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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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Home » Travel Guides » Hungary » 25 Best Things To Do In Budapest (Hungary)

25 Best Things To Do In Budapest (Hungary)

Hungary’s capital city Budapest is actually made up of 3 unified cities, with Buda and Óbuda on the west bank of the Danube and Pest on the east bank. Much of the city has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and many visitors consider the city to be amongst the most beautiful cities in Europe.

The city successfully mixes its fascinating history with a brilliant, laid-back contemporary artistic style. There are a wide range of different things for visitors to see and do, from museums to thermal spas, so everyone should be able to find something that tickles their fancy.

Lets explore the best things to do in Budapest :

1. Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building, which was designed and built in the Gothic Revival style, is one of the largest buildings in Hungary, and is home to hundreds of parliamentary offices. Although the impressive building looks fantastic from every angle, to see the whole building in its full glory, it is worth viewing it from the other side of the Danube.

Tours of certain areas of the building are available daily, and run in different languages. You will need identification to get in, and your bag may be searched on entry. There is a top selling guided tour which you can book here .

2. Gellért Baths

One of the grandest spas in the city is the Gellert Bath and Spa centre, which includes an open-air pool (which turns into a wave pool), an effervescent swimming pool, a Finnish sauna, and a range of other saunas and plunge pools.

Massages and other spa treatments are also available at an extra fee. The complex was originally built between 1912 and 1918 in an Art Nouveau style, but it sustained serious damage during World War II. The whole spa was extensively renovated in 2008 to bring the baths back to their former glory. The baths are open all week for mixed bathing.

3. Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square (Hosök tere), which marks the end of Andrássy Avenue is home to an iconic monument which features depictions of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars, who are believed to have led the Hungarian people from central Asia to the Carpathian basin.

Atop the central pillar is the Archangel Gabriel, who is holding the Hungarian crown. At either side of the central column are two matching colonnades, which depict a variety of other historical Hungarian figures. The impressive buildings at either side of the square are art galleries. Take care when crossing to the statue, because traffic around the monument can be erratic.

A great way to explore the city: Budapest Segway Tour

4. Margaret Island

Margaret Island is a 2.5km long island which sits in the middle of the Danube, which is covered in parkland and recreational facilities.

There are a number of companies which rent pedal carts, golf carts, and other self-powered vehicles, so that you can explore the island properly.

A rubber-coated 5.5 km running track encircles the island, and is a popular jogging spot for runners who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the most famous features of the island is the “music fountain”, from which water regularly “dances” in time to classical music.

Other notable features on the island include medieval ruins and small aviary which primarily caters for injured water birds and wildfowl.

5. Danube Promenade

This stretch of the Danube walkway goes from the Elizabeth Bridge to the Chain Bridge, and is perfect for those who want a short, but interesting walk. Promenading along the Danube is a great way to see many of the most famous sights in the capital.

Looking over towards to Buda side of the river, you will see the Buda Castle, the Liberty Statue on Gellert Hill and the Fisherman’s Bastion. On the Promenade side of the river you can enjoy restaurants, cafes, Szechenyi Istvan Square and a range of different sculptures, including the Little Princess.

The Danube is also perfect for a river cruise, there’s a fun dinner cruise and folk show (with gypsy music) which you can book here .

6. House of Terror

The House of Terror holds exhibitions about the successive Fascist and Communist regimes which ruled Hungary during the 20th Century. The building itself was the former headquarters of the Fascist Arrow Cross party, and the building was subsequently used as a prison and torture venue by the State Security services of Hungary.

There is the opportunity to tour some of the prison area in the basement. The exhibition includes information about both regimes, as well as testimonials from some of the victims. As well as exhibitions about the fascist and communist “security services”, the building often houses other temporary exhibitions.

7. St. Stephen’s Basilica

This basilica is one of the most important religious buildings in Hungary, and visitors to the reliquary can see the (reported) right hand of Stephen, first King of Hungary. As this is a holy site, visitors who plan on entering the church are asked to keep their knees and shoulders covered.

Those with a head for heights can travel up to the base of the dome and look out over the city. On a clear day, this is a great vantage point from which to survey Budapest from the air. Classical music concerts and organ concerts regularly take place inside the Basilica, and sometime spill out into the square outside. Fun fact: You can book an Organ Concert in the Basilica right here .

8. Hungarian State Opera House

This Neo-Renaissance building was first opened in 1884, following a commission from Emperor Franz Joseph. Outside of the building, you can see statues to Ferenc Erkel (composer of the Hungarian National Anthem) and Ferenc Liszt (Hungarian composer).

The 1200 seat auditorium is considered to be one of the best in the world for operatic performances, and it is well worth it to buy a ticket to a show.

Ticket prices start from as low as 500ft. If you cannot find time to see a show, guided tours of the Opera House are available during the day, although these usually need to be booked in advance.

9. Fisherman’s Bastion

Although the Fisherman’s Bastion looks like a medieval monument, it was actually built in the early 20th century in a neo-Gothic style, specifically to act as a panoramic viewing platform across the Danube, Margaret Island and Pest.

It is named after the Guild of Fishermen, which was responsible for defending that stretch of the city walls during the Middle Ages.

The seven towers of the Bastion represent the seven Magyar tribes that helped to settle the Magyar people in the Carpathian Basin. Come at sunset to see a particularly beautiful view of the city.

10. Invisible Exhibition

The Invisible Exhibition aims to give visitors the chance to experience what life is like for people who are completely blind. A registered blind guide will take you on a tour through various different artificially created environments (garden, supermarket, bar etc) which are in completely dark rooms.

On arrival, you will be asked to turn off any potential light sources, such as mobile phones or digital watches, so that there will no light at all in the rooms. After the exhibition, you can enjoy dinner in the dark, served by blind waiters, who will help you to find your way around your dinner plate.

You may also like: Private Art Nouveau Budapest Tour

11. Faust Wine Cellars

This historic wine cellar, which is located underneath the Buda Castle is the perfect place to sample wines from some of the 22 Hungarian wine regions. You will also have the opportunity to sample traditional Hungarian fruit palinka. A sommelier will give you tasting notes during your visit, so that you can get the most out of each wine that you try.

There are a range of different tasting programmes available, depending on how much time you have and how much you want to spend. Due to the size of the cellars, you are advised to book ahead.

12. Memento Park

This wonderful sculpture park is now home to some of the many Communist monuments and statues which dotted the city during the Communist Era.

These statues were either removed by the government as part of the decommunization process, or they were forcibly removed by the Hungarian people in protest at the previous regime.

When the park was opened in 1993, it became a place to display some of these monuments and showcase an important part of the city’s history.

A small museum on site also includes temporary exhibitions about life under the communist regime, including information about the Hungarian Secret Police.

13. Dohány Street Synagogue

This synagogue is currently one of the largest in the world outside of Israel, despite the fact that Hungary’s Jewish population was significantly depleted during World War II.

The interior and the garden were restored in the 1990’s, with much of the funding coming from the Hungarian Jewish diaspora population worldwide.

In the garden you can see a weeping willow memorial, whose metal leaves bear the names of some of those killed during the war.

There is also a memorial to Swedish diplomat Roual Wallenberg, who helped to save hundreds of Hungarian Jews from concentration camps and ghettos.

14. Ecseri Flea Market

This fantastic flea market on the outskirts of the city is a great place to find a bargain. It is possible to pick up a variety of different treasures from here, although you may have to search through stalls full of things that you consider to be trash in order to find them.

Even if you are not planning on buying anything, it is still possible to wander for hours amid the stalls, dreaming about the past owners of all of this bric-a-brac. Stalls sell everything from retro clothing, through to memorabilia from the Communist era.

Haggling is recommended, although you should expect to pay a bit more if you are not a local.

15. Ruin Pubs

Budapest is famous for its “ruin pubs”, in which shabby-chic is the order of the day. The best ruin pubs are set up in sprawling, deserted buildings, which have been filled with comfortable, but slightly worn out furniture.

Each pub has its own unique style, so you will often find visitors referring to their favourite pub as “the one with the…”. Popular ruin pubs include Instant (“the one with the crazy animal pictures”), Fogas Ház (“the one with the teeth), Kuplung (“the one with the whale”) and Szimpla Kert.

16. Central Market Hall

The Great Market Hall in central Budapest is Budapest’s most famous marketplace.

Whilst many locals still use the market hall as a place to buy their groceries, the market is incredibly popular with the tourists too.

Locally grown fruits and veg, and locally sourced meats are found on the lower floors, and souvenirs including lace, chess sets and leather goods are available in the upper floors.

As well as individual ingredients, it is possible to pick up homemade local delicacies like goulash and langos from the food stall upstairs.

17. Buda Castle Hill Funicular

This funicular, which first opened in 1870, is the second oldest funicular of its kind in the world. A system of weights and counterweights is used to help to raise the carriages up and down the hill. The funicular is the fastest way to get to the top of Castle Hill, and is exceedingly popular because of its panoramic views out across the Danube. (You can also get there with this Segway tour )

The speed of ascent was actually slowed down as of 1988, to give passengers more time to enjoy their ride. The track is open daily until 10pm, so it is also a great way to enjoy views of Pest at night.

18. The Buda Hills

The Buda Hills are one of the greenest areas of the city, and are very popular with Budapest citizens who want to take a little time away from city life.

There are various hiking trails to follow and mountain bike paths as well, which range from easy to medium level of difficulty.

For those who want to explore the hills in a more leisurely fashion, visit the Children’s Railway, which is entirely staffed by children aged 10-14 (with the exception of some adult staff who are responsible for safety).

There are plenty of picnic spots dotted around so that you can enjoy a lovely packed lunch.

19. Andrássy Avenue

This wonderful boulevard takes visitors from Erzsébet Square in central Pest, out to the City Park. Due to its interesting cultural heritage, it was declared a World Heritage Site in 2002.

Taking a walk down Andrássy is a great way to see a number of Budapest’s different architectural styles, including the Hungarian National Opera House, neo-renaissance townhouses and mansions, and a number of different national embassies.

If you do not fancy promenading down the boulevard, the metro line which runs underneath the Avenue is the third oldest underground railway in the world.

20. Liberty Statue

The Liberty Statue on Gellert Hill is one of the few prominent Communist statues which remained in situ after the transition to democracy, in part because of its iconic location overlooking the city.

The statue was first erected in 1947 to commemorate the Soviet troops who lost their lives liberating the country, however the engraving was later changed so that it commemorated “all who sacrificed their lives for the independence, freedom, and prosperity of Hungary”.

The panoramic views from underneath the statue are unparalleled, and help to make the walk to the top of the hill well worth it.

21. Citadella

The Citadel, which sits atop Gellert Hill, was constructed by the Hapsburgs following the failed Hungarian War of Independence.

It was thought that its prime strategic position would make it easy to control both Buda and Pest, should any future uprisings occur.

Troops were stationed at the Citadel until 1897. Soviet forces once again used the fortress to control the city during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, and tanks which were situated there fired down on the city.

The Citadel now houses a restaurant, a hotel and a museum.

22. Széchenyi Thermal Baths

The Széchenyi Baths complex is the largest “medicinal” bath centre in Europe. The waters are rich in sulphates, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate and fluoride, which are believed to help patients with degenerative joint illnesses and other medical issues.

For those who just want to enjoy the relaxing powers of the thermal pools, there are a variety of different thermal pools on site, as well as saunas and steam rooms.

Massages and beauty treatments are also available at an additional fee.

The two outdoor pools are fantastic places to visit on a cold, dark night, as the steam rising from the hot water makes the whole place seem wonderfully mysterious.

23. City Park

The City Park is a wonderful leisure facility for the citizens of Budapest, and includes sports facilities, swimming baths, and a boating lake.

During the winter months, the boating lake is transformed into one of Europe’s largest ice rinks.

The park is also home to the Budapest Municipal Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Budapest Circus and the Vajdahunyad Castle (housing the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture).

Just outside of the park you can find the Time Wheel, which is one of the largest sand timers in the world.

In this sand timer, all of the grains of glass take 1 year to fall from the top section to the bottom, and the timer is rotated every New Year.

24. Hungarian National Museum

The Hungarian National Museum is home to thousands of exhibits detailing the history, art, religion and archaeology of the country, including exhibitions from areas which are now considered to be outside of Hungary’s borders.

The spectacular Neoclassical museum building itself is worth looking at, even if you do not plan on touring the inside.

The peaceful gardens outside of the museum are considered to be a popular meeting spot, and are particularly popular during the summer months.

25. Aquincum Museum and Ruin Garden

This is a great chance to explore some of Hungary’s ancient history. Aquincum was a Roman city which stood where Budapest stands today, and served as an important military base in the ancient Roman Empire.

It is possible to walk around some of the ruins, including those of an ancient gladiatorial amphitheatre, and other structures, such as the city bathhouse.

In the museum itself, you can view various Roman relics, and a working replica of famous water organ which was discovered in the area in 1931.

Want to know what to do in Budapest with the little ones? Check out this post by trip101: Things to do in Budapest with kids

25 Best Things To Do In Budapest (Hungary):

• Parliament Building
• Gellért Baths
• Heroes’ Square
• Margaret Island
• Danube Promenade
• House of Terror
• St. Stephen’s Basilica
• Hungarian State Opera House
• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Invisible Exhibition
• Faust Wine Cellars
• Memento Park
• Dohány Street Synagogue
• Ecseri Flea Market
• Central Market Hall
• Buda Castle Hill Funicular
• The Buda Hills
• Andrássy Avenue
• Liberty Statue
• Széchenyi Thermal Baths
• Hungarian National Museum
• Aquincum Museum and Ruin Garden

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Budapest

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

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

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

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

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

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

2. Soak at the Baths

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

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

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

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

3. Party at the Ruin Bars

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

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

4. See Castle Hill

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

5. Tour Buda Castle

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

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

6. Explore the Hospital in the Rock

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

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

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

7. Visit the Hungarian National Gallery

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

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

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

8. Wander the Budapest History Museum

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

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

9. See the Cave Church

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

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

10. Visit Matthias Church

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

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

11. Visit Fisherman’s Bastion

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

12. Admire the Hungarian Presidential Palace

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

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

13. See Buda Tower

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

14. Walk Across the Chain Bridge

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

15. Visit Parliament

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

16. Stroll Along the Danube

17. Eat at the Great Market Hall

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

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

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

18. Admire St. Stephen’s Basilica

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

19. See Dohány Street Synagogue

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

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

20. Hike Gellért Hill

21. Visit the Museum of Terror

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

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

22. Stroll Around Heroes’ Square

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

23. Go Island-Hopping

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

24. Visit the House of Houdini

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

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

25. Day trip to Lake Balaton

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

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

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Book Your Trip to Budapest: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

• Carpe Noctem

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

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

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

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

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The 13 best attractions in Budapest

From gorgeous architecture to lesser-known curiosities and quirky museums, these are the finest sights in the Hungarian capital

Budapest is a darling of a city, one of the most picturesque capitals in Europe and objectively one of its best nights out . Tourists, travellers, nomads and explorers alike have been wandering the streets of Buda and Pest for centuries, looking for excitement and experience in equal measure. The Hungarian capital doesn’t let the side down, and those serene thermal baths and spas are always on hand to provide a little rejuvenation. The best attractions in Budapest are the greatest hits of sorts, showcasing the capital’s fascinating history, architectural majesty and fiery creative side. Looking for your Budapest bucket list? Look no further.

Recommended:   📍 The best things to do in Budapest 😋 The best restaurants in Budapest 🍻 The best ruin bars in Budapest 🏡 The best  Airbnbs in Budapest 🛏 The best  hotels in Budapest

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Best Budapest attractions

1.  Buda Castle

Crowning the capital atop Castle Hill, Buda Castle presents an architectural melting pot, with Renaissance ruins around the foundations, a grand Habsburg-era neoclassical façade, and a stark communist-style interior. The palace is divided into three museums: The Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum and the National Széchényi Library. You could easily spend the whole day just mooching around these three. But make sure to bring a camera – the views over the river and cobbled courtyards are quite something.

2.  Széchenyi Baths

Take a plunge in Budapest’s most famous thermal bath. The Széchenyi Baths are a visual feast with their canary-hued colonnades and steaming outdoor thermal pools. Make sure you go inside to explore the vast interior clad with ceramics, marble and mosaics. Budapest is known as the ‘City of Spas’ for its 120 geothermal springs – so don’t miss out.

3.  Madame Tussauds

The world’s 24th, and arguably most elegant, Madame Tussauds waxworks museum occupies the 200-year-old Palazzo Dorottya in the heart of Budapest. Using the Hungarian capital as its main theme, this English-friendly attraction takes visitors on an interactive and immersive journey, accompanied by movie stars and famous figures from Hungarian history. Without leaving this spot by the Danube, you can zoom around town on the back of Tom Cruise’s motorbike, accompany Habsburg Empress Elisabeth in her carriage or schmooze with Brad Pitt at a wrap party at the Gellért Baths. Hungarophiles will enjoy the life-like representations of pre-war torch singer Katalin Karády and football star Ferenc Puskás, both showcased in suitable settings.

4.  Children’s Railway

Get out of the city centre and escape to the Buda Hills on this nostalgic 45-minute train ride through the forest. Why ‘children’s’? It’s not aimed at kids, necessarily – but run by them. This vintage railway is a remnant of a communist youth programme called ‘The Pioneers’, which encouraged children to develop a work ethic and learn about responsibility. These days, a staff of uniformed children still operate the narrow gauge railway, but sans propaganda. Fortunately, the drivers and engineers are grown-ups.

5.  Memento Park

Memento Park may be on the city’s outskirts, but its graveyard-like array of communist statues is well worth the trek. Bronze statues of Lenin and Hungarian political figures from the Communist Party are dotted around the vast park alongside monumental pieces of street propaganda. Don’t miss the barracks next to the main gate where you can watch films from the secret service. And make sure to have a go on the time-travelling telephone booth just inside the entrance.

