Must-See Attractions
Budapest is one of the most enchanting cities in Europe and is packed with captivating attractions. From ancient castles to modern museums, there is something for every type of traveler.
In this section, we will cover some of the must-see attractions in Budapest that you shouldn’t miss:
Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of the most popular Budapest attractions, with soaring Gothic architecture and a striking cream-and-green facade. It is located in the city center, and its domed roof provides 360-degree views from the observation deck on its dome and sweeping views from a rooftop cafe.
Inside this grand building, visitors will find dozens of artworks paying tribute to one of Budapest’s most famous figures, St. Stephen I. The walls are adorned with sculptures and gold-plated reliefs depicting scenes from the saint’s life story. The basilica houses St. Stephen’s right hand, which was pruned off his body when he was murdered during an uprising in 1038 A.D. This relic has since been enshrined inside the basilica’s chapel, symbolizing Hungarian unity throughout history.
The highlight of St. Stephen’s Basilica is its grand pipe organ, which was first used in 1908 during its official consecration service as part of Hungary’s millennium festivities. This magnificent instrument produces some of the loudest sounds ever created by man and continues to be used for mass services every Sunday morning. As such, it has become a popular attraction for tourists and locals who marvel at its intricate features and skillful playing from world-renowned organists and local amateurs alike.
If you’re visiting Budapest, make sure to put St Stephen’s Basilica on your list – it is truly an awe-inspiring destination full of breathtaking attractions you won’t want to miss!
Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the most famous landmarks in Budapest, Hungary. The Bastion is in the heart of the old town near the Danube River. It comprises seven distinctive towers representing the seven Magyar tribes that first inhabited Hungary centuries ago. It was designed in 1902 by architect Frigyes Schulek and was named after an old guild of fishermen who defended that area around the city.
The walls and viewing terraces offer a timeless panorama across Budapest’s old town, offering views of Budapest Castle Hill, St. Stephen’s Basilica Cathedral, and other sights on the opposite bank of the Danube River. In addition, visitors will find a picturesque fountain with benches for relaxing under shady trees.
Fisherman’s Bastion can be reached by taking public transport to Buda Castle Hill from either direction on M2 – Vorosmarty ter metro station or Szell Kalman ter station in Pest. The entrance to Fisherman’s Bastion is free, but visitors must pay to go onto any of its towers or gain access to its interior grounds and chapels.
Budapest Castle Hill Funicular
The Budapest Castle Hill Funicular is a short railway line located on the Buda side of Budapest, Hungary. Having opened to the public on March 2, 1870, this unique structure is the second oldest underground Funicular in the world and one of only two operational ones in Hungary. The Funicular is not just an attraction to visit – it also provides an incredibly convenient way of getting around between Buda Castle (Vár) and Chain Bridge (Lánchíd).
At a length of 70 meters and composed of two carriages that hold up 12 passengers each – the ride between stations takes roughly one minute at a 14-degree gradient. Inside you’ll find two cars connected by a cable that winds around a drum at each end – so you will hear some working noises during your trip due to the engine running inside. Tickets can be bought on board or from machines situated at either end of the tracks and cost 980 HUF for adults and 490 HUF for children under 12 years old and pensioners over 65 years old. It’s open from 7 am to 10 pm every day throughout the year.
Traveling through this historical Funicular is convenient and provides visitors with exceptional views of the Danube river, contrasting with Matthias church in all its glory! With its unique architecture combined with an excellent view of Gellért Hill, it’s no wonder this has become such a popular spot that many visitors to Budapest come to experience it!
Hungarian Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament Building, located along the Danube River, is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. It was designed by Hungarian architect Imre Steindl in the late 19th century and is modeled after the Houses of Parliament in London.
The building contains 691 rooms, ten courtyards, and 24 gates, and its one-of-a-kind façade is decorated with 90 sculptures and 238 coats of arms. Guided tours are available for anyone interested in exploring its walls’ incredible architecture and artwork. The tour includes entrances to the Dome Hall and crypt, usually off-limits to visitors.
Don’t miss taking a boat ride along the Danube to enjoy the fantastic city views from this unique vantage point!
Outdoor Activities
Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is full of beautiful outdoorsy activities and sights to see. Whether looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun adventure, Budapest has something to suit everyone’s needs. From sightseeing to hiking and biking, plenty of outdoor activities can be experienced in the city.
