“I’ve visited Budapest 5 times over the last decade — during spring, winter, and summer — and each trip revealed new experiences. From steamy baths in February to Danube cruises in August, Budapest never stops inspiring.”
Welcome to Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube”! This stunning city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences waiting for you.
I’ve visited Budapest multiple times and explored every corner of this magnificent city. From soaking in thermal baths to exploring historic castles, I’m excited to share my personal insights and recommendations to help you plan your perfect trip.
This guide covers everything you need to know – must-see attractions, Best Things to do in Budapest, hidden gems, practical tips, and answers to common questions. Let’s discover the best things to do in Budapest together!
Download PDF Guide: Things to Do in Budapest
Why Visit Budapest?
Budapest offers something for every type of traveler. The city is actually two cities in one – Buda on the west bank and Pest on the east bank, connected by beautiful bridges across the Danube River. You’ll find:
- Stunning architecture from Gothic to Art Nouveau
- The world’s largest thermal water system
- Affordable prices compared to other European capitals
- Rich history and cultural experiences
Top 15 Things to Do in Budapest
1. Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building
The Parliament Building is Budapest’s most iconic landmark. This magnificent Gothic Revival building is the third-largest parliament building in the world. The interior is even more impressive than the exterior, with stunning staircases, frescoes, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels.
Price: ~6,000 HUF (€15)
Duration: 45 minutes
- Reserve online weeks in advance
- See the Holy Crown of Hungary
Insider Tip: Book tickets online in advance as tours often sell out. The English tours fill up fastest, so book at least a week ahead during peak season.
2. Soak in the Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and Széchenyi is the largest and most popular. The yellow Neo-Baroque palace houses 18 pools, including three outdoor pools that stay open year-round. There’s nothing quite like soaking in warm thermal water while snow falls around you in winter.
Price: ~9,900 HUF (€25), towel rental extra
Open: 7 AM–8 PM
- 18 pools, saunas, steam rooms
- Outdoor pools steamy even in winter
- Bring flip-flops, towel & swim cap
Personal Experience: I recommend spending at least 3-4 hours here. Arrive early (before 10 AM) to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
3. Explore Buda Castle and Castle Hill
Buda Castle District is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers breathtaking views of Pest across the river. The area includes:
- Buda Castle Palace
- Matthias Church
- Fisherman’s Bastion
- Medieval streets and houses
Entry Fee: Grounds free, museums ~4,800 HUF (€12)
Hours: 10 AM–6 PM
- Offers panoramic views of Pest
- Includes National Gallery & History Museum
- Ride the Castle Funicular (1,200 HUF one-way)
Good to Know: You can take the Buda Castle Funicular up the hill or walk up – the path takes about 15-20 minutes and offers great photo opportunities.
4. Walk Across the Chain Bridge
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge was the first permanent bridge connecting Buda and Pest. It’s beautifully illuminated at night and offers fantastic views of both sides of the city. Walking across at sunset is particularly magical.
Price: Free
Open: 24/7
- Connects Buda & Pest across the Danube
- Closed to vehicles (pedestrian only in 2025)
5. Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica
This Neoclassical basilica is named after Hungary’s first king and houses his preserved right hand. You can climb to the dome panorama for one of the best views of Budapest. The interior is magnificent with intricate mosaics and marble work.
Price: Donation 2,000 HUF (€5); Dome entry extra
Hours: 9 AM–7 PM
- Climb 364 stairs (or take the lift) to the dome
- Viewpoint rivals Gellért Hill’s
6. Experience the Great Market Hall
The Great Market Hall is Budapest’s largest and oldest indoor market. The three-story building offers:
- Fresh produce on the ground floor
- souvenirs and crafts on the second floor
- A food court and restaurants in the basement
Entry: Free
Hours: Mon-Fri 6 AM–6 PM, Sat till 3 PM
- Try langos (~800 HUF), goulash (~2,000 HUF)
- First floor = food stalls
- Second floor = souvenirs, textiles
Food Recommendation: Try lángos (fried dough with toppings) at the basement food court – it’s a Hungarian classic!
7. Cruise the Danube River
A river cruise offers unique perspectives of Budapest’s most famous landmarks. Evening cruises are particularly spectacular when the city lights up. Many cruises include dinner or drinks.
Price: Day cruise ~4,000 HUF (€10); Dinner cruise from €40
Duration: 1–2 hours
- Available day and night
- Many companies near Vigadó Square or Dock 11
8. Discover the Dohány Street Synagogue
This is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world. The complex includes the Jewish Museum, Holocaust Memorial, and the beautiful Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park.