6.  Dohány Street Synagogue

It’s hard to miss this neo-oriental building, topped as it is with two gold-dappled onion-dome turrets. Inside, the synagogue dazzles with its rare rose window, lavish gold leaf detailing and carved wood features. A poignant graveyard marks where some 2,000 Jews were killed during the Holocaust, alongside a weeping willow sculpture that bears the name of the victims on each of its leaves. Europe’s largest synagogue definitely merits a visit, but you can only go in with a guide.

7.  St Stephen’s Basilica

This domed basilica is Budapest’s most photographed monument and its tallest building at 97 metres (tied with the Hungarian Parliament). Go inside for the spectacular frescoes and the mummified hand of Hungary’s canonised first king. Make sure you head to the viewing platform for 360-degree views over the city. For a truly magical experience, check out an organ concert. 

8.  Hungarian Parliament

Another Danube-side icon, the Hungarian Parliament dominates the Pest side of the river with its neo-gothic spires, gargoyles and a dome that peaks at 97 metres. Tour the building, see it from a boat or simply look over from Buda. If you take a guided tour, climb the golden staircase, and ogle the crown jewels that once belonged to Hungary’s first king (plus the rooms where the Hungarian government now meet). 

9.  Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square bookends the north-eastern end of the elegant Andrássy Avenue. It feels more like a memorial than a square, thanks to the arcade filled with statues of Hungarian kings and leaders. In the centre, a column rises with the Angel Gabriel at the top; at the bottom, you’ll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Each side of Heroes’ Square is flanked by two neoclassical, temple-like buildings: The Museum of Fine Arts and the Kunsthalle.

10.  Central Market Hall

If you’re feeling peckish, make this your first stop – and don’t get too distracted by the surroundings (save that for afterwards). This red-brick building, with its striking yellow and green tiled roof, is a big draw for architecture buffs. And the cavernous interior, accented with steel beams, is even more spectacular. But most importantly, the ground floor bursts with a cornucopia of fruit and veg, sausages, cheese and pickles. Game and fish counters populate the labyrinthine basement, while the first floor is split between folk art and embroidery and an effervescent food court.

11.  Margaret Island

The 2.75-kilometre-long Margaret Island stretches from Margaret Bridge in the south to Árpád Bridge in the north. Apart from the local bus, most of the island is traffic-free, and it’s a refreshing, leafy hangout for Budapestians and visitors alike. Visit the ruins of a medieval convent, climb an art nouveau water tower, kick back in the Japanese or rose garden, or picnic by the musical fountain. The island also boasts an open-air art deco thermal bath, the Palatinus.

12.  Hospital in the Rock

This underground hospital saw action in the Second World War and the 1956 Revolution before it became a nuclear bunker. For decades it was top secret and only became declassified in the early 2000s. Today it offers a fascinating insight into frontline medicine in Hungary, with guided tours through the hospital, now enhanced with creepy waxwork figures. The bunker’s decontamination chambers are brilliantly eerie, too. 

13.  Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert is the original and most famous ruin bar in Budapest. Step inside this crumbling building, and you’ll feel you’ve entered a surreal, fairy-light-wrapped wonderland with graffiti-daubed walls and mismatched furniture likely brought in off the street. Original art and sculptures adorn the walls, and the complex is vast (it takes up an entire gutted apartment block). On Sunday mornings, it turns into a farmers’ market with a charity cook-off and live music.

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13 of the best things to do in Budapest

By Sarah Rodrigues

2023 marked 150 years of unification of the cities of Buda and Pest, and despite Budapest ’s dark past (it still bears the traces of its former fascist and communist regimes), Hungary’s capital is vibrant, fascinating and endlessly beautiful. Although easily navigated on foot, it’s worth picking up a  Budapest Card , which gives you unlimited access to public transport and discounts to many attractions. It's undeniably become one of the best city breaks in Europe , so we thought it was about time we gathered up a definitive list of the best things to do in Budapest.

1. Wallow in the city’s thermal baths

Budapest features an unusual topography, blessing the city with mineral-rich thermal springs , many of which have been used to create more than a dozen bathing complexes scattered throughout the city. Idyllic at any time of year, there is something undeniably special about sitting outside, with the cold stinging your nose, as your body luxuriates in warm water. One of the oldest and most beautiful is the  Rudas Bath . Featuring ornate Ottoman Empire design flourishes, it has six thermal baths and a swimming pool, as well as a rooftop hot tub with views of the Danube. It’s also the only bath house in Budapest to have segregated male and female sessions available, where those who'd rather eschew swimwear. The biggest and most popular bathing complex is  Szechenyi,  which lies on the outer reaches of City Park, northeast of the city. Its Neo-Baroque architecture in primrose yellow is slightly scruffy around the edges, but all the more realistic for it – you genuinely get the sense that this is where the locals come, and the sight of clusters of older women soaking and gossiping can’t fail to make you smile. Szechenyi has 18 pools of varying temperatures, both indoor and outdoor, as well as saunas and spas. Some of Budapest’s baths (including Rudas and Szechenyi) are also open by night, making for a blissfully serene, romantic experience.

2. Explore the Castle District

Located high up on the Buda side of the city, the views over the river and surrounding architecture aren’t to be missed, so if you don’t object to a touch of the touristy, take the funicular up from the near the Chain Bridge – it’s been in operation since 1870 and allows you to soak up the views on the way.

It’s worth hiring a guide or joining a tour when you explore Budapest’s vast castle district because, as aesthetically fascinating as the complex is, these walls hold a wealth of insight that may go unnoticed without expert commentary. This area has been destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout history, but the signs aren’t always immediately apparent – for instance, the lions guarding the entrance to the Lion’s Court have been crudely patched up. Other areas of the complex are currently being reconstructed, thanks to the  National Hauszmann Program,  which aims to return the castle district to its original form – a far cry from the plans of the Soviet era that considered knocking the whole complex down and building a blank, modernist structure for officials. A few minutes walk away is the gloriously Gothic Mathias Church, complete with a statue of Hungary’s first king, St Stephen, and the turreted Fisherman’s Bastion next door. Underground, a system of caves and tunnels can be visited on a  guided tour.

3. Enjoy the city’s musical offerings

Music is tightly woven into Budapest’s – indeed, Hungary’s – history. From 11th-century Gregorian chants to folk music and the enduring genius of Liszt and Kodály, this is a city that sings. Both the  Matthias Church  in the castle district and  St Stephen’s Basilica  on the Pest side of the Danube host recitals throughout the year, while Budapest Opera House, a gilded confection restored in the 1980s, is now open for tours and nights spent enveloped in soaring acoustics, luscious oak panelling and ornate frescoes. Over in the  City Park , the  House of Music  opened in 2022 and takes visitors on a musical journey through various forms of Hungarian music, classical composers and explains how the rise of television and technology has an impact on the music industry. Complete your musical journey with a drink at the  Hard Rock Hotel . Opened in 2021, it’s home to a stylishly curated array of rock memorabilia, including Prince’s purple (what else?) faux fur jacket, Madonna’s high school yearbook, Michael Jackson’s black fedora and Elton John’s bright yellow shoes. Stay at the hotel and live out your rockstar dreams with an in-room Fender guitar and amp.

4. Cross the Danube on the Chain Bridge

The glorious Danube (perhaps not as blue as Strauss would have had us think) is crossed by eight bridges in the Hungarian capital, but none so iconic as the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. Overseen by Scottish civil engineer Adam Clark, it was the first permanent bridge between the previously divided cities of Pest and Buda and has become a symbol of unification. Closed for an 18-month renovation period, the bridge has now been re-opened to pedestrians, taxis and cyclists. Stroll over its floodlit magnificence by night for the best atmosphere, and by day for the best views.

5. Walk the streets – and look up

Perhaps it sounds trite, advising visitors to a city to go for a ramble or take time while exploring, but in Budapest almost every edifice tells a story. Not only is the city an almost unfathomable mish-mash of architectural styles, ranging from Baroque and Neoclassical to Art Nouveau and Gothic, but the sheer range of modes offers insights into Budapest’s varied and complex past. In District VIII, walls are dimpled with bullet holes that, in a city where millions have been poured into restoration, is poignant: these structures wear their troubled past with a "lest we forget" defiance. Large holes can be linked to the Red Army siege of 1945, while smaller ones indicate activity during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, which lasted for just 12 days but had a lasting impact on Eastern Europe’s place in the Cold War. Elsewhere, stop to examine the ornate facades of Kodály körönd (pause by number 14, where  Miksa Róth’s  mosaics frame the windows) as well as the richly coloured tiles of Emil Vidor’s Honvéd utca 16, and the peacock-ish design of the  Löffler brothers ’ (who also designed the Orthodox Synagogue in the Jewish Quarter) at Síp utca 17.

6. Explore the Jewish Quarter

Perhaps this hipster area has become something of a victim of its own success. Ever since the rise of the Ruin Bars (drinking establishments set up in the dilapidated remains of the post-WWII Jewish Quarter – bohemian pioneer  Szimpla  led the way) in the early 2000s, the area has become a magnet for those looking for the good times that Budapest has to offer. The result? The area is now attracting developers and undergoing a process of gentrification, which may eventually lead to the demise of the decrepit spaces that made Ruin Bars so popular to begin with. By all means, get in while you still can, but this historical neighbourhood has far more to offer than places to wet your whistle. Indeed, a plaque outside Szimpla states simply, “People used to live here” – and it’s this, coupled with the knowledge of the atrocities of WWII, that imbues the Jewish Quarter with fascination, albeit an uncomfortable one. Explore the area’s street art: Neopaint’s The Seamstress, at Akácfa Street 41, is particularly noteworthy since it highlights one of the professions most popular with the Jewish population in the 19th century. Delve deeper to find the Chevra Shas-Lubavitch synagogue, folded into a secret courtyard, as well as a wealth of kosher restaurants. On the pavements in front of houses from which Jewish people were seized during the Holocaust, you will find golden cobblestones beneath your feet.

CNT Editors

Adam Turner

Connor Sturges

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

7. Pay your respects at The Shoes on the Danube Promenade

Although only a 2km walk from the Jewish Quarter, this memorial’s heartbreakingly poignant beauty deserves its own entry. Between 1944 and 1945, Budapest was under the control of the Arrow Cross Party, a fascist group with Nazi sympathies that took thousands of Jews from their homes and executed them at the side of the Danube, so that their bodies would fall into its waters and be swept away. Most of the executions took place over the winter months, so the waters would have frozen anyone who might had a hope of survival. Since shoes were a valuable commodity which soldiers could sell for profit, the victims were ordered to remove their shoes before being shot. Film director erected this memorial Can Dogay on the river’s east bank in 2005. Featuring sixty pairs of cast-iron shoes – men’s, women’s and children’s, all painstakingly recreated to reflect the era in which the victims were massacred – the numbers of this tragic sculpture only represent a fraction of those who so brutally lost their lives.

8. Do leisure like a local

Located to the northeast of the city centre, Budapest’s City Park spans 300 acres. Yes, there are many attractions – museums, galleries,  a castle ,  a zoo,  the  Szechenyi  Baths and even a  faux hot air balloon  from which to take in the city’s views – but wander through this green space on a sunny day, and you’ll be tempted to make like a local and just laze about. When it’s warm, it’s full of people lying in the grass, reading, picnicking and dozing; in winter, you can ice skate on the lake. It is also where many of the city’s festivals are held. Time your visit for mid-October and you may happen upon the foodie Kürtőskalács Festival. Available widely throughout the city centre, the name of this classic Hungarian dessert translates to “chimney cake"’ – it is a hollow cylinder, traditionally cooked over a coal furnace to achieve a crisp exterior and fluffy inside, and then rolled in toppings such as cinnamon or vanilla.

9. Museum hop

With over sixty museums in the city, culture buffs are spoiled for choice in Budapest. Check out the  Hungarian National Gallery  in the castle district, which features works by Cézanne, Renoir, Pissarro and Hungary’s Csörgő. At times, it may be possible to ascend the building’s verdigris dome, which offers 360-degree views of the city.  The Museum of Fine Arts,  in Heroes Square near City Park, houses old Hungarian art and permanent exhibitions from Ancient Egypt and 19th-century Europe, including a vast collection of Spanish art. While here, pause to admire Heroes Square itself, where the seven tribes responsible for establishing the Principality of Hungary in 1896 are memorialised. At 60 Andrassy Avenue you’ll find the  House of Terror , which was once the headquarters of the secret police and opened as a museum in 2002 to educate about the atrocities of the fascist and communist regimes. Equally as harrowing is the  Holocaust Memorial Centre . Housed in a former synagogue in the IX District, this place doesn’t spare the visitor details of what occurred in the concentration camps. For something less emotionally taxing, head to the  House of Houdini  to celebrate the magic and mastery of the Hungarian-born escapologist, or try the quirky  Pinball Museum  for retro kicks on over 100 consoles – some of which date back to the 1800s.

10. Visit the Parliament Building

Impressive enough from the outside (be sure to view the complex from the Buda side of the city by night, when it dazzles like a precious bracelet and reflects in the water), the interior of the seat of the  Hungarian Parliament  can also be explored. Gon on a 45-minute tour to take in the gold-plated City Staircase XVII, deeply hued stained glass windows and detailed frescoes, as well as soaring granite columns, the former Chamber of Peers and The Dome Hall, where the Crown Guard of the Hungarian Armed Forces keep watch over the Hungarian Holy Crown and the Coronation Insignia 24 hours a day. Despite its rich history, the tour is not averse to some modern technology – at the end of your visit, you can screen-view snapshots of off-limits spaces and learn more about the building’s construction.

11. Wine and dine

Despite the wide range of cuisines on offer, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to feast on traditional Hungarian food during your visit: authentic beef goulash,  nokedli  (dumplings), vegetable stew and chicken paprikash can all be enjoyed at  Café Kör  or the cosy  Gettó Gulyás . Feeling fancy? The city is also home to no fewer than 28 Michelin-starred restaurants, twenty of which retained their stars from 2022.  Stand Restaurant  is a popular choice – so much so that you’ll need to book it weeks in advance. The Jewish Quarter is peppered with great places to eat, ranging from dive-bar burger joints to the impeccable  TATI , but a consistent favourite is  Mazel Tov  – a verdant, light-filled courtyard with a glass roof serving up irresistible Israeli-Mediterranean fusion dishes. For some true Belle Epoque Glamour head to the  New York Café , a gleaming confection embodying the tradition of the European coffee house housed within the Anantara Hotel.

12. Hop on the Number 2 Tram

Frequently regarded as one of Europe’s most scenic tram journeys, this dinky toy-town mode of transport, painted in a chirpy shade of yellow, takes in many of Budapest’s best sights. Setting off from Jaszari Mari Square, it follows the Danube on its Pest side, with views of Buda and its castle across the water, and the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Chain Bridge on the side of travel. Gellért Hill is an additional feature, with its vivid greenery standing out against the city’s graceful and varied architecture. The journey also takes in the Jewish Holocaust Memorial and the Shoes on the Danube. Ending at the National Theatre, the trip also allows you to admire some of Budapest’s other landmarks, such as the Elizabeth Bridge and Gresham Palace.

13. Visit an outdoor museum to Socialism

Many of the sculptures and statues of Socialist leaders – Lenin, Marx and others – were torn down and trashed when the regime collapsed.  Memento Park , located about an hour’s train journey southwest of Budapest’s centre, is home to around 40 Socialist plaques and figures, dating from 1945 to 1989. The sheer scale of these confirms the grandiose notions that accompanied the Socialist mindset. A highlight is Stalin’s bronze boots – all that remained of the dictator after a crowd of around 20,000 Hungarians toppled his effigy in Budapest’s City Park in 1956. Audacious as it may appear, this is not a place where socialism is idealised, but one where it is recognised as having shaped Budapest’s history. After making your way through the statues, head to the old barracks building where displays document the events of 1956 and film footage of secret agents gathering intelligence about ‘subversives’ can be viewed.

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Overwhelmed by 55 Things to Do in Budapest?

Fantastic viewpoints to sample in budapest.

• Must-See Museums in Budapest, Hungary

Epic Churches and Monuments to Visit in Budapest

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

• Tips for Traveling Budapest, Hungary

Read More About Visiting Budapest (and Beyond)

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If so, we completely understand!

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

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

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

Soak up the views at Fisherman’s Bastion.

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

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

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

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

Watch the sunset on Gellert Hill.

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

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

… And also from Liberty Bridge.

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

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

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

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

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

Take a cruise on the Danube.

… And for best results, take one at sunset.

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

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

Book your Danube River cruise  today!

Ride the Budapest Eye.

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

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

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

Hop on the Castle Hill funicular.

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

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

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

Stroll across the Chain Bridge.

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

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

Ride Budapest’s Tram #2.

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

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

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

Must-See Museums in Budapest , Hungary

Visit the hungarian parliament..

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out the House of Houdini.

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

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

Tour the Hungarian State Opera House.

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

Step inside Buda Castle.

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

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

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

Don’t want to step inside a museum?

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

Pay a somber visit to the House of Terror.

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

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

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

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

Learn something interesting at the Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum.

Interesting in chemistry and alchemy of the Middle Ages?

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

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

Check out the Pinball Museum.

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

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

Explore the Hospital in the Rock.

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

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

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

… And the Labyrinth under Buda Castle.

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

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

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

Go see the Semmelweis Medical Museum.

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

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

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

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

Step inside St. Stephen’s Basilica.

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

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

Admire the incredible Dohany Street Synagogue.

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

Visit the Cave Church.

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

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

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

Tour the beautiful Matthias Church.

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

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

Pay a visit to Heroes Square.

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

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

Step inside Central Market Hall.

