Things To Do
in Budapest
Budapest, the capital and largest city of Hungary, is renowned for its historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and breathtaking scenery, lying along both banks of the Danube River. It's divided into Buda and Pest by the river, with Buda's Castle District and Pest's dynamic urban landscape showcasing a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions, including thermal baths, museums, and lively nightlife.
This city is a captivating blend of history, art, gastronomy, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.
- "Szia" - Hello
- "Kérem" - Please
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Igen" - Yes
- "Nem" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Budapest and check into your hotel. Take a leisurely stroll around the Danube River to get a feel for the city.
Visit the iconic Parliament Building and take a guided tour. Spend some time at Kossuth Lajos Square enjoying the views.
Dine at a local Hungarian restaurant to savor traditional dishes. End your day with a relaxing walk along the Danube promenade.
Travel to Buda Castle and explore its beautiful grounds and museums. Don't miss the stunning views of the city from the castle ramparts.
Visit Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion for more breathtaking panoramas. Enjoy some quiet time at the nearby medieval streets.
Savor dinner at a bistro in the Castle District. Take in the illuminated view of the Danube at night, a serene end to your adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and stunning architecture, including the Parliament Building and Buda Castle.
- Vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, museums, and art galleries.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western European cities.
- Famous thermal baths providing a unique relaxation experience.
- Beautiful scenic views along the Danube River and across the city.
- Public transportation can be less reliable and crowded at times.
- Language barrier as Hungarian is not widely spoken outside of Hungary.
- Air quality issues due to pollution in certain areas.
- Bureaucratic processes can be slow and frustrating.
- Tourist areas can be crowded, especially in peak seasons.
Best Activities in Budapest
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and scenic views in the Buda Hills, offering a great outdoor experience just outside the city.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling, running, or a leisurely walk in the expansive City Park, which also houses various attractions.
Take a stroll along the Danube Promenade to enjoy the river views, historical landmarks, and a relaxing outdoor atmosphere.
Experience a blend of nature and recreation on Margaret Island, featuring gardens, walking paths, and sports facilities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Places to Visit in Budapest
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and the Danube River.
Provides stunning views of the city and the Danube River.
Offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city and the Danube River.
Food in Budapest
Budapest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with tender meat, paprika, and vegetables, often served with a side of bread. Try it at Frici Papa Kifőzdéje for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A popular street food consisting of fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic. Head to the Great Market Hall for some of the best langos in the city.
Tender chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, typically accompanied by dumplings or pasta. Visit Rosenstein for a delicious rendition of this classic dish.
A delectable layered cake featuring chocolate buttercream and caramelized sugar. Get a slice at Gerbeaud Café for an exquisite treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This iconic indoor market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide range of fresh produce, local snacks, and authentic Hungarian ingredients. Don't miss the chance to sample langos and chimney cake from the stalls inside.
A smaller, more local market where you can experience Budapest's culinary scene like a true insider. Explore the stalls for fresh produce, Hungarian sausages, and other delightful edibles.
A bustling outdoor food court featuring a variety of food trucks and stalls serving up everything from traditional Hungarian snacks to international cuisines. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while sampling different street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Budapest, it is customary to shake hands with both men and women. Greetings are important and it is polite to address people using their titles and last names if known.
Hungarians generally value punctuality, so it is respectful to be on time for social and business events.
When dining in Budapest, it is polite to wait for the host or hostess to offer a toast before taking the first sip of a drink. It is also customary to finish everything on your plate as a sign of respect for the host.
Safety
Tipping in Budapest
Ensure a smooth experience
In Budapest, tipping is appreciated but not always expected. It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if the service is good. Tipping taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides is also common, usually rounding up the amount.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Budapest, especially in tourist areas and larger establishments. However, it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases and at local markets. ATMs are easily accessible for withdrawing cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring, from March to May, is a great time to visit Budapest as the weather is mild and the city starts coming to life with blooming flowers and outdoor events.
Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season with warm weather and many outdoor activities, festivals, and events happening throughout the city.
Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent time to visit Budapest with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall foliage.
Winter, from December to February, brings a magical atmosphere to Budapest with Christmas markets, thermal baths, and the opportunity to experience the city covered in snow.
Budapest at Night
Hiking in Budapest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area of forested hills offering various hiking trails with stunning views of Budapest.
A popular hiking destination in the Buda Hills, featuring trails with panoramic views of the city.
A nature reserve offering several hiking paths and a famous lookout point, known for its tranquil environment.
Located near the Pilis mountains, it's a great starting point for various hiking routes and scenic nature.
Famed for its historic castle, it also offers hiking trails with beautiful views of the Danube Bend.
The highest point in Budapest, accessible via several trails, offering breathtaking views from its lookout tower.
Aiports
How to reach Budapest by plane.
The main international airport serving Budapest, Hungary.
Austria's largest airport, located approximately 243 km from Budapest.
The main airport serving Bratislava, Slovakia, located about 200 km from Budapest.
An international airport in Debrecen, Hungary, roughly 220 km east of Budapest.
An international airport serving Osijek, Croatia, located about 197 km south of Budapest.
Croatia's main international airport in Zagreb, situated approximately 345 km from Budapest.
An international airport located about 210 km northwest of Budapest in Brno, Czech Republic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Budapest, comprising about 80% of the population.
A significant minority group with an estimated population of 200,000 in Hungary, many residing in Budapest.
A smaller demographic group with historical roots in Budapest, making up about 1% of the population.
A minority group in Hungary, including those living in Budapest, with a small community presence.
An established community in Budapest, historically significant, though currently a small minority.
A minor ethnic group with a historical presence in Budapest, contributing to the city's multicultural character.
Another group related to the Romani, with a presence in Budapest, though smaller in number.
Historically significant community with a rich cultural heritage in Budapest, though significantly reduced in size post-World War II.
Includes people from various countries living in Budapest due to work or study, contributing to the city's cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Budapest, with a strong following for clubs like Ferencvárosi TC and Újpest FC.
Water polo is a significant sport in Budapest, known for producing world-class teams and players, with Hungary being a dominant force in international competitions.
Handball enjoys considerable popularity in Budapest, with successful clubs and a strong national team that competes in European and World Championships.
Basketball has a growing following in Budapest, with local teams participating in the Hungarian league and the international scene.
Athletics is widely practiced in Budapest, with the city hosting various competitions and events that attract local and international athletes.
Swimming is a popular activity, especially given Budapest's rich tradition in competitive swimming, fostered by numerous thermal baths and pools.
Cycling is a favored pastime in Budapest, supported by city bike-sharing programs and numerous cycling paths throughout the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Budapest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Budapest caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with an increasing number of restaurants offering dedicated plant-based menus or options. Look out for ‘Vegetáriánus’ or ‘Vegán’ labels on menus, and explore trendy eateries like Napfényes Étterem and Kozmosz Vegan Étterem.
While Hungarian cuisine can be heavy on bread and pastries, many restaurants are accommodating towards gluten-free diners. Opt for naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled meats, salads, and stews. Additionally, gluten-free bakeries like Édesem and Free! can be great stops for those with gluten intolerance.