Let’s take a look at some of the things to do in Budapest when it comes to outdoor activities:
Danube River Cruise
A relaxing way to explore the sights of Budapest, Hungary, is to take a Danube River Cruise. This cruise typically lasts one and a half hours and is available to book in multiple locations in the city. Along the way, passengers can see iconic landmarks such as Buda Castle, Gellert Hill, and Margaret Island. During their cruise, passengers enjoy admiring stunning city skyline views while listening to live music.
The itinerary of this particular tour starts at Aporte Harbor in Budapest before heading south along the river towards Liberty Bridge, which connects Buda and Pest across the Danube River. While on this journey, you can also expect breathtaking views of Elisabeth Bridge and Millennium Tower from afar and unique local attractions such as Fisherman’s Bastion Square. After departing from Liberty Bridge, your voyage continues past Europe’s only surf beach towards Rence Island before taking a full circling tour around Margit Island in a clockwise direction and passing back under Chain Bridge before returning to Aporte Harbor shortly after that.
If you are looking for an unforgettable experience during your stay in Budapest, a Danube River Cruise should be on your list!
Hiking in the Buda Hills
The Buda Hills are located on the western side of Budapest and provide the perfect opportunity for nature lovers searching for adventure. Hiking through this beautiful terrain is a popular activity for people of all ages.
The hills range from moderate to complex, offering a challenge for advanced hikers and an easy route for beginners. In these hills, you will find several caves, cliffs, glens, canyons, and streams to explore, making it a perfect outdoor day.
Map reading skills are essential when hiking in the Buda Hills; many trails are not marked, and you must plan your route before setting off. In addition, there is no water supply along the way, so you must ensure you have enough to keep yourself hydrated throughout your hike.
Thrilling views of Budapest’s breathtaking architecture may also be spotted while hiking in the Buda Hills, providing ample opportunities to take dramatic photographs! As well as nature walks, horseback riding is another option.
Cycling in City Park
Budapest is renowned for its beautiful City Park, home to ancient monuments, an expansive lake, and plenty of outdoor activities. Among these landscape attractions, cycling in City Park is one of the most popular activities, perfect for a casual or an intense workout.
A leisurely ride around the park’s two lakes is easy and convenient. There are plenty of scenic spots to take stops and marvel at the area’s beauty with a view of Vajdahunyadvár Castle on the hillside. For those up for more action, some trails lead away from the lake area for some serious downhill or uphill riding.
Cyclists will find plenty of options throughout City Park. Choosing one of several cycle rental places near Heroes’ Square allows you to access every item necessary, from bikes and helmets to accessories like locks and special shoes. When cycling in Budapest’s warmer months, don’t miss out on visiting different garden habitats – it’s quite an experience!
Cultural Experiences
Budapest, Hungary, is a city filled with nature and culture, making it an excellent choice for those exploring a different city. Hungary’s capital has something for everyone, from the Szechényi thermal bath to the mazelike streets of the Jewish quarter. But if you want to experience the local culture, you should make sure to check out some of these cultural experiences:
Visit the Hungarian National Museum
The Hungarian National Museum is located in the 8th district of Budapest, on the scenic and historic Múzeum Korut. Established in 1802, shortly after Hungary emerged as a nation-state, the museum showcases the country’s rich culture and history. It is home to more than 1.7 million artifacts and remains, ranging from fine artworks to archaeological finds that date back to pre-historic times.
Visitors come to be inspired by the museum’s vast permanent collections exhibiting everything from ancient gold jewelry and coins that reflect Hungary’s early trading history to 18th-century textiles crafted by master Hungarian embroiderers. In addition to traditional works of art, visitors can find objects associated with everyday life, such as furniture pieces from 19th-century Hungarian households or ceremonial items worn at lavish state functions. Through these objects, guests can get a unique glimpse into the lives of Hungarians throughout history and across a range of social classes – providing an unforgettable cultural experience.
Tour the Great Synagogue
The Great Synagogue, located in the Jewish quarter of Budapest, is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world. It was built in an old-fashioned neo-Moorish style, and this stunning synagogue is filled with beautiful architectural details. The interior has gilded wood carvings, paintings, and intricate metalwork. Visiting here will provide a window into Hungary’s past as a vibrant center of Jewish culture and faith.
The synagogue was built in 1859 and underwent significant renovations in the 1920s. It included adding a pair of 8-meter towers with metal domes on top, creating a magnificent building that stands out from its surrounding neighborhood. It has three entrances – one from Dohany Street and two from side streets. It also features a museum housed within its grounds dedicated to chronicling Hungary’s Jewish history.
