Want to know what to do in Budapest? Here’s a list of our top picks to help you plan your trip to the Hungarian Capital.
Budapest is a travellers dream! Jam-packed full of iconic views and buildings, all within close proximity. With so much to see and do we have made a list of the best bits so you don’t miss out.
Check out the Parliament Building
Probably the most iconic landmark in the whole of Budapest, the Parliament Building is an incredible feat of architecture. Be sure to go and see it up close during the day. There is no better way to see it however than from the other side of the River Danube at night! The construction gets lit up by 764 floodlights – the sight is truly breathtaking.
Visit one of the Budapest baths
Budapest is known for its many bathhouses that draw tourists and locals alike. They are often housed inside some of the most extravagant buildings in the whole city. We recommend the Széchenyi Thermal Baths which have an incredible outdoor area to relax in.
Have a go on a Lime scooter
Lime electric scooters are not only a great way to get about but they are also loads of fun. Zipping down the designated bike lanes along the river is a great way to take in the views of the city.
Grab a drink at a ruin bar
Ruin bars are quite simply unique. These quirky bars are built in the ruins of old abandoned buildings and feature crazy interior design. The drinks are also super cheap, so stopping in for at least one is a must! The biggest and best bar is called Szimpla Kert, ideally located in the Jewish quarter extremely close to a lot of the hostels in the city.
Take a walk around Buda Castle
Buda Castle is another fantastic building located up the steep hill on the Buda side of the river. The whole area has stunning views over the river and the rest of the city. The best way to get to the castle is via the Funicular. Accessible at the end of the chain bridge, this is an interesting and fun way to get to the top especially if you have been walking around all day!
Explore Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is a beautiful fairytale-like structure built into the side of Buda hill. The Bastion overlooks the Pest side of the city and over the Hungarian Parliament Building. Although it can become very busy here during the day time due to its popularity, we recommend sitting out on the rooftop bar, which can be found at the top of the north tower. Here you can get away from the crowds and enjoy the views with a beverage in hand!
Visit Heroes’ Square
Heroes’ square is located a 40-minute walk from the main city centre, however, you can get there easily via taxi or metro. For more information check out our Travel guide for Budapest. The square itself is quite remarkable, with a huge monument surrounded by other impressive statues.
Try a delicious ice cream at Gelato Rosa
Gelato Rosa create works of art made out of incredible ice cream! Pick your favourite flavours and watch your ice cream rose come to life before your eyes.
Check out Vajdahunyad castle
When you are in the vicinity of Széchenyi Thermal Baths and Heroes’ Square, take a little detour to have a look at the amazing architecture at Vajdahunyad Castle. The lake outside of the castle is also turned into a huge public ice skating rink during the winter!
See St. Stephen’s Basilica
St Stephen’s Basilica is another famous landmark in the city! The structure is stunning both on the outside and in. If you do want to check out the inside you will have to pay a donation of 200Ft per person.
Sip a cocktail at 360 bar
360 bar is one of the best bars in the city. Located at the top of a tall building in the main shopping district, you can grab a beautiful cocktail from just 1950Ft (£5.20GBP / $6.40USD). The bar is surrounded by ‘igloo’ style tents that allow you to sit on the terrace and take in some of the best views over the whole city come rain or shine! You may have to pay to get up to the bar with no guarantee of securing a seat. We would recommend booking a table as availability is limited and this spot does get very busy!
Take a walk along Chain Bridge
Chain Bridge was built in 1849 by British designers and engineers. It was the original bridge to span the impressive Danube river. The bridge is a historical engineering masterpiece and looks just as impressive today as it would have been over a hundred years ago. Like the Parliament Building, the bridge looks even more spectacular at night as it is lit up with some of the best views to be had from up on Buda Castle.
Go on a boat trip
One of the most popular things to do in Budapest is to take one of the many cruise boats along the river. From the boats, you can really take in the city sites. The type of trips vary and can include useful tourist information, or if you want to splash out you can treat yourself to an evening cruise with a 3-course meal.
Walk around Central Market
The Central Market is a great spot to take a walk around. Here you will find traditional Hungarian market stalls selling fresh meat and vegetables, as well as souvenirs on the upper floors. There are also many street food style vendors where you can sample some of the Hungarian classics such as goulash and chicken paprikash.
Try a Langos
Langos is another Hungarian street food staple. They can be found dotted around the city and are a good way to fill a gap while you are out and about exploring. Langos is essentially deep-fried dough (sort of like a doughnut) but they are traditionally served with sour cream, cheese, garlic and often ham.
MORE: Travel guide for Budapest
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