16 Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary | Travel Guide

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Last Updated on October 6, 2025 by sydabroad

Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Budapest, Hungary!

Planning a dream trip to Budapest? Then this guide is for you! Budapest is a lovely city known for its thermal baths, the iconic Parliament Building, eclectic ruin bars, and more. It’s sometimes referred to as the “Paris of the East” thanks to the city’s cafe culture, grand boulevards, and beautiful architecture.  

Budapest is an incredible city filled with history, kind people, great cuisine, and endless things to do. Whether you’re spending two days or an entire week there, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip. 

During my quit my job to travel the world era, let’s say, Budapest was one of my stops along the way. I took the train from Vienna to Budapest and spent about three days exploring this charming city. 

Three days was just the right amount of time to see the highlights of the city. I would have loved to experience more and maybe even have done a day trip, but that gives me a reason to go back! 

Anyways, I’m sharing everything you need to know about the best things to do in Budapest, how to get around the city, where to stay, the best time to visit, a map of the locations mentioned in this guide, and more. These are my favorites in the city; if you have the time, you should try to squeeze these into your Budapest itinerary! 

Looking for more Eastern Europe travel guides? 

• Is Budapest Worth Visiting? 8 Reasons You Have to Visit
• How to Spend One Day in Prague, Czech Republic 
• Is Bratislava Worth Visiting? + 1 Day Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Budapest For First Time Travelers

Best Things to Do in Budapest | The Basics

Currency = Hungarian Forint (HUF) 

1 USD = about 360 HUF 

From my experience, most spots in the city accept card payments. I rarely used cash when I visited, but it is helpful to have cash on hand just in case you need to purchase something from a small shop or local market.

If you need to exchange cash, avoid the currency exchange booths at the airport — they always rip you off. There are better spots in the city to exchange money. There are also ATMs everywhere if you need to take cash out. 

Language = Hungarian

The official language in Hungary is Hungarian. While everyone speaks Hungarian, I found most people also speak English in Budapest because it is such a touristy place. 

As an English speaker, I didn’t have a hard time getting around, but it was helpful to have Google Translate downloaded on my phone just in case. Hungarian is considered one of the more difficult European languages to learn, so it’s nice to have Google Translate. 

Phone & Internet in Budapest 

I never had an issue with the phone service in the city. A majority of hotels, cafes, and restaurants will have wifi available. 

Daily Budget in Budapest

Another reason that makes Budapest so great is how affordable it is. You can have the most amazing experience without breaking the bank. 

For those on a budget, like backpackers and solo travelers, expect to spend about €30 to €50 per day. This includes a hostel dorm bed, street food & cheap cafes, mostly public transport, and affordable or free activities. 

Travelers with more of a mid-range budget can expect to spend anywhere from €90 to €150 per day. This will get you a nice room at a 3 or 4-star hotel, or an Airbnb near a central location, a mix of local restaurants and nicer meals, a visit to major attractions, and a couple of guided tours. And to get around, you should be able to use a mix of ride shares and public transport. 

Luxury travelers expect to spend €200+ daily. You’ll get a room at a high-end hotel (which you can book at a very affordable price in Budapest, compared to cities like London or Rome). With a luxury budget in Budapest, you indulge in fine dining, visit the spas, use private transfers, and experience more upscale activities. 

No matter what your budget is, Budapest is a place that everyone will be able to enjoy! 

Tipping in Budapest

There is a tipping culture in Budapest; at restaurants, bars, and cafes, it’s standard to tip 10-15%. In many places, cash tips are still preferred over using your card.

It’s also common to simply round up the bill a couple of hundred HUF. Also, look out for a service charge on the bill — sometimes service is already included. 

Can you drink the tap water? 

Yep! Budapest’s tap water is safe to drink. Hungary has strict water standards, so the tap is regularly tested and safe for everyone to drink. 

Best things to do in Budapest, Hungary 

1. Fisherman’s Bastion 

Perched atop Castle Hill, you’ll find one of Budapest’s most photographed spots, Fisherman’s Bastion. It was built between 1895 and 1902 in a fairy tale-like style with white stone towers, elegant stairways, and pretty terraces. 

You need to visit simply for its incredible views. They are some of the best in the city, in my opinion. The morning here is magical, watching the sunrise at Fisherman’s Bastion is certainly one of the best things to do in Budapest!

You’ll get the most amazing view of the Parliament Building from across the river. And because this is one of the top photo spots in Budapest, you’ll avoid the crowds by going early. 

On the other hand, sunset is also a wonderful time to visit, but expect it to be much busier. The colors and the architecture from up here are breathtaking. Don’t forget your camera for this lovely spot in the city. 

