The Ultimate Budapest Travel Guide: Planning Your Trip!
Last Updated: January 27 2025
With its charming architecture and relaxing thermal baths, the Hungarian capital city of Budapest has so much to offer. The city also boasts a scenic location along the Danube River as well as a great food scene!
A highlight of visiting Budapest has to be the sheer amount of things to do – plus it’s a very affordable destination. Hungary’s capital also has a rich history, dating back to before the Roman conquest.
In this Budapest travel guide, we’ll cover the best places to visit, where to stay, and how to get around. We’ve also included some popular tour options and information on the Budapest Card.
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Where is Budapest?
The city of Budapest is located in Hungary, along the Danube River – the second longest river in Europe. The country’s capital is found in Pest County and is split into two parts; Buda and Pest. The Slovakian border is also under a 1.5-hour drive away.
What to know about Budapest
To ensure you have the best time in this city, we’re going to cover lots of information in this Budapest travel guide. Here’s a quick overview of the basics.
- Size: 525 sq km (203 sq miles)
- Language: Hungarian is the official language although other languages are becoming more popular.
- Currency: The Hungarian forint (HUF/Ft)
- Population: Approximately 1.7 million people.
- Traditional Foods: Goulash, Lángos, Chicken Paprikash, Kolbász and Chimney Cake.
There’s also something else you should know about visiting Budapest…
The Budapest Card
No travel guide for Budapest would be complete without including the city’s travel card. There are three types of passes to choose from; the official Budapest City Card, Tourist Pass, and Explorer Pass.
The Budapest City Card is a great option for first-time visitors to Hungary’s capital. Not only will you benefit from unlimited public transport, but you’ll be granted free entry to more than 30 different attractions.
This pass is available for various durations, although GetYourGuide primarily offers one for 72 or 120 hours. Just make sure you check you’ve got the right duration before you purchase!
On the official website, you’ll find out more information about the Budapest Card. Some of the attractions covered include the Hungarian National Museum, the Budapest History Museum, and Saint Stephen’s Hall. You’ll also get additional discounts on other attractions, such as the Hospital in the Rock.
Helpful information for visiting Budapest, Hungary
How to get to Budapest
Budapest is Hungary’s capital so it’s easily accessible (no matter how you choose to travel).
Many travellers choose to arrive by air, with Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) being located around 22 km (13.5 miles) from the city centre. Direct flights run from various destinations in Europe and the Middle East, and you’ll have no issues getting into the city.
We travelled into the city centre via taxi – we used the Bolt app. Prices were very affordable, especially as we were travelling as a group. You’ll also find official taxis at the airport. Alternatively, you can take the airport bus. Just be aware that the traffic can be crazy!
If you’re already travelling through the continent, you can catch a train or river cruise from Austria or Slovakia. (the latter depends on the time of year) . Buses also run from other destinations in Europe.
How to get around Budapest
Hungary’s capital is a fairly large city, but we found it easy to get around. the city has an efficient public transport system which includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro.
Budapest’s metro system is made up of four different lines; yellow, red, blue, and green. The trains are regular, running until around 11 pm, so you can easily enjoy the city’s nightlife.
There are over two dozen tram lines in Budapest, as well as 15 trolleybus lines and plenty of taxis – the popular ride-hailing service Bolt is a great option for longer journeys. If you want to explore independently, opt for an e-bike or e-scooter (Lime is typically cheaper).
Alternatively, there are plenty of tour options such as this Big Bus hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour. You can purchase tickets for either 1,2 or 3 days, and digital audio commentary is also available.
The best time to visit Budapest
Budapest is a great city and one that can be visited at any time of year!
The peak season for Hungary’s capital typically falls between May and September. This is considered the ‘tourist season’ and you’ll find plenty of outdoor events and festivals taking place during this time.
July and August tend to experience the warmest weather – sometimes temperatures reach up to 30°C (86°F). Unfortunately, that means the crowds can descend and you may find that prices are higher.
For a quieter experience, you can visit in spring. Temperatures will be milder, and if you head to Budapest in May, you can enjoy the city’s Beer Week. September/October is also a great time to visit if you’re after fewer crowds. Alternatively, you can explore the city during the winter season.
We visited in November and had such a great time! There are some fantastic Christmas markets to explore during the winter, so you can really get in the festive spirit.