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

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

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

Taste some goulash.

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

… and langos.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

B ook your Budapest food tour today!

Taste Hungarian wines.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Munch on a chimney cake.

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

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

Indulge in Budapest’s cafe scene.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy some paprika.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out the For Sale Pub.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get underground and go on a caving adventure.

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

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

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

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

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

Swing by the statue of Imre Nagy.

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

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

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

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

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

… And also the one of Ronald Reagan.

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

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

Watch the changing of the guard at Buda Castle.

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

See a different side of Budapest on Margaret Island.

Margaret Island is completely different from the rest of Budapest!

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

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

Visit Liberty Square.

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

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

Check out Memento Park.

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

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

Hence, Memento Park was born.

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

Release your inner Belle at the Szabo Ervin Library.

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

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

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

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

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

Stroll through City Park.

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

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

… And visit Vajdahunyad Castle.

Also located within City Park?

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

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

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

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

Pay your respects at the Shoes on the Danube monument.

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

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

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

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

Visit the Cinkota Cemetery.

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

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

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

Admire the street art in the Jewish Quarter.

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

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

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

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

Shop street art tours in Budapest today!

Stroll down Andrassy Avenue.

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

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

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

Get into the holiday spirit at the Christmas Markets.

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

Check out the Ecseri Flea Market.

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

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

Go see the Zero Kilometer Stone.

Interested in transportation like Jeremy is?

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

Head off to Szentendre for a day.

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

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

Book your day trip to Szentendre today!

Wondering where to stay in Budapest ?

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

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

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at Jackquaters!

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Erzsébet!

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Mika Superior!

Tips for Traveling Budapest , Hungary

Consider grabbing a transportation pass or budapest card..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hint: we personally prefer to stay in Pest.

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

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

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

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

Plan your itinerary based on geography.

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t worry about the language barrier.

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

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

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

Ready to keep planning your trip to Central Europe?

We’d love to help!

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

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

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

About Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• 15 Must Visit Attractions In...

25 Must-Visit Attractions in Budapest, Hungary

From majestic Art Nouveau thermal baths to trendy ruin bars, a whole host of new experiences await at Budapest’s must-visit attractions. To make the most of your trip to Budapest, skip the queue by booking Budapest’s top attractcafions online, whether it’s touring the spectacular Neo-Gothic parliament building, diving into the underground cave system or battling it out at the Pinball Museum.

1. gellért thermal bath.

Building, Spa, Health Spa

Budapest is nicknamed the “City of Spas” for good reason. More than 118 natural thermal springs deliver 70 million litres (15.3 million gallons) of therapeutic waters to the city each day. Housed within the world-famous Gellért Hotel, the Gellért Baths is just one of a dozen spas where you can take advantage of spa water’s healing qualities. The sumptuous spa offers a steam room, sauna, sun terrace, thermal baths and massage rooms, all housed in a spectacular Art Nouveau-style building. Head there early in the morning to avoid the crowds, or book a guided tour to skip the queues.

2. River Danube, Budapest

Natural Feature

For a fresh perspective on the Hungarian capital, see it from the waters of the River Danube. Upon its banks, the Neo-Gothic Hungarian parliament building stands opposite the ornate Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, while river cruises also provide views of the Liberty Statue, Chain Bridge and Margaret Island. To avoid the hassle of looking for the best river cruise during precious holiday time, guided tours can be booked online in advance.

3. Pinball Museum (Flippermúzeum)

The Budapest Pinball Museum might sound like an attraction that caters only to die-hard gamers, but this quirky museum offers a fascinating journey back in time with its collection of over 130 pinball machines. Positioned close to Margaret Island in the heart of the city, the Flippermúzeum houses Europe’s largest ongoing interactive pinball exhibition and includes the Mesovonat – the only Hungarian-made pinball machine. Book tickets online to ensure a stress-free experience.

5. Budapest Chocolate Museum

To satisfy those with a sweet tooth , the Chocolate Museum on the outskirts of Budapest provides guests with a rich history of Hungarian chocolate. Taking a leaf out of Willy Wonka’s book, the museum is a unique place where visitors are taken on a culinary journey through the history of chocolate, complete with tasting sessions. Guests can dip marzipan balls into a chocolate fountain, make their own handmade chocolates, and explore the museum’s collection of historic Hungarian paintings. Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance to secure a slot.

6. St Stephen’s Basilica

Church, Architectural Landmark

Many class St Stephen’s Basilica as the jewel in Budapest’s crown. Taking pride of place in the centre of the city, the world-famous Roman Catholic Basilica is named after Stephen, the first King of Hungary who ruled between 975 and 1038CE. Completed in 1905 after 54 years of construction, the Neo-Classical building remains to this day the most important church in the country. Housing a stunning interior with intricate paintings adorning the walls and ceiling, this architectural masterpiece is best appreciated while enjoying an enchanting organ recital within its walls.

7. Dohány Street Synagogue

Building, Church, Memorial, Museum, Park, Synagogue

The Dohány Street Synagogue is undoubtedly a key highlight of the up-and-coming seventh district. Built between 1854 and 1859 in the Moorish Revival architectural style and with a capacity of over 3,000 people, it is the largest synagogue in Europe. The synagogue complex houses the Great Synagogue, the Heroes’ Temple, the graveyard, the Memorial and the Jewish Museum. To learn more about the rich history of the synagogue complex and its relationship to the Holocaust, guided tours can be booked in advance.

8. Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Spa, Swimming Pool, Health Spa

Situated in the heart of Budapest City Park, the Széchenyi Baths is one of Europe’s largest thermal bath complexes. Built in 1913, the spa houses three large outdoor pools, 10 inside plunge pools, massage rooms, saunas, steam rooms and even a beer bath. Open all year round and popular not least due to its opulent Neo-Baroque style, Széchenyi is best experienced with a full-day skip-the-line ticket, which can be booked in advance.

9. Hungarian Parliament Building

Architectural Landmark, Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is among Budapest’s leading attractions, drawing nearly 700,000 visitors each year. Situated on the UNESCO-listed banks of the River Danube, the building is one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival and Renaissance Revival architecture in the world. The House of Parliament is still very much a functioning law-making body today, but it is open to the public at certain designated times. Long queues often form outside, so book online to avoid the crowds.

10. Buda Castle

Historical Landmark

The iconic Buda Castle District houses the historical castle and palace complex. The awe-inspiring Baroque-style palace was completed in 1769, but the complex was first constructed as far back as 1265. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the former Royal Palace is now home to the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. Castle Hill, which comprises the entire upper quadrant of the Várnegyed (Castle Quarter), houses an array of museums, shops, restaurants, cafes and hotels. Although visiting the site does not require advanced booking, it’s strongly advised that you sign up for a guided tour to learn more about the history of the castle and the palace complex.

11. Szimpla Kert (Ruin Bar)

Bar, Pub, Beer, Wine, Cocktails

12. Hungarian State Opera House

Opera House

The Hungarian State Opera House is renowned as one of the finest examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture in existence today. Completed in 1884, it boasts a grand chandelier that weighs a whopping three tonnes (3.3 tons), and almost three kilogrammes (6.6 pounds) of gold were used to gild the cherubs and nymphs of its lavishly ornate interior. Although the Opera House is closed for refurbishments until early 2020, tours of the building are still available.

13. Fisherman’s Bastion

Historical Landmark, Building

The Neo-Romanesque lookout towers housed within the Fisherman’s Bastion provide some of the best views across Budapest. Built between 1895 and 1902, its seven towers symbolise the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars who founded the Hungarian nation in 895CE. Today’s structure stands where thick walls once protected Buda Castle from enemy attack – legend has it that the building was protected by the guild of fishermen, giving the Bastion its name. To appreciate the beauty and history of Fisherman’s Bastion, consider booking a tour online.

14. Vajdahunyad Castle

Historical Landmark, Architectural Landmark

Built in 1896 as part of the Millennium Exhibition to commemorate 1,000 years since the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin, Vajdahunyad Castle sits majestically within Budapest City Park. First built out of wood and cardboard, the site became so popular that it was rebuilt from stone and brick in 1908. Surrounded by a boating lake in the summer that turns into an ice rink in winter, the castle houses the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture, the largest agricultural museum in Europe.

15. Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Architectural Landmark, Bridge

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is an impressive example of 19th-century engineering spanning the River Danube, linking Buda to Pest. Designed by English engineer William Tierney Clark and built by (unrelated) Scottish engineer Adam Clark, the cast-iron structure opened in 1849 and was the first permanent bridge constructed across the river. Connecting Széchenyi Square in front of Gresham Palace to Adam Clark Square below the Castle Hill Funicular, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge is a symbol of bringing people together: from all walks of life, from the east and west of the city. Walking tours afford an ideal opportunity to learn more about the Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

16. Margaret Island

Park, Natural Feature

Sitting between the Margaret and Árpád Bridges on the River Danube, the leafy 2.5-kilometre-long (1.55-mile-long) Margaret Island ( Margitsziget ) hosts open-air swimming pools, running trails, bars, luxury hotels, a wildlife park and even the ruins of a 13th-century Dominican convent. The pièce de résistance, however, is the dancing musical fountain – one of the largest and most dramatic in Europe – which pairs dancing water jets with a diverse playlist of music.

17. Heroes’ Square

Built in 1896, Heroes’ Square takes pride of place at the tip of Andrássy Avenue, Budapest’s Champs-Élysées-esque boulevard replete with upmarket stores, cafes and restaurants. Heroes’ Square features the colossal Seven Chieftains of the Magyars statue complex and the Memorial Stone of Heroes, which stands in tribute to those who have died defending Hungary. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Arts are also positioned around the outside edges of the square, which make an informative cultural addition to any guided tour of the area.

18. Hospital in the Rock

Historical Landmark, Museum

The Hospital in the Rock was built into a 10km-long (6mi-long) underground cave system situated directly beneath the Buda Castle District. Built as a secret military and hospital bunker during the 1930s in preparation for World War II, the hospital was used to full capacity during the siege of Budapest in 1944-45, with both civilians and soldiers treated there. Although the hospital was closed in July 1945, it was still used by the Vaccine-Producing Institute to develop medicines to tackle typhus for many years afterwards. English guided tours depart every hour on the hour from 10am to 7pm, with tickets available to purchase on-site or online in advance.

19. Great Market Hall

Ever abuzz with activity, Budapest’s Central Market Hall (also known as the Great Market Hall) promises an adventure in culture and retail therapy, offering up traditional Hungarian clothing and local delicacies such as beech wood-smoked gyulai kolbasz sausage. Built in 1897, this magnificent venue holds more than 100 stalls over three floors, housed in a Neo-Gothic-style listed building. Taking advantage of a guided tour will not only give you an in-depth history of the building, but will also give you the opportunity to try authentic Hungarian food and enjoy wine tasting en route.

20. Kőbánya Caves

The Kőbánya cellar system is a vast network of subterranean tunnels underneath Budapest’s tenth district. During World War II, the tunnels were used to assemble aircraft engines and as a bomb shelter for civilians. Also referred to as the “Dreher Cellars” by virtue of the Dreher Breweries that once resided there, the former quarry is now extremely popular with cave divers and beer enthusiasts.

21. Matthias Church

Church, Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Officially named the Church of the Assumption of the Buda Castle, Matthias Church sits in front of the Fisherman’s Bastion in the centre of Buda’s Castle District. The church’s first iteration (then dedicated to Mary) was built in 1015 under the first king of Hungary, Saint Stephen. The current building is remarkable for its late Gothic style, first constructed in the second half of the 14th century, and restored in the late 19th century. The name of the contemporary church refers not to Saint Matthias but to King Matthias Corvinus the Fair, who remodelled the building in the 15th century with the addition of the church’s southern tower, the appropriately named Matthias bell tower.

22. Gellért Hill and Citadella

Historical Landmark, Natural Feature

23. House of Terror Museum

Since opening in 2002, Budapest ’s House of Terror Museum has become one of the Hungarian capital’s most popular attractions. The museum, dedicated to exploring the Fascist and Communist regimes of 20th-century Hungary and commemorating the victims of these regimes, is set within the former headquarters of the Hungarian Nazi Party.

24. Memento Park

Museum, Park

25. Andrássy Avenue

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark, Shopping Mall

Budapest’s most famous street, Andrássy Avenue is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lined with Neo-Renaissance mansions, Andrássy Avenue is heaven for shopaholics, thanks to the plethora of high-end fashion brands that find their home there. Those more interested in arts and culture will be fascinated by the elegant Hungarian State Opera House and the stretch nicknamed the “Broadway of Budapest” (at the intersection of Nagymező Street).

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Must-see attractions in Budapest

Castle Hill

Castle District

Castle Hill is a kilometre-long limestone plateau towering 170m above the Danube. It contains some of Budapest’s most important medieval monuments and…

Great Synagogue

Erzsébetváros & the Jewish Quarter

Budapest's stunning Great Synagogue is the world's largest Jewish house of worship outside New York City. Built in 1859, the synagogue has both Romantic…

Memento Park

Home to more than 40 statues, busts and plaques of Lenin, Marx, Béla Kun and others whose likenesses have ended up on trash heaps elsewhere, Memento Park,…

Basilica of St Stephen

Budapest’s neoclassical cathedral is the most sacred Catholic church in all of Hungary and contains its most revered relic: the mummified right hand of…

House of Terror

The headquarters of the dreaded ÁVH secret police houses the disturbing House of Terror, focusing on the crimes and atrocities of Hungary's fascist and…

The Eclectic-style Parliament, designed by Imre Steindl and completed in 1902, has 691 sumptuously decorated rooms. You’ll get to see several of these and…

Hungarian National Museum

The Hungarian National Museum houses the nation’s most important collection of historical relics in an impressive neoclassical building, purpose built in…

Liberty Monument

The Liberty Monument, the lovely lady with the palm frond in her outstretched arms, proclaiming freedom throughout the city, is southeast of the Citadella…

Óbuda & Buda Hills

The most complete Roman civilian town in Hungary was built around 100 AD and became the seat of the Roman province of Pannonia Inferior in AD 106…

Hungarian National Gallery

The Hungarian National Gallery is an overwhelming collection spread across four floors and four wings of the palace that traces Hungarian art from the…

Hungarian State Opera House

The neo-Renaissance Hungarian State Opera House was designed by Miklós Ybl in 1884 and is among the most beautiful buildings in Budapest. Its facade is…

Royal Postal Savings Bank

East of Szabadság tér, the former Royal Postal Savings Bank is a Secessionist extravaganza of colourful tiles and folk motifs, built by Ödön Lechner in…

György Ráth Museum

The one-time home of the eponymous first director (1828–1905) of the Museum of Applied Arts has recently opened and is a shrine to art nouveau…

Museum of Fine Arts

Housed in a grand Renaissance-style building and once again opened after three years' renovations in late 2018, the Museum of Fine Arts is home to the…

Castle Museum

The Castle Museum, part of the multibranched Budapest History Museum, explores the city's 2000-year history over four floors. Restored palace rooms dating…

Royal Palace

The former Royal Palace has been razed and rebuilt at least half a dozen times over the past seven centuries. Béla IV established a royal residence here…

Kerepes Cemetery

Also known as the Fiume St Graveyard (Fiumei uti sírkert), this is Budapest’s equivalent of London's Highgate or Père Lachaise in Paris. Established in…

Vasarely Museum

Installed in the imposing Zichy Mansion (Zichy kastély), built in 1757, this renovated and rehung gallery contains some 150 works of Victor Vasarely (or…

House of Houdini

Dedicated to the famous Hungarian-born magician and escape artist Harry Houdini, who was born Erik Weisz in Budapest's district VII in 1874, this small…

Hungarian Museum of Trade & Tourism

This superb museum traces Budapest's catering and hospitality trade through the ages, including the dramatic changes after WWII, with restaurant items,…

Pesti Vigadó

This Romantic-style concert hall, built in 1865 but badly damaged during WWII, faces the river to the west of Vörösmarty tér. Reopened in 2014 after a…

Heroes' Square

Heroes’ Sq is the largest and most symbolic square in Budapest. It is dominated by the Millenary Monument (Ezeréves emlékmű), a 36m-high pillar topped by…

The capital’s premier pedestrian shopping street is crammed for the most part with chain stores, touristy restaurants, ripoff bars and a smattering of…

Pálvölgy Cave

This 29km-long cave – the second-largest in Hungary – was discovered in 1904 and is noted for both its spectacular stalactites and rock formations. Tours…

Fishermen’s Bastion

The bastion, a neo-Gothic masquerade that looks medieval and offers some of the best views in Budapest, was built as a viewing platform in 1905 by Frigyes…

Palace of Art

The Palace of Art, reminiscent of a Greek temple, is among the city’s largest exhibition spaces. It focuses on contemporary visual arts, with some three…

Vörösmarty tér

At the northern end of Váci utca lies Vörösmarty tér, a large square surrounded by smart shops, galleries and cafes. In the centre is a statue of Mihály…

Museum of Applied Arts

Housed in a gorgeous Ödön Lechner–designed building (1896) decorated with Zsolnay ceramic tiles, this museum was closed for renovation at the time of…

Liszt Music Academy

The art nouveau Liszt Music Academy, built in 1907, attracts students from all over the world and is Budapest's top classical-music concert hall. The…

Szabadság tér

This square, one of the largest in the city, is a few minutes’ walk northeast of Széchenyi István tér. As you enter you’ll pass a delightful fountain that…

Gödöllő Royal Palace

Gödöllő Royal Palace, the largest baroque manor house in Hungary, was designed by Antal Mayerhoffer for Count Antal Grassalkovich (1694–1771), confidante…

Matthias Church

Parts of Matthias Church date back 500 years, notably the carvings above the southern entrance, but essentially the church (named after King Matthias…

Holocaust Memorial Center

Housed in a striking modern building, the centre opened in 2004 on the 60th anniversary of the start of the Holocaust in Hungary. The thematic permanent…

Hungarian Electrical Engineering Museum

This place might not sound like everyone's cup of tea, but some of the exhibits are unusual (and quirky) enough to warrant a visit. The staff will also…

Andrássy út

Andrássy út starts a short distance northeast of Deák Ferenc tér and stretches for 2.5km, ending at Heroes’ Sq (Hősök tere) and the sprawling City Park …

Castle Garden Bazaar

This renovated pleasure park dating from 1893 has added a whole new dimension to Tabán district in recent years. The complex comprises over a dozen neo…

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Arguably the most striking of all the bridges in Budapest, twin-towered Széchenyi Chain Bridge, which is named in honour of its initiator, István…

Zwack Museum & Visitors' Centre

Unicum, the thick medicinal-tasting aperitif made from 40 herbs and spices, is as bitter as a loser’s tears and a favourite drink in Hungary. To delve…

Gül Baba’s Tomb

This renovated tomb contains the mortal remains of one Gül Baba, an Ottoman dervish who took part in the capture of Buda in 1541 and is known in Hungary…

Ervin Szabó Central Library

Southeast of the Hungarian National Museum is the main repository of Budapest’s public library system, which holds some 2.4 million books and bound…

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15 Best Things To Do in Budapest, Hungary

Trendy cafes with delicious food and stunning architecture – Budapest is one of the most beautiful and underestimated cities in Europe . The creative, vibrant city is the capital of Hungary and home to many international students, and that’s for a good reason. Budapest is super affordable! Spend 3 days exploring all the things to do in Budapest.

