Looking for things to do when spending a weekend in Budapest?

My guide to the best things to do in Budapest provides insightful travel tips, including where to eat, where to stay and what to see in Hungary’s charming capital city.

2 | WALK THE FISHERMAN’S BASTION

Established on the hill side of Budapest is the magnificently designed Fisherman’s Bastion.

With its breathtaking panoramic views over the entire city and its fairytale-like architecture, we quickly realized why it is one of the best known historical sites in Budapest.

Legend has it that the ornate Fisherman’s Bastion owes its name to a medieval guild of fishermen, who were held responsible for preserving this part of the city.

On the upper terrace, you’ll find seven Hogwarts-like turrets, which symbolize the seven Hungarian tribes that founded contemporary Hungary in 895.

To beat the massive crowds that pass the Fisherman’s Bastion from dusk till dawn, we recommend a visit well before opening time. Going outside the opening hours has one other significant benefit, it grants free access to the bastion’s upper terrace.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Fisherman’s Bastion

Entrance fee | 1.000 Hungarian Forint (€3,-) per person

Opening hours | Daily 09:00 – 23:00

3 | MARVEL AT THE MATTHIAS CHURCH

One of Budapest’s finest churches is the towering Matthias Church, found directly after the aforementioned Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest’s medieval castle district.

The splendour that characterizes the Matthias Church is largely acquired by the beautifully coloured roof tiles and its distinctive geometric patterns.

The florid late Gothic style church holds captivating stories from more than 700 years of history while also housing an impressive ecclesiastical art collection.

The interior of the church is defined by its ornate details and is decorated with fascinating frescoes, including pieces that respectively represents the Renaissance and Ottoman reign.

If you have enough time, we sincerely advise taking a look inside.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Matthias Church

Entrance fee | 1.000 Hungarian Forint (€3,-) per person

Opening hours | Monday to Saturday 09:00 – 17:00 and Sunday 13:00 – 17:00

Book | Guided Tour To The Matthias Church including Admission

4 | HUNGARIAN PARLIAMENT BUILDING

Standing tall on the eastern shore of the Danube is the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building, that is often referred to as one of the most attractive government buildings in the world.

Although the Hungarian Assembly still gathers here regularly, the Parliament welcomes visitors that desire to admire the building’s impressive architecture and opulent interior.

The interior of the building is absolutely breathtaking; the ornate Dome Hall, marble-lined Grand Stairway and the Holy Crown of Hungary just to mention a few.

The only way to gain entrance to the Parliaments elegant interior is by joining a guided tour.

If you’re keen on joining a guided tour, we highly recommended to book your tour well in advance.

For those on a budget or tight schedule, the simple pleasure of roaming around the building is, without a doubt worthy of your time.

Therefore, we recommend to add it to your schedule of things to do in Budapest.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Parliament Building

Cost | Guided tours start at 5.400 Hungarian Forint (€16,-) per person

Opening hours | Monday to Friday 08:00 – 18:00 and Saturday to Sunday 08:00 – 16:00

Book | 45-Minute Guided Tour To The Budapest Parliament

6 | ST. STEPHEN’S BASILICA

If you ask us, a trip to Budapest simply wouldn’t be complete without bringing a visit to Hungary’s most sacred Catholic church.

The St. Stephen’s Basilica is designed in Neo-Classical-Style and is incredibly impressive through the inside and out.

It is the panoramic view from the church’s central dome, its valuable mosaic artwork and detailed frescoes, that ensures it to be one of the most significant tourist attractions in Budapest.

The church’s central dome reaches a height of 96 metres, which is exactly the same as the Budapest Parliament Building.

The equivalence of these significant buildings symbolizes that worldly, religious, and spiritual thinking, have the same value in Hungary.

This specific height also sets the tone for other buildings in Budapest, as it manifested the rule that buildings cannot be built higher than the aforementioned structures.

ESSENTIALS

Where | St. Stephen’s Basilica

Entrance fee | Free, a donation of 200 Hungarian Forint (€0,60) is suggested at the entrance

Opening hours | Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00, Saturday 09:00 – 13:00 and Sunday 13:00 – 17:00

Book | St Stephen’s Basilica Tour with Tower Access

7 | TASTE MIDDLE EASTERN FLAVOURS AT MAZEL TOV BUDAPEST

Tucked away in the lively streets of the Jewish Quarter, awaits a serene courtyard that houses possibly the most trendy restaurant in Budapest.

Mazel Tov is an open-hearted Israeli restaurant, that serves creatively composed Middle Eastern fusion dishes, which if you tell us, are incredible yum.

We savoured a rich Yemen style chicken soup, spicy sweet potato wedges with green pesto tahini and a freshly cooked Shakshuka, and were positively surprised by the delicious and characteristic flavours.