The best places to visit in Budapest
1. The Fisherman’s Bastion
Visiting the Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the best things to do in Budapest. Dating back to the late 19th century, this insane building is located in the Castle District.
The Fisherman’s Bastion was built to celebrate the Hungarian State’s 1000th birthday. St Michael’s Chapel is also located here and is the perfect place to take photographs. From this landmark, you’ll also get breathtaking views of Budapest, especially if you walk up the upper towers.
The Fisherman’s Bastion is open every day and the main area is free to visit. Alternatively, you can pay to visit the upper towers (it’s only a small fee).
2. The Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is another must-visit while in Budapest. Located along the Danube River, this building dates back to the 19th century and is home to the National Assembly and Holy Crown.
If you’re interested in visiting Hungary’s Parliament Building you can go on a guided tour. You can book your entrance ticket in advance (with a multilingual audio guide). There’s also this grand city tour, which will take you around Budapest. It also includes a guided tour of the country’s parliament building.
For those who are short of time, you can just view this landmark from outside and take some photographs!
3. Buda Castle
In this travel guide to Budapest, we had to include Buda Castle. As you may have guessed, this landmark is located in the Castle District and offers superb city views.
Buda Castle is free to explore and there are several cultural attractions located here – these include the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. There’s even an impressive cave system located under Buda Castle, which you can explore on this cave tour.
If you’d prefer to just wander around, then admire the views and take some photographs instead. Just be aware that some festivals can take place in Buda Castle and this may affect opening hours.
4. St. Stephen’s Basilica
When exploring the city of Budapest, you need to visit St. Stephen’s Basilica. This incredible building is one of the largest churches in Hungary and is named after the country’s first king – St Stephen. In fact, there’s a glass box inside which holds his mummified right hand!
Although St. Stephen’s Basilica is certainly impressive from the outside, its exterior will blow you away. Imagine golden chandeliers, colourful murals, beautiful stained glass windows, and intricate sculptures.
You can purchase entrance tickets in advance. If you don’t mind paying a bit extra, you can head up to the terrace and appreciate the epic city views.
5. Hospital In The Rock
Hospital in the Rock was one of our favourite spots in Budapest. Often referred to as Sziklakorhaz, this place is located in a natural cave system underneath the Castle District.
Hospital in the Rock played a vital role in the city’s history, first as a first-aid shelter and later as an underground medical initiation. This place was hugely important during WWII and it was run by the International Red Cross.
In the 1950s, the hospital was upgraded to have a nuclear bunker and you’ll learn all about this on a tour. The tours last for approximately 60 minutes and audio guides are available.
6. Vajdahunyad Castle
There are so many Budapest attractions to visit, but Vajdahunyad Castle is certainly one of the most unique. This castle was built in 1896 and despite not being very old, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The architecture of this place is impressive, and we felt like we were wandering around Hogwarts. For the best experience, we’d recommend heading here in the evening, when it’s dark and the castle is all lit up!
Vajdahunyad Castle is open every day, from 10 am to 5 pm. You’ll also find the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture in the castle grounds which has tons of tools and artefacts.
7. The Széchenyi Chain Bridge
No Budapest travel guide would be complete without the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. This bridge dates back to 1849 and was the country’s first permanent bridge, connecting the two sides of Hungary’s capital; Buda and Pest.
This iconic landmark is known for its intricate architecture and majestic lion statues, and is a sight to behold. As you wander along, you’ll get epic city views and this spot is especially beautiful at night.
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is one of Budapest’s main attractions and it can get pretty busy. You can wander along independently, or enjoy this small-group walking tour where you’ll learn about the area from your guide.
8. Shoes on the Danube Bank
Unfortunately, Budapest has a dark history, especially regarding WWII. In 1944, the Nazis invaded Hungary, and thousands of people lost their lives.
Along the Danube River, you’ll find a memorial called Shoes on the Danube Bank. Here, there are around 60 pairs of old-fashioned iron shoes located along the river. These shoes are a memorial to the Hungarian Jews who were shot along the riverbank by the Arrow Cross Party.
Although visiting Shoes on the Danube Bank can be an emotional experience, it’s a must-visit, as you can pay your respects to those who lost their lives.