Things To Do in Budapest in 3 Days

Budapest is divided by the Danube River, with on one side the hilly “Buda” area and the flat “Pest” side. Use this 3 guide to explore the highlights of both sides of the city. The guide is designed so you won’t have to walk large distances.

Here are all your hotel options in Budapest.

Day 1 – Both sides of Budapest

1. fisherman’s bastion.

The Fisherman’s Bastion, with its beautiful detailed arches and seven fairytale-like white towers, is a castle overlooking the entire city. It is incredibly picturesque and one of the best things to do in Budapest.

The Fisherman’s Bastion is easy to reach by Metro, followed by a short 10-minute walk. To avoid the tourist buses, plan a visit before 9 AM. It is open 24 hours a day, except for the towers (9 AM).

Tip: The currency in Hungary is HUF, 1 HUF is equal to 0.35 USD.

2. Matthias Church

Right behind the Fisherman’s Bastion is the Matthias Church. The colorful roof tiles, decoration, and architecture are what make it a unique church in Europe. Both the church and bastion have the best view of Budapest.

Hotels in Budapest 😴

After having visited these two great sights, walk down the hill towards the bridge but stop for delicious breakfast and a coffee at Zërgë Coffeeshop or Home of Franziska .

Find out about the best city trips in Europe .

3. Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Follow your way down the hill towards the water and cross the famous Széchenyi Chain Bridge – the first stone bridge that connected Buda to Pest. Once on the other side, follow the riverside towards an imposing part of history.

4. Shoes on the Danube – Imposing thing to do in Budapest

The Shoes on the Danube River is a war memorial placed on the location where over 20,000! Jewish people had to take off their shoes, got shot, and fell into the river.

5. Parliament Building

Located on the opposite side of the Danube River lies one of the world’s most stunning government buildings. The impressive Hungarian Parliament, in its Gothic style, is the largest ever built in the country. Via a 45-minute tour, you will be able to see the inside.

Get your Parliament tickets here

6. Eat at Mazel Tov

From the Parliament, take the metro and step out at Blaha Lujza tér. Eat at Mazel Tov, a great-looking middle eastern and possibly the most popular restaurant in Budapest. Try to make a reservation in advance because there is pretty much always a long waiting line at the door.

Day 2 – Famous things to do in Budapest

7. st. stephen’s basilica.

Start your day at 9 AM at the highest church in Budapest. With its 96 meters, detailed inside, and panoramic view from the top, it is something you can’t miss while visiting Budapest.

The domes inside may remind you a bit of the Vatican City in Rome . The entrance to the basilica is free, but a 200 HUF (~ $0.65) donation is suggested at the door. Occasionally, concerts are held inside.

Find availability and tickets for the Basilica

Fun fact: Buildings in Budapest can’t be built higher than the basilica. The square in front of the basilica is filled with little restaurants to have a morning coffee, but we can highly recommend the Espresso Embassy, which is one street away from the square.

8. Great Market Hall

Make your way to the city’s largest and oldest indoor market. The Great Market Hall is a two-story market that looks like an old train station on the inside — filled with small stalls selling fruit, veggies, meat, handicraft, and souvenirs. Plan to spend about 30 minutes to 1 hour inside the hall.

9. Szabadság Híd Bridge

Yellow trams crossing the green bridge have resulted in many iconic pictures. The Szabadság Híd Bridge (Liberty Bridge) next to the Market Hall is an icon of Budapest.

10. Vintage Shopping in Budapest

Budapest embraces vintage, design, and second-hand shops. All over the city center are creative shops offering beautiful products. Make sure to check out Retrock and Szputnyik D20.

11. Dip into a Thermal Bath

Budapest is the city of the thermal baths. They are inside every guide of things to do in Budapest. Thermal baths in Budapest are all over the city and loved by both locals and tourists. The most popular baths are Rudas, Gellert, and Széchenyi.

Book your thermal bath tickets in advance here

Day 3 – The Jewish Quarter of Budapest

12. jewish quarter.

The Jewish Quarter is the go-to place in Budapest. Less than 100 years ago, this was a slum area. Nowadays, the majority of trendy cafes, delicious restaurants, young hipster people, and street art can be found in this neighborhood. We recommend joining a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter that will include a knowledgeable guide and entry tickets.

It is also recommended to visit one of the synagogues in the area, like the Great Synagogue or the lesser-known Rumbach Synagogue.

13. Discover Budapest’s Street Art scene

Budapest is relatively unknown as a street art city, but once you walk around the city, you feel the creativity. Both local and international artists have been busy, especially in the Jewish Quarter. Walk around the area, and you’ll find large, beautiful murals covering the side of a building.

See availability for a street art tour in Budapest

14. Street Food Gardens  

Eat on the street! Budapest has a handful of cozy gardens surrounded by street food stalls. Gather and meet people or just enjoy the good vibes while eating delicious food. Our favorite: Street Food Karavan Budapest. Have we already mentioned that Budapest is a hub for delicious vegan food?!

Tip: After lunch, relax a little in the nearby Erzsébet Tér Park.

15. Ruin Bars

Old abandoned buildings transformed into a location to gather and have a drink. Locations like Szimpla Kert are nowadays the place to go for a drink. A crazy mismatched interior is what makes this place interesting to see. There are more ruin bars in Budapest, but Szimpla Kert was the first.

How to Visit Budapest

Budapest has an international airport with lots of flights arriving from destinations all over Europe.

From the city center to the airport or vice-versa is well arranged by public bus 100E or 200E. Both stop at a Metro line to continue your journey. Tickets are available on the bus or at the machines inside a metro station. Unfortunately, there is no metro line from the city to the airport.

Getting around Budapest

Getting from A to B in Budapest is no problem. The metro system spreads throughout all popular parts of the city, and the same goes for the tram and busses. The metro in Budapest is one of the oldest in the whole of Europe and also one of the best if you ask us.

A single ticket for metro, bus, or tram costs 350 HUF ($1.10 USD). Multi-day passes can also be bought at the vending machines.

Save even more by getting a Budapest card !

Hotels in Budapest

Budapest has plenty of options for all budgets when it comes to hotels and hostels ( you can search for your hostel here ).

The best areas to stay are on the Pest side between Keleti station and the Danube River, where most is happening.

Budapest’s Best Places to Eat

Budapest has plenty of great cafes and restaurants. Delicious Vegetarian and Vegan meals are dominating in the city center, which is a funny contrast against the traditional Hungary meaty dishes. It’s not all fish – or meatless, so don’t worry if Vegetarian is not for you! These were our favorites:

• Hummus Bar (all over Budapest)
• KUSZKUSZ (Takeaway)

How much does Budapest cost?

A city trip to Budapest does not have to be expensive at all. It is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe. With a budget of around 50 USD per day, you can spend the night in the Hungarian capital, use public transport, and have lunch and dinner.

Costs of Traveling in Budapest

Travel on a budget in Budapest, from $230 − $290 USD weekly per person, mid-range $550 − $1640 USD, and high-end from $1500 − $2300 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $25 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $8 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $60 USD
• Activities: $2 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
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Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

I love Budapest and you really did highlight the best of the city! I also love going up to Janos Hill on the Buda side and taking the chairlift down with spectacular views of the city.

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Home » Europe » Budapest

16 BEST Places to Visit in Budapest (2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#16 – Evening Dinner River Cruise on the Danube

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

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

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

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

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

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

What should I not miss in Budapest?

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

What is Budapest famous for?

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

Is 3 days enough in Budapest?

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

Why is Budapest so cheap?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Best Things to do in Budapest

Budapest  is by far one of the most beautiful European capital city; an authentic gem where museums, monuments, and hidden treasures conquer its visitors and tourists since the very beginning.

These are some of the best things to see in Budapest  for those who visit it for the very first time and do not want to miss a thing, as well as for those who know the city already but are willing to discover new things.

Hungary's Parliament

Budapest Parliament  is one of the landmarks of the city. It overlooks the Danube river and it is one of the first attractions to see in the city. Its Neo-Gothic architecture reminds of the Palace of Westminster in London. However, the Parliament is characterized by its dome and its size: it is 268 meters long and 96 meters high, just as much as St.Stephen’s Basilica .

It hosts the Parliament, the Hungarian Library, and the offices of the  Head of Government  as well of the  President of the Republic . It is possible to attend guided tours; tickets can be purchased at ticket offices or online.

Find out more about the Hungarian Parliament

Thermal Baths in Budapest

Budapest is the city of the thermal baths; it is one of the European capitals where thermal bath facilities represent a daily habit of its inhabitants. Most of its thermal baths are historical and are characterized by elegant structures offering all the best comforts.

Do not miss  Szechenyi  baths, located near Heroe’s Square, and  Gellert  baths, built in Liberty style and located right in the heart of Budapest;  Lukacs  baths date back to the 13th century and its waters have great benefits for belly disorders.

Find more about Thermal Baths in Budapest

Buda Castle

The Buda Castle overlooks the city of Budapest from a hill. In 1987 it was declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Back in the past it was used as the residence of kings and emperors, while today it hosts the Budapest  History Museum and the  Hungarian National Gallery .

It is possible to reach it by walking across the Chains Bridge or by the taking the funicular. The view of the city from the Castle Hill is just amazing; you can see the Parliament building on the opposite shore of the Danube river, the Cathedral and the whole district of Pest.

Find more About Buda Castle

Chains Bridge

The  Chain Bridge  is the most famous bridge crossing the Danube river in Budapest. It is adorned by two lion statues and it represents by far one of the main landmarks of the city. It is a drivable bridge, but it is closed to traffic on public holidays. At night time it is lighted up giving to the city a magical touch.

The Chain Bridge is also known as the  Szechenyi Bridge , named after the Hungarian count who ordered its construction. It was opened it 1849 and it was demolished by the Germans during Second World War. However, it was reconstructed in 1949.

Find more about the Chain Bridge

Heroe's Square

Heroe’s Square , also known as Hosok Tere in the Hungarian language, is one of the main squares in Budapest. It is located on the north side of the city, near  Varosliget  park and facing the Museum of Fine Arts and the Mucsarnoc Art Gallery.

The  Millennium Monument  stands in the heart of Heroe’s Square; it is a column featuring at its base the statues of ancient heroes who wrote the history of Hungary, including Arpad, who is considered the founder of the country.

On the back side of the square, just in front of  Varosliget park , there are two semicircular arcades with a colonnade with statues featuring Hungarian statesmen and leaders.

Margaret Island

Margaret Island , or Margit Sziget in Hungarian, is located on the Danube river, a little bit towards the north side from the old city of Budapest. It is a very popular city park characterized by a Japanese garden, a zoo, and some other installations such as fountains and pavilions.

During spring and summer time Margaret Island is a great option for those who wish to  spend an entertaining and relaxing day ; it is possibile to rent a bike or a rickshaw and ride around the park enjoying the beauty of nature.

Vaci Utca  is a pedestrian street in Budapest and it is very much appreciated by tourists. It represents the shopping street of the city thanks to its several shops, bars, restaurants, and night clubs.

It connects Budapest Central Market to  Vorosmary Square  and it is crowded at any time of the day or night. All restaurants and bars on this street are mostly for tourists, so if you are looking for a more authentic and local experience you should choose somewhere else.

St. Stephen's Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Cathedral was build in Neo-Classical style between the end of 1800 and the beginning of 1900. Located in Pest, it is the main cathedral of Budapest as well as one of the most beautiful churches of the city.

It has a  Greek cross ground plan  and its dome is as high as the Hungarian Parliament in order to underline the same importance of the laical and spiritual power within the city. The interior of the cathedral is adorned by marbles and woks of arts which are in contrast with its austere facade.

Fisherman's Bastion

The  Fisherman’s Bastion  is located near Matthias Church, not too far from the Castle district. Its unique shape turned it into one of the main symbols of the city. It was built between 1895 and 1902 and it was restored just after the  Second World War . It was named after the fishermen’s corporation, who was in charge of defending this side of Budapest.

From here it is possible to admire the beautiful view over the Hungarian capital city; the Budapest Parliament is located on the  opposite shore of the Danube . The Fisherman’s Bastion is made of white marble and it is characterized by seven towers representing the ancient magyar tribes living in the area.

Matthias Church

Matthias Church , named after the Hungarian King Matthias, in located on the Castle Hill, and its origins date back to 1255. It was converted into a mosque during the Turkish conquest, while towards the end of 1800 and it was restored once again.

The church features two majestic gates, while its interior is characterized by three aisles decorated by frescos and glass windows. The  royal funereal chapel  hosts the remains of king Bela III of Hungary, as well as Anne de Chatillon.

In the following map you can see the location of the main places of interest mentioned in this article

Cruises on Danube in Budapest

Szechenyi baths, the parliament of budapest, great synagogue, st. stephen’s basilica, belvaros district, budapest funicular, budapest indoor market, budapest opera house, budapest zoo, chain bridge, fishermen’s bastion, jewish quarter, heroes’ square, hungarian national gallery, memento park, budapest’s statue park, new york cafe, tours and itineraries, 3 days in budapest, the perfect itinerary, budapest guided tours, best museums in budapest, around budapest, day trips from budapest, tourism in hungary, how to save on transport and entrance fees.

City Card allow you to save on public transport and / or on the entrances to the main tourist attractions.

• Airport transfers
• Airport parking

2 Days in Budapest – 12 Memorable Things to See And Do

What can you see in 2 days in Budapest? Is it even possible to visit such a big city in such a limited time?

If you are visiting Budapest in 2 days, there is plenty you can do. Of course, proper planning is a must because even though 48 hours is a good amount of time to have a general feel of the Hungarian capital, it’s still very limited in a city that is so rich in history, art, and architecture.

Our easy guide wants to be of help if you are staying only two days in Budapest and still want to make the most out of your trip. We are going to highlight what are the unmissable sights as well as give you some tips on what restaurants you should aim for and what traditional dishes to try.

Along with the historical sights, we have included some chill-out activities such as a visit to a thermal bath that are part of the Hungarian culture and ensure a more complete and authentic experience.

You can stay longer? Check out our guide to 3 days in Budapest !

Table of Contents

What to See in Budapest in 2 Days

Two days in budapest – day 1, visit the buda castle and matthias church.

While 2 days in Budapest is not a lot of time, if you want to see the best of what the city has to offer in 48 hours, you can’t go wrong starting off at Buda Castle and Matthias Church.

These two historic landmarks are located in the heart of the city, and they offer a glimpse into Hungary’s rich history. The castle is located on top of a hill in Buda, the first settlement of the city, and it’s easy to reach by public transportation.

Once you’re there, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city skyline and a fascinating maze of cobbled alleys.

The Buda Castle District is the ancient hub of the city and hosts several important landmarks of Budapest, including the Royal Palace and Matthias Church. The Royal Palace is now home to two museums, the National Gallery and Budapest History Museum.

After admiring the extensive art collection and historical artifacts displayed in the Royal Palace, make your way to Matthias Church, which is just a very short walk away. Dating back to the 14th century, the church is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Budapest.

No trip to Budapest is complete without a visit to the Buda Castle and Matthias Church, especially if it’s your first time in the Hungarian capital. Our trip was a 4-day one, but even if you are staying only 2 days in Budapest, I highly recommend heading to Buda Castle District on your first day of sightseeing.

Book a cruise along the Danube River

If you have limited time in Budapest, I still recommend taking a cruise along the Danube river to see the buildings and landmarks from a different perspective. The river runs through the center of Budapest, and there are plenty of scenic spots along the way.

This is a relaxing activity so you can do what we did and booked it for the evening to round off a long and tiring sightseeing day.

You’ll pass by the Hungarian Parliament, the National Museum, and St. Stephen’s Basilica. The river winds its way through the city, offering beautiful views of some of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Just be sure to pack comfortable shoes and plenty of water.

This is the cruise we booked along the Danube river in Budapest if you want to check it out.

Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes in Budapest

After a morning of sightseeing, stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes in Budapest. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as goulash or chicken paprikash. Check out some of the Budapest restaurants we tried and enjoyed.

Spend the afternoon exploring Heroes’ Square and Andrassy Avenue

If you only have two days to explore Budapest, make sure to include Heroes’ Square and Andrassy Avenue on your itinerary.