Location: Dohány Street, District VII
Entry Fee: ~5,000 HUF (€12) for museum + guided tour
Hours: Sun–Thu 10 AM–4 PM (seasonal changes)
- Jewish Museum with Holocaust memorials
- Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park
- Tree of Life sculpture in honor of victims
9. Relax at Gellért Thermal Bath
While Széchenyi is more famous, Gellért offers a more elegant experience with Art Nouveau architecture and healing waters. The indoor pools are particularly stunning.
Price: ~9,400 HUF (€24)
Hours: 9 AM–7 PM
- Elegant Art Nouveau design
- Indoor + outdoor pools
- Less crowded than Széchenyi
10. Explore Heroes’ Square
This impressive square features the Millennium Monument with statues of the seven chieftains of the Magyars and other important Hungarian national leaders. It’s adjacent to City Park and the Zoo.
Entry: Free
- Monument honoring Hungary’s founders
- Flanked by two art museums
- Near Budapest Zoo and Vajdahunyad Castle
11. Visit the House of Terror
This museum is housed in the former headquarters of the Arrow Cross Party and AVH (secret police). It documents the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary and serves as a memorial to their victims.
Price: ~4,000 HUF (€10)
Hours: 10 AM–6 PM (Closed Monday)
- In-depth look at Hungary’s Nazi & Communist past
- Audio guides are highly recommended
12. Enjoy Budapest’s Ruin Bars
Ruin bars are unique to Budapest – they’re bars set up in abandoned buildings and courtyards. Szimpla Kert is the original and most famous, but there are many others worth visiting.
Nightlife Tip: Ruin bars don’t get busy until after 10 PM. Go earlier if you want to avoid crowds and actually see the decor.
Entry: Free (drinks not included)
- Most drinks: 1,200–2,500 HUF (€3–6)
- Live music, art, retro furniture
- Open till late (1–4 AM)
🍹 Try: Hungarian fruit brandy called pálinka
13. Climb Gellért Hill
For the best panoramic views of Budapest, climb Gellért Hill. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and see the Liberty Statue and the Citadella along the way.
Entry: Free
Time: 30–45 min hike
- One of the best city views
- Visit the Liberty Statue on top
- Safe even at sunset
👟 Wear proper shoes; parts are steep.
14. Margaret Island
Entry: Free
- Accessible by foot or tram #4/6
- Bike rental: ~2,500 HUF/hour
- Includes a small zoo, a musical fountain, and medieval ruins
🌳 A quiet break from city bustle — bring a picnic!
15. Fisherman’s Bastion
Price: Lower deck free, upper deck ~1,200 HUF (€3)
Open: 24/7
- Fairytale towers & views over the Danube
- Café with a terrace inside
🧭 Early mornings = no crowds, peaceful photos.
Things to Do in Budapest with Kids
Budapest is surprisingly family-friendly! Safe, fun, and educational.
| Activity | Why It’s Great |
| Budapest Zoo | One of Europe’s oldest (~3,000 HUF entry) |
| MiniPolisz Kids’ Town | Interactive city roleplay (~4,000 HUF) |
| Children’s Railway | Operated by kids with adult supervision |
| Margaret Island Park | Open space, small zoo, pedal carts |
| Aquaworld Waterpark | All-weather fun (~7,000 HUF full day) |
🧸 Baby changing facilities and stroller access are widely available at top attractions.
Things to Do in Budapest at Night For Young Adults
Budapest lights up after sunset — literally and figuratively. Here’s what you can do:
| Night Activity | Description |
| Danube Night Cruise | See the city glitter from the river |
| Thermal Baths After Dark | Széchenyi Spa parties (called “Sparties”) |
| Ruin Pub Crawl | Explore 3–5 bars with a guide (~€15–25) |
| Night View from Citadel | City skyline is breathtaking at night |
🔐 Many bars stay open till 4–5 AM. Public transport runs late on weekends (or use Bolt taxis).
Things to Do in Budapest for Couples
Budapest is one of the most romantic cities in Europe. Ideal for proposals, honeymoons, or spontaneous getaways.
-
- Sunset at Fisherman’s Bastion
- Dinner Cruise on the Danube (from €40 with 3-course meal)
- Couple’s massage at Gellért or Rudas Baths
- Ferris Wheel of Budapest
- Walk along the illuminated Chain Bridge at night
💘 Bonus: Book a private spa cabin or candlelight dinner on Margaret Island.
Things to Do in Budapest for Adults
Looking for something more laid-back, cultural, and classy?
