50 Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary | Budapest Travel Itinerary

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Planning a trip to the Hungarian capital? Here’s a list of the best things to do in Budapest during your trip!

No trip through Central Europe would be complete without a few days in Budapest, but what do you do once you’ve ticked off the bucket list items like soaking in the baths, drinking in the ruin bars, and wandering along the Danube? Well, it turns out there’s quite a bit to experience here, so we’ve come up with a list of 50 things to do in Budapest, Hungary to get your travel planning started. Yes, this is way more than you could possibly hit up in one single visit, so feel free to pick and choose to plan your perfect trip to Budapest!

Audrey Bergner of That Backpacker relaxing on a large wooden chair and enjoying the fairytale architecture of Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest, Hungary. The scene captures a sunny day in the city, blending history, culture, and leisurely sightseeing

Budapest Travel Guide: What to Do, See, Eat, Drink & Experience in Budapest, Hungary

1) Ride the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular

Budapest is a city best explored on foot, but one way to save your legs on the Buda side is by riding the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular to the top. It’s a fun ride in a vintage tram car and the queue moves surprisingly fast, so don’t let that deter you.

2) Explore a fraction of Buda Castle

Another thing to do in Budapest is to visit Buda Castle. Located atop a hill overlooking the Danube, the castle pretty much dominates the city skyline on the Buda side. The shocking thing once you reach Buda Castle is its size and all there is to see and do there; the castle houses numerous museums and churches, not to mention the different festivals it hosts, so you’ll want to pick and choose because it’s impossible to cover it all in one visit.

3) Walk the spooky tunnels under Buda Castle 

If you’re looking for something unusual to do in Budapest, look for the signs that read Panoptikum and Labirintus and follow the steps down to the network of tunnels where Vlad Tepes (of Count Dracula fame!) was imprisoned by King Matthias in the 15th century. It’s dark and smoky and kind of creepy, so maybe go with a friend!

If spooky is your vibe, check out this Night-Time Dark History and Vampire Walking Tour in Buda Castle District. Highlights include tales of Vlad Dracula, the city’s dark history, and notorious characters from the 19th century.

Audrey Bergner of That Backpacker enjoying a sunny day at the iconic Széchenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest, Hungary. Surrounded by historic yellow buildings and other visitors, she relaxes in the steaming outdoor pool—one of the city’s top attractions

4) Soak in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths 

There are numerous thermal baths in Budapest, but Széchenyi is the most famous of them all. Set in a cheery yellow neo-Baroque building, this is the largest medicinal bath in Europe offering a mix of indoor and outdoor pools in varying temperatures. It’s open year round – even in winter!

5) Visit the Hungarian National Gallery 

This is Hungary’s national art museum and it’s located inside Buda Castle. It showcases the works of Hungarian artists across many styles, including works produced abroad.

6) Experience the ruin bars

Budapest’s nightlife is legendary across Europe and many people come to the city to experience its famed ruin bars.

These bars are mostly found in the city’s Jewish Quarter and sit in derelict buildings that are often missing walls, windows and roofs. They are super kitschy and colourful inside, filled with mismatched patio furniture and random antiques and collectables.

Budapest’s ruin bars are cheap places to drink and they draw big crowds! The most famous of them all is Szimpla Kert.

This Budapest Ruin Bar Tour takes you to a mix of well-known and hidden ruin bars. Plus you get to see some street art in District 7 and enjoy some drinks along the way.

Lively night scene at one of Budapest’s famous ruin bars, with groups of friends drinking, chatting, and enjoying the eclectic décor under colorful canopies. Visiting ruin bars is one of the best things to do in Budapest at night for a unique local experience

7) Walk down Andrássy Avenue

This avenue connects the city centre with City Park and it is lined with what were once palaces, mansions and lavish townhouses – some of which are now used as embassies and others that house trendy boutiques. Either way, it’s a nice place for a stroll.

8) Stop for a cup of coffee 

Budapest has a burgeoning coffee scene! Not only can you see independent coffee shops on almost every street corner, but it’s also quite common to come across coffee carts where coffee is ground, brewed, and decorated with foam art right on the street.