Heroes Square is a large public space and home to several monuments including the iconic Millennium Monument decorated with statues featuring the Seven chieftains of the Magyars and other national heroes, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Palace of Arts.

After visiting the Square, walk to Andrassy Avenue, a tree-lined boulevard that is home to many of Budapest’s finest palaces and mansions, along with shops and restaurants. In 2002, Andrassy Avenue was added to the list of Budapest’s important monuments as a UNESCO heritage site .

Catch a show at the State Opera House or National Theatre

Budapest is home to two grand opera houses – the State Opera House and National Theatre.

The former is a neo-Renaissance building with a rich history, while the latter is a more modern structure that is home to some of the best opera and ballet in the city. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, catching a show at either of these venues is a must.

Have dinner at a traditional Hungarian restaurant

One of the best ways to experience the culture of a new country is through its food. And when it comes to Hungarian cuisine, there’s no better place to try it than at a traditional restaurant.

Budapest is full of these eateries, serving up everything from hearty stews to delicate pastries. While the menu can vary from place to place, there are some dishes that are synonymous with Hungarian cuisine.

I’ve always known Goulash as a thick stew made with beef and vegetables, usually served with rice or bread, but in Budapest, I noticed that everywhere it was served as a soup. If you are a meat-eater, this is a must.

No matter where you eat, be sure to leave room for dessert. Hungary is famous for its delicious marzipan pastries, and you won’t want to miss out on trying some of the best.

A nice is the perfect way to end the first day of your two-day trip to Budapest. Head to your hotel or apartment in Budapest and rest properly so that you can tackle your second day visiting this lovely city.

Two Days in Budapest – Day 2

Visit the szechenyi thermal baths and relax in the pools.

While in Budapest, be sure to relax in the thermal baths at Szechenyi, the largest in Budapest and one of the largest in all of Europe. Counting several large pools, each with different temperatures, a steam room and a sauna, as well as offering gym and healthcare services, pampering yourself in the Szechenyi Thermal Baths is one of the best things to do in Budapest in 2 days.

You can purchase a day pass or a longer pass if you plan on spending more time there. Be sure to bring your own towel and swimsuit. There are also massage services available if you want to truly relax. You can even purchase food and drinks inside so you can spend all morning there if you like.

The baths are open all year round, so you can visit regardless of the weather. Keep in mind that the weekends are very crowded, so it’s best to visit during the week if you want to avoid crowds.

Book your ticket to Budapest’s Szechenyi Thermal Baths!

Explore Gellért Hill and visit Citadella fortress

If you’re looking for places to visit in Budapest in 2 days, make sure to add Gellért Hill and Citadella fortress to your list.

Gellért Hill is one of the most popular places to visit in Budapest because of the stunning views of the city you can enjoy from the hilltop. If you’re up for a bit of a hike, make your way to the top of the hill where you’ll find the Citadella fortress. Built in the 19th century, the fortress offers an interesting glimpse into Hungary’s history.

Walk around downtown Budapest and duck into St. Stephen’s Basilica

Even though you’re staying only 2 days in Budapest, you can’t possibly miss a walk downtown where you will be literally surrounded by some of the city’s most famous landmarks.

St. Stephen’s Basilica is a must-see, with its grandiose exterior and stunning interior. The majestic sacred building, with its soaring domes and intricate facade, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Budapest.

But the basilica is more than just a pretty face – it also has a rich history. Construction began in 1851, and Budapest’s most important church was officially consecrated in 1905. The basilica is named after Hungary’s first king, Stephen I , who is buried inside the church.

Visitors can see his tomb, as well as enjoy the stunning views from the top of the basilica’s cupola. With its impressive size and beautiful features, St. Stephen’s Basilica is definitely worth adding to your Budapest things-to-see list.

Walk along Vaci Street and take in the sights and sounds of this pedestrian street

Budapest’s Vaci Street is one of the city’s most famous pedestrian thoroughfares, lined with an array of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

The street gets its name from the vaci , or cattle market, that was once held here, and even though it’s actually very popular and always packed, I found it pretty touristy and the food not really the best quality in the city.

Nevertheless, it’s worth walking along in the afternoon for some window shopping and a drink. We visited in the evening so shops were closed and had a less-than-impressive dinner.

Head to Parliament Square for a look at Hungary’s Parliament Building

If you’re in Budapest for only 2 days, make sure you make a visit to Parliament Square a priority. The square is located in the center of the city and is home to Hungary’s Parliament Building, which is an impressive sight and one of the most famous landmarks in Europe.

The building shows off a charming mix of Baroque, Gothic Revival, and Renaissance Revival architectural styles. It features a central dome, two towers, and a lot of intricate carving and details. You can go inside the building on a guided tour, or just admire it from the outside.

We took a tour inside and found it very interesting so obviously, we recommend it, but with only 2 days in Budapest, we know that you can’t really include all the attractions.

Parliament Square is home to several memorials and statues of notable nationals such as leader Francis II Rákóczi, politicians Count István Tisza and Count Gyula Andrássy, and poet Attila József.

Have dinner at a trendy restaurant in downtown Budapest

If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, look no further than downtown Budapest. This trendy area is home to some of the best restaurants in the city, each with its own unique atmosphere and menus.

Some of the top choices include Rosenstein for fine Hungarian and Jewish cuisine, Café Kor to enjoy typical Hungarian dishes in a laid-back vibe a stone’s throw from St. Stephen’s Basilica, and Mazel Tov for Israeli and Hungarian delicacies. Feeling like forking out good cash on your last night in Budapest? Treat yourself to the Michelin-starred restaurant Borkonyha.

Things to See and Do in Budapest – All You Need to Know

What can you do in budapest in 48 hours.

Start by picking one or two of the must-see sights – like Buda Castle, St. Stephen’s Basilica, or Heroes Square – and spend an afternoon exploring them. To make sure you don’t miss anything important, get a copy of the itinerary I prepared above before you go.

Is a weekend in Budapest enough?

Even though very limited, a weekend in Budapest is enough time to get a grasp of the city, start to fall in love with the relaxed charm it conveys, and visit some of the most important landmarks. Of course, if you have just a weekend in Budapest, you’ll need to carefully plan your time in order to make the most of it.

Is the Budapest travel card useful for a two-day trip?

The Budapest travel card is a great way to see the city if you’re only there for a short period of time. With the card, you can easily hop on and off public transportation and visit many of the key sights without having to worry about individual tickets.

Plus, the card offers discounts at certain attractions, stores, and restaurants. If you’re only in Budapest for two days, the travel card is definitely worth considering. You can also use it to get to the city from Budapest Airport.

We purchased the 72-hour card, but if you are staying only 2 days in Budapest, you can buy the 48-hour one.

Is Budapest worth visiting?

Absolutely yes, Budapest is definitely worth visiting! It’s a beautiful city with a lot to offer tourists. From stunning architecture and historical landmarks to trendy restaurants and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Budapest.

Plus, it’s relatively affordable compared to other European cities, which makes it a great value for your money. So if you’re looking for a fun and affordable European getaway, be sure to add Budapest to your list even if it’s for only 2 days.

Is Budapest a walkable city?

Yes, Budapest is a very walkable city. The city center around Parliament Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica is very pedestrian-friendly and there are plenty of parks and squares where you can stop to rest or enjoy a meal. The Buda Castle District is mainly pedestrian and lovely to walk and get lost.

In addition, the city’s public transportation system is excellent. Buses, trams, and metros are frequent and on time, so if you want to explore areas that are located further away from the center, it’s easy to do so without having to worry about spending too much on taxi fees.

Is Budapest or Prague better to visit?

The two cities are quite different from each other, so it really depends on what you’re looking for. Prague is smaller and more compact, with a charming old town that’s easy to wander around. Budapest, on the other hand, is larger and has a more cosmopolitan feel, with lots of grand architecture and parks.

Hard to say which one is more beautiful, but while Budapest is probably more international, Prague’s Gothic look for sure conveys a more mysterious vibe.

How much time do you need in Budapest?

If you have very limited time and are only interested in seeing the major landmarks, with proper planning, 2 days in Budapest might be enough. But if you want to delve into the history and culture a bit more, I would suggest four or five days. Budapest is a big city with a lot to offer, so it really depends on what you’re interested in.

To be completely honest, I booked 4 days in Budapest mainly because I was in my 7th month of pregnancy and didn’t have the time to plan another trip so I made this longer than I would have. But in the end, not only we were super busy all the days and used the very last minute to explore as much as we could, but there are plenty of things we would have loved to see and we couldn’t. For one, a couple of hours of relaxation in a thermal bath because due to my advanced pregnancy, I wasn’t allowed.

This, of course, left us with the intention to go back as soon as we can!

What food is Budapest famous for?

Budapest is famous for its food. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, ranging from traditional Hungarian eateries to more modern fare to Michelin-starred restaurants. If you’re looking for something traditional, here are some of the city’s most popular dishes:

• Goulash – a hearty soup/stew made with beef, potatoes, carrots, and spices.
• Chicken paprikash – chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce.
• Pörkölt – another type of stew made with meat and onion.
• Langos – a typical street food made of deep-fried dough topped with a variety of toppings, the most famous of which is cheese and sour cream.

What should I buy in Budapest as a souvenir?

There are plenty of great things to buy as souvenirs in Budapest! Here are just a few suggestions:

• Unicum liqueur – used also as digestive, this famous liqueur is made of several herbs and spices and is over 100 years old. If you buy it, make sure you pack it in your suitcase to check in!
• Hungarian paprika – you can’t possibly leave Budapest without buying the ever-present Hungaria paprika powder for your foodie friends.
• Goulash cream – this is a preparation perfect if you want to make goulash at home.
• Marzipan – for the sweet tooth in your or your sweet tooth friends, a box of marzipan pastries will always be a much-appreciated gift.
• Hungarian porcelain – hand-made and hand-painted, Hungarian porcelain is famous for its unique look and style
• Puzzle boxes – cute and colorful small boxes that are nearly impossible to open. Just like a difficult puzzle to piece together!

Do they speak English in Budapest?

In and around the most touristy areas in Budapest, most people will speak English, but if you stray far from the city center and the historic sights, you are likely to find only Hungarian-speaking locals.

If you think you are going to go offbeat in Budapest or take some day trips, I suggest carrying a small dictionary or phrasebook with you to untangle a potentially awkward situation.

Make sure you check out our guide to the best budget hotels in Budapest .

Do you need a car in Budapest for a 2-day visit?

No, there’s plenty to see in Budapest for two days without a car. The city center is compact and walkable, and there’s a lot to see and do within easy walking distance of each other. Plus, they have a good public transport system including metro, train, and bus.

If you want to explore further afield, there are also plenty of great day trips from Budapest that are easily accessible by public transport.

Can I visit Budapest in 1 day?

Yes, you can visit Budapest in 1 day. Of course, this is a very limited time and you will have to cut out most of the sights. Or even avoid entering any of them, if not really briefly, and mostly enjoy them from outside.

But hey, if this is all you can afford, it’s still better than nothing. You can take a nice walk around the city center and Buda Castle District while enjoying the views and the majestic architecture.

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3 Days In Budapest – What to Do + Top Trip Planning Tips

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62 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary

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Undisputed as one of the most photogenic cities on the continent, the Pearl of the Danube is racing up the tourist ranks, quickly establishing itself as the premier eastern European capital (sorry, Prague, not this time).

From its Disney-esque riverside Parliament Building to its collection of marvelous basilicas, trendy ruin bars, relaxing spas, mouth-watering restaurants, and non-stop entertainment, the list of things to do in Budapest never ends.

As a comparatively cheap destination (up against the western European metropolises of London and Paris), even budget travelers can treat themselves to a slice of luxury in Budapest.

So, where to begin? We can help with that.

Uncover castles dating hundreds of years back, tour royal palaces, and see architectural delights that have stood the test of time.

Step into the world of the weird and wonderful as you learn about Dracula, witness a real torture chamber or take a ride on an actual locomotive train run by kids … As you can see, there is something to delight all ages in this vibrant, historical city.

Spend your days wandering the postcard-perfect streets, snapping millions of photos as you go along, exploring the different districts or day-tripping to cities in countries nearby.

Just the tip of the iceberg, here are epic activities, attractions and places to visit in Budapest.

1 – Check out Buda Castle

You simply can’t miss this grand royal residence at the center of Budapest!

For 800 years it has undergone plenty of facelifts and renovations, so taking a guided tour to hear the secrets hidden in every wall and every room of the palace (and the surrounding Várhegy district) is considered a quintessential tourist activity.

If you’re feeling snackish, swing by nearby Ruszwurm for a famous sweet pastry!

• Buda Castle tickets

2 – Step back in time and visit Budapest’s Royal Guard and Riding Hall

After visiting the Buda Castle, don’t miss the chance to explore the Royal Guard and Riding Hall exhibition – taking you on a chronological journey through the 18th century to the termination of the guard.

You’ll be greeted by the grandeur of the Royal Guard’s uniforms, helmets, headwear, private objects, medals, and full personal records.

These relics offer a rare glimpse into the everyday life of the guards who protected kings and royal families, even at the cost of their own lives.

For the food lovers, their restaurant is also a must-visit.

• see price and reviews

3 – Take in the view from St. Stephen’s Basilica

Filled with fine art, a mummified hand, and an antique organ for classical music concerts, this vibrant building is more than just a famous religious site — it’s also Budapest’s tallest building!

So, of course, make sure to take the elevator up to the terrace and snap a perfect Instagram post.

Many of the city’s free walking tours will stroll past this landmark, however, to appreciate its true energy, an organ concert ticket is highly recommended.

• St. Stephen’s Basilica tickets

4 – Cruise down the Danube

Whether seated on the open-air deck or behind the comfort of the glass, cruising down one of Europe’s most famous rivers is a great way to see Budapest.

By day, enjoy a cup of coffee and listen to the live narration about the passing landmarks; by night, sip on a cocktail surrounded by romantic ambient candlelight; or even join a boat party.

Any cruise is a memorable experience, so pick your preferred style and add it to your list of things to do in Budapest!

• boat tours in Budapest

Read more about the best Budapest river cruises .

5 – Ride the historical Buda Castle Hill Funicular

Have you ever ridden a funicular before? Ditch the mundane and hop on board the Buda Castle Hill Funicular — a combination ride between a tram and a cable car built on a slope.

In operation since 1870 (with upgrades made since then to keep the original mode of transport running), if you want to see Buda Castle but aren’t set on hiking to the top of Castle Hill, this is an excellent alternative.

Built to run along a 95-meter route running up and down the hill with its 50-meter slope, it connects the Danube River and Buda Castle. There are two stations: the lower station is located by the Chain Bridge, and the upper station is at the top of Castle Hill.

Lap up the views during the journey, which lasts a few minutes, and the historic cable railway runs every ten minutes, opening from morning until evening.

6 – Find the Tree of Life in the Jewish Quarter

Budapest’s multifaceted Jewish Quarter has nightlife for party-goers, great restaurants for foodies, and dynamic tales for history buffs!

Dohány Street Synagogue is a marvel and the second-largest synagogue in the world, a mainstay attraction in private tours of the area.

The Tree of Life, another unmissable landmark, sits is in the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park, commemorating World War II and the heroes who defied the German occupation.

• Jewish Quarter tours

7 – See the changing of the guards at Parliament

If you’re wondering how a House of Parliament building could top lists of things to do in Budapest, just wait until you catch sight of this architectural triumph.

With the royal crown jewels, plenty of artistic prowess, and 40 kilograms of gold on site, there are few buildings anywhere in the world that can rival this masterpiece on the Danube.

If the building isn’t striking enough (inside and out), the daily changing of the guards ceremony includes rifles, drums, and sublime choreography ought to do the trick!

During city tours , the impressive structure is never missed and guides love to bring travelers straight to the Visitor’s Center to take photographs, and to gain inside knowledge and information about the building, first built in 1904.

Investigate some of its standout features during tours like the Grand Stairway, the Dome Hall, the Lounge of the Chamber of Peers and the Béla Neÿ hall.

• Budapest Parliament tickets

Read more about Hungarian Parliament tickets price .

8 – Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour

With so many things to do in Budapest, boarding an open-top double-decker bus with detailed audio commentary is a great way to see all the best attractions (without tiring out those legs)!

There’s always another bus around the corner to take you to your next stop, so you’ll never have to worry about racing against the clock.

For those staying for at least a few days, the recommended deluxe ticket also includes a Danube River cruise and night-tour of the city.

• bus tours in Budapest

9 – Tour the Royal Palace of Gödöllő

About 40-minutes from the hustle and bustle of Budapest awaits a holiday house fit for a king!

The royal palace is a testament to Hungary’s rich history; combining the charm of old Budapest with the Italian village vibes of Szentendre, a colorful riverside town known for its museums.

Hot tip: if traveling with youngsters, take them to the nearby Lipizzan farm, home to animals and an amazing horse show!

• Royal Palace of Gödöllő tickets

Read more about the best day trips from Budapest .

10 – Put on your sneakers and enjoy a walking tour

With so much to see in this sprawling, historic metropolis, it’s often hard to decide where to begin.

Travelers often choose to start their trip by walking the vibrant streets on a walking tour, with a knowledgeable guide who will delve into the culture, history, and gastronomy of the lively city.

With a plethora of epic walking expeditions to choose from, you don’t just have to opt for a regular sightseeing tour — unless, of course, that’s your vibe.

For example, choose an eerie vampire and dark history walking tour in the evening, or foodies can take a dedicated culinary walking tour around the city.

Spend 90 minutes being shown around to classic monuments and must-see city attractions, or set aside three hours and explore both Buda and Pest districts by foot.

Walking tours range from a 40-minute walkabout to four-hour adventures.

• walking tours in Budapest

11 – Zip through Budapest at night on an e-scooter

A scooter tour is a unique way to quickly see Budapest’s main attractions and hidden gems all in a night’s work!