I visited around 8 AM, and it wasn’t too busy yet. This is a beautiful spot to visit any time of day, but if you want to really enjoy it, go early. To get here, you can take the Castle Hill Funicular, bus 16 from the city center, or walk up the hill. It’s also free to visit! 

Check out this Castle District walking tour in Budapest! 🏰

2. Matthias church

Right near Fisherman’s Bastion, you’ll find Matthias Church, which is also one of Budapest’s most beautiful landmarks. It was originally built in the 13th century and has been the site of many historic events throughout Hungary’s history. 

The church’s Gothic architecture, mixed with its colorful roof tiles (added with later restorations), makes this one of the most beautiful and unique churches in the country. It’s a stunning place to visit and is perfect to combine with Fisherman’s Bastion since they are right near each other. 

3. Hungarian Parliament Building

This is arguably the best thing to see in Budapest. The Budapest Parliament is a gorgeous building (one of the most beautiful in the world). It’s an architectural masterpiece and an iconic symbol of Budapest. 

The Hungarian Parliament was built during the late 19th century to celebrate Hungary’s thousandth anniversary, and it served as the seat of the National Assembly. Today, the Budapest Parliament Building is where the Hungarian Parliament works. This iconic building has hundreds of rooms and 10 courtyards. It’s massive.

If you want to look inside this captivating building, you can book guided tours to explore its grand staircases and iconic central dome. Tickets typically sell out quickly, so it’s best to book them ahead of time. 

It’s also a gorgeous place to see lit up at night from across the Danube. This is my personal favorite. More on this later in the guide. 

🎟️✨ Purchase an entry ticket to the Hungarian Parliament Building with an audio guide here.

4. St. Stephen’s Basilica 

Located in the heart of Pest is St. Stephen’s Basilica, the largest church in Budapest and one of the country’s most important religious buildings. It was completed in 1905 and is now an amazing place to visit to admire its impressive architecture, panoramic views, and the church even hosts concerts regularly. 

5. Hungarian food 

Hungarian cuisine is so underrated! I feel like not many people talk about how good the food is here in Budapest. Goulash, Lángosh, and Chicken paprikás are all amazing dishes you must try when in Hungary. The meals tend to be heavier, but they are so delicious! 

Something else you have to try in Budapest is the Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake). This is a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry, coated in sugar and rolled in cinnamon, cocoa, or nuts. It’s sometimes filled with ice cream, and they are delicious! This is a Christmas Market favorite, but you’ll see shops year-round selling these sweet treats in the city. 

Here are a few food recs in the city:

• Goulash & Langosh Bar: Delish Hungarian classics.
• Gelateria Pichler: Yummy chimney cakes!
• Gettó Gulyás: The best paprika chicken.
• Cafe Brunch Budapest: A delicious breakfast spot.
• Bangkok Thai Étterem: Okay, not Hungarian, but this Thai food was so good I had to include it in this article.

A street food tour is ALWAYS a great way to get to know a city. If you’re interested in booking one in Budapest, check out this top-rated Budapest food walking tour!

6. Buda Castle and Castle Hill

Castle Hill is the historic heart of Budapest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is also where Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church are. 

At the top, you’ll also find Buda Castle, which was once the grand palace of the Hungarian kings. It has since been destroyed and rebuilt several times and today houses the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Széchényi Library. This is a great place to learn all about Hungary’s culture and royal past. 

7. Széchenyi Thermal Baths 

Very popular, but for a good reason. The Széchenyi Baths are the most famous thermal baths in the city, located in City Park (Városliget). You can enjoy a variety of saunas, cold pools, hot pools, salt rooms, and more.

We spent an entire morning here, and I recommend going earlier in the day to avoid crowds. If it’s a nice, sunny day, relax at the outdoor pools and grab a drink at the little snack bar outside. And if you need a little relaxation, book yourself a traditional massage.

I also suggest trying to visit on a weekday rather than a weekend. It will be much less busy during the week, and this place can get quite crowded. 

We spent about three to four hours here, and I thought this was the perfect amount of time to soak in the atmosphere, relax in many of the pools and saunas, and get a nice massage. 

Make sure to bring your own towel (if not, you’ll have to buy one there) and sandals to get in and out of the pools. I also recommend booking your changing room; this way, you have a safe place to leave your stuff and change privately. The changing rooms are a much better option than the lockers; this way, you have plenty of space, and it’s just a lot nicer.

Book tickets to Széchenyi Thermal Baths here. 🫧

8. River Cruise at Night 

A river cruise in the evening is hands down one of the best things to do in Budapest! Budapest is a city that you should admire from the water; you’ll see the most gorgeous views of the city lit up at night, including the famous Parliament Building, of course. 