This Dessert & Coffee House Tour is all about indulging some guilty pleasures. You’ll taste classic Hungarian coffee at a lavish coffee house and sample strudel, chimney cake, and more.

9) Tour the Hungarian Parliament Building

The exterior of the Hungarian Parliament Building graces every postcard and guidebook, but have you ever wondered what it’s like on the inside? This neo-Gothic, neo-Romanesque, neo-Baroque structure is one of the main tourist attractions in Budapest, but to see the interior, you’ll have to join a guided tour that lasts 45 minutes.

The majestic Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest viewed from across the Danube River on a sunny day, with a tour boat passing by. Touring this iconic Gothic Revival landmark is one of the top things to do when visiting Budapest, Hungary.

10) Walk across the Chain Bridge

This bridge spans the Danube River between Buda and Pest. It has two pedestrian lanes on either side, and it’s a nice place for a stroll just as the sun is going down, or at nighttime when all the lights come on.

11) Go for a dip in the Gellért Baths

After Széchenyi, this is one of the most popular bath complexes in the city. The Gellért Baths have thermal pools, indoor pools, outdoor pools, a wave pool, multiple spa treatments, and beautiful architecture.

12) Drink at the Faust Wine Cellars 

This is an underground wine cellar in the Buda Castle District and it is part of the tunnel labyrinth system we mentioned in a previous activity. If you’re looking to taste some Hungarian wines while you’re in the city, this is a pretty memorable spot.

Close-up of worn shoes at the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial in Budapest, Hungary, commemorating the victims who were shot along the river during World War II. This powerful riverside site is one of the most moving attractions to visit in Budapest

13) Stop at The Shoes on the Danube 

The Shoes on the Danube is a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. It represents the victims who were ordered to remove their shoes and were then shot at the river’s edge so that their bodies would fall into the Danube and be carried away.

14) Step inside the Szabo Ervin Library  

If you’re a fellow bibliophile, then this one’s worth tracking down! The Szabo Ervin Library is a real hidden gem; this library is set inside the former home of a 19th-century aristocrat by the name of Count Frigyes Wenckheim, but today, this mansion is hidden from view because it’s surrounded by a modern-day library.

15) Visit the Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum  

If quirky museums are your thing, here’s another one to add to your Budapest bucket list. The Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum is set in what used to be a 15th-century merchant’s home. Then an alchemist moved in and established the first pharmacy in Buda.

Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest, Hungary, framed by trees under a bright blue sky. This striking castle blends Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles and is one of the top sightseeing attractions to visit in Budapest’s City Park

16) Visit the charming Vajdahunyad Castle  

This is a fantasy castle that was built in 1896 to celebrate 1,000 years since the Hungarian Conquest of the Carpathian Basin. Vajdahunyad Castle was designed to incorporate design elements from buildings across the Kingdom of Hungary, as well as various architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. The castle was initially built out of cardboard and wood as a temporary attraction, but it was so popular that it was then rebuilt using more durable materials.

17) Go to the Király Baths  

You didn’t think we were done with baths in Budapest, did you? The Király Thermal Bath is the oldest thermal bath in the city.  It was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century and it has a very distinct look with a domed ceiling that allows small streams of natural light.

18) Check out the statues at Memento Park 

This park is a bit like an open-air museum. It is filled with statues of communist figures including the likes of Marx, Lenin and Engels. When Communism fell in Hungary, the city’s statues came down, and rather than destroying them, the idea for Memento Park was born.

Panoramic view of Budapest from Fisherman’s Bastion, featuring its fairytale-like towers, arched balconies, and sweeping cityscape under a bright blue sky. This popular lookout point offers some of the best views of Budapest, Hungary

19) Walk along Fisherman’s Bastion 

This is another popular attraction in Budapest as it offers some of the most beautiful views in the whole city! Fisherman’s Bastion is a terrace situated on Castle Hill, and it has 7 turrets that represent the 7 leaders of the Magyar tribes that entered the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century.

