17 BEST Things to Do in Budapest in 2025 (+What to Skip)

Looking for the best things to do in Budapest, Hungary? Here’s our 2025 guide to Budapest’s must-see sights and attractions, along with what you can skip. 

Budapest is an ideal choice for a European city break! We’ve explored hundreds of cities across more than 50 countries, and we confidently rank Budapest among the 20 most stunning destinations in Europe. 

From its gorgeous architecture and historic thermal baths to its quirky ruin bars, there’s so much to do in Budapest. No wonder it’s become so popular!

In this post, we’ll share our Budapest must-does, plus what you can skip to save time and money. We’ll also cover where to stay, the best times to visit, and how long to spend in the beautiful capital of Hungary.

Table of Contents Hide

1. 17 Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary (2025)
2. Interactive Map: 17 Must-See Attractions in Budapest
3. Other Sights & Activities Worth Checking Out in Budapest
4. 5 Things in Budapest You Can Skip
5. Best Time to Visit Budapest
6. How Long to Stay in Budapest
7. Where to Stay in Budapest
8. Visiting Budapest: FAQ
9. Wrap-Up: Things to Do on Your Budapest City Break

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click on the link and purchase the item or service, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using our links, you’re supporting us to provide you with free content for your city trips. Learn more on our Privacy Policy page.

Short on time? Here are our top picks for visiting Budapest:

Must-Visit: The top three things you shouldn’t miss when visiting Budapest are
(1) Enjoy a Danube River cruise.
(2) Relax in Budapest’s largest thermal baths (Széchenyi).
(3) Explore the Hungarian Parliament Building on a guided tour.

Hotels: Our favourite place to stay in Budapest is the Up Hotel Budapest. You can view the full list of Budapest hotels here. 

Tours & Experiences: Book local tours & tickets for Budapest attractions through Viator or GetYourGuide. Here are some great tours we can recommend: 
– Buda Castle District Vampires & Myths Walking Tour
– Walking Tour of Buda and Pest
– Hungarian Chimney Cake Workshop
– Buda Castle Cave Tour

Save Money: The Budapest Card can help you save money on attractions & transportation.

Staying Connected in Budapest: Ubigi eSIM is our go-to eSIM provider for staying connected abroad. Get 10% off your first data plan with our code AWAY10. Read our Ubigi review.

Keep reading for our full guide on the top things to do in Budapest!

17 Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary (2025)

With so much to do and see in Budapest, you’ll be spoilt for choice. But fear not; we’ve got you covered! Here are the must-see attractions and activities you shouldn’t miss during your Budapest city break in Central Europe:

1. Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most beautiful buildings we’ve ever seen! Its beautiful neo-Gothic architecture, massive size, and riverside location make it stand out.

It reminded us of the iconic Houses of Parliament in London (which we love!), but we must admit the Hungarian Parliament is even more breathtaking.

Did you know? The Hungarian Parliament is one of the largest parliamentary buildings in the world and the largest building in Hungary. 

Construction began in 1885 and took 17 years to complete, involving thousands of workers and artisans. It’s a must-see Budapest landmark and a symbol of Hungarian history!

We highly recommend exploring the Parliament Building via a 45-minute guided tour. You’ll see the lavish halls, including the grand main staircase, the lounge of the Chamber of Peers, and the magnificent Dome Hall, where the Hungarian Crown Jewels are kept.

2. House of Music

Located in City Park next to Vajdahunyad Castle, the House of Music is one of Budapest’s newest attractions. Designed by Japanese star architect Sou Fujimoto, the building opened in January 2022.

The complex features concert halls, exhibition spaces, and an open-air stage. Most importantly, it has a stunning roof structure and extensive glass panels. The contemporary design of the building is truly impressive!

Fujimoto designed the roof as a continuation of the landscape. It has 100 crater-like holes to accommodate trees and allow natural light. Over 30,000 gold-coloured leaves cover the underside of the roof, giving it a futuristic look.

The building has gained worldwide recognition, including the 2019 London International Property Award for the best public building and the top prize at the US Music Cities Awards. This makes the House of Music a must-see in Budapest!

Admission and Opening Hours: The House of Music is free to enter and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-6pm.

3. Cruise on the Danube River

One of our favourite things to do in Budapest was a sightseeing cruise on the Danube River. It offers unmatched views of Budapest’s famous landmarks, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge.