For an experience you won’t get on any run-of-the-mill tour bus, e-scooter adventures allow guests to see the city shine at night, with discounts offered at restaurants and bars across town.

Best of all, there’s often complimentary goulash and drinks!

• scooter tours in Budapest

12 – See the Millenium Monument at Heroes’ Square

The focal point of Budapest’s biggest town square is the 36-meter pillar topped with the Archangel Gabriel — you can’t miss it.

Locals love taking their picnics to dine under the grandiose statues of former statespeople and rulers, while tourists often put this iconic spot at the top of their list of things to do in Budapest due to the unbeatable views of the river below.

13 – Savor the excitement of a Formula One race at the Hungarian Grand Prix

Just 20 minutes northeast of the city, the Hungaroring, which is known for its twisty layout and challenging corners, welcomes racers to the Hungarian Grand Prix every year in late July.

The event lasts for three days, with practice on the Friday, qualifying on the Saturday and finally, the exhilarating race taking place on Sunday.

Besides the roaring cars whizzing around the track, the event also offers a range of entertainment, from live music to food and drink stands, evening fireworks and more.

Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or just looking for an exciting weekend, Budapest’s Grand Prix is the perfect opportunity to experience a totally different side of Hungary.

• Hungarian Grand Prix tickets

14 – Take a trip back in time on a communism tour

Uncover Hungary’s turbulent 20th century with a historical tour of a city that spent the Cold War being pulled between East and West.

Budapest is full of buildings, bullet holes, and brilliant stories from this era, all of which will be presented by a knowledgeable guide who will make the sites and sounds of the past come alive.

• communism tour in Budapest

15 – Solve an escape room

Grab your hostel buddies, get your detective hat and your magnifying glass, and try to solve the puzzles at one of the many escape rooms around the city.

As the door locks behind you in the fully interactive rooms, the clocks start to tick — with only an hour to uncover the clues, not everyone has what it takes to escape in time.

A popular choice is the Gingerbread House room, where challengers must solve the puzzle for a recipe to endless chocolate!

• escape rooms in Budapest

16 – Delight your taste buds on a foodie tour

No trip to Hungary is complete without trying a hearty goulash soup, its local wine and cheese pairings, or lángos (deep-fried flatbread with cottage cheese).

For the meat-lovers, take it up a notch with local smoked duck breast, water buffalo salami, Mangalica pork sausages, and grey beef sausages with traditional pickled vegetables on the side!

Whatever your preferred palate, there’s a food-centric tour for everyone.

• food tours in Budapest

17 – Day trip to Danube Bend and Esztergom

A few hours out of Budapest, the picturesque city of Esztergom was once Hungary’s capital and today boasts stunning views of the mighty Visegrád Castle, the Danube River , and the sprawling European countryside.

For the adventure-seekers, set out on foot to the river for vistas of volcanic hills, waterfalls, and canyons!

In fact, hiking in these parts is extremely popular, particularly around the Danube Bend — a section of the river lined with traditional villages and towns comprising their own historical attractions from medieval castles to ancient fortresses.

Esztergom, Vác and Visegrad are some of the towns located along the riverbanks, and Szentendre is a tiny town on a little island in the river (loved for its Mediterranean feel).

If you’re keen to spend the day out in nature, there are half and full-day hiking tours around the region.

While you could rent your own car, a pre-organized tour is the easiest and most popular choice.

• Danube Bend day trips

18 – See Portrait of a Young Man at the Museum of Fine Arts

With over 100,000 pieces of art from across all time periods, this striking building that focuses on fine art and sculpture is an art-lover’s paradise!

While notable pieces line each and every wall, one particularly emotive piece is Giorgione’s self-portrait, a priceless work stolen from the museum in 1983 and recovered by police in Greece.

That, along with the Esterhazy Madonna also on display, are two of the crowd favorites.

19 – Visit the galleries at Szentendre

Known as the Artists’ Village, Szentendre is just beautiful.

The Old City’s famous galleries and museums are diverse, sure to excite any art-lover; while the cobblestone streets are vibrant and artistic in their own right!

Many travelers couple it with the Royal Palace of Gödöllo; so sign up for a day trip, let the knowledgeable guides lead the way, and simply enjoy yourself as the 18th and 19th centuries come alive around you!

• Szentendre day trips

20 – Get a little tipsy on a wine-tasting tour

Anyone thirsty? As you’ll quickly discover, Hungary definitely holds its own in the wine department!

A couple of regions worth checking out are the Tokaj region, which specializes in sweet white Tokaji wines, and Etyek , which specializes in Hungarian ‘Champagne’ with more acidity.

There are plenty of tours that escort you to those regions (designated driver included) and, of course, allow you to sample the blends to your heart’s content!

• wine tours tastings in Budapest

21 – Take a day trip to Lake Balaton

Missing the beach? The expansive, shimmering Lake Balaton is where landlocked Hungarians longing for a swim go to take a dip!

At any time of year, it’s a beautiful spot to visit, with travelers particularly fond of the promenades of Balatonfüred and the famous porcelain factories of nearby Herend .

Most visitors prefer to take the hassle out of the trip and simply book a tour. It’s often the most affordable option too (unless you go for the VIP experience).

• Lake Balaton day trips

22 – See a horse show in the Puszta region

Around the nearby historic city of Kecskemét , the fabulous fields of Puszta really know how to put on a show!

After sampling a traditional barack pálinka and pogácsa (apricot schnapps and a salty scone), you’ll ride in a retro horse carriage to a stunning equestrian display that features a range of jaw-dropping stunts.

Post-performance, why not take up the chance to ride a horse yourself?

• horse riding in Budapest

23 – Keep your balance on a Segway tour

Don’t worry, with a quick introduction to your zippy ride you’ll be a natural!

On a segway tour — of which, throughout this beautiful city there are many — you’ll be part of an intimate group of travelers, shadowing a local guide who will give you the lowdown on all the essential tourist sites, eateries, and hidden gems.

By the end, you’ll know all the ins and outs of the city!

• segway tours in Budapest

24 – Eat and shop at the Lehel Market

Is it a ship? … An Art Deco attempt? … No, it’s the Lehel Market — one of the best places to stock up on all sorts of yummy (and interesting) traditional Hungarian goods.

Selling mainly food at this indoor market in District XIII (District 13), there are two levels that comprise the shopping space.

Foodies particularly find themselves in a slice of heaven, moseying between stalls and vendors selling a variety of fresh local produce, from fruits to veggies to herbs to meats, as well as plenty of authentically procured goods, like cheeses, honey, pickled items, and more.

If you haven’t yet tried out the city’s baked goods selection, munch down on langos, biscuits and pastries.

The one level is where most vendors set up shop the old-school way, and the second floor is where you can also buy other random products, from clothing to pet accessories. There are a few Hungarian and one or two Vietnamese restaurants on this floor too.

25 – Explore Budapest’s creative side on a street-art tour

Admiring the bustling bohemian street-art is a really cool way to discover the city’s creative side, as well as understand the lesser-known issues and themes affecting the locals.

Tour groups are usually limited to small numbers, so it’s also a great way to meet a handful of like-minded travelers and check out some parts of town off the beaten path in District 7 and the Jewish Quarter.

For the cherry on top, free drinks at a ruin bar are usually included too.

• street art tours in Budapest

26 – Get on a bike!

What’s more European than exploring a city on two wheels? Exactly.

Plenty of tours offer the opportunity to zip through the bike-friendly town with a local guide — a wonderful way to get into the smaller streets and alleyways, ditch the tourist crowds, and discover those little-known gems that hide in between all the major attractions.

If you prefer exploring solo, self-guided bike tours are also available.

• bike tours in Budapest

27 – Climb to the top of Gellért Hill

At 235 meters high, looking over the sparkling city from the 1st and the 11th districts, Gellért Hill is the perfect excuse to lace on those hiking boots!

After tackling the scenic hike, enjoy the view and keep an eye out for a unique church in a cave.

At the top, the Citadella fortress is worth exploring, and if time permits, make sure to hang around for sunset!

Standing proudly at 14 meters high, the Liberty Statue is another monument to investigate once you summit the top of the hill, representing an important part of local history. Here, a bronzed statue was erected on top of a 26-meter-tall pillar, and so it soars into the sky.

Constructed in 1947, it was built in remembrance of the soldiers who lost their lives during the Soviet liberation of Hungary during WWI, signifying the country’s liberation.

Remaining as one of the few major Communist statues left in Budapest, snap photographs and then drink in the views overlooking the city before making your way back down the hill.

Directions in Google Maps

28 – Take a cooking class

Travelers love the local cuisine, so learning a few recipes to take home is a surefire way to impress the family and friends back home.

Led by a local chef, you’ll learn about both the flavors and stories behind the country’s treasured dishes, while sampling fresh ingredients and strong drinks the whole way through.

If you can perfect the goulash, we promise your future dinner-party guests will be… Hungary for more.

• cooking classes in Budapest

29 – Indulge in some self-care at the spas

After spending so much time exploring Budapest, putting your feet up at either Széchenyi Spa or Gellért Spa is a great way to unwind. While there are countless spas around the city, these two are the most popular among tourists.

The indoor Gellert is known for its art nouveau-style architecture, while the indoor-and-outdoor Széchenyi is one of the largest spa baths in Europe.

Not the typical spa gal or guy? With both medical and wellness services available, the Rudas Bath Rooftop Hot Tub has an ancient Turkish-style thermal pool as the main attraction. Built in 1896, it has been open to the public since 1936 — originally only for men.

Night bathing is available here too, however, guests only older than 14 years old can use the therapeutic springs.

Thermal pools, massage, and spa sessions are available to soothe any sore muscles (or help with headaches from the ruin bars the night before).

Even if you’re not here for the spa-time, it’s worth popping in just to see these unique Hungarian spas.

• spas in Budapest

30 – Find a bargain at the Grand Ecseri Flea Market

This expansive flea market has more collectibles, knick-knacks, and quirky items than anywhere else in central Europe!

There are a mix of serious stalls and lone traders trying to offload a few things — either way, it’s great for a souvenir if you can haggle the price down!

Hot tip: Bring cash (so you can haggle) and come early before the best items get swept up.

• flea market tour in Budapest

31 – Drive a Trabant through Budapest

Known as the paper Jaguar, the quirky 1960s Trabant 601 was the car of choice for Communist-era Hungarians.

So, riding one through the preserved period neighborhoods inside of your very owm paper Jaguar is sure to take you back to the Budapest of a by-gone era.

While cute, they’re not exactly fast: with its roaring 26-horsepower engine, this bad boy goes from 0-60 kilometers per hour in 21 seconds!

• Trabant tours in Budapest

32 – Try not to tilt at the Budapest Pinball Museum

Gamers, get excited. With over 150 pinball machines from the 1800s until today available to play —including the first-ever machine with flippers — Budapest’s Pinball Museum is a delight for kids and adults alike

So grab something from the snack bar and entertain yourself the way they used to before Minecraft and PlayStation came around.

• Budapest Pinball Museum tickets

33 – Treat yourself at the Chocolate Museum

Now this is a museum you’ll want to sink your teeth into!

Indulge in chocolate tasting, get an introduction to how chocolate is made, make your very own sweet treat, and watch films about the history of chocolate with a hot mug of cocoa in hand!

If you’re not already full of cavities, don’t forget to pass by the gift shop for a few souvenirs!

34 – Visit the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum

This is no regular museum: it started life as a hospital and bomb shelter during World War II, during which it was filled to 10 times its capacity during the 1944-45 Siege of Budapest.

After that, it was briefly a prison before quickly becoming a nuclear bunker.

Clearly, it’s a fascinating story — the museum’s dramatic displays give visitors a glimpse into all of its chapters.

• Hospital in the Rock tours

35 – Admire the view from Fisherman’s Bastion

The locals call it Halászbástya, tourists call it Fisherman’s Bastion, but after checking it out first-hand you’ll be calling it the best view of Budapest!

After snapping a few selfies, nearby, the stunning Matthias Church is worth checking out too — fitted with stained glass windows and a colorful roof, and housing the tomb of King Bela, it adds to the ambiance of this truly unique city.

• Fisherman’s Bastion tours

36 – Put on your thinking caps during scavenger games

Do you think you have what it takes to be the next Sherlock Holmes? Put your detective skills to the test AND have fun city sightseeing whilst doing so during these epic Scavenger Games in Budapest.

If you’ve never tried this type of city tour before, here’s how to play the game: Using a mobile phone, your team is given a storyline and a set of clues — each clue is at a designated city monument or attraction.

As you solve one puzzle, receive the next clue to point you in the right direction to follow, ticking off must-see places en route. Having fun all along the way, you get to learn the history behind the sites you pass by whilst cracking the mystery.

Scavenger games are awesome bonding experiences for families, couples and a group of buddies after a great time.

• scavenger games in Budapest

37 – See Dracula at Vajdahunyad Castle

Believe it or not, there was actually a real Dracula, and his name was Vlad Dracul the Impaler!

Born in Budapest’s Vajdahunyad Castle, which holds spooky tours for any history buffs or vampire-enthusiasts (or Team Edward supporters), Vlad’s reputation is now etched into history.

Besides the fangs and black capes, in the courtyard you’ll find a statue of Anonymus — Hungary’s first history author — and an informative exhibit on Hungarian architecture.

• Vajdahunyad Castle tours

38 – Pay your respects at the Shoes on the Danube Bank

One of Budapest’s most tragic tales occurred during World War II when 3,500 people, including 800 Jews, were ordered to remove their shoes and stand by the river, after which they were executed.

The poignant and powerful memorial along the Danube river immortalizes the shoes left on the riverbank — a stark reminder to never forget the past.

39 – Hear the bell ring at Matthias Church

As well as hosting occasional Friday night organ concerts, this over-500-year-old church has orchestral bells that ring out every day at noon!

But there’s plenty to see as well as hear: inside, you’ll find a plethora of frescos, stained-glass windows, decorative roof-tiling, and a throne used to coronate kings!

Before leaving, be sure to climb to the top for more breathtaking Budapest views.

40 – See the Komodo dragon and wombat at Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden

A surefire hit for visitors young and old, the popular zoo boats over 1000 different animals and over 2000 species of plant from Australia to the Americas and everywhere in between!

While the wombats and tigers are always exciting, visitors also love the shimmering colours of the butterfly garden and the cute creatures of the Madagascar Zone.

If the zoo is a little busy, the Botanical Garden is a quieter spot to relax or reflect among the greenery.

• Budapest Zoo tickets

41 – Take a dip at Margaret Island

This island in the middle of the Danube river is a treasure trove of rose gardens and archaeological ruins (not to mention all of the fuzzy squirrels!).

On a hot summer’s day, head to Palatinus Strand to cool down in the swimming pools, wave pools, water slides, and kids pools — there’s plenty of fun for adventurers of all ages!

42 – Follow your nose (and your stomach) at Central Market Hall

Enthusiastic foodies are obsessed with the Central Market Hall — 5 minutes inside and you’ll see why.

There are plenty of opportunities to smell and sample the freshest Hungarian ingredients and dishes; feel free to grab a few for a picnic in one of Budapest’s pristine parks — and don’t forget to pick up a bottle of wine and a hand-crafted souvenir!

For the ultimate foodie experience, combine it with a cooking class or VIP tasting tour!

• Central Market Hall tours

43 – Stop by the Aquincum Museum and its ruin garden

Travelers fascinated by ancient history, stepping inside the Aquincum Museum will transport you back in time in an instant.

Fun fact: Óbuda, now commonly known as District III, was once a separate town from Budapest hundreds of years ago, and a Roman city first laid its foundations here.

Today, have the chance to see some of the Roman ruins in person at this special museum located in District III and around the original sites.

Permanent exhibitions to investigate are ‘Rome in Aquincum’, ‘House of the Painter’, ‘TEGVLARIVM’ (diving into the role of ceramics in the Roman period), ‘Mithras in Aquincum’ and ‘Thermae Maiores’ (a 2,000-year-old spa).

Apart from the life-size museum features, the museum houses different archaeological items and collections.

Investigate the Prehistory Photographic Archive, animal bones, the Lapidarium to see famous stone monuments, different materials used throughout the ages from bricks to coins, to mosaic to wood, learn about the Migration Period, and so much more.

The on-site Archaeological Park contains a ruin garden, and other spots around the grounds worth seeing are the Hercules Villa, Military Town Museum, fortresses, amphitheaters, aqueducts and ancient walls.

44 – Get a selfie with Lenin at Memento Park

At the fall of the communist regime, Budapest preserved most of its totalitarian statues and symbols at Memento Park.

These days, it acts as a large, open-air museum perfect for locals and tourists to pause and reflect, while bringing the old relics to life.

Travelers often take a moment to appreciate the symbolism of the statue of Lenin, sitting next to the retro Trabant car.

• Memento Park tickets

45 – See all of Budapest at the Miniversum Museum

How can you see an entire city in an afternoon? Miniversum!

This unique installation offers a perfect 1:100 scale model of Hungary, complete with interactive screens, sounds, and lights bringing it all to life!

With lots of interesting information about the area and its history, it’s a solid option for a rainy or snowy day.

There’s also a full-sized playhouse for the kids, making it one of the more family-friendly things to do in Budapest.

• Miniversum Museum tickets

46 – Go stand-up paddleboarding at sunrise

What’s more relaxing than a gentle paddle on calm water? We’ll tell you: doing so at sunrise on the Danube, before the city wakes, in the crisp, fresh Hungarian air.

For any total newbies, there’s minimal river traffic in the morning, making it a great opportunity to try it for the first time!

Set that alarm and make yourself a coffee, it’ll be worth it.

