Looking for the best things to do during a city break in Budapest, Hungary? Discover the must-see sights and attractions that make this European gem an unforgettable stop.
Budapest is an excellent choice for a city break in Europe! Having explored hundreds of cities worldwide, we confidently place Budapest among the top 20 most stunning European destinations.
From its stunning architecture to historic thermal baths, and mouthwatering cuisine to hip ruin bars, Budapest has something for everyone. It’s no surprise why it has become such a popular destination for travellers from around the world.
In this article, we’ll be guiding you through the absolute best things to do in Budapest, ensuring that your city break in Hungary’s capital is nothing short of remarkable.
For more, don’t miss our comprehensive first-timers guide to Budapest. It covers everything from the best time to visit Budapest, how long to stay, how to get around, the best things to eat, and much more.
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Plan Your Budapest Trip
Budapest City Break: 17 Best Things to Do
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 sights and activities you shouldn’t miss during your Budapest city break:
1. Hungarian Parliament Building
The Parliament House, also known as the Hungarian Parliament Building, is one of the most impressive architectural feats you’ll see in Budapest. This majestic structure, situated on the banks of the Danube River, is a mix of neo-Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.
It’s one of the largest parliamentary buildings in the world and the largest building in Hungary. Construction of the Parliament House took 17 years to complete, from 1885 to 1902. It involved the work of thousands of workers and countless artisans.
The interior of Parliament House features beautiful ornate decorations and stunning stained glass windows that depict significant moments from Hungarian history.
You can explore the Parliament Building via a 45-minute guided tour with a professional tour guide. You can see the lavish halls, including the impressive main staircase, the lounge of the Chamber of Peers, and the magnificent Dome Hall, where the Hungarian Crown Jewels are kept.
Top Tips for Visiting the Hungarian Parliament Building
- Admission costs 6,000 HUF (about £13, €16, or US$17) for EEA citizens and 12,000 HUF (around £27, €31, or US$33) for non-EEA citizens.
- The parliament is open from 8am-4pm from November to the end of March, and 8am-6pm from April to the end of October.
- Book your tickets online on the official website, preferably weeks in advance. A limited number of same-day tickets are sold at the ticket office at 8am but sell out quickly.
- Try to stay at the front of the group for clear views and audio (audio tends to cut out towards the end of the group).
- There’s a free toilet outside the visitor centre; using the indoor toilet incurs a fee.
- Don’t forget to bring a valid photo ID, as you need it to enter the Parliament House.
Buy your ticket for the Hungarian Parliament Building here.
2. House of Music
Located in City Park and next to Vajdahunyad Castle is one of Budapest’s newest attractions: the House of Music. Japanese star architect Sou Fujimoto designed the building, which opened in January 2022.
The complex features concert halls, exhibition spaces, and an open-air stage – but most of all, an absolutely stunning roof structure and extensive glass panels. We genuinely love the contemporary design of the building.
Fujimoto designed the roof as a continuation of the landscape. It features 100 crater-like perforations to accommodate surrounding trees and allow for natural light. Over 30,000 gold-coloured leaves cover the underside of the roof canopy.
It’s no wonder that the building has gained worldwide recognition and acclaim. It has earned awards such as 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 one of the must-see things in Budapest during a city break!
Admission and Opening Hours: The House of Music is free to enter. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am-6pm.
Here are your hotel options for Budapest.
House of Music Official Website
3. Vajdahunyad Castle
Vajdahunyad Castle is a picturesque architectural masterpiece within Budapest’s City Park. It’s actually not a single castle but a complex of buildings representing different architectural styles from various regions of Hungary, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.
Did you know? Vajdahunyad Castle was originally built as a temporary structure for the 1896 Millennium Exhibition in Budapest but became so popular that it was later reconstructed with more durable materials and has since become a permanent and iconic landmark in the city.
Its main inspiration is the Hunyad Castle, located in Transylvania, Romania. It’s known for its striking Gothic architecture.
During the winter months, Vajdahunyad Castle transforms into a fairytale-like setting with the City Park Ice Rink located right in front of it.
Admission and Opening Hours: Entry to the castle grounds is free. It’s open 9am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday (closed on Monday).
Vajdahunyad Castle Official Website
4. Buda Castle
The complex of Buda Castle occupies a strategic location atop Castle Hill. It offers panoramic views of the Danube River and the Pest side of the city. As an integral part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as a testament to the grandeur of Hungarian heritage.
