are also festivals, dining dinner on cruise on the Danube and especially hot spring bath, the pride of the people here. So, is Budapest worth visiting? Let’s discover one of the best destinations in Europe through our Budapest travel blog (Budapest blog) with the fullest Budapest travel guide (Budapest city guide) for a wonderful trip to Budapest on a budget for the first time from how to get there, best time to visit, what to eat, top things to do … to find out the answer!

• Budapest tips — +17 Budapest things to know & top tips for Budapest
• Where to go in Budapest — 9 top, must see & best places to visit in Budapest
• What to do in Budapest — 7 fun, must & best things to do in Budapest
• What to buy in Hungary? — 15+ best gifts from Hungary & souvenirs from Hungary
• Tasting Hungarian Goulash soup — The delicious traditional soup of Hungary

Hungary’s currency is Forint – HUF (1Euro ~ 320 HUF), you can exchange money at the airport, exchange points in the city or at your hotel, while at public places like stations, the docks, exchange fee is a bit more expensive and usually in the city they only accept payment in Hungarian money. If you come to Budapest by plane, you can exchange a little at the airport, and if you take a train or a bus when arrive the station, you go down to the basement to exchange to HUF to buy Metro tickets.

Budapest blog: When is the best time to visit?

Budapest has continental climate but is quite similar to other European cities. Winter temperature drops very low below 10 degrees Celsius, but the summer is not too hot, ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, sometimes up to 40 degrees Celsius but not often.

Christmas season: As an Eastern European country with a relatively low cost of living, Budapest is very suitable for those who want to experience a new Christmas atmosphere, festivals everywhere, visiting the Christmas market is the largest fair in the country at Vörösmarty square, and another market near St. Stephen’s Basilica that selling a lot of handicrafts, souvenirs, gifts, decorations, and street food are everywhere.

Spring festivals (March, April) and fall (September, October) – Spring Festival and Autumn Festival, mainly music and choir festivals in the city’s big theaters. The snow has melted along the Danube river and the weather is now cool most suitable for traveling and sightseeing. September is also the time of the Budapest National Gallop event for those who love horse racing. Those who love food cannot miss the “Budapest Palinka and Sausage Festival” festival held on Castle Hill with a variety of fine wines and traditional sausages.

Summer festivals: These are also festivals of music, opera and outdoor stage performances. Events during these festival days are usually held on Margaret Island. In addition, during the summer months Budapest will stop traffic through the Chain Bridge to host festivals including concerts, shopping, food, and entertainment. In June, along the bank of Danube river is also the time of the Danube Carnival folk dance festival.

Budapest travel blog: How to get to and from Budapest?

Budapest has a main and largest airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (also known as Ferihegy Airport), located about 15km from the city center and has 2 main Terminals, but usually you will arrive at Terminal 2 (with 2A and 2B, 2A is for international flights, while 2B is for low-cost airlines). After completing the entry procedures, you will see a booth called “Information and tickets”, where you can find all tourist information, types of means of transportation, tickets and types of Pass, Budapest Cards (will discuss below). If you decide to go to your hotel to rest during that day, do not travel much, you should not buy Budapest Card (type 24 hours, 48 hours, ..), but only buy retail tickets (buy a block of 10 tickets at one time for cheaper) because Budapest Card will count the time when you swipe.

Getting from the airport to city center: The easiest way to get to the city center is to take the Bus 200E (daytime) or Bus 900 (night) at Terminal 2 for 400 HUF ($1.39) to the final stop and also the starting point of the Metro Blue Line M3: Kobanya – Kispest , from here you can catch Metro to the city center is Pályaudvar Nyugati Station (Budapest-Nyugati Railway Terminal). At the last stop of Bus 200E, you go up the stairs to cross a corridor to Metro Kobanya – Kispest Station. Bus 200E runs continuously from 4am to 11pm and you can see the timetables here . In addition, there is shuttle bus 100E

There is also another bus 100E, running from Deák Ferenc tér to the airport and back with a fare of 900 HUF (€2.95), free of charge for children under 6 years of age and people over 65 years old. The bus runs every 30 minutes.