Not to mention their smoothly mixed signature cocktail, the ‘Tel-Aviv Nights’, which is by far the most delicate cocktail Glenn drank so far.

Although Mazel Tov isn’t the traditional ruin bar you’ll expect in Budapest, it still houses the spirited atmosphere, and if you want to be sure of a table, we genuinely advise making a reservation in advance.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Mazel Tov Budapest

Opening hours | Monday to Wednesday 11:00 – 01:00, Thursday to Saturday 11:00 – 02:00 and Sunday 11:00 – 01:00

8 | UNWIND IN A THERMAL BATH

Budapest is often referred to as the ‘City of Baths’, which the city owes to the thermal baths that are fueled by approximately 120 natural hot springs.

Budapest’s rich bathing culture dates back as far as the 16th century, which is reflected in both the variety and abundance of mineral-rich thermal baths.

If you’re looking to unwind during your city break, there is no better way than a dip in one of the many mineral-rich thermal baths.

The best baths in Budapest include the Széchenyi, Rudas, Gellert, and Király baths, but there are more spread throughout the city.

ESSENTIALS

Book | Skip the Line: Széchenyi Spa Full-Day Entrance Pass

9 | WALK THE SZABADSÁG HÍD BRIDGE

The Szabadság Híd Bridge is the shortest bridge you’ll encounter in the city centre, and despite its size, we think the bridge is just as spectacular as its beloved brother, the Chain Bridge.

The marvellous bridge is designed in Art Nouveau style and was the first bridge that made it possible for trams to cross the Danube.

Present-day it connects two of Budapest’s well-known public squares, which are Gellért tér and Fővám tér. On these squares, you’ll respectively find Gellért Hill and the Great Market Hall.

Make sure you witness the yellow trams slowly crossing the Liberty Bridge – as it might results in one of the most iconic photographs of Budapest.

ESSENTIALS

Where  | Szabadság Híd Bridge

10 | STROLL THROUGH THE GREAT MARKET HALL

The Great Market Hall is a multi-story market that houses more than 100 perfectly aligned market stands, making it the largest indoor market in Budapest.

Even though the market is extremely popular among tourists, it somehow managed to preserve its authentic local atmosphere, which we think is quite charming.

While wandering around the market hall, you’ll notice a broad variety of locally grown produce such as fresh fruit, veggies, meat and traditional Hungarian delicacies – including lángos, Tokaj wines and Hungarian paprika.

On the upper section of the market, they sell handicrafts and typical souvenirs for prices specially designed for tourists, not our favourite part to be honest.

To us, the Great Market Hall is the perfect place to get a feel for the city and its folk.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Great Market Hall Budapest

Opening hours | Monday 06:00 – 17:00, Tuesday to Friday 06:00 – 18:00, Saturday 06:00 – 15:00, Sunday closed

11 | MARVEL AT SZABÓ ERVIN LIBRARY

Although many information is published online these days, Budapest luckily still places significant value on its exceptional literature and elegant libraries.

The Szabó Ervin Library is said to be the most impressive library in Budapest, and after wandering among the bookshelves ourselves recently, we are safe to say it’s true.

Afore the Baroque building was transformed into Budapest’s largest public library, the building served as a private residence of the aristocratic Wenckheim family.

Since its opening in late 1931, the Szabó Ervin Library became of significant national importance and rose to become extremely popular among students, professors and academics.

The metropolitan library is still quite a hidden gem to those that travel to Budapest, and not only literally, also figuratively.

We, accordingly, had a pretty tough time locating the libraries authentic and well-preserved reading rooms, but once we finally did, we were left mesmerised.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Erwin Szabo Library

Entrance fee | 1.500 Hungarian Forint (€4,5) per person

Opening hours | Monday to Friday 10:00 – 20:00, Saturday 10:00 – 16:00, Sunday closed

12 | METRO LINE M4 BUDAPEST

Budapest’s newest metro line is one of the world’s most innovative metro lines, while also being the city’s largest infrastructure project of the last decades.

Thanks to aforementioned acknowledgement, it managed to win the RIBA Awards for International Excellence in 2018.

The minimal yet progressively designed M4 line includes 10 ingenious stations that are, one by one characterized by their unique design and the ambience that accompanies it.

The fully automated M4 metro line operates with driverless trains, which basically means that you can take a seat in the front cabin if you wish.

If like us, you appreciate modern design and infrastructure, we deeply recommend having a look at some of these stations.

All of the M4 stations are easily accessible by using the Budapest card, including our personal favourites, Szent Gellért tér and Fővám tér.

The new M4 line also connects with the previously existing M2 and M3 metro lines.

13 | HAVE A COFFEE AT THE NEW YORK CAFE

Budapest is home to the profoundly beloved New York Cafe, which is often considered the most beautiful coffeehouse in the world.