There are a variety of tour options depending on your budget. If you’re looking for something more upscale, you can book a river cruise in Budapest with dinner included. On the other hand, this tour is a quick 50-minute evening sightseeing cruise with a welcome drink. It’s also extremely affordable!

When I was in Budapest, I did an hour-long nighttime cruise along the river that included unlimited champagne. The view of the Parliament Building was breathtaking. And the boat was so much fun — it was massive with tons of people and music. If you are planning a night out in Budapest, I think booking a river cruise beforehand would be a great way to start the night! 

Book the most amazing evening river cruise experience in Budapest here! ✨

9. Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library

A palace and a library? The Ervin Szabó Library is a library housed in the 19th-century Wenckheim Palace. This library is massive, with so many old palace rooms, reading rooms, and thousands of books. If you want to visit, you can buy visitor passes at the library.

10. Central Market Hall

Looking to pick up some fresh produce and local pastries? Head to Central Market Hall located at Fovám Square, near the Liberty Bridge. Not only can you find some delicious treats here, but you can also admire the building’s pretty architecture.

Central Market Hall was built in the late 19th century when Budapest wanted to improve supply and regulate markets. It’s massive; there are three levels, each offering a variety of goods. 

On the ground floor, you’ll find fresh produce like fruits, veggies, dairy, and pastries. Head to the top floor if you’re looking for traditional crafts, handmade souvenirs, and small eateries. In the basement, you’ll find pickled goods and butcher shops. 

11. Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial 

This powerful installation lines the riverbank with iron shoes, honoring the memory of Jewish men, women, and children who were executed along the Danube during World War II. Victims were ordered to remove their shoes before being killed. While somber, it’s an important reminder of Budapest’s history and a place to pause for reflection. 

12. Vajdahunyad Castle 

Another one of the best things to do in Budapest is to visit Vajdahunyad Castle. This castle is actually an eclectic blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. 

The castle was built in 1896 for the city’s Millennium Exhibition to celebrate 1000 years since the Hungarian conquest, and it was meant to evoke unique landmark buildings from across Hungarian history.

Today, it houses the Hungarian Agricultural Museum and is a stunning place to admire the architecture and the surrounding area. It’s conveniently located in City Park — right near the Széchenyi Baths, making it easy to add to your Budapest itinerary. 

I visited Vajdahunyad Castle in the morning before it got too crowded, although I don’t think this area gets as busy as the popular Fisherman’s Bastion and the Castle Hill area. It was a gorgeous area to just stroll around and take in the view. 

I didn’t go into the museum, but if agriculture is something you are into, I recommend checking it out because this is one of the largest agricultural museums in all of Europe. 

Depending on your itinerary, you can hop over to the baths after you visit the castle. Vajdahunyad Castle is also a great place to photograph, so don’t forget your camera. 

13. Ruin Bars (Szimpla Kert)

Sadly, I don’t have any photos, but these ruin bars need to be on your list of things to do in Budapest! Ruin bars are essentially bars that are housed in old, abandoned buildings or courtyards. 

Many of these buildings were left after World War II and during the communist era, and instead of tearing them down, people embraced the ruin aesthetic. Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar in Budapest. It’s massive, chaotic, and full of fun art and funky decor. So if you want to enjoy a drink in an eclectic atmosphere, head to one of Budapest’s many ruin bars! 

14. Chain Bridge 

The Chain Bridge is an iconic landmark in the city because it was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest. The bridge made trade and travel easier, and today it’s a national symbol of progress, unity, and resilience. It’s stunning to see both during the day and at night with the rest of Budapest’s pretty skyline. 

15. Heroes Square 

Another one of Budapest’s famous landmarks is Heroes’ Square. This is also located in City Park, making it an easy stop alongside Vajdahunyad Castle and Széchenyi Thermal Baths. A few things you can see here are the Millennium Monument, the Colonnades, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Museum of Fine Arts. 

16. New York Café 

For those into exquisite interiors, history, and architecture, the New York Café is a must-visit in Budapest. This is often called “the most beautiful cafe in the world” and is a gorgeous historic cafe inside the New York Palace. 

It was opened in 1894 and quickly became a hub for writers, journalists, and artists. Today, you can enjoy high-end pastries, lavish interiors, live classical piano performances, and classic Hungarian dishes. Stepping into the New York Café is like stepping back to early 20th-century Budapest.

Fun fact: Did you know the Rubik’s Cube was invented in Budapest? It was created in 1974 by Hungarian architect and professor Erno Rubik. It was first called the “Magic Cube” and then later in 1980 called the Rubik’s Cube!

FAQs | Best Things to Do in Budapest

Where to stay in Budapest?  

