Things To Do
in Budapest
Budapest, Hungary sits along the Danube with a dramatic divide between the historic hilly Buda and the flat, bustling Pest. Its architecture ranges from medieval to art nouveau, culminating in the Neo-Gothic Parliament and grand fortress-like Buda Castle. Thermal baths have long been a signature, offering relaxing retreats that pair well with riverfront strolls.
The city buzzes with cafés, markets, and a vibrant nightlife scene that complements its refined cultural offerings.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic St. Stephen's Basilica, where you can admire the stunning architecture and perhaps climb to the dome for breathtaking views of the city. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of the historic district, stopping by local cafés for a traditional Hungarian pastry and coffee. As you stroll, take in the vibrant atmosphere and the intricate details of the surrounding buildings.
In the afternoon, head to the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the largest legislative buildings in Europe, to marvel at its neo-Gothic design. Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history and explore the opulent interiors, including the Crown Jewels of Hungary. After your visit, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Danube Promenade, taking in the picturesque views of the Buda Castle across the river.
As night falls, experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Jewish Quarter, where you can dine at a traditional Hungarian restaurant. Savor local dishes such as goulash or chimney cake while enjoying live music that reflects the city's culture. Conclude your evening with a visit to the famous ruin bars, where you can sip cocktails in eclectic settings adorned with quirky art and vintage decor.
Begin your day by taking the funicular up to Buda Castle, where you can explore the historic grounds and the stunning views of the Pest side of the city. Visit the Hungarian National Gallery to see a collection of Hungarian art spanning centuries, from medieval to modern times. As you walk through the castle grounds, enjoy the serene gardens and the majestic architecture surrounding you.
In the afternoon, explore the charming streets of the Castle District, stopping by Matthias Church with its stunning tiled roof and intricate interior. Afterward, visit the Fisherman's Bastion, where you can climb to the upper terraces for panoramic views of the Danube and the city skyline. Don’t forget to take some time to relax at a nearby café and enjoy a refreshing drink.
For the evening, treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Danube River, where you can enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine. After dinner, take a romantic evening cruise on the Danube to see the city’s iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky. The shimmering lights reflecting on the water create a magical ambiance that will stay with you long after your visit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer (0.5L) | $2-4 |
| 🚇Public transit (single ride) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich architectural heritage and UNESCO-listed sites
- Thermal baths and scenic riverfront views
- Vibrant markets, cafés, and a thriving cultural scene
- Crowded tourist areas in peak season
- Rising prices in central neighborhoods
- Terrain can be hilly on the Buda side
- "Szia" - Hello / Hi
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Kérem" - Please
- "Beszél angolul?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hol van a …?" - Where is the …?
- "Mennyibe kerül ez?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Budapest
Visit one of these nice places.
The grand façade is lit after dark, offering striking reflections on the Danube and a dramatic skyline silhouette.
Panoramic viewpoints over Pest across the Danube, with medieval towers and tiled rooftops—ideal for sunrise or golden hour shots.
Iconic suspension bridge offering dynamic lines and river reflections, especially beautiful at dawn or sunset.
Monumental architecture and expansive avenues provide grand photography opportunities, particularly in morning light.
Elegant neoclassical architecture and tree-lined boulevard vistas perfect for street photography and architectural detail.
Food in Budapest
Budapest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich beef and vegetable stew seasoned with paprika; best enjoyed in a traditional meat-focused restaurant.
Must-Try!
Fried dough, often topped with sour cream and cheese; a popular street food snack found at markets and stalls.
Spicy river fish soup, typically made with paprika and red peppers, served hot in many Hungarian eateries.
Sweet, caramelized pastry rolled on a spit; a quintessential dessert found at markets and fair-style kiosks.
A multi-layer buttercream cake with a crisp caramel top; a popular dessert in Budapest cafés and patisseries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic central market offering fresh produce, meats, paprika, and ready-to-eat Hungarian specialties.
Casual stalls and pop-up spots around deák Ferenc tér and the inner- Pest area for quick Hungarian bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is typical when meeting someone; address people formally using 'Ön' (you) in polite conversation. Keep voices moderate in public spaces, especially in churches.
Wait for everyone to be served before starting; it’s polite to leave a small tip if service is good and to say 'Köszönöm' (thank you).
Safety
Tipping in Budapest
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is satisfactory; smaller tips are acceptable in casual places. It’s common to round up the bill in cafés and taxis may be tipped a small amount for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in the city center; cash (Hungarian forint) is handy for smaller shops and markets. Many places also accept contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming trees. Great for walking city sites and enjoying outdoor cafés; expect occasional showers.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours. Ideal for river cruises, outdoor festivals, and open-air baths; thunderstorms are possible.
Crisp air and colorful foliage. Comfortable for walking tours and photography; light rainfall can occur.
Cold and sometimes snowy, with festive markets in December. Pack warm layers; thermal baths are particularly appealing year-round.
Budapest at Night
Hiking in Budapest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular local green spaces with easy to moderate trails, viewpoints, and forested paths.
Rolling hills with longer hiking routes and scenic overlooks, accessible by car or train from Budapest.
A bit further away, offering dramatic river views, medieval ruins, and more challenging day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Budapest by plane.
Main international gateway to Hungary; connected to the city center by train, bus, and taxi services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Budapest with diverse urban communities and neighborhoods.
A notable minority with cultural contributions and social challenges in some areas.
Smaller communities including Germans, Slovaks, Serbs, and a historic Jewish community that influenced culture and the city’s heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Hungary with a strong club and national-team culture.
Hungary has a storied tradition in water polo; many local clubs and competitive games are held around Budapest.
Popular team sports with local leagues and enthusiastic fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Budapest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature vegetarian options; look for mushroom stews, polenta or potato-based plates, and vegetable-heavy soups. In restaurants, request dishes without meat and ask for separate sides like dumplings or bread to complement meals.