Budapest has a train system that connects to many other major European cities, Estern station runs to Eastern Europe, Western station runs to Western Europe, … Final stations and direct links to metro lines in the city:

• Eastern Railway Station ( Budapest Keleti Railway Station ) – M2, this station connects Budapest with the Austrian cities (Vienna, Salzburg), Germany (Berlin, Munich, ..), France, Italy and other Western European countries … If traveling from Budapest to these countries, you choose this station.
• Southern Railway Station ( Budapest-Déli Railway Terminal ) – M2, this station connects Budapest with Zagreb of Croatia.
• Western Railway Station ( Nyugati Pályaudvar Train Station ) – M3, this station connects Budapest with Lviv, Kiev & Ukraine.

Tickets can be purchased directly at the counter (including tickets to other countries) or purchased online from Hungarian State Railways Mavcsoport . Budapest has daily international trains to Berlin (12 hours), Munich (7.5 hours), Vienna (3 hours), Prague (7 hours), Bratislava (2.5 hours), Warsaw (10.5 hours), Bucharest (16.5 hours), Venice (13.5 hours), Ljubljana (9 hours), Zagreb (6.5 hours), Belgrade (8 hours), Sarajevo (11 hours), Sofia (18 hours), Kiev (25 hours) and Moscow (39 hours). The ticket price is also very cheap at EUR 13-19/way from Budapest to Vienna.

There are many European domestic bus routes such as Eurolines or Orangeways linked to Budapest and the final stop is usually Népliget International Bus Terminal . From here you can take Metro Line M3 to go to different points in the city center. There are also three other bus stations, Stadion Bus Station (the east routes), Árpád Bridge Bus Station (the north routes) and Etele tér Bus Station (for domestic routes in Hungary).

Budapest travel guide: Getting around Budapest

Budapest is a city with a large area and an maze public transport network, although metro lines or trams on the ground have been built for a long time, old but still have great value in using until today. In Budapest you can choose a variety of means of transport to getting around, buses or taxis are also many but often traffic jams, to ensure a convenient and economical trip you should learn a little about the types of public transport of this city.

To getting around the city you can use taxi, rent a bicycle, bus, Metro, Tram (electric train on the ground). The easiest and most convenient way for backpackers is to choose Metro to travel, combined with walking to get to the attractions. Details of the fare you see here , some types of Metro tickets you should consider buying while traveling in Budapest such as:

• Single ticket: for single trip, price of 350 HUF ($1.22)/ticket
• Block of 10 tickets: price of 3000 HUF ($10.44), savings 500 HUF ($1.74) compared to buying single ticket.
• Daily ticket: 1650 HUF ($5.74) count starting when you first use (when validate on the machine).
• Daily ticket for group: 3300 HUF ($11.48) (maximum of 5 people).

Metro system of Budapest has 4 lines of M1,2,3,4 corresponding to yellow, red, blue, green (latest line in 2014). If traveling alone in Budapest for 2-3 days and only in the city center, you should buy a block of 10 tickets is enough and saving. To buy tickets you can see a lot of automatic ticket machines at each Metro station, at the airport you can go to the information counter for tourists. Remember when take Metro you have to validate the ticket at Train Ticket Validation Machines, if you are not validated, you will be fined 8.000 HUF ($27.84) and have to pay this fine within 2 days, if you will not pay this fine for 2 days the fine will increase to 16.000 HUF ($55.68).

On the Budapest metro map above you notice that some of the main metro lines can help for your trip like:

• Metro lines 1,2,3 mainly connect important tourist attractions with suburbs
• Metro line M1 connects Budapest center with Budapest City Park, other attractions such as Heroes’ Square, Vajdahunyad Castle and Széchenyi Thermal Bath
• The central station of Deák Ferenc tér is the intersection of lines 1,2,3 to reach the Chain Brigde, Buda Castle or you can continue go to Kossuth Lajos ter to getting to Parliament house.
• The Tram 2 route runs along the Danube river on the side of Pest city.
• Bus routes 16, 16A and 116 take you to Buda castle.
• Bus 105 route goes to Hősök tere (Hero’s Square) and passes through the Chain Bridge to Buda city.
• Bus 200E to the airport.

Budapest blog: Where to stay?