9. Gellert Bath
There are over 100 thermal baths in Budapest, with Széchenyi Thermal Bath being a hugely popular option. However, Gellert Bath is another fantastic spot, as it’s one of the most popular thermal baths in Europe.
Gellert Bath is one of the city’s most famous Art Nouveau thermal baths. Dating back to 1918, the architecture of this building will blow you away. Not to mention there are various pools located here – of different sizes and temperatures!
You can purchase your full-day ticket for Gellert Bath in advance. This ticket will grant you access to the on-site pools, saunas, and steam room.
10. Central Market Hall
We had to include Central Market Hall in this Budapest city guide. Also known as the Great Market Hall, this place dates back to the 1890s. Unfortunately, it was damaged during WWII and had to be rebuilt.
Whether you’re looking to purchase local produce or you’d prefer to pick up a souvenir or two, there’s something for everyone. You can also try some Hungarian dishes, as there are various food stalls upstairs.
We chose to explore independently, but you can also opt for a guided tour. This market tour lasts for 40 minutes and includes food tastings! You’ll also get some insider tips on where to eat in Hungary’s capital.
Popular Budapest Tours
We chose to visit Budapest independently but there are some great tours on offer if you’d prefer. You can opt for a river cruise to see the highlights, a walking tour to explore the city, or a guided food tour – the choice is yours!
GetYourGuide and Viator are two popular platforms, both of which offer plenty of tours. Many of the tours also offer free cancellation and you can check the reviews before you book.
Here are some popular tour options for Budapest:
| Tour | Inclusions | Duration | Price |
| Buda Castle District Walking Tour | Professional tour guide | 2-3 hours | From £8.40 per person |
| Orientation Walking Tour of Buda and Pest | Local guide | 3 hours | From £29.39 per person |
| All-in-One Walking Tour with Strudel Stop | English-speaking guide, strudel, coffee, and public transport tickets | 3.5 hours | From £61.66 per person |
| Buda Castle District Vampires and Myths Night Tour | Actor/guide in period costume | 2 hours | From £16.80 per person |
Where to eat in Budapest
In this Budapest travel guide, we’ll cover some popular dining options too. This city offers endless options, many of which are very affordable. No matter what you fancy, you’re sure to find something!
Here are some popular options:
- The Magic Budapest – This Harry Potter-themed restaurant boasts quirky decor and magic-themed food. You’ll even get a wizard hat to put on! Just make sure you book your table in advance.
- Street Food Karaván – This outdoor food market boasts a range of options, from delicious local specialities to tasty burgers. There’s plenty of outdoor seating and drink options too!
- For Sale Pub – This quirky pub is definitely worth a visit. Not only can you add your own post-it note to the wall, but there are plenty of dishes to choose from. Just be aware that this place can get busy.
- Estilo Restaurant & Terrace – This restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining, as well as a great atmosphere. The staff are friendly and there are a variety of dishes to choose from – including quesadillas!
- Central Market Hall – As one of the largest markets in Budapest, this place is a great place to pick up local produce. There are also plenty of food stalls where you can try Hungarian cuisine.
Planning your Budapest Itinerary
In this Budapest travel guide, we’ll outline a quick itinerary based on our own trip. When planning a trip to Hungary’s capital, there’s a lot to see so it’s important to make the most of your days.
Below is an idea of how you can spend your time:
Day 1: Fishrman’s Bastion, Hospital in the Rock, Buda Castle, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, River Cruise
Day 2: Vajdahunyad Castle, Heroes’ Square, House of Terror Museum, Hungarian Parliament Building, Shoes on the Danube Bank
Day 3: Central Market Hall, Szimpla Kert, Street Food Karavan, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Cookie Beacon Brunch
Where to stay in Budapest
Budapest is a beautiful city and there are so many fantastic things to do. The majority of attractions are located relatively close together but you’ll still want the perfect base. Whether you’re after an affordable hostel or a luxury 5* hotel, there’s something for every traveller.
Here are some of our recommendations for this Budapest travel guide:
Budget: Avenue Hostel
Those on a budget should check out Avenue Hostel. Located in the heart of Budapest, this affordable property offers dormitory beds, private rooms, and studios, so there’s something for everyone.
