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.
In the midst of our typical Dutch winter, we, once again, felt the strong desire to explore a new city. One thing led to another, and before we knew we were boarding a plane to Hungary’s vibrant capital city, Budapest.
Once arrived, Budapest’s unique character instantly fulfilled our desire.
Budapest is a creative and spirited city that combines trendy restaurants & cafes with authentic architecture and rich history.
From the famous thermal baths to its characteristic ruin bars, the capital city has something unique to do and discover for everyone – plus it’s relatively affordable.
To us, it’s surprising that Budapest is somehow, quite an underestimated city in Europe.
So if you’re seeking for a vibrant city break in Europe, Budapest will certainly pique your interest.
Here’s our traveller’s guide to spending a brilliant weekend in Budapest.
HOW TO GET AROUND BUDAPEST
It is surprisingly straightforward to explore Budapest on foot, and it is a great way to discover the city’s lively streets and buzzing districts.
However, we think for a city break, the distances between tourist highlights, can be quite extensive, therefore we believe it’s worth checking out the Budapest Card, which will basically be your key to the city.
The Budapest Card was designed to reduce expenses for travellers visiting Budapest. The card provides access to the city’s public transport, discount on top attractions (including the thermal baths) and grants free access to 19 highly regarded museums.
Depending on the length of your stay, the card is available for between 1-5 days.
Book | Reap the benefits and grab yourself a Budapest Card in advance
A TRAVELLER’S GUIDE TO BUDAPEST | 23 THINGS TO SEE AND DO
1 | ADMIRE BUDAPEST’S STUNNING CHAIN BRIDGE
Besides the undisputed fact that it was the first permanent bridge that connected the districts Buda and Pest, it genuinely is an iconic piece of architecture to both Budapest and Hungary.
Back in 1849, when the Chain Bridge opened, it was among the largest in the world and therefore entitled as one of the wonders of the world during that time.
Unfortunately, the bridge was unable to cope with the German explosions during the Siege of Budapest in World War II. With great luck, the towers remained unscathed, which eventually initiated a reconstruction of the Chain Bridge in 1949.
Nowadays, it is unlikely to get bored by the captivating bridge. We ourselves crossed it numerous times while switching between Buda and Pest, and were intrigued by the architecture again and again.
ESSENTIALS
Where | The Chain Bridge
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
5 | SHOES ON THE DANUBE PROMENADE
For me, travelling is more than simply chasing beautiful destinations. I see it, in fact, as the perfect opportunity to learn, reflect and grow as a human being.
For that reason alone, I cannot emphasize it enough to pay a tribute to Budapest’s most touching monument.
On the banks of the Danube, you’ll find a memorial that reminds you of one of the most tragic events of the 20th-century, what therefore always remain a dark page in the history of mankind.
A trail of cast-iron shoes honours thousands of Jewish people that were forced to take off their shoes, before being executed during world war II.
Despite the cruel history that occurred along the riverbank, the sculptor succeeded to turn it into a serene place where people remember those who lost their lives.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Shoes on the Danube Promenade
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
19 | GRAB A BEER IN ONE OF BUDAPEST’S CHARACTERISTIC RUIN BARS
Budapest is probably best known for its unique, characteristic ruin bars, and that’s for a good reason.
The city is home to a ton of contemporary bars that are established in abandoned residential buildings and urban decay in the 7th district.
These unique bars are filled with thrift-shop furniture, a young and creative atmosphere, and of course, lot’s of affordable craft beers to choose from.
Some of our favourites include:
SZIMPLA KERTMOZI
Szimpla was one of the first ruin pubs that opened its doors in the 7th district of Budapest, and until this day it is still by far the most authentic of its kind.
The atmosphere is mainly created by the mismatched interior that looks like it came straight from a flea market.
We think it’s great to visit Szimpla Kert during the day. You could take a beer, a quick bite (try their Black Sabbath burger, if you dare) and wander around the unusual building while admiring its characteristic interior.
It is incredibly picturesque if you ask us!
ESSENTIALS
Where | Szimpla Kertmozi
RED RUIN BAR
The Red Ruin Bar is a communism themed bar that tries to enlighten the country’s political past with a sense of self-mockery and humour.
The pub is decorated with red bricks, shining neon lights and humorous and sarcastic propaganda posters that refer to communism.
We think it’s both powerful and funny how they try to embrace the past and look at it from this perspective.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Red Ruin Bar
We hope to visit Budapest again sooner or later, there are so many exceptional ruin bars left to be discovered.
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
CURRENCY IN BUDAPEST
Even though Hungary is part of the European Union, they still use their own currency instead of the Euro, which is the Hungarian Forint (HUF).
The Budapest exchange rate at the time of writing is as follows, 100 Hungarian Forint is equal to €0,30.
We have noticed that the most reliable way to save on commissions, is paying with your credit or debit card.
CASH WITHDRAWAL
The very first thing that drew our attention when arrived in Budapest, was the amount of ‘independent ATMs’ that were established throughout the touristic area of the city.
We noticed, that it has become a trend for vendors to install an independent ATM outside their stores. It is generally known to be an easy way to earn money.
From our previous travel experiences, we learned the hard lesson that those machines charge an absurd withdrawal fee and hold your money until the exchange rate is in the owner’s favour, therefore we can’t emphasize it enough to ignore them.
Read more | How to avoid ATM charges and bank fees when you travel
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.