The extraordinary cafe that is designed in neo-Renaissance style, is situated within the luxury New York Palace Hotel and occupies almost the entire ground floor.

The historic coffeehouse was once the creative heart of Budapest and many writers, artists and editors gathered here to work on the most influential newspapers.

Today, the New York Cafe is admired by travelers from all over the world, and during our recent visit, we came to realize why.

Although the prices are relatively high, the cafe itself, with its marble columns, opulent interior and spectacular frescoes, easily lives up to its famous reputation.

It truly felt as if we stepped on a ’60s movie set and it was a delight to take in the vibe.

ESSENTIALS

Where | New York Cafe Budapest

Opening hours | Daily 08:00 – 00:00

14 | TAKE THE FUNICULAR TO THE CASTLE DISTRICT OF BUDAPEST

At the foot of Buda Castle, you’ll encounter a historical cable car that transfers people from Adam Clarke square to the summit of the Budapest’s castle district.

The authentic Funicular is well-preserved and retained most of its original design, which dates back as far as the 19th-century.

Despite the fact that the funicular is extremely charming, we personally think that the 3-minute ride is too short to be enjoyed and therefore not worth the money.

Instead, you could take a gentle 10-minute walk that will easily take you to the summit of the castle district.

If you somehow do consider making use of the funicular, the cars run every 5 to 10 minutes.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Funicular to Budapest Castle District

Cost | One way 1.200 Hungarian Forint (€3,50) | Return 1.800 Hungarian Forint (€5,30)

Opening hours | Daily 07:30 – 22:00

15 | VISIT BUDA CASTLE

Buda Castle is an eye-catching 13th-century palace that also happens to house the Hungarian National Gallery, the Castle Museum and the National Library.

If you’re willing to receive a glimpse of Hungary’s rich history, walk among the cobblestone pathways that guide you along various distinct architectural elements that date back from Medieval, Baroque and Modern times.

The sensational panoramic views from the summit, make sure that Buda Castle is one of the best vantage points in the city.

The amazing scene over both the Danube and Pest district is something you should definitely take in, especially during sunset.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Buda Castle

Entrance fee | Free, entrance to the Hungarian National Gallery and Castle Museum are free with a Budapest Card

Opening hours | The courtyards are open 24/7

Book | Reap the benefits and grab yourself a Budapest Card in advance

16 | EAT YUM MEXICAN FOOD AT TEREZA BUDAPEST

At the end of our first day in Budapest (which involved a lot of walking through the city’s picturesque little streets) we accidentally stumbled upon one of the finest Mexican restaurants in Budapest.

Those who follow our blog a little longer, probably know about the love we have for Mexican food.

It’s safe to say that we were extremely joyful when we settled at our table at Tereza Budapest.

Tereza has a genuine Hispanic ambience, which is at its peak during spring and summer when their high spirited urban garden is open.

We were positively surprised by not only the delicious Mexican food that they served but also by the wide variety of signature Mexican dishes and authentic flavoured Tequila & Mezcal.

Where most Mexican restaurants in Europe don’t serve our favourite dish, Tereza Budapest served us the best Taco Al Pastor we ate outside of Mexico.

Ooh, and if you take our recommendation serious, don’t forget to treat yourself to their freshly made guacamole.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Tereza Mexican Restaurant

Opening hours | Monday closed, Tuesday to Friday 17:00 – 00:00 and Saturday to Sunday 12:00 – 00:00

17 | WALK THE JEWISH QUARTER

The Jewish Quarter is unquestionable the liveliest and most dynamic neighbourhood in Budapest, and it’s still developing at a rapid pace.

The buzzing streets of the Jewish Quarter are home to an intriguing mix of trendy places, of which we can assure, pique your interest.

Situated throughout the entire neighbourhood are artisanal bakeries, trendy cafes, hip restaurants, impressive graffiti murals, and not to mention, Budapest’s notorious ruin bars.

We still think, the charm of wandering through its artistic streets and alleyways, was the main reason we fell in love with this exciting part of Budapest.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Jewish Quarter

Book | Budapest Grand Half-Day Jewish Heritage Tour

18 | ADMIRE BUDAPEST’S STREET ART SCENE

With amazing murals popping up on just about every corner, Budapest is rapidly becoming known for its refreshing street art scene.

The Jewish Quarter, in particular, is home to an abundance of creatively designed murals made by local and international graffiti artists.

The great thing about street art is that as you wander around the city, you might surprisingly notice a wall, fully covered by an amazing mural.

ESSENTIALS

Read more | A comprehensive guide to find the best street art in Budapest

20 | VISIT THE DOHANY STREET SYNAGOGUE

The Great Synagogue on Dohany Street is Europe’s largest synagogue and is located directly at the heart of Budapest’s buzzing Jewish Quarter.