Cruising along the Danube is a relaxing way to see the city, especially at night when it’s beautifully lit up!

4. Vajdahunyad Castle

Vajdahunyad Castle is a picturesque architectural gem located in City Park, Budapest’s largest green area.

Contrary to its name, it’s not a single castle but rather a complex of buildings. The complex is a great place to experience a range of Hungarian architectural styles: Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Did you know? Vajdahunyad Castle was originally built as a temporary wooden structure for the 1896 Millennium Exhibition in Budapest. It became so popular that it was later transformed into a permanent stone castle.

The design is inspired by Hunyad Castle in Transylvania (often linked to Count Dracula), known for its stunning Gothic architecture.

During the winter months, Vajdahunyad Castle creates a fairytale atmosphere, especially with the City Park Ice Rink in front of it.

Though not as grand as Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany or Windsor Castle in the UK, we believe Budapest’s Vajdahunyad Castle is a charming visit!

Admission and Opening Hours: Entry to the castle grounds is free. It’s open 9am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Monday).

Vajdahunyad Castle Official Website

5. Széchenyi Thermal Baths

A Budapest city trip isn’t complete without experiencing one of its thermal baths! In fact, more than 60% of tourists in Budapest visit at least one of the city’s historic spas during their trip.

Soaking in the warm thermal waters is a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Plus, visiting a bathhouse is an essential part of Budapest’s culture and history, so you can experience a local tradition.

Budapest has many thermal baths, each with its own unique character. Some focus on relaxation with saunas, steam rooms, and massage services. Others have more historical significance or a lively atmosphere.

We believe Széchenyi Baths is the best if you can only visit one. It’s Europe’s largest spa bath, with 15 indoor baths and 3 large outdoor swimming pools. 

Located in the heart of City Park, it’s housed in a magnificent neo-baroque building. And it has outdoor pools that let you enjoy the fresh air while soaking in warm water.

What about other baths? Széchenyi Thermal Baths are stunning (we loved it there!), but they can get crowded. For a slightly less crowded and historical ambience, consider checking out Gellért Baths or the Ottoman-era Rudas Thermal Bath!

6. Ruin Bar Crawl in the Jewish Quarter

Experience a unique and quirky Budapest invention: ruin bars! These venues are housed in abandoned buildings and courtyards that have been creatively transformed into lively social hubs. They are mainly found in the Jewish Quarter.

Did you know? The roots of ruin bars trace back to the early 2000s when savvy entrepreneurs saw potential in repurposing neglected buildings.

Inside the ruin bars, you’ll typically find multiple rooms with a blend of vintage furniture, unique decor, and lively artwork. Many of them feature live music, making Saturday nights in Budapest unforgettable.

Here are Our 2 Favourite Ruin Bars

1. Szimpla Kert: Budapest’s oldest ruin bar and the pioneer of Budapest’s ruin bar scene. It means ‘simple garden’ and offers eight themed rooms filled with worn-out furniture, neon lights, disco balls, art installations, and plants. 
2. Mazel Tov: For those preferring a slightly more upscale ambience, Mazel Tov is an excellent choice. It has delicious Mediterranean and Israeli cuisine. What we love most about it is its beautiful courtyard and lush greenery. 

Top tip: For a guided introduction to Budapest’s ruin bars, consider booking a tour, like this ruin bar pub crawl with a local guide. 

Admission and Opening Hours: While most ruin bars in Budapest offer free entry, some may have a minimum spend. Opening hours generally extend from late afternoon to the early morning, but it’s recommended to check each bar’s specific schedule for the best experience.

Check the availability and pricing for all ruin bar tours.

7. Buda Castle

Buda Castle is a large complex located on top of Castle Hill. It offers great views of the Danube River and the Pest side of the city! 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 13th century and features a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.

The former royal palace has witnessed many important events, such as the Ottoman sieges and Habsburg rule (which you can also experience in Vienna and Prague). After being heavily damaged in World War II, it was rebuilt in the Baroque style. 

Today, it houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, both of which are free to enter with a Budapest Card.

Top tip: To reach Buda Castle, you can walk up the hill or take the funicular. We recommend walking at least one way (up or down) to enjoy the amazing viewpoints of Budapest.

