Planning a trip to Budapest? Discover the 20 best things to do in Budapest, from thermal baths to ruin bars. Best tips and essential info for your Hungarian adventure!
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Budapest, then you’re in the right place!
The enchanting Hungarian capital welcomes millions of visitors each year, drawn to its stunning architecture, healing thermal waters, and vibrant culture.
Did you know that Budapest was originally two separate cities, Buda and Pest, before unifying in 1873? Today, this magnificent city offers an unforgettable mix of experiences that blend historical grandeur with modern energy.
Historical Landmarks and Architecture
1. Explore the Hungarian Parliament Building
The world’s third-largest parliament building stands as Budapest’s most iconic landmark. This Gothic Revival masterpiece contains 691 rooms and required 40 million bricks to construct.
Pro tip: the building is even more spectacular when illuminated at night.
Essential Info: Guided tours run 45 minutes with audio guides in multiple languages. Tickets: 6500 HUF (EEA citizens), 13,000 HUF (non-EEA citizens). Book in advance during peak season.
2. Visit Fisherman’s Bastion
This neo-Gothic terrace offers Budapest’s most spectacular viewpoint, with its fairy-tale white stone walls and seven towers representing the seven Magyar tribes. The panoramic views of the city and Parliament Building are unmatched.
Essential Info: Open 24/7. Upper towers require tickets (1500 HUF) between 9 AM – 5 PM. Visit at sunset for incredible photos of Budapest lighting up below.
3. Discover Buda Castle
Perched atop Castle Hill, this UNESCO World Heritage site houses the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. The castle complex offers breathtaking views over Pest and hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year.
Essential Info: Castle grounds are free to explore. Museum tickets sold separately. Take the funicular (5000 HUF return) or walk up for free.
4. Marvel at St. Stephen’s Basilica
As Budapest’s largest church, this neoclassical marvel can hold over 8,500 people. Don’t miss Hungary’s most sacred relic – the mummified right hand of King Stephen – and the panoramic views from the dome observation deck.
Essential Info: Free basilica entry (donations welcome). Guided tours available for towers, catacombs, and cathedral treasury.
5. Experience Matthias Church
Located in the Castle District, this architectural gem showcases unique Hungarian-style design with its colorful roof tiles and Gothic spires. The interior features stunning restored frescoes and intricate patterns.
Essential Info: Church services free; tourist entry requires tickets (1500 HUF).
Must-Visit Budapest Attractions: Parks and Public Spaces
6. Explore Vajdahunyad Castle
Located in City Park, this fascinating complex showcases various architectural styles from medieval to baroque. Originally built from cardboard for the 1896 millennium celebrations, its popularity led to permanent construction.
Essential Info: Open courts free to visit. Museum of Agriculture entry: 2500 HUF. Open Tuesday-Sunday.
7. Relax on Margaret Island
This 2.5km-long green oasis in the Danube serves as Budapest’s central park. Discover medieval ruins, musical fountains, and extensive running tracks – perfect for escaping the city buzz.
Essential Info: Free entry. Car-free island easily accessible by public transport.
8. Visit Heroes’ Square
Budapest’s largest square features the impressive Millennium Monument, showcasing Hungarian kings and leaders. The square serves as a gateway to City Park and the famous Széchenyi Baths.
Essential Info: Free to visit. Most spectacular when illuminated at night. Seven minute walk from Széchenyi Baths.
Cultural Things to Do in Budapest
9. Pay Respects at Shoes on the Danube Bank
This moving memorial honors Jews killed during WWII, featuring 60 pairs of iron shoes along the riverbank. A powerful reminder of the innocent lives lost during WW II and a must-visit site for understanding Budapest’s past.
Essential Info: Free to visit. Located near Parliament. Most impactful at sunset or when lit at night.
10. Browse Central Market Hall
Budapest’s largest indoor market offers three floors of local produce, wines, and handicrafts. The neo-Gothic building itself is an architectural marvel worth photographing.
Essential Info: Closed Sundays. Visit mornings for best produce selection. Traditional Hungarian food stalls on the upper floor.