- Opera or ballet at the Hungarian State Opera House
- Fine dining at Costes, Babel, or Borkonyha
- Historic cafés: New York Café, Gerbeaud, Café Astoria
- Art & history museums around Heroes’ Square
🎭 Dress codes apply at fine restaurants and opera events — pack something formal.
Crazy Things to Do in Budapest
For those who love the weird, wild, and unforgettable, try:
- Sparty at Széchenyi Baths (Saturday night pool rave)
- Escape Rooms — Budapest has the world’s most! (~€12–15 pp)
- Caving under the Buda Hills — Real adventure in the Pálvölgyi Cave
- Bobsled track on Buda Hills (open year-round!)
🎟️ Book wild activities in advance — many sell out fast on weekends.
Things to Do in Budapest in December
December transforms Budapest into a winter fairytale:
- 🎄 Christmas Markets at Vörösmarty Square & Basilica
- ⛸️ Ice skating at City Park Ice Rink (entry ~2,000 HUF + rental)
- 🛁 Steam in outdoor thermal pools with snow falling
- 🎭 Attend a Christmas concert or ballet
🎁 Markets typically open in mid-November and run until January 1st.
Where to Eat in Budapest
| Dish | Where to Try |
| Goulash | Paprika Vendéglő, Frici Papa |
| Langos | Karaván Street Food Market |
| Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács) | Molnár’s or Váci Street |
| Dobos Torte | Gerbeaud Café |
| Chicken Paprikash | Paprika Vendéglő |
💡 Bonus: Try a Hungarian food tour to sample multiple dishes with a local guide.
Where to Stay in Budapest
| Traveler Type | Best District | Why |
| Budget | District VII (Jewish Quarter) | Close to ruin bars and food |
| Mid-range | District V (Inner City) | Walkable to major sights |
| Luxury | Castle Hill (District I) | Quiet, scenic, historic |
| Families | Near City Park or Margaret Island | Green space, calmer areas |
Practical Information for Your Trip
i) Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October): Ideal weather, fewer crowds
- Summer (July-August): Warm weather, but crowded
- Winter (November-March): Christmas markets are magical, but it can be cold
ii) Getting Around
Budapest has an excellent public transportation system, including:
- Metro (4 lines)
-
- Trams (including the famous Tram 2 along the Danube)
- Buses
- Taxis (use reputable companies like Főtaxi)
Money-Saving Tip: Purchase a Budapest travel card for unlimited travel on public transportation.
iii) Currency
Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HFT). While some places accept euros, you’ll get better prices if you pay in forint.
iv) Language
Hungarian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Budapest 3 Itinerary Suggestions
Day 1:
- Buda Castle
- Chain Bridge
- Parliament Tour
- Danube Cruise
Day 2:
- Heroes’ Square
- City Park
- Széchenyi Baths
- Ruin Bars at night
Day 3:
- Gellért Hill hike
- Gellért Baths
- Great Market Hall
- St. Stephen’s Basilica
📥 Get a free printable version with maps & links.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Budapest expensive to visit?
Budapest is one of the most affordable European capitals. You can enjoy nice meals for $10-15, and attraction prices are reasonable compared to Western Europe.
How many days do I need in Budapest?
We recommend 3-4 full days to see the main attractions without rushing. If you want to take day trips or explore more deeply, 5-7 days is ideal.
Is Budapest safe for tourists?
Yes, Budapest is generally very safe. Use normal precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transportation.
What should I avoid in Budapest?
- Unlicensed taxis (always use reputable companies)
- Currency exchange offices with bad rates (avoid ones near tourist areas)
- Restaurants with no prices on menus
- Overpriced ruin bars’ drinks (check prices first)
Do I need to tip in Budapest?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. For restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service wasn’t included.
What are the best things to do in Budapest at night?
Try a river cruise, visit ruin pubs, walk across Chain Bridge, or relax in a thermal spa.
How many days do I need in Budapest?
3 days is ideal to see the highlights. With 5, you can go deeper and explore hidden gems.
Are thermal baths in Budapest worth it?
Yes! They’re relaxing, affordable, and unique to the city’s culture.
Conclusion: Your Budapest Adventure Awaits
Budapest truly offers something for everyone – history buffs, foodies, architecture lovers, and those simply looking to relax in thermal waters. The city’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences creates an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
From my multiple visits, I can confidently say that Budapest only gets better the more you explore. Don’t just stick to the main attractions – wander the side streets, try local restaurants, and talk to locals to discover the city’s true charm.
Ready to start planning your trip? Check out our recommended hotels and tours to make the most of your Budapest experience.
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