Admission and Opening Hours: Buda Castle’s main courtyard, gardens, and surroundings are free to visit and open 24/7. Attractions within the complex vary in price.

8. Dohány Street Synagogue

The Dohány Street Synagogue, or Great Synagogue, is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world. It can seat up to 3,000 people.

Built in 1859 in the Moorish revival style, it has an impressive facade with detailed and beautiful architecture. During World War II, the synagogue was a refuge for many Jews seeking safety from persecution.

The entrance ticket included a guided tour, which was great! We learned about the synagogue’s history, the Jewish community in Budapest, and the impact of World War II. 

While the guides were very knowledgeable, we found the tickets a bit expensive, especially since Budapest is usually quite affordable.

Dohány Street Synagogue Official Website

9. Chain Bridge

The Chain Bridge, or Széchenyi Chain Bridge, was the first permanent bridge across the Danube in Hungary. Built in the mid-19th century, it helped unite the separate towns of Buda and Pest.

The bridge was named after Count István Széchenyi, a key figure in its construction.

During World War II, retreating Nazi troops destroyed all the bridges in Budapest, including the Chain Bridge. It was completely rebuilt and reopened in 1949, exactly a century after its inauguration.

There are stone lions at each bridge entrance, which have become symbolic guardians of the city. 

As you stroll across, you can enjoy gorgeous views of the Danube River and the surrounding architecture. The views are magnificent during the sunset’s golden hour (you can learn about the golden hour and other tips to take better travel pictures here).

Admission and Opening Hours: The Chain Bridge is free to enter and open 24/7.

10. Hungarian State Opera 

You don’t have to be an opera fan to appreciate the stunning neo-Renaissance architecture of the Hungarian State Opera, which opened in 1884.

While the entrance hall is free to explore, we strongly recommend a guided tour to fully experience the splendour of the Hungarian State Opera. The 1-hour tour allows you to explore the magnificent auditorium with its red velvet seats and mesmerising ceiling frescoes.

During the tour, guides share stories and anecdotes about the opera’s rich history. Tours also include a short concert featuring the opera’s soloists at the end!

If you’ve ever visited the Vienna State Opera House, you might notice some architectural similarities. Both were built during the reign of Franz Joseph I, Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary.

11. Danube Promenade & Shoes on the Danube Bank

The promenade on the east bank of the Danube is a lovely spot for a walk along the river. It’s the perfect place to see the Buda Castle and other landmarks across the river.

You’ll find various statues and memorials along the promenade. One of them is the Shoes on the Danube along the banks of the Danube. It’s a touching and powerful memorial to the Jewish victims murdered during World War II.

The memorial consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes lined up along the river’s edge. The shoes represent the footwear left behind by the victims before they were shot and fell into the river.

12. Great Market Hall

Spread over three floors, the market has a wide range of goods. On the ground floor, you’ll find local delicacies and fresh food. Upstairs, the stalls sell souvenirs, bags, clothes, and more. Down in the basement, you can explore pickles and stuffed paprikas.

The market has plenty to sample and buy, but be aware that many food stalls and souvenirs are pretty pricey. Budapest has many other places with better quality and less crowded settings. 

Nonetheless, the fantastic atmosphere and stunning neo-Gothic design of the Great Market Hall make it a must-see spot in Budapest.

Top tip: Liberty Bridge is just a short walk from the market hall. Stop by the green-coloured iron structure; it’s a magnificent bridge!

Admission and Opening Hours: Entry to the hall is free. It’s open from 6am-5pm on Monday, 6am-6pm Tuesday to Friday, and 6am-3pm on Saturday (closed on Sunday).

13. Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library

The Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library, housed in Wenckheim Palace, is a hidden gem you rarely see in travel guides. It’s one of Budapest’s best non-touristy and unique things to do on a city break. 

Built in the late 1800s by Hungarian aristocrat Count Frigyes Wenckheim, this grand palace was once among the finest residences in Budapest’s Palace district. In 1927, the City Council bought the Neo-Baroque palace and converted it into the Ervin Szabó Public Library.

Admission and Opening Hours: Tickets can only be bought on-site at the foyer on the ground floor. Opt for a tourist ticket priced at 1,900 HUF (≈£4 or 5€ or US$5). Then, take the lift or stairs to level 4 and follow the signs to the magnificent reading rooms. The library is open from 10am-8pm Monday through Friday, and 10am-4pm on Saturday; it’s closed on Sundays.