20) Marvel at Matthias Church 

Built of white stone and topped with a colourful roof with a geometric pattern, this is a beautiful church to visit. The first church on this site was founded by Saint Stephen, King of Hungary, which is why you’ll notice a statue of him right next to the church.

21) Watch the Changing of the Guard 

Another item to add to your list of things to do in Budapest is the Changing of the Guard. This happens right in front of the Hungarian Presidential Palace and it’s a choreographed ceremony that draws plenty of onlookers.

Interior of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, Hungary, showcasing its grand marble columns, ornate gold detailing, domed ceilings, and patterned floors. Visitors admire the stunning neoclassical architecture of this iconic church in the city center

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

Another place to visit in Budapest is St. Stephen’s Basilica, which gets its name from its patron saint, St. Stephen, the first King of Hungary. You can either take the elevator or climb all the way to the top for views of the city and then on your way back, you can see St. Stephen’s mummified right hand in a glass case.

You can attend an Organ Concert in St. Stephen’s Basilica and listen to classical pieces in a stunning setting.

23) Visit Heroes’ Square 

This large public square is famous for its statue of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars, who were the seven leaders of the tribes of Hungarians that settled around the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century.

24) Have a picnic on Margaret Island 

This is a long and narrow island that sits in the middle of the Danube River. It has plenty of greenery, which makes it a nice place to come for a picnic, and if you’re in the mood for a swim, you can also find the Palatinus Strand Baths here.

The bustling interior of the Great Market Hall in Budapest, Hungary, filled with colorful produce stands, local food vendors, and souvenir stalls under a striking iron and glass roof. Visitors browse the lively market, a must-see attraction in the city

25) Eat your way through the Great Market Hall 

This is one place you’ll want to visit with an appetite! The Great Market Hall is primarily a place to shop for produce, meats, and spices, but you can also find some food stands and restaurants where you can enjoy some tasty Hungarian food.

This Budapest Culinary & Wine Walk guides you through the Great Market Hall and a few nearby eateries where you sample traditional Hungarian foods and wines!

26) Visit the Hungarian State Opera House

This is considered one of the architectural masterpieces of Budapest. If you’re short on time and can’t make it to a performance, there are guided tours where you can get a glimpse of the extravagant auditorium.

27) Go inside the church in a cave 

Set in a cave at the base of Gellért Hill, this church is run by the Pauline Order of Monks who hold religious services. One thing to keep in mind is that you must be modestly dressed in order to enter the church – that means no bare shoulders.

The lavish interior of the New York Café in Budapest, Hungary, featuring ornate gold detailing, grand chandeliers, arched ceilings, and elegant seating. Visitors enjoy coffee and pastries in this historic, must-visit landmark known as the “most beautiful café in the world.”

28) Have cake at the New York Cafe

The New York Cafe is one of the most beautiful cafes in all of Europe and it’s a nice midafternoon stop for cake and coffee. Prepare to be wowed by the cream and gold interior accented by red velvet chairs – it feels like you’ve set foot inside a palace and there’s live classical music to set the scene.

29) Visit the Rudas Bath 

We told you this was a city of baths! Much like Király, the Rudas Bath is another medieval Turkish bath in Budapest. The core of it dates back to the 16th century, but it has been expanded since then.

30) Try a Hungarian street food snack 

If street food is your thing, you won’t want to miss lángos, a popular street snack that consists of deep-fried dough that can be enjoyed with numerous toppings. If you’re craving something savoury, sour cream and cheese is a nice combination, and if you’re in the mood for something sweet, you can opt for icing sugar or jam.

Check out this Budapest Street Food Tour focused on Hungarian snacks, desserts and beer! This culinary outing goes off the typical tourist trail and you’ll want to arrive hungry.

Outdoor café in Budapest with red and orange architecture, arched windows, and tables lined with checkered cloths and flowers in bloom, inviting visitors to enjoy Hungarian cuisine, wine tastings, and the lively atmosphere of the city
Visiting Budapest amazing cafes outdoors to visit

31) Order a bowl of goulash 

This is the national dish of Hungary and it’s a meat soup or stew that is seasoned with paprika and has ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Goulash recipes vary across Central Europe, and we found that in Hungary they were more like a soup than a stew, but hearty and delicious nonetheless!