Although we’re not religious ourselves, we often admire the extremely detailed architectural aspects of spiritual and sacred buildings, and for that matter, Budapest doesn’t disappoint.

The main facade boasts exquisite brickwork, two exceptional polygonal towers and an elegant stained glass rose window above the entrance.

The synagogue has a mysterious, yet breathtaking interior, which combines Byzantine and Moorish elements, including the sumptuous organ and the impressive Holy ark.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Dohany Street Synagogue

Opening hours | Sunday to Thursday 10:00 – 16:00, Friday 10:00 – 14:00, Saturday closed

Entrance fee | 5.000 Hungarian Forint (€15,-) per person. You’ll get a 10% discount with the Budapest card

Book | The Great Synagogue Skip the Line Ticket

Book | Jewish Heritage Guided Walking Tour

21 | HAVE A DRINK AT GOZSDU UDVAR

The Gozsdu Udvar is a buzzing area where food, entertainment and culture combine in a spirited, yet relaxing way.

However, we also started our blogging journey, to inform you about our disappointing travel experiences.

And, in that case…

Let’s say, without trying to be rude, that our food wasn’t close to what we had expected it to be.

We honestly think that the restaurants at the Gozsdu Courtyard are commercial and slightly overpriced, especially when compared to the other more sophisticated dining options in Budapest.

We still think that Gozsdu Udvar is the perfect venue to sit down, have a couple of drinks and unwind after a long day of walking.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Gozsdu Udvar

22 | CLIMB GELLÉRT HILL

It is said to be the most scenic perspective of the city as it reveals the entire skyline of Budapest, including the untamed Danube that separates Buda and Pest.

Perched atop of the 235-metre high hill and visible from multiple parts of the city is the towering Liberty statue.

The statue of a woman holding a palm leaf commemorates those who sacrificed their lives for the independence, freedom, and prosperity of Hungary.

Gellért Hill will definitely add a little extra value to your city break to Budapest, so make sure to climb the steep hill, especially if you have some unplanned time in your travel schedule.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Gellért Hill

23 | WALK HEROES SQUARE

At the stretch of Budapest’s lush city park, lies the impressive Heroes’ Square.

The grand square is home to 14 impressive statues, that respectively honour the lives of those that were of significant importance throughout the rich history of Hungary.

In the centre of the square, you’ll mark the towering Millennium Monument, a 36-metre high column topped by a golden Archangel Gabriel, displaying the Hungarian crown.

The rich history that is found at the Heroes’ Square is enhanced by the creative company of the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art.

ESSENTIALS

Where | Heroes Square

WHERE TO STAY IN BUDAPEST

Luckily, Budapest isn’t lacking when it comes to accommodations, in fact, there are options that suit all budgets.

It can, however, be quite a challenge to find accommodation that fits your travel style during high season, therefore we believe it is wise to book your stay a couple of weeks, or even months in advance.

Radisson Blu Béke Hotel | Exquisitely furnished rooms with air conditioning, a spacious bathroom ensuite and everything you need to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. On top of that, the hotel provides a pleasant bar and restaurant on-site – plus they happen to employ courteous and extremely accommodating staff.

BOX Studio in Ruin Pub District | A great spacious apartment that provides a private bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen. Located at the heart of Budapest’s lively ruin pub district and close to many popular points of interest.

The Loft Budapest | Uniquely designed rooms, large comfortable beds and a private bathroom with rainshower make this loft a steal when it comes to comfort. One extra benefit is its strategic location. The loft is located close to several good restaurants and cafes, three major metro lines and is surrounded by the top attractions of Budapest.

Economy Apartments | One of the great things we like about Budapest is that you’ll find comfortable rooms in every price range. The comfy Economy Apartments offer decent rooms and a private bathroom while it is located on a prime location – plus it doesn’t bust your budget.

Alternatively, search for accommodations in Budapest on booking.com.

MY FAVOURITE DAY TRIPS & TOURS IN BUDAPEST

If you’re after an organized tour to discover Budapest, here are some of my favourites

HOW TO GET FROM BUDAPEST AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

It is really easy to get from Budapest Airport to the city centre with the public bus, this also applies the other way around.

Bus 100E | Bus 100E goes directly from Kalvin Ter M to Budapest Airport. The price for a ticket is 900 Hungarian Forint (€2,70) and can be purchased at the machines at the bus and metro stations.

Bus 200E | The second option can be done with your Budapest travel card and therefore free of charge. Take bus 200E to Nepliget and change there to the bus heading for Budapest Airport.

Both options work vice-versa. We deeply recommend being at the station 10 minutes ahead of the departure time, especially if you have a flight to catch.