14. Fisherman’s Bastion

Ah, Fisherman’s Bastion! Fisherman’s Bastion is a must-see when you visit Budapest. It looks like something straight out of a fairy tale and offers stunning city views. In fact, its turrets reminded us a bit of Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany.

Did you know? Although it looks like an old fort, Fisherman’s Bastion isn’t an actual historical fortification. Its name comes from the medieval guild of fishermen who defended this area in Budapest during the Middle Ages.

Don’t miss Matthias Church, a stunning Gothic masterpiece right next to Fisherman’s Bastion. Dating back to 1015, it’s considered one of the most beautiful churches in Budapest.

Top tip: The Bastion’s terraces offer some of the best panoramic views of Budapest. We found it most beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

Admission and Opening Hours: All lower terraces and towers are free to enter. The upper towers and walkways have an entrance fee of 1,200 HUF (≈£3 or 3€ or US$3). The lower terraces are open 24/7, and the upper towers from 9am-7pm.

15. St Stephen’s Basilica

St Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Hungary and is named after Hungary’s first king, King Stephen. 

We’re sure you’ll be impressed by its massive size and grand Neo-Classical architecture, like us! It can be compared to other famous European basilicas, like St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, and St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Did you know? The basilica houses the mummified right hand of King Stephen, the patron saint of Hungary. Known as “The Holy Right”, this sacred relic is preserved in a golden container and can be viewed inside the basilica.

The highlight of the basilica is undoubtedly the panoramic dome that offers amazing city views. You can climb the 364 stairs or take the lift for a 360-degree view, especially beautiful during sunset.

16. Hungarian National Museum

If you want to learn about Hungary and Budapest’s history, don’t miss the Hungarian National Museum. 

It’s housed in a grand neo-classical building. Inside are beautifully designed stairways and a central dome inspired by Rome’s Pantheon. The museum also has lovely gardens, perfect for a relaxing break in the summer.

17. New York Café

One of Budapest’s must-visit spots is the iconic New York Café. Often called the “Most Beautiful Cafe in the World”, it perfectly captures Budapest’s rich cultural heritage. The Italian Renaissance-style café opened its doors in 1894.

During the early 20th century, the New York Café was the city’s favourite coffee house. It attracted intellectuals, artists, and writers who drew inspiration from its elegant atmosphere and lovely interior design.

Our Top Tips for Visiting the New York Café

• Reserve a table on their website, especially on weekends. You can walk in for breakfast or lunch but expect a wait.
• Be prepared for potential service disappointments, as we’ve encountered on several visits.
• In our opinion, the food is average, so opt for a simple coffee or another drink and soak up the impressive building.
• Note that a service fee is automatically included in the bill; there’s no need for an extra tip.

Opening Hours: The café is open daily from 8am to midnight.

Reserve a table at the New York Café here (it’s free).

Interactive Map: 17 Must-See Attractions in Budapest

We’ve created an interactive map for you to enhance your Budapest city break. It features all the top attractions mentioned in this post. 

How to use this map: Access the list of locations by clicking on the top left corner of the map. For a larger view, open the map in a new tab by clicking on the top right corner. Alternatively, save our map to your Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map title.

Other Sights & Activities Worth Checking Out in Budapest

For our “Best things to do” city guides, we only include the activities we consider the top things to experience. However, if you have extra time during your Budapest city break, the below sights didn’t quite make our top list but are still worth seeing:

Margaret Island – Explore this peaceful oasis in the heart of the Danube River. Rent a bike, stroll along tree-lined paths, relax on sandy beaches, or visit the Japanese Garden.

Sightseeing Tour by Bus – See Budapest from a different perspective with a sightseeing bus tour. Companies like Big Bus Tours and City Sightseeing (our favourite choice for tours worldwide!) offer these tours in Budapest. It’s a good option if your feet need a break.

Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy út) – One of Budapest’s main boulevards, often referred to as the Champs-Élysées of Budapest. The avenue is lined with trees and has plenty of fascinating historic buildings along the way. Take a long walk up the street; you’ll likely see it on your way to the Hungarian State Opera anyway.