The castle’s origins date back to the 13th century and has undergone numerous expansions and reconstructions throughout history. The result is a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.
It has served as the royal residence and witnessed significant events, such as the Ottoman sieges and Habsburg rule. Following extensive damage during World War II, it was meticulously reconstructed in the Baroque style. Today, it houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum (both of them are free to enter with a Budapest Card).
Top Tip: To reach Buda Castle, you have the option of walking up the hill or riding on the funicular. We recommend walking at least in one direction (up or down). This way, you won’t miss out on the viewpoints that offer incredible vistas of Budapest.
Admission and Opening Hours: The main courtyard, the gardens, and the surroundings of the Buda Castle are free to visit and open 24/7. Prices for attractions within the complex vary.
Here are your hotel options for Budapest.
5. Dohány Street Synagogue
The Dohány Street Synagogue, or Great Synagogue, is a significant landmark with deep cultural and historical significance in Budapest. As the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world, it can seat 3,000 people.
Built in 1859 in Moorish revival style, the synagogue boasts an impressive facade with intricate details and stunning architectural elements.
During World War II, the synagogue served as a refuge and shelter for many Jews seeking safety from persecution.
Visiting the Dohány Street Synagogue provides an opportunity to delve into the Jewish heritage of Budapest. Your ticket includes a guided tour. You can also explore the Jewish Museum, located within the synagogue complex. It houses a vast collection of artefacts, documents, and exhibits that shed light on the history, traditions, and contributions of the Jewish community in Hungary.
Buy your ticket for Dohány Street Synagogue here.
Admission and Opening Hour: A ticket for the synagogue is 10,800 HUF (approximately £24 or 28€ or US$30); you’ll get a 10% discount with a Budapest Card. The synagogue is open from 10am-6pm on Sundays to Thursdays, and from 10am-4pm on Saturdays (Saturdays closed). During winter, there are slightly shorter opening hours, so be sure to check the specific timings here before your visit.
Dohány Street Synagogue Official Website
6. Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge, officially known as Széchenyi Chain Bridge, was the first permanent bridge across the Danube in Hungary. Constructed in the mid-19th century, it played a crucial role in uniting the previously separate towns of Buda and Pest.
Before the construction of the Chain Bridge, crossing the Danube River was limited to boats or relying on the frozen river during winter. Recognising the need for a more reliable and convenient connection, the bridge was commissioned and named after Count István Széchenyi, a key figure in its construction.
During World War II, the retreating Nazi troops destroyed all the bridges in Budapest, including the Chain Bridge. Budapest’s citizens had to completely rebuild and reopen the bridge in 1949, exactly a century after its inauguration.
The bridge’s impressive stone lions, guarding each entrance, have become symbolic guardians of the city. As you stroll across the bridge, take in the panoramic vistas of the Danube River and the surrounding architectural wonders. The views are particularly beautiful during the enchanting golden hues of sunset.
Admission and Opening Hours: Chain Bridge is free to enter and open 24/7.
7. Danube Promenade & Shoes on the Danube Bank
The Danube Promenade is a magnificent waterfront stretch alongside the Danube River. The architecture along the promenade reflects the city’s diverse cultural heritage, with grand buildings and landmarks lining the riverfront. Take a moment to appreciate the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Chain Bridge, and the iconic Buda Castle.
As you stroll along the Danube Promenade, you’ll encounter various statues and memorials. They pay homage to influential figures and historical events.
One notable monument is the ‘Shoes on the Danube Bank’, a poignant memorial dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust. It consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes lined up along the river’s edge, paying tribute to the victims of the Holocaust. The memorial is a powerful reminder of the thousands of Jewish people executed during World War II. The shoes represent the footwear left behind by the victims before they were shot and fell into the river.
Top Tip: One of the best things you can do in Budapest is to experience Budapest’s iconic sights along the Danube from a sightseeing cruise. From the City Highlights Cruise to the Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco or the 1-Hour Evening Sightseeing Cruise, these cruises offer a delightful way to witness Budapest’s landmarks shimmering under the city’s lights.
Check the availability and pricing of sightseeing cruises on the Danube.
8. Great Market Hall
The Great Market Hall, also known as the Central Market Hall, is Budapest’s largest and oldest indoor market. The market hall opened its doors in 1897 to provide a central location for locals to buy fresh produce, meat, dairy products, and spices.
Spread across three floors, the market offers a wide array of goods. The ground floor is full of local delicacies and fresh produce. As you go upstairs, you’ll find various stalls with souvenirs, bags, clothing, and food. Additionally, the basement area presents a selection of pickles and stuffed paprikas.