• paddleboarding in Budapest

47 – Browse through the Hungarian National Museum

Hungary’s vast, grand, and often turbulent history needs a museum every bit as vast and grand as it is; luckily, their National Museum fits the bill!

With exhibits spanning from ancient times through the middle ages, focusing on themes like the Hungarian struggle for independence, its submission to totalitarianism, and its current state of freedom, there’s plenty to be learned within these walls.

48 – See a real torture chamber at the House of Terror

The House of Terror lets visitors discover the dark side of the Hungarian dictatorships.

With no shortage of eye-opening displays, the torture chambers, jail cells, and execution room make for confronting yet fascinating viewing for visitors who want to understand what it was really like living under an iron fist.

• House of Terror tours

49 – Investigate the tomb of Gül Baba and its rose garden

As one of the last few remaining monuments that date back to the Turkish occupation of Europe during the Ottoman Empire, the Tomb of Gül Baba and its wonderful rose garden is an interesting one.

Starting with some background history; Gül Baba, an Ottoman-Turkish soldier-monk, arrived in Buda in 1541 and was a well-respected dervish who accompanied the army. He was well-known for his turban decorated and adorned with a rose (hence his nickname, Father of Roses).

After his passing, his body was buried and an octagonal-shaped mausoleum was erected in his honor. Hundreds of years later, excavators discovered a skeleton inside the tomb — believed to belong to Gül Baba.

Today, the interiors contain a wooden coffin designed with a replica of the iconic Rose turban.

In the 1800s, the property was privately sold and the owners built a villa around the mausoleum. Surviving wars, since then the grounds have been renovated, and recently in 2018, lavender and magnolia gardens were grown beside the existing rose garden.

The former villa was also transformed and now houses a cultural center with an exhibition space, workshops, a souvenir store as well as an authentic Turkish cafe.

50 – Pet the stingrays at Tropicarium

Tropicarium is not just an aquarium!

Tucked away in Campona Mall with shopping and a food court, it also has animals from alligators to little swinging monkeys!

Visitors love the giant shark aquarium where brave handlers hand-feed the sharks, and the rays touch tank where the friendly rays rub up against your arm!

51 – Sightsee in between Hűvösvölgy on the Children’s Railway

Holding the (Guinness World) record for the ‘longest children’s railway line’ in the world, there’s probably no activity more unique (and exhilarating) for the little ones than the Children’s Railway .

Connecting the Hűvösvölgy and Széchenyihegy neighborhoods, the line officially runs for 11.2 kilometers between the two destinations, however, what makes it so extra special is that the train is run by little humans!

That’s right … from the purchasing of tickets at the booth to checking the dockets onboard to providing train hand signals, older kids and teens are the ones in control here. Not to fear though — the conductor is an adult!

Veering along the Cogwheel Railway, chug through forests and past points of interest like lookout towers.

The Children’s Railway Museum and Souvenir Shop is worth popping into whilst you’re here and is found on platform 1 at the Hűvösvölgy station. Through its interactive exhibits, learn of the history of this narrow-gauge style railway first built in the late 19th century.

52 – Be entertained whilst learning something new during a Folklore Show

From whirling red and white skirts to an evening of traditional dance and song; a folklore show is a brilliant way to get an up close and personal look at Hungarian history.

Over the course of 1.5 hours, sit back, relax and enjoy the entertainment whilst learning about local traditions and customs through the performance show at the Aranytíz Kultúrház.

Translating to the ‘Aranytíz Cultural Center’, the theater is housed inside a neo-Renaissance style building that was first constructed between 1879 to 1880, adding more ambiance to the show.

Either dancing troops from the Rajkó Folk Ensemble, Danube Folk Ensemble or the Hungarian State Folk Ensemble take to the stage for the evening, dressed in embroidered shirts, splendid skirts, and classic headpieces.

The performance is based on local mythology, folk performances and dancing rituals carried out in local villages throughout the centuries across Hungary.

• folklore shows in Budapest

53 – Sample the local brews with beer tastings

Discover what the beer scene is like in Budapest with a beer-tasting experience around the city.

Brewing the alcoholic beverage for over 1,000 years, the country does know a thing or two when it comes to beer, and there’s an abundance of beer tastings to choose from, depending on the vibe that you’re after.

For an extraordinary crusade, visit a private brewery within a monastery and sample beers made by the monks who live there. Or get this; stop by a Hungarian beer spa and unwind in a traditional wooden spa bath with unlimited beer at your disposal.

Craft beer aficionados; enjoy tasting the local craft beers during private tours, where you will stop at pubs and drinking holes as you venture around the city and do a bit of sightseeing.

A second way to tour the city whilst staying merry is on a super fun electric beer bus, sipping back on Hungarian drafts while cruising around to must-see attractions, viewpoints and monuments.

Beer tastings range from one to eight hours.

• beer tasting in Budapest

54 – Take a ride on the M1 – Continental Europe’s Oldest Metro Line!

Don’t pass up the chance to ride on the oldest underground railway, the M1 (located at Oktogon Station underneath the historic Andrássy Avenue).

Its placement suits this beautiful neighborhood — renowned for its bygone architecture — and it feels as if you’re traveling through Budapest in the late 1890s the moment you walk down the steps to enter Europe’s first electric underground line.

Dripping in character and old-world charm, the metro tram line was built between 1894 and 1986, opening to the public that same year.

Climb into the original yellow carts and travel along the five-kilometer line, running from Mexikoi út (Mexican road) to Vörösmarty tér (Vörösmarty square) with 11 stops in between.

The M1 isn’t the only underground line, and there are lines M2 (red), M3 (blue) and the M4 (green) operating daily.

55 – Sip coffee at New York Cafe

Ever wondered, “what if the Sistine Chapel was a coffee house?” Wonder no more!

The world’s most dazzling cafe , found in one of the world’s premium luxury hotels, will leave you in awe — you’ll be gazing in every direction at marble columns, elegant paintings, and sculpted angels in this grand Rennaisance-themed cafe.

The good coffee is just a bonus.

56 – Dine at the best Michelin-awarded restaurants

Wondering where the best places are to fill your belly in Budapest? The capital city is home to multiple Michelin-awarded restaurants, so take your pick of the very best in town.

Sophisticated and refined, from the food to the interiors, Costes Downtown is not only a one-star winner but was the first restaurant in Hungary to win a Michelin award. Naturally, it’s one of the best dining spots in the country.

Sublime presentation and modern gastronomy, whether it’s the ingredients or the cooking style, Babel Budapest is another one-star Michelin treat.

Intimate and inspiring, take your place around the 21-seater dining bar and watch the chefs in action at Rumour .

The plates of food that arrive out of the kitchen at Borkonyha Winekitchen (almost) look too pretty to eat and pop with color and classy, creative flair.

Combining Portuguese and Hungarian flavors, ingredients and cooking techniques, book a table at Essência Restaurant for a fusion like none other in town.

As the only restaurant in Budapest with a Michelin two-star, Stand celebrates and highlights Hungarian ingredients and its cuisine, but with a contemporary twist.

57 – Catch a show at Hungarian State Opera House

Before the show even starts, the Opera House captivates its audiences with its glimmering marble staircases, bright chandeliers, and striking architecture.

The likes of Gustav Mahler have conducted here, so it doesn’t matter if you catch an opera, ballet, or classical music performance; you’re in for a world-class performance with world-class acoustics!

58 – Adventure through the city via Jeep Tours

Jump into a vintage Russian military Jeep and hit the roads (less traveled) during exciting Jeep tours, winding through the streets of Budapest and beyond the city walls.

Adding three hours to your schedule clock, this adventure is ideal for travelers hunting down different things to do in Budapest and when it comes to touring the city.

Be shown off-the-grid locations and unusual attractions usually not covered in ordinary city tours, such as the “Champs-Élysées of Budapest”, i.e. Andrássy Avenue, Heroes’ Square (Hosok Tere) and Budapest-Nyugati, nicknamed the Western Railway Station.

There are also jeep tours for tourists keen on a classic city tour by vehicle, instead of trekking the streets on foot.

Lasting two hours, be driven around to iconic monuments and not-to-miss sights like Buda Castle, Gellert Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, the House of Terror Museum, Liberty Bridge, Vajdahunyad Castle and plenty of others.

• jeep tours in Budapest

59 – Walk across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge

One of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks actually has a rather sad backstory.

Originally, the bridge was conceived by a man who could not cross the river to see his father; years later, during the War of Independence, The Austrians unsuccessfully bombed the bridge.

Then, a century later, the Germans did so successfully in World War II.

Incredible views aside, walking across the bridge is a walk through history itself!

60 – Lose yourself at Szimpla Kert

What started as a pub in an old factory is quickly becoming the heartbeat of the city.

This bohemian center still slings drinks but also screens movies, hosts concerts, displays art, contains a library, and turns into a market!

Hot tip: make a point of visiting on different days and times because it always has something different happening!

61 – Dine in style on the river

The only thing more intoxicating than the complimentary glass of champagne you get as you board a river cruise is the view of Budapest’s skyline (particularly the majestic Parliament building) reflecting off the water.

With live Hungarian music playing in the background and a scrumptious four-course dinner, it’s a surefire hit for romantics.

• dinner cruises in Budapest

62 – Pub crawl through the ruin bars

The recent craze in Budapest is the ruin bars, built in the ruins of abandoned buildings like stores and factories.

Many of them look like normal homes, so a guided tour with a local guide is the best way to discover them!

With drinks flowing — cheap drinks, we might add — it’s a fantastic chance to meet other party-goers, score a few free shots, and let your hair down!

• pub crawls in Budapest

How to get to Budapest?

Forget about trying to decipher Hungarian and haggle with cab drivers. For the most seamless, hassle-free arrival experience, it’s recommended to book an airport transfer in advance.

As you arrive at the airport, your private driver awaits you ready to transport you to your accommodation in Budapest. After a lengthy flight, sit back and be driven to your stay in style.

Where to stay in Budapest?

One thing is for certain, your accommodation can either make or break a holiday. Make sure that your stay during your time in Budapest is all that — and a bag of Hungarian candy — at any one of these fabulous hotels.

Classy yet ultra-trendy, Kozmo Luxury Hotel is ideal for couples. Boasting gorgeous finishes and features on all fronts, relax at the spa or dine at the world-class restaurant.

Certainly feel like royalty at the grand Aurea Ana Palace Hotel . From the floor-to-ceiling marble bathrooms to the underground spa, the service and set-up are all-round impressive.

Loved for its location, on-site facilities and bright, spacious and extra comfy interiors, rooms and suites at the 5-star Kempinski Hotel exude warmth and luxury.

Donned in tips of gold here and there and rich finishings, the Anantara New York Palace Budapest goes the full nine yards.

With a close eye and attention to detail, the adults-only Hotel Clark Budapest is a boutique-style setup and absolutely dreamy.

Living up to its name’s reputation, stay in absolute style at The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest . It’s got excellent on-site facilities, incredible dining options and a fabulous location — naturally.

Feel like a celebrity at Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel , fusing the past and present in the most perfect way possible.

Take a step back in time and stand in awe from the moment you enter the Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest . This is old-world elegance at its finest.

• best hotels in Budapest

Visiting Budapest on a budget?

Traveling around Europe can become a pricey endeavor, however, there are ways to save money and be wise with how you spend your vacation savings.

One of the easiest ways is to opt for free walking tours when traveling to Budapest. Costing you absolutely nothing, be guided around to monuments, attractions and iconic sites with the help of a knowledgeable guide.

Moving from one place to the next, learn about each site you pass thanks to the titbits given by your expert local.

If your Budapest bucket list is long, and if you plan on getting around town using mostly public transport, then the Budapest Card might just be the best option for you.

The tourist card includes free public transport all over the city, offers discounts to some of the city’s premier attractions, free entry to 12 museums (like the Museum of Fine Arts and Budapest History Museum), and also slashes prices on a range of spas and restaurants.

To find out more and all you need to know about the best free walking tours in Budapest , take a squiz through our informative read.

Where to go next?

Situated in Eastern Europe, there are plenty of other neighboring countries to see while you’re in this part of the world or, make your way to a completely different side of the continent like the Mediterranean, for example.

Whether you’re an island-gal or more of a metro-man, here are some of the best places to visit in Europe from Paris to Santorini.

If you’re keen on traveling nearby, there are many things to do in other countries close by like Bratislava — the capital city of Slovakia, and a two-hour drive from Budapest.

Passing Bratislava, drive a further 30 minutes until you reach Vienna , Austria where there are many things to do, and both destinations are ideal for a day excursion. Tourists especially love taking a day trip to Vienna .

Head south and reach Belgrade , the bustling capital of Serbia, with a strong blend of modern vitality and ancient traditions. Step into the charming past of Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, or discover the vibrant atmosphere of Skadarlija, the city’s bohemian neighborhood.

If your time in Hungary is limited, multi-day trips are a fabulous way to conveniently see a multitude of neighboring countries in a few days. There are excursions that last two days and travel to Vienna, or longer adventures journeying through to Bucharest in Romania.

Final thoughts

From castles to river cruises to weird and wonderful history learnings, there is so much to see, you might find a few days in the capital is not nearly enough!

Have you traveled to Budapest before and are back for more? What are your favorite things to do in Budapest, or places to visit? Share with us in the comments.

As always, happy and safe travels.

21 Best Things to Do in Budapest with Teenagers

B udapest is a dynamic city offering a diverse range of attractions offering a blend of history, culture, and fun! If you’re looking for the best things to do in Budapest with teenagers, you’ll have plenty to choose from. We had a fabulous time exploring the city and we think you will too!

You can explore hidden gems in the bustling Jewish Quarter or wander in the city’s charming, art-filled neighborhoods. Discover the treasures of its thermal baths or take in breathtaking views along the Danube River. Don’t miss the vibrant ruin bars, which are a must-see when in Budapest with teens! Plus, getting around Budapest is a breeze, with its excellent public transportation system and bike-friendly streets.

All of this and more makes this magical city the perfect destination for families seeking an enriching and memorable getaway. Interested in more things to do with the whole family in Budapest, Hungary? Keep reading for some of my family’s favorite attractions and things to do in this beautiful city.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

What Is There to Do with Teenagers in Budapest?

Budapest is an exciting and entertaining place for the whole family! We explored the city after our Eastern Europe cruise and loved it! Budapest is a welcoming and kid-friendly place and there’s a nice mix of historical and cultural attractions to keep everyone entertained. Below, you can read about some of our family’s favorite attractions and things to do in the Hungarian capital.

1. Take a City Tour

A great way to explore the city of Budapest is by joining a guided tour! We tried a tuk-tuk tour, to see some of the city’s highlights. It was a great way to get an overview of the city before heading out to explore on our own.

Segway tours are a huge hit with teens, as they can ride/steer their own. This tour is great at highlighting the best that both Buda and Pest have to offer.

For those that want a more intimate experience, you can opt for a guided tour in a private car.

There are a number of top-notch FREE walking tours , offered by locals who are passionate about their city. This is another fantastic way to see Budapest’s beauty up close, while enjoying inside details and captivating stories from knowledgeable guides. These tours are usually offered in a variety of languages, and you should book in advance, with a meeting point in mind.

2. Visit Budapest’s Famous Thermal Baths

Another well-known attraction is Budapest’s thermal baths which are a true treat for locals and visitors alike. The baths are connected to the city’s abundant thermal springs and are renowned for their soothing and healing properties. You can find them throughout the city, but a few stand out, such as…

• The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest and most famous in Budapest. The Széchenyi baths feature a mix of indoor and outdoor pools, surrounded by beautiful Neo-Baroque architecture. It’s a beautiful setting in which to unwind in the warm waters, even during the colder months!
• Another well-known bath is the Gellért Thermal Bath , situated in the Art Nouveau-style Gellért Hotel and offers a luxurious experience. It boasts both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as numerous impressive mosaics, and a wave pool.
• Finally, there’s the Rudas Thermal Bath , dating to the 1500s. With its Ottoman-era charm, Rudas offers a more traditional experience in its Turkish bath section, while the modern section has an octagonal pool beneath a gorgeous glass dome. From this guests can enjoy spectacular views of Budapest and the Danube River!

3. Join a Boat Cruise on the Danube

Taking a boat cruise on the Danube River in Budapest is an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for travelers of all ages. Day and night cruises like this one offer a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks, from both the Buda and the Pest side of the river. 

As you glide along, you’ll pass under some of the city’s most famous bridges, and see iconic historical sites, including, but not limited to the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Fisherman’s Bastion.

You can do day or night cruises, but while the night is truly magical, the daytime cruises offer something of their own. During the day you can appreciate the intricate details of the city’s landmarks under the bright sun. The nighttime cruises are an entirely different experience with sparkling bridges and the city skyline brightly shining against the black of night.

4. Go on a Food Tour

One of our favorite parts of visiting Budapest was the food! Hungarian food is absolutely amazing, and Budapest is the perfect place to dive into the country’s diverse food culture.The best way to do this is through a guided tour.

There are different ones to choose from including walking tours, some of which may focus on Budapest’s vibrant wine culture, while This 3-hour Budapest walking food tour is perfect for families! Your guide will meet you in the city center, and then take you and your family to visit a handful of unique stops and shops.

Your guides will show you historical sights, and provide you with some insight into the history of Budapest along the way. You’ll eat at a local restaurant, get to enjoy strudel and Hungarian coffee, and sample regional wines (for those 18 and older). During your tour, you’ll stop at city markets, a wine bar, and pastry shops. This is a great way to learn about their favorite local restaurant!

5. Heroes Square and Vajdahunyad Castle

Nestled in Budapest’s City Park are Heroes Square and Vajdahunyad Castle, two must-visit landmarks. Heroes Square is one of the city’s most popular historical sites, with its grand Millennium Monument that pays homage to Hungary’s historical figures. This massive square is striking to see, showcasing the nation’s heritage with impressive sculptures and memorials.