32) Drink at the Red Ruin Bar  

Budapest has plenty of ruin bars, but the idea behind this one is a little different. The Red Ruin is a communist-themed bar, where you can see the likes of Marx, Lenin, and Stalin plastered on the walls wearing party hats because it’s a “communist party”. Get it?

33) Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue 

This is the largest synagogue in Europe and if you’re interested in exploring the Jewish Quarter, you can join a guided tour that gives you access to the synagogue and a few other points of interest in the neighbourhood.

This Budapest Jewish Heritage Tour & Synagogue Ticket guides you through the historic Jewish Quarter where you get to learn about the history of Hungarian Jews and visit the synagogue.

Things to do in Budapest - enjoy the views from Citadella at sunset

34) Climb up to the Citadella 

For the best views of Pest and the Danube River, you need to climb up to the Citadella. This is a fortress that sits atop Gellért Hill on the Buda side.

35) Tour the Budapest History Museum 

This museum is dedicated to the city’s history and it showcases artifacts that were found in Pest, Buda and Óbuda – the three cities that form Budapest.

36) Cruise down the Danube  

Another one of those must-do things in Budapest is to enjoy a river cruise down the Danube River. There are sightseeing cruises, wine-tasting cruises, sunset cruises and romantic nighttime cruises, so plenty of options!

This Dinner Cruise on the Danube with a Folklore Dance Show & Live Music is one of the best-sellers. You get to see famous landmarks and enjoy live entertainment.

37) Visit the Hungarian National Museum 

So many museums, so little time! But if you’re looking for one more to add to your Budapest itinerary, the Hungarian National Museum covers archaeology, art and history all under one roof.

Things to do in Budapest - enjoy the street art in the Jewish Quarter

38) Explore the Jewish Quarter on foot 

Budapest’s Jewish Quarter is a place not to be missed. This neighbourhood has experienced a bit of a renaissance and draws young people with its street art, colourful murals, ruin bars, and restaurants set in crumbling buildings. This is also the place to experience Budapest’s notorious nightlife.

39) Tour the Hospital in the Rock 

This emergency hospital and bomb shelter was set up in the tunnel system underneath Buda Castle and dates back to WW2. You can visit as part of a 1-hour guided tour.

40) Ride a train run by children

You read that right! Gyermekvasút, also known as the Children’s Railway, is a train where all the jobs, except for that of train engineer, are performed by children aged 10–14. The stops on this train line are also popular recreation spots, so it’s a unique way to escape the city in search of nature.

Another Budapest travel bucket list item - cruise down the Danube River

41) Drink beers on the Danube 

We’ve mentioned a few different ways you can cruise down the Danube River, and a craft beer cruise is one of them! Picture artisanal beers, live music, and the city dazzling at night.

42) Watch the sunset on the Liberty Bridge

This bridge closes to traffic for a few weekends during the summer and it’s a popular spot to hang out and watch the sun go down. People bring drinks, snacks, barbecues, and there’s also live music so it’s a very lively and relaxed atmosphere.

43) Learn about the dark past 

The House of Terror is a museum that looks back at Hungary’s Nazi and Soviet regimes. The museum is set in the same building that housed the former headquarters of the ultra-right (Nazi) party, and later the State Security (Hungarian version of the KGB). With that in mind, the museum also seeks to remember the victims who were interrogated, tortured and killed in this very building.

44) Sip on some Pálinka or Unicum 

Two drinks you must try when in Budapest! Pálinka is a fruit brandy with origins in the Hungarian Carpathian Basin, and Unicum is a Hungarian herbal liqueur that can be enjoyed as an apéritif or digestif.

Day trip from Budapest - visit Szentendre by boat or train

45) Visit a cute neighbouring town 

If you’ve spent a few days in Budapest and you’re looking for a change of scenery, then a day trip to Szentendre is the answer! This charming town sits on the banks of the Danube Bend and it’s a fun place to explore on foot with lots of quaint streets and little museums to pop into. You can get there by train or by boat.