Top Tip: Visit the Great Market Hall early in the day to avoid the crowds. The market tends to be most congested between noon and 3 pm, so it would be wise to steer clear of these peak hours.
While the market offers many items to buy and taste, we found that most food stalls and souvenirs were noticeably overpriced. Budapest boasts numerous alternatives with superior quality offerings and a less crowded ambience. However, the great atmosphere and stunning neo-Gothic architecture of the Great Market Hall make it a must-see destination in Budapest.
Admission and Opening Hours: The hall is free to enter. The hall is open from 6am-5pm on Monday, 6am-6pm Tuesday to Friday, and 6am-3pm on Saturday. It’s closed on Sunday.
Here are your hotel options for Budapest.
9. Fisherman’s Bastion
Perched high on Castle Hill in Budapest, Fisherman’s Bastion is an architectural gem that looks straight out of a fairy tale. Built between 1895 and 1902, the Bastion was created to celebrate the 1,000th birthday of the Hungarian state.
The Bastion’s design draws inspiration from Romanesque and Gothic styles, featuring turreted towers, decorative arcades, and intricate stone carvings. Its seven white towers represent the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary in 895.
Fisherman’s Bastion derives its name from the historical connection to the fishermen who once resided below the walls in Watertown (Vizivaros), also known as Fishtown. One theory suggests that these fishermen not only inhabited the area but also had the task of protecting the walls during times of war. Another theory is that the name commemorates the fishermen’s presence in Watertown by the Danube River.
The Bastion’s terraces offer stunning vistas of Budapest’s skyline. The panoramic views are particularly mesmerising during sunrise and sunset.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see Matthias Church, a stunning Gothic masterpiece located within the castle complex. Dating back to 1015, it’s not only the oldest but also considered one of the finest churches in Budapest.
For photography enthusiasts, Fisherman’s Bastion is an absolute gem. Capture the most iconic shots of Budapest through the arches, with the Hungary Parliament Building in the background. Oh, if you’re looking to enhance your travel photography skills, check out our article with simple tips for taking better travel photos with your smartphone to make the most of your Budapest experience.
Admission and Opening Hours: Many of the balconies and towers are free to enter; the lower terraces are free, while the upper towers and walkways have an entrance fee of 1,200 HUF (approximately £3 or 3€ or US$3). You can visit the lower terraces 24/7, and the upper towers from 9am-7pm.
10. Hungarian National Museum
If you’re keen on delving into Hungary and Budapest’s history, the Hungarian National Museum is a must-visit. Housed in an impressive neo-classical building, it contains a vast collection of artefacts and artworks.
Inside, you’ll find beautifully designed stairways and a central rotunda inspired by Rome’s Pantheon. The museum also boasts lovely gardens, perfect for a relaxing break in the summer.
Top Tips for Visiting the Hungarian National Museum
- Entry to the permanent exhibition costs 3,500 HUF (approximately £8 or 9€ or US$10), but it’s free with a Budapest Card.
- If you wish to take pictures inside the museum, you need to buy a Photo Pass for a small fee of 500 HUF (approximately £1 or 1€ or US$1).
- The museum is open daily from 10am-6pm, except on Mondays (it’s closed on Mondays).
- Begin your exploration from the lowest floor and work your way up.
- A free cloakroom in the basement allows you to leave coats and bags.
- If you don’t require a Photo Pass, consider buying your ticket in advance through the Hungarian National Museum Official Website. However, if you wish to get a photo pass, it’s only available at the ticket office. So, if you want both your photo pass and regular museum ticket, you can conveniently purchase them together at the ticket office.
Buy your Hungarian National Museum ticket here.
Hungarian National Museum Official Website
11. Ruin Bar Crawl in the Jewish Quarter
Embark on a distinctive adventure in Budapest’s nightlife by exploring ruin bars, a unique feature primarily found in the Jewish Quarter. These venues are housed in abandoned buildings and courtyards that have been creatively transformed into lively social hubs. Each ruin bar has its own distinct character.
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 discover a blend of vintage furniture, quirky decor, and lively artwork, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Ruin bars typically consist of multiple rooms, each boasting its own style and theme.
Top 3 Must-Visit Ruin Bars
- Szimpla Kert: Budapest’s oldest ruin bar, meaning ‘simple garden’, offers eight themed rooms filled with worn-out furniture, neon lights, disco balls, art installations, and plants. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere with a drink, feeling like you’ve entered another world.
