Guide to the Top Things to Do in Budapest

Budapest, the stunning capital of Hungary, is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Danube.” With its vibrant mix of history, culture, and a lively modern atmosphere, the city attracts travellers from all over the world. Whether you visit in the warm summer months or during the chilly winter season, Budapest offers a variety of experiences that cater to every type of traveller.

In this blog, we’ll take you through Budapest’s top attractions, from its grand architectural landmarks to its unique thermal baths. You’ll also discover the best things to do in Budapest, along with practical tips to help you make the most of your trip. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to explore one of Europe’s most fascinating cities and uncover the hidden gems that make Budapest so special.

Exploring Budapest’s Iconic Landmarks

Discover Budapest’s top attractions, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and St. Stephen’s Basilica. These iconic landmarks showcase the city’s rich history and stunning architecture, making them some of the best things to do in Budapest. Don’t forget your camera for breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.

Hungarian Parliament Building:

The Hungarian Parliament Building stands proudly along the Danube and is one of Budapest’s top attractions. Its Neo-Gothic design, with spires and a grand dome, makes it a photographer’s paradise. A walk along the promenade offers stunning views, making it one of the best things to do in Budapest.

• Opening/Closing Times: Guided tours are available daily, but times vary depending on the season and language.
• Entry Fee: Approximately €8–€12 for EU citizens; €16–€24 for non-EU citizens.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for smaller crowds or at night to admire its illumination from the Danube.
• Tips: Book your guided tour online in advance, as tickets sell out quickly. Don’t forget your camera for those postcard-worthy shots of the Parliament reflected in the Danube.

Buda Castle:

Buda Castle, on Castle Hill, is one of Budapest’s top attractions. It was once the home of Hungarian kings and now has the National Gallery and History Museum. Walking through its courtyards and enjoying amazing views of the Danube is one of the best things to do in Budapest.

• Opening/Closing Times: Museums are typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The castle grounds are open 24/7.
• Entry Fee: Free to explore the grounds; museum tickets cost around €5–€10.
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for fewer crowds and golden hour views.
• Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be slippery. Use the funicular railway for an easy and scenic way to reach the top.

Fisherman’s Bastion:

Fisherman’s Bastion is a beautiful spot with seven towers that represent Hungarian tribes. Its white stone design and amazing city views make it one of Budapest’s top attractions. You can walk along the terraces or enjoy a relaxing time at the cafe—it’s like being in a fairy tale.

• Opening/Closing Times: Open 24/7; the upper terrace has restricted hours (typically 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM).

• Entry Fee: Free for the lower levels; approximately €3–€5 for the upper terrace.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and softer light for photos.
• Tips: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer tourists. Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Matthias Church.

St. Stephen’s Basilica:

St. Stephen’s Basilica is named after Hungary’s first king and is a beautiful and important church. Its large dome is a city landmark, and you can climb to the top for great views. Inside, it has lovely mosaics and the Holy Right Hand, a relic of King Stephen.

• Opening/Closing Times: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Free to enter the basilica; €2–€3 to access the dome.
• Best Time to Visit: Late morning to enjoy the light streaming through the windows or in the evening for its calm and serene atmosphere.
• Tips: Dress modestly as it’s a place of worship. Climb the dome on clear days for spectacular city views.

Unmissable Thermal Bath Experiences

Soaking in thermal baths like Széchenyi and Gellért is one of the top things to do in Budapest. Enjoy healing waters, architectural beauty, and a relaxing escape. Known as the “City of Spas,” Budapest’s baths are truly unique and a must on your travel itinerary.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath:

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is located in City Park. It is one of Europe’s largest and most popular thermal baths. Its outdoor pools, surrounded by Baroque architecture, are open all year, even in winter. Inside, you’ll find pools, saunas, and whirlpools, making it one of the best things to do in Budapest.

Opening/Closing Times: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• Entry Fee: Approximately €16–€20 for a day pass (includes locker or cabin).
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a quieter experience or in the evening for a magical ambience.
• Tips: Bring your own towel and flip-flops to avoid rental fees. Lockers and private cabins are available for storing personal belongings. Purchase tickets online to save time.

Gellért Baths:

Located in the Gellért Hotel, Gellért Baths is famous for its beautiful Art Nouveau design and relaxing thermal waters. With indoor and outdoor pools, steam rooms, and stunning mosaics, it’s one of the best things to do in Budapest.

Opening/Closing Times: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

• Entry Fee: Approximately €18–€22 for a day pass (locker or cabin included).
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to avoid crowds or during weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
• Tips: Don’t miss the wave pool during summer. Photography isn’t allowed in most areas, so enjoy the moment without distractions. Consider combining your visit with a hike up Gellért Hill nearby.