46) Look for a bargain at the Ecseri Flea Market 

This one is a little way outside the city centre, however, if you’re in the mood for some antique rummaging and treasure-hunting, this is a popular choice with both tourists and locals, and you just never know what you’re going to find.

47) Visit the Abandoned Jewish Cemetery  

This is the oldest remaining Jewish cemetery on the Pest side of the city and it is located in the 8th district beside the Kerepesi Cemetery (the two are divided by a stone wall). Men must cover their heads to enter, but you can borrow a kippah at the gate.

Visiting Budapest and sightseeing

48) Take a break in City Park 

This is the park where the Széchenyi Baths, Vajdahunyad Castle, and Heroes’ Square are located, so it’s a nice place to rest in between all the sightseeing.

49) Experience a bit of magic 

The House of Houdini is a museum dedicated to Hungarian-born Harry Houdini, one of the greatest magicians and escape artists of all time. You’ll be able to see many objects that Houdini used and also be entertained by a new generation of magicians.

50) Escape to the Buda Hills 

This is a popular summer escape thanks to its proximity to the city. If you’re looking to do some light hiking (the peaks rise no higher than 500 metres), this is a good option.

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Budapest Travel Tips: Itineraries & Practical Planning for Budapest

Ready-Made Budapest Itineraries

24 Hours in Budapest: Greatest Hits

  • Morning (Buda): Ride the Castle Hill Funicular, wander Buda Castle courtyards, peek into Matthias Church, and loop along Fisherman’s Bastion for postcard views.
  • Midday (Wellness interlude): Soak at Gellért or Rudas Baths (Rudas is compact and atmospheric).
  • Afternoon (Pest): Cross the Chain Bridge, tour the Hungarian Parliament (prebook!), and stroll the Danube Promenade to The Shoes on the Danube.
  • Evening: Dinner near Andrássy Avenue and a nightcap in the ruin bars (start at Szimpla Kert, then wander).

48 Hours in Budapest: Add the Icons

Day 1: Follow the 24-hour plan.
Day 2:

  • Morning: Heroes’ SquareCity ParkVajdahunyad Castle.
  • Midday: Széchenyi Baths (iconic outdoor pools; bring flip-flops!).
  • Afternoon: Great Market Hall lunch crawl (try lángos and pick up paprika), then St. Stephen’s Basilica dome views.
  • Evening: Danube sunset cruise (golden hour into twinkly night = magic).

72 Hours in Budapest: Slow It Down

Day 3:

  • Morning: Coffee crawl and Szabó Ervin Library reading rooms.
  • Midday: Jewish Quarter street art + Dohány Street Synagogue (tour).
  • Afternoon: Citadella views, then chill on Margaret Island with a picnic.
  • Evening: Choose a theme—wine tasting in a cellar, craft beer on the Danube, or House of Houdini + dinner in the Castle District.

Where to Stay (and Wander): Mini Neighborhood Guide

AreaBest ForWhy You’ll Like It
Castle District (Buda)History & viewsQuiet after dark, cobblestones, sunrise strolls along the ramparts
District V – Belváros/Lipótváros (Pest)First-timersWalk to Parliament, Basilica, Danube; classic architecture
Jewish Quarter – District VII (Pest)Nightlife & street artRuin bars, murals, indie eats; buzzy until late
Újlipótváros – District XIIICafé cultureLocal vibe, leafy streets, Danube promenade
Ferencváros – District IXFoodiesMarket hall proximity, cool wine bars, museums
ÓbudaQuieter baseOld-town feel, Roman bits, quick tram into Pest
Buda HillsNature breaksEasy hikes, Children’s Railway, fresh air

Budapest Baths 101 (and How to Pick One)

Hot springs are Budapest’s love language. Here’s a quick comparison to match mood to mineral water:

BathVibeDon’t MissGood To Know
SzéchenyiBig, bright, socialOutdoor steaming pools + chess playersWeekdays are calmer; bring flip-flops & a towel
GellértArt Nouveau eleganceMosaic-lined indoor hallWave pool outdoors in season
RudasHistoric & moody16th-century octagonal pool under a domed ceilingRooftop hot tub with city views
KirályOttoman-era intimacyStone domes with star-like skylightsSmall; check opening times and any works
Palatinus (Margaret Island)Family funOutdoor complex + slidesGreat in summer; combine with island picnic