- Mazel Tov (Our Favourite!): For those preferring a more refined ambience, Mazel Tov in the buzzing Jewish Quarter is ideal. This Middle Eastern restaurant maintains the characteristic disintegrating facade of ruin bars but features a modern interior adorned with lush greenery. Stepping inside feels like entering a garden party, complete with a delightful atmosphere and delicious food, making it our favourite ruin bar in Budapest.
- Csendes Letterem: A quiet gem in Budapest’s ruin bar scene, this café & bar offers a vintage aesthetic reminiscent of Central European coffee houses. You’ll experience a laid-back vibe and a quirky atmosphere, adorned with amputated mannequin limbs and leering Disney characters. It’s a great option for those seeking a quieter yet intriguing experience.
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. You can check the availability and pricing for all ruin bar tours here.
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.
12. St Stephen’s Basilica
St Stephen’s Basilica stands tall as a significant religious site, named after Hungary’s first king, King Stephen. Mixing neoclassical and Renaissance styles, this architectural gem is a must-see in Budapest.
Did you know? The basilica is famous for housing 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 reliquary and can be viewed by visitors within the basilica.
The highlight of the basilica is undoubtedly the panoramic dome that offers breathtaking city views. Ascend the 364 stairs or take the elevator for a 360-degree panorama, especially enchanting during sunset.
Top Tips for Visiting St Stephen’s Basilica
- The basilica is open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5:45pm and Sundays from 1pm-5:15pm. The dome terrace and treasury are open daily from 9am-7pm.
- There are three ticket types: 2,000 HUF (approximately £4 or 5€ or US$6) to enter the church only. 3,200 HUF (approximately £7 or 8€ or US$9) to enter the dome terrace and treasury. 4,500 HUF (approximately £10 or 12€ or US$13) to access everything.
- Purchase your ticket online in advance to skip the queues.
- Guided tours are a great way to learn more about the history and architecture of the Basilica. We highly recommend this guided tour of St Stephen’s Basilica that also includes skip-the-line tickets (with an option to add the dome terrace and treasury).
- The panoramic terrace comes with an extra cost but is totally worth the breathtaking views. Don’t miss it!
Buy your St Stephen’s Basilica ticket here or check the availability and pricing for the guided tour here.
13. Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Located in the heart of Budapest’s City Park, Széchenyi Thermal Baths is a must-visit destination for those in search of relaxation during a Budapest city break. Its grand neo-baroque architecture and therapeutic thermal pools offer a unique chance to immerse in Budapest’s famed healing waters.
Impressively, Széchenyi Thermal Baths claim the title of Europe’s largest spa bath, featuring 15 indoor baths and three expansive outdoor pools.
Did you know? According to the Budapest Festival and Tourism Centre (BFTK), 60% of tourists explore at least one of Budapest’s historical spas during their trip.
Check out this YouTube video by Budapest Spas that provides a glimpse of what Széchenyi Thermal Baths looks like:
Top Tips for Visiting Széchenyi Thermal Baths
- The baths are open from 7am-8pm on weekdays and 8am-8pm on weekends.
- Admission fees start at 8,400 HUF (approximately £18 or 22€ or US$23), varying with factors like day, time, and locker usage. If you have a Budapest Card, you’ll get a 20% discount.
- Széchenyi is the most famous spa in Budapest, so skip the queues by purchasing tickets online in advance.
- You must bring a swimsuit, towel and flip-flops, otherwise you have to purchase them on-site. Lockers are available for rent to store your belongings.
- Explore the indoor and outdoor pools with varying temperatures. The warmest outdoor pool is popular for socialising, while the cooler ones are suited for relaxation.
Buy your Széchenyi Thermal Baths ticket here.
Top Tip: Széchenyi Thermal Baths are stunning (we loved it there!), but for a more traditional Hungarian bath experience with a historical ambience, consider checking out Gellért Baths!
14. Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library
Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library, housed in Wenckheim Palace, is a hidden gem you rarely see in travel guides. It’s one of the best non-touristy and unique things to do when you’re on a city break in Budapest.
This library is like a page out of a fairytale, probably one of the most beautiful in the world. It makes us wish our university library had been as charming!
Built in the late 1800s by Hungarian aristocrat Count Frigyes Wenckheim, this grand palace was once among the finest homes in Budapest’s Palace district. In 1927, the City Council bought the Neo-Baroque palace and transformed it into the Ervin Szabó Public Library.