Relaxation and Wellness Activities in Budapest
11. Soak in Széchenyi Thermal Bath
One of Europe’s largest bath complexes features 15 indoor pools, 3 grand outdoor pools, and 6+ saunas. The sight of steam rising from outdoor pools in winter creates magical photo opportunities.
Essential Info: Book ahead in peak season. Bring flip-flops (compulsory) and towels. Cash (HUF only) and cards accepted.
12. Unwind at Gellért Thermal Bath
Famous for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, Gellért offers a more elegant bathing experience with six thermal pools (34°C to 40°C), 1 indoor pool, 1 outdoor pool open during summer only and of course beautiful architectural details.
Essential Info: Less crowded than Széchenyi but advance booking is recommended.
Food and Drink Experiences in Budapest
13. Sample Street Food at Karavan
This popular food truck court next to Szimpla Kert offers various local and international cuisine options. Perfect for trying Hungarian street food in a casual setting.
Essential Info: [Temporarily closed for a few weeks as of January 2025 – check their Facebook for updates]
14. Experience Szimpla Kert Ruin Bar
The original ruin bar that sparked Budapest’s famous bar scene. This former factory now houses multiple bars with eclectic décor and a vibrant atmosphere.
Essential Info: Open 3 PM – 4 AM (Mon-Fri), 12 PM – 4 AM (Sat). Sunday farmers’ market 9 AM – 4 PM.
15. Try Chimney Cakes (Kürtőskalács)
These traditional sweet treats, cooked over open fire and coated in various toppings, are a must-try Budapest experience.
Essential Info: Find them at markets and tourist areas. Common toppings include coconut, chocolate, nuts or cinnamon sugar.
16. Go Wine Tasting in Etyek
Discover Hungary’s youngest and fastest growing wine region, known for excellent white wines and sparkling varieties. Just 30 minutes from Budapest, Etyek produces notable Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Essential Info: Book organized tours or arrange private tastings. Tours usually include transportation and sometimes a chocolate and/or cheese tasting!
17. Dine at Gerbeaud
Budapest’s most famous café offers exceptional cakes and chocolates in an opulent 19th-century setting. The interior creates a cozy, elegant atmosphere.
Essential Info: Premium prices reflect the experience. Less busy early morning or late afternoon but expect to queue.
18. Visit New York Café
Often called “the most beautiful café in the world,” this stunning venue features Italian Renaissance-style decoration and excellent Hungarian cuisine.
Essential Info: Reservations highly recommended. Expect queues during peak hours.
Unique Budapest Experiences
19. Take a Danube River Cruise
Experience Budapest’s UNESCO sites illuminated at night from the water. The perfect way to see the city’s magnificent architecture from a different perspective.
Essential Info: Book evening cruises for best views. Time your cruise to catch sunset and illuminations.
20. Explore Hospital in the Rock
This fascinating former hospital and nuclear bunker beneath Buda Castle offers insight into WWII and Cold War history.
Essential Info: 60-minute guided tours available in multiple languages. Not suitable for children under 6 and children under 12 must be supervised by parents. Card payments only.
Essential Tips for Your Budapest Adventure
Before exploring these amazing things to do in Budapest, remember:
- Get a Budapest Card for free public transport and museum entries
- Book popular attractions online to avoid disappointment
- Visit during Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) for best weather and off peak season
- Learn basic Hungarian phrases to connect with locals
- Use the efficient public transport system
- Try traditional Hungarian cuisine beyond goulash
Budapest ranks among Europe’s most captivating capitals, offering visitors an incredible mix of history, culture, and modern attractions. Whether you’re soaking in the famous thermal baths, exploring castle grounds, or experiencing the legendary ruin bar scene, each of these things to do in Budapest promises unforgettable memories.
Ready to start planning your Budapest adventure? We recommend allocating at least 3-4 days to explore these top things to do in Budapest properly.
Remember to leave time for wandering – some of Budapest’s best secrets are found off the beaten path.
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Last Updated: January 2025