30 Things to Do in Budapest
Budapest, Hungary’s captivating capital split by the majestic Danube River, mesmerizes visitors with its stunning architecture, rich history, and unique cultural blend. Planning your trip involves exploring grand landmarks, experiencing the famed best thermal baths Budapest Hungary offers, diving into the unique ruin bars Budapest nightlife scene, and discovering the many excellent free things to do in Budapest, such as walking across its iconic bridges or exploring parks. This city offers a compelling mix of old-world charm and vibrant energy.
From soaking in healing waters to exploring historic castles and sampling hearty Hungarian cuisine, Budapest provides a diverse array of activities. This guide presents 30 distinct experiences, combining must-see attractions with authentic local encounters. Use it to craft your perfect Budapest itinerary and immerse yourself in the spirit of the “Pearl of the Danube.”
Iconic Landmarks and Danube Views
Marvel at the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building, one of Europe’s most impressive legislative buildings, located on the Pest riverbank. Consider booking a guided tour inside or simply admire its stunning Neo-Gothic architecture from across the Danube.
Wander through the fairytale towers of Fisherman’s Bastion on Buda Hill for some of the best panoramic views across the Danube towards the Parliament and Pest side. Its Neo-Romanesque terraces offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Visit the beautiful Matthias Church next to Fisherman’s Bastion, known for its colourful tiled roof and rich history, including the coronation of several Hungarian kings. Explore its ornate interior and small museum.
Walk across the historic Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd), the first permanent bridge connecting Buda and Pest. Enjoy the views of both sides of the city and the iconic stone lions guarding its entrances.
Take a Danube River cruise to see Budapest’s landmarks illuminated beautifully at night or enjoy the cityscape by day. Various cruise options are available, from sightseeing tours to dinner cruises.
Reflect at the poignant Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial on the Pest side, near the Parliament. This installation honors the Jewish victims who were shot into the river during World War II.
Climb the dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Pest for breathtaking 360-degree views over the city center. Also admire the basilica’s grand neoclassical architecture and see the revered Holy Right Hand relic inside.
Budapest’s Famous Thermal Baths
Soak in the vast outdoor and indoor pools of Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Europe’s largest medicinal baths, located in City Park. Enjoy the unique experience of playing chess with locals in the warm outdoor pools, even in winter.
Relax in the stunning Art Nouveau setting of Gellért Thermal Bath, located within the Hotel Gellért on the Buda side. Admire the intricate mosaics, stained glass windows, and sculptures while enjoying the thermal pools.
Experience the historic Rudas Thermal Bath, offering a traditional octagonal Turkish bath dating back to the 16th century, plus modern wellness facilities. Enjoy panoramic views from its rooftop jacuzzi pool.
Historical Insights and Cultural Gems
Visit the sobering House of Terror Museum on Andrássy Avenue, located in the former headquarters of the Nazi and Communist secret police. Its exhibits chronicle Hungary’s 20th-century totalitarian regimes.
Explore Hungarian history from ancient times to the modern era at the Hungarian National Museum. Discover archaeological artifacts, royal insignia, and exhibits covering major historical events.
Tour the Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe, located in the historic Jewish Quarter. Visit the complex including the synagogue, Hungarian Jewish Museum, and the poignant Holocaust Memorial Tree.
Go underground at the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum beneath Buda Castle Hill. Discover the history of this former secret emergency hospital and nuclear bunker used during WWII and the Cold War.
See grand performances or take a guided tour of the magnificent Hungarian State Opera House on Andrássy Avenue. Admire its opulent Neo-Renaissance architecture and lavish interiors (check for reopening/tour status).
Walk down Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with elegant mansions, luxury boutiques, embassies, and cultural institutions like the Opera House. It connects the city center with City Park.
Visit Memento Park on the outskirts of Budapest (requires transport), an open-air museum displaying monumental statues from Hungary’s Communist era. It offers a unique perspective on the country’s recent past.
Exploring Buda and Pest Sides
Explore the expansive Buda Castle complex on Castle Hill, home to the Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest History Museum, and the National Széchényi Library. Wander the courtyards and enjoy the elevated views.
Ride the historic Castle Hill Funicular (Budavári Sikló) from the Chain Bridge up to Buda Castle. Enjoy the short, scenic ride offering increasingly beautiful perspectives as you ascend.
Take a unique ride on the Children’s Railway (Gyermekvasút) in the Buda Hills, largely operated by uniformed children under adult supervision. Enjoy scenic forested routes and a nostalgic atmosphere.
Climb Gellért Hill to the Citadella fortress for commanding views over the entire city and the Danube River. It’s a popular spot, especially for watching the sunset illuminate Budapest.
Relax on Margaret Island (Margit-sziget), a peaceful green oasis in the middle of the Danube, accessible by bridge. Enjoy walking paths, gardens, musical fountains, swimming pools, and vehicle-free zones.
Ride the scenic Tram Line 2 along the Pest embankment for fantastic views of the Buda Castle complex, Chain Bridge, and Gellért Hill. It’s considered one of the most beautiful tram routes in the world.
Wander through the historic Jewish Quarter (Erzsébetváros) in Pest, exploring its narrow streets, synagogues, kosher shops, and vibrant atmosphere. This area is also home to many famous ruin bars.
Food, Drink, and Ruin Bars
Browse the stalls at the Great Market Hall (Nagy Vásárcsarnok), Budapest’s largest indoor market housed in a stunning historic building. Find fresh produce, local delicacies like paprika and foie gras, souvenirs, and food stalls upstairs.
Try traditional Hungarian Goulash, a hearty beef stew seasoned generously with paprika. Sample it in various restaurants, from traditional eateries to modern interpretations.
Taste Lángos, a popular Hungarian street food consisting of deep-fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, garlic, or other savory options. Find it at market stalls or dedicated lángos stands.
Indulge in a Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake), a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry roasted over charcoal and coated in sugar, cinnamon, or nuts. Watch it being made fresh at street vendors or festivals.
Experience Budapest’s unique ruin bars, eclectic drinking spots set up in dilapidated pre-war buildings filled with quirky furniture and art. Visit Szimpla Kert, the pioneering ruin bar, for the quintessential experience.
Sample Pálinka, a traditional Hungarian fruit brandy, or Unicum, a distinctive herbal liqueur. Enjoy them responsibly as shots or digestifs at local bars.