Admission and Opening Hours: You can only purchase a ticket on-site in the foyer on the ground floor. Ask for a tourist ticket, which is 1,700 HUF per person (approximately £4 or 4€ or US$5). Then take the lift or walk the stairs up to level 4 and follow the signs leading to the magnificent reading rooms. The library is open from 10am-8pm Monday to Friday, and 10am-4pm on Saturday; it’s closed on Sundays.
Here are your hotel options for Budapest.
15. New York Café
One of the must-visit places in Budapest is the legendary New York Café. Often referred to as the “Most Beautiful Cafe in the World”, this legendary café embodies the cultural heritage of Budapest.
Located within New York Palace, the Italian Renaissance-style café first opened its doors in 1894. The moment you enter, you’ll see stunning frescoes and decorative chandeliers.
During the early 20th century, the New York Café was Budapest’s most beloved coffee house. It was a hub for intellectuals, artists, and writers who found inspiration in its elegant ambience and exquisite interior design.
Top Tips for Visiting the New York Café
- The café is open daily from 8am to midnight.
- Reserve a table on their website, if possible, especially on weekends. Walk-ins are an option for breakfast or lunch but be prepared to wait.
- Be prepared for potentially disappointing service, as we’ve experienced on multiple visits.
- In our opinion, the food is average, so opt for a coffee or another drink and relish the remarkable building – it’s truly worth it!
- Note that a service fee is automatically included in the bill; there’s no need for an extra tip.
Reserve a table at the New York Café here (it’s free).
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16. Szabadság Bridge (Liberty Bridge)
Szabadság Bridge, also known as Liberty Bridge, stretches across the Danube River and serves as a crucial link between the lively Pest side and the historic Buda side of Budapest. Its construction was completed in 1896, coinciding with the 1,000th anniversary of Hungary’s founding. It’s just a short 1-minute walk from the Great Market Hall.
The bridge’s design combines Art Nouveau and Gothic Revival elements, with its green-coloured iron structure, intricate decorative details and elegant curves. A stroll offers stunning views of the river, Budapest’s iconic skyline, and landmarks like Gellért Hill and Buda Castle.
The bridge’s central span can be raised to allow large ships to pass beneath it.
Top Tip: Keep an eye out for the mini statue of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary, created by the guerilla sculptor Mihály Kolodko. His mini statues pop up mysteriously throughout Budapest.
17. Hungarian State Opera
Transport yourself to another era as you step into the magnificent Hungarian State Opera, which first opened its doors in 1884. With its timeless neo-Renaissance style, the Opera House exudes an atmosphere of enduring elegance and artistic charm.
While the entrance hall is free to explore, we strongly recommend a guided tour to fully embrace the splendour of the Hungarian State Opera. The 1-hour tour allows you to wander through the stunning auditorium with its red velvet seats and mesmerising ceiling frescoes.
During the tour, guides share stories and anecdotes about the Hungarian State Opera’s rich history. Tours also include a short concert at the end featuring the soloists of the opera!
Top Tips for Guided Tours at the Hungarian State Opera
- The cost for a guided tour is 9,000 HUF (approximately £20 or 24€ or US$25).
- The guided tours take about 60 minutes.
- Tours can sell out, especially the English ones, so it’s best to book your tickets online (only available on the official website). You can book them up to one week in advance.
- The English tours start every day at 1:30pm, 3pm and 4:30pm.
- There are also tours in Italian, Spanish, German, French, and Hungarian.
Check the availability of the Hungarian State Opera guided tour here.
Interactive Map: 17 Best Things to Do on a Budapest City Break
We’ve created an interactive map to enrich your Budapest city break, showcasing all the top things to do mentioned in this article. Click below to unveil the locations and gain a comprehensive guide to plan your Budapest itinerary. This tool will ensure you navigate the sights effortlessly during your city break.
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 for a Budapest City Break
For our city guides, we always carefully select the activities we think are the best to do and see. However, if you have a bit more time during your Budapest city break, consider these additional sights:
Margaret Island – Visit this tranquil oasis in the heart of the Danube River. Rent a bike or wander along tree-lined paths, soak up the sun on sandy beaches, or visit the Japanese Garden.
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. Please note that you’re not allowed to take any pictures. Be sure to pay extra for the audio guide, as most exhibits are only in Hungarian.
Sightseeing Tour by Bus – Explore Budapest from a new angle with a sightseeing bus tour. Many companies, like Big Bus Tours and City Sightseeing (our trusted choice for tours worldwide!), provide these tours in Budapest. However, since Budapest is small and has walkable streets, we suggest this option mainly if your feet could use a rest.