In my opinion, you should choose hotel right in the center such as near the tourist sites, or near Metro station, although a bit more expensive but save time and no need to walk much. Especially at the end of the day, when get tired and still have to walk a long way to return to hotel will extremely tired. The area that people love when they come to Budapest is along the poetic Danube river because it is a arterial road and many landmarks also are located along this river, hotels in the city are mainly located on the banks of the Pest city.

The first hotel I want to recommend is the top rated Aventura Boutique Hostel and Apartments Budapest , located in district 13 in Pest city and only 300 meters from Metro Nyugati Railway Terminal, the room rates is very good only 12-15 euros/bed/night. From here you can easily catch metro, walking along the Danube river, market, supermarket, shops, cafes near the hostel, very convenient. The room is very clean, stylish, with massage service for 20 Euros, the lady hostel owner friendly and kind. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

If you go with family or a large group of people and want to stay in a more beautiful and isolated place, you can consider the Paradise Apartments , located in the center of Budapest and very close to the metro Astoria station, including 1 bedroom and 1 living room, sofa in the living room is also large to be used as a bed, nice furniture, full amenities. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

Continental Hotel Budapest (Address: Budapest, Dohány u. 42, 1074 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 815 1000), a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $133/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Maverick City Lodge (Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 24, 1075 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 793 1605), a top rated guesthouse with room rates from $15/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Danubius Hotel Astoria City Center (Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos u. 19, 1053 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 889 6000), a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $90/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Budapest Panorama Central (Address: Budapest, Károly krt. 10, 1052 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 328 0870), a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $63/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Corinthia Hotel Budapest (Address: Budapest, Erzsébet krt. 43-49, 1073 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 479 4000), a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $184/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Danubius Hotel Helia (Address: Budapest, Kárpát u. 62-64, 1133 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 889 5800), a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $81/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Ibis Budapest Centrum (Address: Budapest, Ráday u. 6, 1092 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 456 4100), a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $76/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Danubius Health Spa Resort Margitsziget (Address: Budapest, 1007 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 889 4700), a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $95/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

NH Budapest City (Address: Budapest, Vígszínház utca 3 H, 1137 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 814 0000), a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $80/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Danubius Grand Hotel Margitsziget (Address: Budapest, Zielinski Szilárd stny., 1138 Hungary / Phone: +36 1 889 4700), a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $90/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Piano Castle Hill (Address: Budapest, Donáti u. 53, 1015 Hungary / Phone: +36 20 548 9841), a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $39/night. (C heck rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

In addition, you can find more good hotels in Budapest on Booking.com and Agoda.com  is also very good choice because local people are very friendly, many people are willing to pick you up at the airport.

Budapest blog: What and where to eat?

Traveling in Budapest, you will be immersed in a variety of charming traditional foods that must not be missed like:

Lángos: A favorite street food of indigenous people, including sour cream, cheese, ham, sauce. The price is only 500HUF ($1.74)/item and can be held while eating. Another street food you should try is Hundog (like a sausage sandwich).

The Leves  soup consists of green vegetables, potatoes and meat, lots of nutrition.

Csirke Paprikás (Chicken paprikash) or Hungarian spicy chicken includes cream, sauce, chicken at Budapest Great Market Hall.

Rétes or strudel is a kind of multi-layer roll cake, a very old dish of Hungary.

Kürtőskalács : A type of cake made from wheat flour wrapped around an iron bar and grilled on charcoal, then sprinkled on the surface with sugar, cinnamon or walnuts. You can find this dish at the Hundog stalls on Vaci utca street.

There are also many other traditional delicacies that you can enjoy such as Gulyás (Goulash soup – a type of braised beef served with bread, so delicious), Lecsó (including tomatoes and peppers), Töltött káposzta (meat stuffed in cabbage), … You should visit the central market of Market Hall which is the largest market in Budapest because here you can find a lot of traditional Hungarian dishes. In addition, some delicious and famous restaurants in Budapest you should come and try such as Pozsonyi Kisvendéglő (Address: Budapest, Radnóti Miklós u. 38, 1137 Hungary / Hours: 9AM–12AM / Phone: +36 1 787 4877) , Tüköry Étterem (Address: Budapest, Hold u. 15, 1054 Hungary / Hours: 11AM–11PM / Phone: +36 1 302 3233) , and Mátyás Pince (Address: Budapest, Március 15. tér 7, 1056 Hungary / Hours: 12PM–12AM / Phone: +36 1 266 8008) .