Bath Etiquette & Packing

  • Swim caps may be required in lap pools (not in thermal pools).
  • No photos in changing/locker areas; keep phones away around families.
  • Rinse before & after bathing; shower gel/shampoo not supplied everywhere.
  • Pack: towel, flip-flops, swimsuit, water bottle, hair tie, small lock (some lockers use provided bracelets; others still like a spare padlock).

Eat This in Budapest (and Where)

Classics to Try

  • Goulash (gulyás): Soup-style here—paprika-rich and hearty.
  • Pörkölt & paprikás: Slow-cooked stews; paprikás usually with sour cream.
  • Lángos: Deep-fried flatbread—go classic with tejföl (sour cream) + cheese.
  • Stuffed cabbage / Hortobágyi palacsinta: Comfort on a plate.

Sweet Things

  • Kürtőskalács (chimney cake): Cinnamon sugar, walnut, or cocoa.
  • Rétes (strudel): Cherry, poppy seed, or sweet quark.
  • Dobos torta & Eszterházy: Old-world café cakes.

Drinks

  • Pálinka (fruit brandy): Sips, not shots.
  • Tokaji Aszú: Liquid apricots and honey.
  • Unicum: Herbal, bracing; great after a feast.

Transport & Money Savers (So You Can Do More)

Getting Around at a Glance

  • Metro: M1 (1896, a cutie), M2, M3, M4—fast and intuitive.
  • Tram 2: Scenic Danube run on the Pest side (cheap “mini cruise”).
  • Buses & night routes: Fill in the gaps after midnight.
  • Funicular & chairlift: For fun, not speed.
  • Children’s Railway: A novelty line through the Buda Hills.

Tickets vs Passes

OptionGood ForProsConsider
Single ticketsOne-offsCheapest per rideMust validate each time
24/72-hr travelcardsExplorersUnlimited rides, no validation worryBest if riding ≥5–6/day
Budapest CardSightseeing + transitIncludes public transport + museum/disc.Do the math on your actual plans

When to Go & What to Pack

Seasons at a Glance

  • Spring (Apr–May): Blossoms in City Park, lighter crowds.
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Long days, festivals, outdoor baths; bring sunscreen.
  • Autumn (Sep–Oct): Gold leaves, wine festivals, crisp air—gorgeous for walks.
  • Winter (Nov–Feb): Christmas markets, steamy baths, cozy cafés.

Quick Packing Checks

  • Year-round: Comfortable walking shoes, layers, compact umbrella.
  • Bath day: Swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, hair tie, small tote.
  • Winter: Warm coat, hat, gloves, thermal top for night tours.
  • Summer: Sunhat, SPF 50, refillable bottle (tap water is safe).

Etiquette & Practicalities You’ll Be Glad You Knew

  • Tipping: ~10% at restaurants/cafés if service isn’t included. Round up for taxis.
  • Cash vs card: Cards widely accepted; still carry some forints for small kiosks and markets.
  • Ruin bar manners: Order at the bar, bus your own glasses where possible, keep voices considerate in residential lanes.
  • Bath etiquette: Quiet voices inside, no glass containers, shower before pools, photos only where allowed.
  • Sunday/trading hours: Many places open, but smaller shops may keep shorter hours—check ahead.
  • Safety: Central Budapest feels safe; watch for pickpockets in crowds and on transit like any big city.

Easy Day Trips (No Stress, All Reward)

  • Szentendre: Pastel lanes, tiny museums, river walks. Train or boat.
  • Esztergom & Visegrád (Danube Bend): Basilica domes, fortress views—combine for a full day.
  • Etyek wine region: Close-to-Budapest tastings and cellar lunch.
  • Gödöllő Palace: Royal splendor; quick suburban rail hop.
  • Lake Balaton (Balatonfüred/Tihany): Day on the “Hungarian Sea” (summer best).