Gellért Hill – For breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest, you can ascend Gellért Hill. On top of it, you’ll find the majestic Citadella fortress and the iconic Liberty Statue. You’ll get a similar view from Buda Castle, so we would skip this unless you have several days in Budapest.
Walking Tour – Take a guided tour to explore hidden alleyways, discover quirky neighbourhoods, and learn local tales from knowledgeable guides. There are many great walking tours, including themed tours (e.g. street art walking tours).
Check the pricing and availability of walking tours here.
Vaci Street (Váci Utca) – The main shopping street in central Budapest. It’s lined with upscale shops, cafes and restaurants. If you’re into retail therapy, then it’s worth checking out.
Heroes’ Square – A large, monumental square adorned with statues of historical figures. It was constructed in 1896 and pays homage to Hungarian heroes. You’ll likely see this on your way to City Park, as it’s right at the park’s entrance, but we don’t recommend making a special trip to see it.
Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy út) – One of the main walking avenues in Budapest, often referred to as the Camps-Elyssees of Budapest. The avenue is wide and tree-lined, with plenty of interesting buildings along the way. You’ll likely see it on your way to the Hungarian State Opera.
Memento Park – An open-air museum on the outskirts of Budapest showcasing communist-era statues and symbols. The park itself is interesting but pretty compact. There isn’t a vast array of statues, and it’s quite some way off the city centre.
Hungarian National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria) – Immerse yourself in Hungarian art at the National Gallery, which houses a rich collection spanning centuries and styles. The museum is in the former royal palace, which is part of the Buda Castle complex. It’s worth a visit if you like art.
Visiting Budapest: FAQ
Now that you know about the best things to do, we’ll address some of the frequently asked questions (FAQ) surrounding a city break to Budapest.
Is Budapest worth visiting?
Absolutely! Budapest is a charming city with stunning architecture, delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s affordable, walkable, and offers something for everyone, from history buffs to spa enthusiasts. The city’s charm lies in its contrasting Buda and Pest sides, each with its own distinct personality.
Is Budapest cheap to travel?
Budapest offers excellent value for money compared to many European capitals. While costs have risen, it’s still significantly cheaper than cities like Paris or London. You can enjoy delicious meals, budget-friendly accommodation, and affordable public transport.
How many days do I need in Budapest?
It depends on your preferences and pace. Budapest offers iconic sights, rich history, and thermal baths galore.
- 2-3 days: Perfect for a whirlwind city break, covering must-sees like the Hungarian Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, and a dip in Széchenyi Baths.
- 4-5 days: Allows for a slower pace, exploring additional museums, neighbourhoods, and day trips to Visegrád or Szentendre.
- 6+ days: Immerse yourself in Budapest’s culture, enjoy leisurely dining, and delve deeper into hidden gems like Margaret Island or the House of Terror.
Is 3 days enough to visit Budapest?
Yes, 3 days are enough to see the highlights of Budapest. You can explore must-see sights like the Hungarian Parliament, Chain Bridge and Buda Castle, and still enjoy a relaxing soak in a thermal bath.
Is Budapest English friendly?
Many people in Budapest’s tourism industry speak English well, especially in central areas and popular attractions. However, Hungarian is the main language. Learning a few basic phrases like “Köszönöm” (thank you) and “Szia” (hello) goes a long way.
Which is better, Prague or Budapest?
Both cities offer stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultures, but cater to different preferences. Prague is slightly cheaper, has a fairytale charm, and boasts impressive castles. Budapest has a more bustling atmosphere, thermal baths, and a wider range of nightlife options.
Wrap-Up: Things to Do on Your Budapest City Break
We’re excited for you to personally experience all that Budapest in Hungary has to offer. From the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building to the enchanting Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest is a city of undeniable beauty.
Having shared our Budapest discoveries, we’re now eager to hear about yours. Have you explored the vibrant ruin bars or been captivated by the architectural marvels of the House of Music? What’s your standout Budapest memory? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below.
If Budapest in Hungary is on your travel horizon, we highly recommend our comprehensive Budapest travel guide. It covers everything from the best time to visit Budapest, how long to stay, how to get around, the best things to eat, and much more.
Looking for other city break ideas? Then don’t miss our list of must-visit European cities that deserve a spot on your travel wishlist!
19 comments
This is a wonderful and informative post on Budapest! Your photos are gorgeous too! 🙂