Walking Tour – Discover Budapest’s hidden alleyways, quirky neighbourhoods, and local stories with a guided walking tour. There are many excellent walking tours, including themed tours (e.g. street art walking tours).

5 Things in Budapest You Can Skip

You’re probably curious about what you can skip in Budapest (who doesn’t love a good efficiency hack, right?). Here’s a heads-up on a few things we weren’t too keen on. Remember, these are just our thoughts – you might find them enjoyable! But if you’re tight on time, consider giving these a miss:

Heroes’ Square – This grand square is packed with statues of Hungarian heroes. You’ll probably see it anyway if you’re heading to City Park (it’s right at the entrance), but it’s not worth a special detour.

House of Terror – This museum explores the dark chapters of Nazi and Soviet rule in Hungary. While the museum is interesting and informative, it’s not presented well. If you do go, definitely get the audio guide – most things aren’t in English otherwise.

Gellért Hill – Gellert Hill features the Liberty Statue, a monument commemorating Hungary’s liberation during World War II. It offers great views of Budapest. But if you plan to visit Buda Castle or Fisherman’s Bastion (which you should!), you’ll get stunning city views from there, too, so skip Gellért Hill.

Memento Park – This open-air museum outside the city centre displays communist-era statues and symbols. It’s interesting but relatively small and quite far from the city centre.

Vaci Street (Váci Utca) – This pedestrian street is often crowded with tourists and lined with mostly international chain stores. Honestly, it’s not exactly the most authentic Budapest shopping experience.

Best Time to Visit Budapest

Perfect month to visit: June

If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Budapest, June is an excellent choice. With approximately nine hours of sunshine and fewer rainy days than usual, June strikes a perfect balance between exploring the city’s attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

September is also a fantastic time to visit Budapest, offering warm weather without the peak tourist crowds. 

Additionally, April can be appealing due to fewer tourists and a reasonable amount of sunshine. However, the average temperature of 13°C/55°F may feel a bit cool for some visitors.

On the flip side, July and August are the busiest months in Budapest (high season), drawing the largest number of tourists. If you prefer quieter surroundings, it’s best to plan your visit for other months. Despite having the most rainy days, May is worth considering for its warmer temperatures and manageable tourist numbers.

While January, February, March, October, and November have fewer sunshine hours (4 or less), they also have the fewest tourists. January and February are perfect if you want ultimate peace and quiet. December is magical with Budapest’s enchanting Christmas markets and festive lights.

How Long to Stay in Budapest

Where to Stay in Budapest

Best Neighbourhoods in Budapest

Budapest is walkable (and walking is definitely the best way to see the city!), but also has an efficient transport system. For a convenient stay, choose a hotel near the city centre or public transportation.

If it’s your first time in Budapest, we recommend these three districts:

• District V (Inner City) – This central location offers easy access to major landmarks, shopping areas, and restaurants. It’s ideal if you want to be close to the heart of the city.
• District VII (The Jewish Quarter) – Known for its nightlife and unique ruin bars, this district has a lively atmosphere and plenty of cultural and entertainment options.
• District I (Castle District) – Located on the hilly western bank of the Danube River, this area boasts medieval streets, stunning architecture, and picturesque views.

Check out our illustrated map below to see the best districts for first-time visitors to the Hungarian capital:

Recommended Hotels in Budapest

We had a great time staying in the Up Hotel Budapest (District VII) and the Emerald Hotel by Continental Group (District V), but there are many hotels to choose from!

Here’s a full list of all the hotel options for Budapest.

Use our map below to browse accommodations and real-time prices. It’s currently set to District V, one of the city’s most popular areas to stay in. However, you can easily switch locations if you fancy another neighbourhood in Budapest.

Visiting Budapest: FAQ

Now that you know about the best things to do, let’s address some frequently asked questions about a city break to Budapest.

Wrap-Up: Things to Do on Your Budapest City Break

Ready to plan your Budapest itinerary? We can’t wait for you to explore the magic of Budapest, Hungary! From the jaw-dropping Hungarian Parliament Building to the fairytale-like Fisherman’s Bastion, this Eastern Europe gem stuns at every turn.

If Budapest is on your travel horizon, we highly recommend our post on the best travel apps for Europe. And if you’re on the hunt for more European city breaks, don’t miss our must-visit European cities list – they all deserve a spot on your travel bucket list!