Discovering Budapest’s Vibrant Neighbourhoods

Jewish Quarter (District VII):

The Jewish Quarter is one of Budapest’s top attractions, full of history, art, and nightlife. Its streets have colourful murals, ruin bars, and historic synagogues like Dohány Street Synagogue, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Budapest.

• Opening/Closing Times: Open to explore 24/7, but specific attractions like synagogues and bars have varied hours.

• Entry Fee: Free to roam; synagogue entry fees range from €5–€10.
• Best Time to Visit: In the early evening, enjoy the buzz of nightlife, or during the day, enjoy a quieter atmosphere and explore historical sites.
• Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot. Don’t miss the ruin bars like Szimpla Kert for a truly unique experience and the street art scattered throughout the area.

Central Market Hall:

The Central Market Hall is one of Budapest’s top attractions, offering a lively look into local life. The ground floor has fresh produce, meats, and Hungarian spices like paprika, while the upper level has souvenirs and food stalls. Trying lángos here is one of the best things to do in Budapest.

• Opening/Closing Times: Open Monday–Saturday (closed on Sundays). Typical hours are 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (varies slightly by day).
• Entry Fee: Free to enter.
• Best Time to Visit: In the morning, when the market is bustling but not overcrowded,
• Tips: Bring cash, as many vendors don’t accept cards. Try a freshly prepared lángos for a delicious and authentic snack.

Andrássy Avenue:

Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Budapest’s top attractions. This grand boulevard is lined with elegant buildings, luxury shops, and cafes. Stretching from the city centre to Heroes’ Square, it’s perfect for a stroll and passes landmarks like the Opera House and House of Terror Museum.

• Opening/Closing Times: Always open for walking; specific attractions along the avenue have varied hours.

• Entry Fee: Free to explore; attraction fees vary (e.g., Hungarian State Opera tours cost around €10–€15).
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for shopping and cafe hopping, or early evening for a romantic walk under the streetlights.
• Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and consider ending your walk at Heroes’ Square. Take a detour into the nearby side streets for quieter cafes and boutique shops.

Delving Into Budapest’s Local Culture and Cuisine

Indulge in Hungarian favourites like goulash, lángos, and chimney cakes while sipping Tokaji wine or pálinka. Exploring Budapest’s food scene is among the most delicious things to do in Budapest, giving you a true taste of its culture and heritage.

Hungarian Food Specialties

• Goulash (Gulyás): A national treasure, this comforting dish is a cross between a soup and a stew, made with tender beef, vegetables, and seasoned with sweet Hungarian paprika. Goulash is best enjoyed on a chilly day, paired with crusty bread.
• Lángos: A street food favourite, lángos is deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream, grated cheese, or sometimes garlic. It’s a perfect on-the-go snack and a must-try when visiting local markets.
• Stuffed Cabbage (Töltött Káposzta): A classic winter dish, stuffed cabbage is made with fermented cabbage leaves filled with ground meat and rice, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce.
• Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács): This sweet pastry is cooked over an open flame and dusted with sugar and cinnamon. The result is a caramelized, crispy outside and a soft, doughy interior. You’ll find them at festivals and street vendors.
• Dobos Torte: A famous Hungarian dessert, this layered sponge cake is topped with a caramel glaze and filled with chocolate buttercream—a must for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Hungarian Drinks

• Tokaji Wine: Known as the “Wine of Kings,” Tokaji is a sweet dessert wine produced in the Tokaj region of Hungary. It’s beloved worldwide and is a perfect accompaniment to desserts or as a post-dinner indulgence.
• Pálinka: This traditional fruit brandy is made from apricots, plums, or cherries. Pálinka is strong and aromatic, often served as a digestif after meals.
• Fröccs: A refreshing drink made by mixing wine with soda water. It’s a popular summer beverage in Hungary and comes in different ratios depending on how strong you like it.
• Herbal Teas: Hungary is also known for its herbal teas, often infused with locally grown ingredients like chamomile, peppermint, or rosehip.

Tips for Enjoying Local Food and Drinks

• Seasonal Dishes: Some dishes, like stuffed cabbage, are more common in winter, while chimney cakes are often found at Christmas markets. Plan your food experiences based on the season.
• Markets and Food Stalls: For authentic Hungarian flavours, head to local markets like the Central Market Hall, where you’ll find many traditional dishes and fresh ingredients.
• Wine Tastings: Join a wine-tasting tour to sample Tokaji and other Hungarian wines.
• Pace Yourself: Hungarian portions can be quite hearty, so plan your meals accordingly to leave room for dessert or a quick lángos snack!

Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Explore Budapest’s top attractions beyond the usual, such as the city’s caves, Memento Park, and the Invisible Exhibition. These hidden gems offer unique stuff to do in Budapest for travellers seeking offbeat and unforgettable experiences.

Caving Beneath Budapest:

Beneath Budapest are limestone caves formed by thermal springs, making cave exploration one of the unique things to do in Budapest. Pál-völgyi Cave offers adventure with winding tunnels and rock formations, while Szemlő-hegyi Cave provides a peaceful, illuminated walk. These caves reveal Budapest’s fascinating geological history.

• Opening/Closing Times: Typically open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but check schedules as guided tours are required.
• Entry Fee: Around €5–€10 per person, depending on the cave and tour type.
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning for smaller groups and cooler weather inside the caves.
• Tips: Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing. Book tours in advance, as spots can be limited.

Memento Park:

Memento Park is an open-air museum and one of Budapest’s top attractions, showcasing statues and monuments from Hungary’s Communist era. Here, you’ll see sculptures of Lenin, Marx, and other symbols of the regime. It’s a quiet, thought-provoking place to learn about Hungary’s history and past.

• Opening/Closing Times: Open daily, typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Around €5 per person.
• Best Time to Visit: Early afternoon, when the lighting is best for photography and the park is less crowded.
• Tips: Take a guidebook or join a tour to better understand the historical context of the monuments. Public transportation or a taxi is the best way to get there, as it’s located on the outskirts of the city.

Invisible Exhibition:

The Invisible Exhibition is a unique and interactive experience in Budapest. Guided by visually impaired hosts, visitors explore rooms in complete darkness, using their other senses to understand the environment. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Budapest, promoting awareness, empathy, and a new perspective on the world.

• Opening/Closing Times: Open Tuesday–Sunday; specific time slots are available for tours.

• Entry Fee: Approximately €10–€12 per person.
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-afternoon for a quieter experience and better availability of tours.
• Tips: Make reservations in advance, as this is a popular activity with limited spots. Keep an open mind and embrace the experience—it’s unlike anything else you’ll do in Budapest.

Practical Travel Tips

Planning wisely is key to enjoying the best things to do in Budapest. From choosing the best time to visit to getting around like a local, these tips will help ensure a smooth and unforgettable trip. Whether staying for a weekend or a week, here’s everything you need to know.

Best Times to Visit Budapest

Budapest is a year-round destination, but when you visit can shape your experience:

• Spring (March to May): Enjoy pleasant weather and blooming flowers, especially on Margaret Island.
• Summer (June to August): Perfect for open-air activities and Danube river cruises, though expect crowds and higher prices.
• Autumn (September to November): A quieter time with mild weather and colourful foliage. Great for food and wine festivals.
• Winter (December to February): Magical with Christmas markets, festive lights, and thermal baths offering a warm retreat from the cold.

Tips:

• Pack layers for spring and autumn, as the weather can change quickly.
• Book accommodations and tours in advance if visiting during summer or the Christmas season.

Getting Around Budapest

Budapest’s efficient and affordable public transport makes exploring the city a breeze. It’s also one of the easiest ways to visit Budapest’s top attractions.

• Metro: Budapest’s metro has four lines, including the historic Line 1, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Trams: The scenic Tram No. 2 runs along the Danube and offers breathtaking city views.
• Buses and Trolleys: Great for reaching areas not covered by the metro or trams.
• Walking: Many of the things to visit in Budapest are close together, especially in the city centre.

Tips:

• Get the Budapest Card for unlimited public transport, discounts on attractions, and free entry to some museums.
• Validate your transport tickets before boarding to avoid fines.
• Use Google Maps or BudapestGO to navigate routes and schedules easily.

By following these tips, you’ll be ready to explore the best things to do in Budapest with ease. Whether you’re riding a tram along the Danube or strolling through the historic streets, Budapest is an amazing city to discover.

Conclusion

Budapest offers everything—stunning architecture, rich history, vibrant culture, and unique experiences. From iconic landmarks like the Parliament Building and Fisherman’s Bastion to hearty Hungarian food and relaxing thermal baths, there are endless things to do in Budapest. Enjoy a Danube night cruise, explore the Jewish Quarter, or visit hidden gems like Memento Park and underground caves. With this guide, you’re ready to explore Budapest’s top attractions and create unforgettable memories. Start planning your adventure today!