Below are a few of the best places to stay in Budapest. But check out my accommodation guide to Budapest here to discover the best neighborhoods, hotels, and all you need to know about finding the perfect place to stay in Budapest!

Stories Boutique Hotel: Located in the historic heart of Pest, this boutique property combines modern design with traditional touches. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a cozy, boutique-style stay close to cafes, shopping, and nightlife. 

Hotel Clark Budapest: This is a modern boutique hotel located right near the Chain Bridge. It’s perfect for a first-time traveler who wants to stay in a central location. 

Matild Palace: This is a beautiful, recently restored luxury hotel near the Danube. For travelers who are into historic architecture and luxurious stays, book Matild Palace.

Best time to visit Budapest? 

This depends on what you’re looking for, because Budapest can be a great place to visit any time of the year. In my opinion, spring and autumn are the best times to visit because the weather will be milder, there will be fewer crowds, and you may get to experience some local festivals. 

On the other hand, summer is the peak tourist season, and it can be busy and very hot. Although there are some fun summer events in Budapest. Finally, the winter will obviously be freezing; however, there are magical Christmas markets and festive lights. It’s an entirely different experience from Budapest during the summer. 

How to get to Budapest? 

By Air: If you are arriving via plane, you’ll likely fly into Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). This is the city’s main airport with direct flights to most major European cities. To reach the city center, you can take public transport, a taxi, or a shuttle, and this will take around 30 to 40 minutes. 

By Train: Because Budapest is very conveniently located and accessible from nearby cities like Vienna, Bratislava, and Kraków, it is easy to reach by bus or train. Trains will arrive at Budapest Keleti, Nyugati, or Déli stations. 

For the most part, I love train travel through Europe. However, I took the train from Vienna to Budapest and then from Budapest to Prague, and I will say this was my least favorite train experience. But this is just because we were there during a heat wave, so it was so freaking HOT, and it was really busy. 

By Bus: Bus is also a great way to get to and from major European cities. I traveled around Europe by bus a lot — I booked all of my buses on Flixbus or Omio and had great experiences. There will typically be bus terminals near the city centers or at metro and train stations. 

How to get around Budapest? 

I suggest staying in a central location during your first visit to Budapest so that you can walk to a majority of places. However, Budapest does have a great public transport system with trams, buses, trolleys, and the metro. Taxis and rideshare apps are also an option; the main apps in Budapest are Bolt or Fotaxi. 

Pro-tip: Not only is the metro efficient, but it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — a must-visit in Budapest! I thought it was one of the cleanest and cutest undergrounds I’ve seen. 

Is 3 days in Budapest enough? 

To see the main highlights, yes! In three days, you’ll experience both the Buda and the Pest side, along with the ruin bars, Great Market Hall, and one of the thermal baths. 

If you end up having extra days in Budapest, this will allow you to travel at a more relaxed pace or take day trips to places such as Szentendre, the Danube Bend, or Esztergom. 

Is Budapest expensive or cheap? 

Compared to many major European cities (especially those in Western Europe), Budapest is actually very affordable! This is just another amazing reason to visit. You can spend as little as 30 to 50 euros per day and even indulge in some luxury experiences on a moderate budget. 

Is Budapest worth visiting?

Absolutely! Read my guide here for all about why Budapest is worth visiting. But yes, between the history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Budapest is a city that deserves a spot on your bucket list. 

How many days in Budapest? 

I suggest spending at least three days in Budapest. This will be enough time to visit the highlights and get a feel for the city. Of course, you can’t do it all in just three days, but you can cover a lot. Especially since Budapest is pretty walkable and the public transportation is great.  

Map of The Best Things to Do in Budapest

Day trips from Budapest 

If you have extra time in Budapest, here are some day trips to consider! 

Szentendre: About 40 minutes via train, this little town is known for its colorful streets, art galleries, and museums. 

Danube Bend (Visegrád, Esztergom, and Nagymaros): For scenic landscapes along the river, medieval castles, and historic towns, visit the Danube Bend. 

This is a great day trip from Budapest to book if you want to visit both the Danube Bend and Szentendre!

Eger: Eger is a bit further — about 2 hours by train or car. Eger is known for Eager Castle and its charming main square and Bull’s Blood wine tastings in local cellars. 

If you’re looking to plan a day trip, I always start by looking at what GetYourGuide and Viator have available. I love booking day trips through them because they make the transportation seamless. One of my favorite day trips I did recently was a day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels with GetYourGuide; it was great! 

I hope this guide helped you plan your dream trip to Budapest! If you have any questions about visiting this lovely city, comment below or DM me on Instagram!

Recommended Tours in Budapest

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