Boasting shared kitchens, a snack bar, free WiFi, and security lockers, this hostel offers great value for money. You’ll also have breakfast included and there are board games on-site so you can relax after a day of exploring.
Mid-range: B&B Hotel Budapest City
B&B Hotel Budapest City is just a 20-minute walk from the Hungarian National Museum. It’s in a great location for exploring the city, and some of the rooms offer superb views of the Danube River.
There’s a variety of accommodation on offer, some of which sleep up to 4 people. On-site facilities include a 24-hour reception, shop, bar, fitness room, and rooftop terrace. You can also enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast.
Luxury: Corinthia Budapest
After a luxury getaway? Then check out Corinthia Budapest! This 5* hotel is set in a beautiful building dating back to the late 1800s and is located near popular landmarks such as the Opera House.
Get ready to stay in a gorgeous suite, relax at the on-site spa, and enjoy delicious dishes at one of the hotel’s restaurants and bars. Considering how luxurious Corinthia Budapest is, it’s pretty well-priced.
Booking.comTips for visiting Budapest
In this Budapest travel guide, we’ll cover some of our top travel tips:
- Hungary’s capital is full of electric scooters and bikes which you can use to get around (Lime and Tier are two popular options). They are affordable and offer an alternative to public transport and taxis.
- The Budapest card offers great value for money! The card includes unlimited public transport, a cruise along the Danube River, and free entrance to over 30 popular attractions.
- Hungary’s currency is the Hungarian forint (Ft), not the Euro. You can bring along forint if you wish, but we paid for everything using a Revolut card. Just make sure you pay in the local currency.
- A highlight of any visit to Budapest has to be the viewpoints. The Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, and Gellért Hill all offer fantastic city views – especially if it’s a clear day. There are some great rooftop bars too!
- We’d highly recommend admiring the city at night! In our opinion, the best way to do this is by taking a river cruise along the Danube in the evening. We opted for this unlimited prosecco cruise.
Frequently asked questions about Budapest
How many days do I need in Budapest?
For the best experience, we’d recommend spending at least 3 days in Budapest. There are so many amazing things to do in Hungary’s capital so you don’t want to rush your time here.
Three days will be enough to see the main sights, try some Hungarian cuisine, and spend time relaxing in the thermal baths. If you have less time, you’ll need to condense your Budapest travel itinerary.
What is a good budget for Budapest?
We’d suggest allowing yourself a budget of at least £30-£50 per person. This will be enough for a shared room (between two), street food, and a few attractions (especially as many of them are very affordable).
Like many other cities in central Europe, Budapest offers great value for money. Likewise, if you’re after a more luxurious getaway, there are plenty of 5* hotels and fine-dining restaurants on offer – the choice is yours!
What do I need to know before going to Budapest?
Before you head to Budapest, it’s important to know there’s a lot to see. We’d recommend planning some of your must-see attractions in advance, as some of the thermal baths can sell out – especially if you want a SPARTY ticket.
We also found that during our trip, we didn’t need cash as everywhere seemed to take cards (if you’d prefer to take cash, bring forints – not Euros). You’ll also want to download the Bolt taxi app as it’s really easy to use!
Is Budapest very expensive?
In our experience, Budapest wasn’t expensive at all. Although prices have become more costly over the past few years, accommodation, food, and attractions all tend to be very affordable (especially compared to the UK).
Of course, prices will vary depending on where you choose to stay and dine. However, in our opinion, Hungary’s capital makes for a cheap getaway – especially if you’re smart about where you visit.
Final thoughts on this Budapest travel guide
Budapest is undoubtedly one of our favourite cities in Europe! Whether you want to indulge in traditional dishes, visit cultural attractions, or simply relax, this place has something for everyone.
For the best experience in the Hungarian capital, allow plenty of time to explore. Three days offers the perfect amount of time, but if you have even longer, you can hop over the border into Austria or Slovakia. Alternatively, trains run to both Bratislava and Vienna if you’d prefer an action-packed day trip while in the city.
If you have any questions about this Budapest travel guide, please contact us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments!
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I breathe all things travel and nature, with my favourite place being the great outdoors! After exploring 3 continents, I’ve discovered my passion for travelling on a budget, and I want to help you all do the same. I honestly believe travel broadens the mind which is why I want to share all of our adventures!