Close by, Vajdahunyad Castle takes you on a journey through Hungarian architectural styles over the years! This stunning castle from the 19th century resembles a fairytale fortress. Today it houses the Hungarian Agricultural Museum.

But wait, there’s more! City Park also offers thrilling balloon rides that provide breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including Heroes Square and Vajdahunyad Castle. It’s a thrilling way to see Budapest’s beauty from a different perspective.

6. Try a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

A Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour is a fantastic way to explore Budapest with teens. With a 1- to 3-day ticket option and simple-to-understand routes, you can hop on and off at their preferred attractions, tailoring the tour to your family’s interests!

The double-decker, open-top buses provide a fun and panoramic view of the city, making the experience exciting and engaging. It’s an easy way to cover major landmarks, like St. Stephen’s Basilica, Central Market Hall, and Heroes Square, especially if you’re short on time!

Overhead narration is given in English while audio guides are offered in a variety of languages. You’ll learn about the history of Budapest while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s a memorable and convenient way to make the most of your Budapest adventure!

7. Explore Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle

Visiting Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle , both perched atop Castle Hill in the Buda hills is an absolute highlight of any trip to Budapest. These main attractions are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also steeped in Hungarian history and folklore.

Fisherman’s Bastion is a fairytale-like terrace with seven towers, offering the best views of the Danube River and the Pest side of the city. Its neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque architecture creates a storybook feel, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike!

Adjacent to Fisherman’s Bastion, the medieval Buda Castle stands tall, a symbol of Hungary’s royal past. The castle complex is free to visit and includes the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.

8. Head to a Ruin Bar

Visiting ruin bars is undeniably one of the best things to do in Budapest with teenagers! These eclectic and artsy spots, one of the iconic ones being Szimpla Kert , are unforgettable attractions for young travelers.

Once abandoned buildings mainly in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, ruin pubs have been transformed into vibrant social hubs filled with quirky decor and graffiti-covered walls!

The atmosphere is electric, with live music, open-mic nights, and diverse performances. Other favorites include Instant & Fogas Ház , Mazel Tov, and UdvarRom . If you don’t want to go alone, you can always join a ruin bar tour !

Ruin bars create a welcoming and laid-back ambiance, making it easy to mingle and meet locals and fellow travelers. You can sip on a refreshing drink and share stories with newfound friends!

Just a note: If you have younger teens, plan on going during the day (most ruin bars open for lunch). Many ruin bars don’t allow minors at night when these venues get busy!

9. Explore Margaret Island

Margaret Island, nestled in the heart of the Danube River, offers a serene escape from the bustling city. You can reach the island by foot across the Margaret Bridge or take a tram or bus.

This green oasis is a perfect place for parents and teens to unwind and explore. If you’re on Margaret Island during the warmer months, there’s a fountain that features music and synchronized water shows in the evenings.

You can explore walking paths or ride bikes while taking in beautiful gardens and fountains. Engage in outdoor activities like mini-golf, swimming, and jogging. The Japanese Garden is a favorite with visitors, and there are even medieval ruins of a 13th-century convent that you can explore! For a relaxing experience, visit the island’s thermal bath or simply lounge by the riverside. 

10. Night-Time Vampire Tour

Nighttime vampire tours are wildly popular in Budapest because of the city’s dark history and gothic architecture, as well as regional folklore. Did you know that the inspiration for Count Dracula was a Hungarian nobleman named Vlad the Impaler?

After dark, this old and romantic city sets the perfect stage for tales of vampires and mysteries! On this 2-hour walking tour of the Buda Castle District , you’ll explore cobbled streets and dimly lit alleys, visiting shadowy landmarks and historical sites.

Your guide will entertain you with chilling stories of Hungary’s tumultuous past and infamous vampire lore. Dark tours like this one are a captivating way to delve into Budapest’s darker side while enjoying a unique nighttime experience.

11. Visit the Local Markets

The best way to experience the authentic flavors and culture of Budapest is through its local markets. These bustling hubs act like a journey through Hungary’s food and traditions, making it a great place to visit for an authentic experience of Budapest’s day-to-day life!

One of the most famous is the Great Market Hall, located near the Liberty Bridge. It Is a must-see for both locals and visitors, located in a beautiful building, that’s almost 200 years old.

While the first level offers local produce, such as meats, cheeses, pastries, and more, the second level features clothing and accessory boutiques.

A tip for visiting the markets, don’t be afraid to barter! Visiting markets means engaging with vendors, savoring traditional dishes, and witnessing the ebb and flow of daily life in Budapest.

12. Go Stand-Up Paddle Boarding on the Danube

For the crew that seeks out cool and unique outdoor activities on a family trip, there’s nothing quite like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the Danube River! The river’s calm waters and great views make it perfect for this adventure.

Teens can have fun paddling on this small group SUP tour while checking out famous landmarks on the shore. It’s a chance to see the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge from a different angle, As the sun sets, the city’s architecture is breathtaking from the water.

13. Day Trip to Szentendre

Embarking on a day trip to Szentendre is undeniably one of the best things to do in Budapest with teenagers. It’s an opportunity for everyone to appreciate a different side of Hungary.

On top of that, it’s an easily accessible outing through Budapest’s easy-to-use public transportation system. Hop on one of the metro lines and a bus, and in less than an hour, you’ll be exploring Szentendre. Other options for reaching Szentendre include a guided tour from Budapest or in the summer there’s an option to take a boat .

This charming town provides an excellent escape from Budapest’s hustle and bustle! When you visit Szentendre, it feels like going back in time to a simpler era, with its cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, and colorful houses set on the picturesque Danube River. Everything just slows down there.

You’ll spend the day exploring Old Town, with its artisan and souvenir shops, museums, and studios. Also, don’t miss out on the chance to sample traditional Hungarian pastries and foods at local cafes!

14. Take a Jewish Heritage Tour

The Jewish Quarter is an important part of Budapest. Exploring this area, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Hungary’s past, including the challenges faced by its Jewish community. Consider going on a tour like this half-day Budapest Jewish heritage tour for a well-rounded exploration of the city’s complex history and rich cultural tapestry.

This is a walking tour with two different routes through the former ghetto. Both tours cover major historical landmarks, such as the Dohány Street Synagogue (also known as the Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe), as well as a fascinating museum and a historical cemetery. There’s also a chance to stop at a kosher bakery and try Jewish delicacies!

Throughout your tour, your guide will share stories on the impact of Nazi occupation and communist regimes on Budapest’s Jewish community. You’ll also learn about the struggles and triumphs of Budapest’s Jewish community under such hardships.

Today, the Jewish Quarter is thriving, with unique shops, cafes, and famous ruin bars. A tour is a chance to witness the district’s revitalization and learn more about it as an important part of the city. 

Tours like this one provide a unique educational opportunity, whether you’re curious about your own Jewish heritage or simply interested in the history of Budapest. Amidst the bustling streets and trendy ruin bars, a Jewish Heritage tour offers a meaningful perspective on the long history of Budapest.

15. Visit the Pinball Museum

A more unique attraction for your teenagers to enjoy in Budapest is the Pinball Museum ! This interactive museum houses a diverse collection of over 130 vintage, and modern pinball machines spanning the late 1800s through to the modern day.

Visit with your kids, and try your hand at different pinball machines from various eras. It’s free to enter and you just pay a small fee for access to the games. You can also buy snacks and drinks at the counter, and lounge about on an eclectic mix of chairs.

16. Museum of Sweets and Selfies

If you’re looking for something a little lighter to do with the family in Budapest, check out the Museum of Sweets and Selfies . This is a playful installation museum, where you explore rooms themed with a variety of sugary treats! It features rooms filled with oversized candy, vibrant installations, and dreamy backdrops designed by local artists.

You can find your favorite treats and capture picture-perfect selfies! From candy walls to larger-than-life dessert displays, every corner is a visual gem. There are 2 locations for this popular attraction, with the original (No. 1) being great for kids of all ages.

The Museum of Sweets and Selfies No. 2 BUBBLES has a slightly different feel with more unique exhibits and features a cocktail bar. You can also order non-alcoholic drinks for underage visitors.

17. Ride the Ferris Wheel in Elizabeth Square

Another exhilarating way to enjoy stunning views of Budapest’s City Center is by riding the Ferris wheel located in Elizabeth Square. As the Ferris wheel gently ascends, you’ll be treated to some of the best views this beautiful city has to offer!

There is a small fee per ride, but it’s more than made up for one you take in the sprawling urban landscape, landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the winding Danube River, all unfolding beneath you.  

It’s a completely different experience to ride the Ferris wheel at night than it is to ride in the day, so go more than once! You’ll take in the sprawling urban landscape, iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Danube River, all unfolding beneath you. It’s a fun way for families to enjoy an exciting activity that lets you see Budapest from a new point of view.

18. Explore Pál-Völgyi Cave

Exploring the Pál-Völgyi Cave is an extraordinary experience that ranks among the top things to do in Budapest with teenagers. Nestled beneath the Buda hills, this remarkable cave system unveils an entire hidden world of geological formations, ancient history, and a delicate ecosystem.

While visiting, you’ll take self-guided audio tours along winding hiking paths through chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and fossils. As you go, your audio guide will teach you about the history of the caves. If you choose to go remember your good hiking shoes, and be prepared to climb up and down ladders. Visitors must be 5 years and older.

19. Experience the Historic Budapest Circus

The Capital Circus of Budapest in City Park is Hungary’s oldest and most famous circus. The modern circus was invented in Budapest in the late 1800s. Come here for a mix of classic and modern acts that you know and love, from acrobats and jugglers to silly clowns and daring aerial tricks.

The circus is a big deal in Budapest, as it has a long and rich history, deeply ingrained in the city’s culture. It’s not just about entertainment, it’s a tradition that’s been passed down for generations.

20. Go Shopping

Shopping in Budapest offers a diverse and exciting experience, with there being options for all tastes and preferences. Head to Fashion Street and the WestEnd Mall, both located in the city center, for some retail therapy.

Fashion Street boasts a range of high-end boutiques and global brands, it’s perfect for fashion lovers. The WestEnd Shopping Center is your classic indoor mall, featuring a wide variety of retail brands, clothing stores, and eateries.

21. Take an Alternative Budapest Street Art Tour

Embarking on a street art tour is a must-do in Budapest with teens. It’s truly the best way to delve into Budapest’s culture and see a more authentic side of the city. You can book a walking tour like this small group street art tour through the Jewish Quarter.

Your guides will show you iconic landmarks like the Kazinczy Street Synagogue, and take you to notable avenues showcasing the murals that bring the city’s walls to life. 

That’s not all the tour has to offer! You’ll also visit an artist collective, stop at a ruin bar, which are popular art hubs in the hip Jewish Quarter, and a local coffee shop. Along the way, your guide will share the meaning behind each art piece, and take pictures for you!

Beyond traditional attractions, a street art tour immerses you in the present, showcasing Budapest’s evolving identity. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to embrace local artistry and develop a deeper appreciation for the city’s history.

Where to Stay in Budapest with Teenagers

For a central location that can’t be beaten, we highly recommend Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Collection. This stunning property is within walking distance from Budapest’s Ferris wheel, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and Dohány Street Synagogue. It’s just around the corner from St. Stephen’s Basilica.

The boutique hotel is music themed, and it’s evident in every corner of the property. Each room is dedicated to a famous musician, and details throughout the room give a nod to the artist and their work.

About Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Collection

There are four different themed wings – Classical, Contemporary, Opera, and Jazz. We had a classical room dedicated to Russian composer Serge Prokofiev. Our room was generously sized with two queen beds and a seating area, a 55″ television surrounded by a marble fireplace mantle, an in-room iPad, a Nespresso coffee maker, and a desk. The bathroom is breathtaking with floor-to-ceiling Onyx marble, a shower, a bathtub, and a bidet.

Hotel amenities include complimentary breakfast, a pool, spa, fitness center, access to a music library and concierge, and complimentary wine and cheese every afternoon.

Perhaps my favorite amenity was the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, High Note SkyBar. This is one of the best places in Budapest for sunset and it overlooks the rooftop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Don’t miss this!

Finally, the staff of Aria Hotel in Budapest goes above and beyond when it comes to customer service. No request is too big and they are happy to help. Unfortunately, we only had one night in Budapest, but when we come back this will be the hotel I book! CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES

We didn’t have nearly enough time to explore all of the fun things to do in Budapest with teenagers, and we can’t wait to go back and explore the city again!

The post 21 Best Things to Do in Budapest with Teenagers appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

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10 Things You Should Never Wear on a Plane — and What We're Replacing Them With From $6

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No matter how long your flight is or where you’re headed, we’ve outlined the 10 most common fashion mistakes that travelers make and the easy swaps to try along the way. From trading in open-toed shoes for a more sensible option to always having a cozy layer on hand , here’s how to ace your next flight with Amazon essentials starting at just $6.

Don't Wear: Open-toe Shoes

Wear this instead: comfy walking sneakers.

Leaving your toes exposed during a flight is not ideal. After all, sandals lack support and warmth, plus it’s unlikely that the floor of the plane has been cleaned in a while. These supportive Puma sneakers are an excellent alternative because not only will they get plenty of wear on vacation, but they also keep your feet insulated and protected. Plus, they’re on sale for 30 percent off at Amazon right now.

Don't Wear: Pajamas

Wear this instead: a versatile loungewear set.

You may be tempted to wear pajamas to maximize comfort, but when you’re traveling you want to make the most of your wardrobe — and anything you wear on a plane, you shouldn’t also wear into your clean sheets. A cozy alternative is this stylish two-piece set that can be styled in multiple ways throughout your trip, all while keeping you as comfy on your next long-haul flight. The half-zip sweatshirt is a great layer to easily take on and off during your travels, while the drawstring pants are the picture of sleek loungewear. Not to mention, it’s available in 21 gorgeous colors, like hot pink and green .

Don’t Wear: Your Engagement Ring

Wear this instead: an affordable alternative.

From theft to loss, there are too many things that can go wrong when wearing your engagement or wedding ring while traveling. With that in mind, it’s worth picking up a simple band that won’t draw attention to your jewelry, like this basic tungsten ring that’s only $17. The material is scratch-resistant, hypoallergenic, and comfy to wear, while coming in a wide range of sizes to fit all travelers.

Don’t Wear: Fragrance Deodorant

Wear this instead: unscented deodorant.

When you’re spending an extended amount of time in an enclosed space such as an airplane, there’s an unspoken rule to avoid strong scents such as perfume or deodorant to keep you (and other people on your flight that may be sensitive to smells) comfortable. This long-lasting, natural deodorant from Native offers an impressive 72 hours of odor control, plus it’s aluminum- and baking soda-free. You can still feel as fresh as the moment you left your house once you de-plane, just without the overwhelming traditional deodorant scent.

Don’t Wear: an Open-top Purse

Wear this instead: a zippered bag.

The chaos of boarding the plane and getting settled leaves far too many opportunities for your purse to spill over, so it’s not advisable to travel with an open-top tote that can’t safely be stowed under your seat. Instead, try investing in a zippered, anti-theft purse that will serve you well throughout the duration of your travels, all while keeping your belongings safe and secure from takeoff to landing. This shopper-loved option from Travelon is fitted with several reliable zippered pockets alongside an RFID-blocking pocket, providing peace of mind in the form of a wearable and sleek bag. The adjustable crossbody strap and convenient magentic snap flap are just icing on the cake.

Don’t Wear: Ankle Socks

Wear this instead: compression socks.

Inflammation and swelling are incredibly common during air travel, and if you often find yourself struggling with discomfort, you’ll benefit from swapping traditional ankle socks for a pair of these best-selling compression socks . Made from a high-quality spandex blend, these socks are lightweight and breathable, promoting healthy circulation in your legs for lessened fatigue and swelling during your trip. In fact, flight attendants have even called them “perfect” for air travel. 

Don’t Wear: Stiff Denim or Trousers

Wear this instead: slacks with an elastic waistband.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look your best on a flight. However, you’ll never regret prioritizing your comfort during longer trips, and these elastic waistband trousers are the perfect alternative to traditional denim. Still effortlessly stylish without digging into your skin, these flowy, cropped pants feature deep pockets, a trendy crop, and they’re made from 100 percent cotton. Did we mention they’re just $30 at Amazon? 

Don’t Wear: Claw Clips

Wear this instead: a soft scrunchie.

Ever tried getting comfortable against a headrest while wearing a claw clip? Well, if you haven’t yet, we certainly don’t recommend starting now. Claw clips may be stylish, but they’re not the most comfortable headwear to sport on a plane. Instead, pick up a pack of these satin scrunchies that keep your locks healthy and luscious without causing creasing or breakage. At just $8 for a pack of five, the scrunchies are just under $2 apiece.

Don’t Wear: a Tank Top

Wear this instead: a comfy layer.

Even if you’re headed to a warm weather destination, make sure to pack an extra layer. Airplane cabin temperature is notoriously fickle, quickly oscillating from hot to cold, so don’t forget to keep a cozy cardigan tucked into your carry-on suitcase. We like this sleek open-front cardigan that’s currently 54 percent off thanks to an on-site coupon. The cardigan is equipped with deep pockets and has a breathable, airy design that’s practically made for traveling.

Don’t Wear: an Underwire Bra

Wear this instead: a bralette or sports bra.

Longhaul flights are tedious enough, why make them worse by wearing an underwire bra that’s guaranteed to dig into your skin throughout the entire duration of the trip? Of course that doesn’t mean that you have to entirely forego support, and this Hanes seamless bralette is a far more comfortable choice. The breathable, ribbed material keeps you cool regardless of the temperature on your flight, and the smooth and supportive fit will immediately have you trading in your underwire bras. Best of all, it’s even available in sizes ranging from XS to 2XL, with a major discount bringing the price down to just $6.

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