One-Page Budapest Checklists

First-Time Budapest Checklist

  • ☐ Prebook Parliament tour
  • ☐ Choose one bath (Széchenyi/Gellért/Rudas)
  • ☐ Plan Danube sunset cruise
  • ☐ Pick one museum that excites you
  • ☐ Add Fisherman’s Bastion + St. Stephen’s dome
  • ☐ One ruin bar night (plus dinner)
  • ☐ Tram #2 ride along the river

Bath Day Bag

  • ☐ Swimsuit & flip-flops
  • ☐ Towel & hair tie
  • ☐ Small lock (just in case)
  • ☐ Water bottle
  • ☐ Light snack (post-soak hunger is real)

Ruin Bar Night

  • ☐ Cash (small bills) + card
  • ☐ Charged phone (maps!)
  • ☐ Layers (gardens can be breezy)
  • ☐ Comfortable shoes (standing room)

Rainy-Day Plan

  • Szabó Ervin Library
  • Hungarian National Museum or House of Terror
  • New York Café cake break
  • Gellért or Rudas indoor pools

Budapest Travel FAQ (12 Quick Answers)

How many days should I spend in Budapest?

3 days hits the highlights without rushing: Buda views, a bath, Parliament + Basilica, a Danube cruise, the Jewish Quarter, and a slow afternoon in City Park. With 2 days, stick to the essentials; with 4+, add a day trip.

Which bath is best for first-timers?

Széchenyi for the classic outdoor scene, Gellért for Art Nouveau beauty, Rudas for a moody, historic soak (and that rooftop tub). Pick the vibe that suits you; you can’t go wrong.

Do I need to prebook the Parliament tour?

Yes—tours sell out quickly, especially in peak season/weekends. Book your time slot online a few days ahead for preferred hours.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

Yes. Budapest’s tap water is safe and tasty. Refill your bottle and save your forints for cake.

How do I get from the airport to the city?

The 100E airport bus runs direct to central Pest (ticket sold separately from regular transit). Alternatively, taxi (official Főtaxi stand) or Bolt ride-hailing are straightforward.

Is Budapest walkable?

Very. Buda is hilly, Pest is flat and grid-like. You’ll still want the metro/trams for longer hops, but most central sights connect beautifully on foot.

Should I get the Budapest Card?

It depends. If you’ll use public transport a lot and plan to visit several included museums/attractions, it can be good value. Otherwise, a 72-hour travelcard + pay-as-you-go entries may be smarter.

What should I wear/bring to the baths?

Swimsuit, flip-flops, towel, hair tie, water bottle. Some lap pools require caps, but thermal pools do not. Renting towels is possible but pricey—bring your own if you can.

Is tipping expected?

Yes—around 10% in restaurants unless service is included. Round up for small cafés, bars, and taxis.

What’s the best time of day for a Danube cruise?

Golden hour into night: start around sunset to watch the city switch on its lights as you glide by Parliament and bridges.

Can I visit Budapest with kids?

Absolutely. Baths like Palatinus (in summer) and Széchenyi (select areas) are family-friendly, Margaret Island is perfect for picnics and pedal carts, and trams/boats are half the fun.

Are ruin bars okay if I’m not a big partier?

Yes—go early evening for the quirky décor and chill vibes, then wander out for dinner. If crowds aren’t your thing, pick a smaller spot or a wine bar in District IX.

Join the Conversation

5 Comments

  1. says: Wilfred Moses

    What a lovely place Hungary is!

  2. says: Markus

    Wow! looks fantastic. Loved it! Very informational. The captures are amazing.

  3. says: C. Randen

    Great Article! Renting a camper van for 8 weeks in Europe, Budapest will be a must stop, already dreaming I am in one of the Széchenyi Thermal Baths!! Thank you

  4. Budapest has always been on my bucket list! Bookmarking this for future trip planning!

  5. Budapest is an amazing city with beautiful buildings and statues, it is a hidden gem and one will fall in love with this city after visiting it. Thanks for sharing top things to do in Budapest we can easily explore most of this places through short city breaks.

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