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Danube river cruises: an ultimate guide to cruising Budapest and beyond

Why, when and how to sail along Europe’s second-longest river, which meanders through the likes of Vienna, Budapest and Bucharest

Its banks are lined with dramatic, unspoiled landscapes, postcard-perfect towns and villages, and grand, opulent cities . Take a river cruise down this majestic river and you’ll encounter some of the world’s most stunning countryside, including the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley, along with an array of fascinating cultures.

Cruising Europe’s waterways is a great way to see more of the region in a short period of time than you might do by land, and a river cruise can be the ideal introduction to cruise holidays for first-timers.

While ships are smaller than those traversing across oceans, river cruise itineraries often feature big-name guests onboard – as is the case with our seven-night sailing along the Danube , when one of the UK's best-loved historians, Lucy Worsley (pictured below), joins guests on a private visit to Vienna’s Royal Lipizzaner Stables and Spanish Riding School.

What is the best time of year to cruise the Danube River?

The Danube is a year-round destination with the exception of January and February, when few cruise lines operate here. Summer, when the weather is hottest, is peak season and as a result Europe’s cities are particularly crowded. Because of that, we recommend taking a Danube river cruise in April, May, September and October. Good Housekeeping's seven-night itinerary sails in September, when the weather should still be balmy and dry, but the summer hordes have gone home.

Where does a Danube river cruise start and end?

The Danube either flows through or delineates part of the border of Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova and Ukraine. Many cruises traverse the stretch between the capital cities of Vienna, Austria and Budapest , Hungary, starting or ending at either location.

Our seven-night Danube river cruise with Lucy Worsley departs from the city of Engelhartszell in Austria before calling at Vienna (pictured below), the pretty town of Esztergom in Hungary and Budapest. You'll then loop back down the river, calling at Slovakia's capital Bratislava and the Wachau Valley in Austria before returning to Engelhartszell.

Is a Danube river cruise worth it?

Absolutely! If you love dazzling landscapes, magnificent architecture and fabulous food, a Danube river cruise is hard to beat. Exploring Europe by water requires no internal flights and train rides and eliminates schlepping around with your luggage in tow.

On a river cruise, you can discover multiple destinations – and even get to the heart of them with a guided tour, should you wish – in just one trip, all the while returning to the same luxurious stateroom and comfy bed each night.

What are the best things to do on a Danube river cruise?

One of the highlights of any Danube cruise is the Austrian capital, Vienna, with its musical heritage, imperial palaces, array of art museums, stunning Lipizzaner stallions, and delectable cuisine (a slice of Sachertorte chocolate cake is a must when in town!).

Secondly, Budapest, the capital of Hungary, boasts breath-taking architecture as well as historic thermal baths (pictured above), while Bratislava shouldn’t be overlooked with its lively 18th-century Old Town and impressive reconstructed hilltop castle from which you can look down over it.

Other hotspots along the Danube include the verdant Wachau Valley in Austria, which tumbles down to the riverbanks; and medieval Esztergom, Hungary’s former capital, which is home to the country’s largest church, Esztergom Basilica.

And that’s all without mentioning the entertainment and facilities onboard your ship. Join us on our seven-night Danube cruise and you’ll sail aboard A-ROSA FLORA, which boasts an onboard spa offering beauty and body treatments, gym, spacious sun deck, heated outdoor pool, outdoor restaurant with canopy top, bar and dancefloor, lounges and plenty of evening fun.

Which cruise lines offer Danube river cruises?

Among the companies offering cruises along the Danube are A-ROSA Cruises , with whom we have partnered to bring you our remarkable river cruise . A-ROSA has 20-plus years of experience in sailing couples, families, groups and solo travellers along some of Europe’s loveliest rivers in laidback style, giving you lots of freedom to explore port stops at your own pace.

How much does it cost to cruise the Danube?

Danube cruises can be great value, with our cruise through Austria, Hungary and Slovakia starting just over £2,000 per person for a week. All meals and drinks, including sparkling wines and cocktails, are included, as are snacks and afternoon tea. Also included is the use of the sauna, gym and top-deck heated swimming pool. You'll also get 15% off treatments in the onboard spa.

Sail the Danube and visit Vienna's famous riding school with Lucy Worsley in September 2024.

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