Visitors can step inside one of Europe’s grandest synagogues to admire its architecture or attend special services held at certain times throughout the year. Pass by wall plaques honoring members of Hungary’s large Jewish population who the Nazis deported during World War II as part of their “Final Solution.” Whatever draws you here, you’ll leave with an enriched knowledge about Hungary’s vibrant heritage as one of Europe’s seminal centers of Jewish life and culture.
Attend a Classical Music Concert
Enjoying classical music can be a rewarding and uplifting experience. With various pieces to select from, you can find one that suits your taste or explore a brand-new genre. In addition, when attending an orchestral concert, observe the enduring culture and traditions that may be included in the performance.
A classical music concert is an opportunity to allow yourself to journey through timeless music with tones from the past dispersed in beautiful harmony today. Many shows will follow a program of interlinking compositions, allowing you to listen directly as each piece is played and slowly feel your way through as each composition moves beyond its counterpart into something new. This concert type often offers visitors the pleasure of tasting old and unique pieces, creating what may feel like a voyage through time, taking in both the soundscapes of previously undiscovered worlds and ones closer to home.
The atmosphere at these events can also be accented by setting the tone with a personal dress code. Gowns are often encouraged at such venues, while other forms of formal wear can usually be adapted into context depending on venue requirements – so be sure to research beforehand! Even though you’re attending for pleasure, respecting tradition and decorum when attending such events is essential so everyone has an enjoyable experience.
So take yourself with some friends or family for a memorable evening out where you will find yourself engaged in beauty and sophistication, which may bring about unforgettable moments that linger long after!
Nightlife
Budapest offers so much in terms of nightlife activities and entertainment. There is something for everyone, from nightclubs, pubs, and bars to live music events. So whether you are looking for a wild night out or a relaxing evening spent with friends, Budapest has what you need.
Let’s explore some of the best places to spend your night in Budapest:
Visit a Ruin Pub
Budapest is well known for its vibrant nightlife and variety of exciting options for entertainment. One of the unique experiences in town is the ruined pubs, which emerged in the early 2000s. They provide locals and visitors with a unique atmosphere to hang out, enjoy drinks and music, or even host events.
A ruined pub is usually located in an old building – such as a dilapidated apartment – transformed into an open-air bar or club featuring rustic decor, street art, and colorful furniture. Popular among young adults, the bars are perfect for both casual beers with friends and all-night parties. In addition, prices tend to be much lower than in traditional bars, making these establishments even more attractive to visitors on a budget who appreciate good-quality drinks and drinks with a substance at a low cost.
Some of Budapest’s most famous ruined pubs include Szimpla Kert (Central Market Hall), Ellátó Kert (near Keleti station), Kuplung (on Kazinczy utca), and Instant (North Pest). If you’d like to experience Budapest’s buzzing nightlife scene firsthand, visiting one of the city’s many ruined pubs is a must!
Attend a Folk Show
A visit to Budapest is incomplete without attending a folk show evening – it offers much more than the classic dinner and a show format. In the storied environs of Hungary’s capital, you can enjoy traditional Hungarian dance performances, ardent tunes, and distinctively local cuisine. One of the most popular venues for this type of event is centrally located and effortlessly picturesque.
A typical evening might include the following:
- Magyar czardas dancing (featuring whirling skirts and stamping feet),
- live music from acclaimed musicians,
- age-old Hungarian folk songs,
- as well as singing with verse concerts.
You will also get to experience some hearty food in the form of:
- goulash soup,
- roasted pork cracklings,
- salty buttery cheese tray
- stuffed cabbage rolls with sour cream sauce.
Don’t forget to quench your thirst with chilled Hungarian wine or palinka (fruit brandy). But ultimately, it’s all about immersing yourself in an evening where traditional art form meets excellent food and local hospitality at their finest!
Check out a Local Bar
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the nightlife in Budapest, check out one of its many local bars. Whether it’s for a few drinks after work or a full-on nightclub experience, there are plenty of options for every kind of budget.
Maze Pub and GinZoo Bar are popular choices for those on the hunt for classic Budapest pub fun. GinZoo Bar sports an extensive selection of Hungarian gins and creative cocktails, while Maze Pub has more of a vintage feel with its retro arcade games, drinks, and table soccer. For the beer lovers in town, there’s Szimpla Kert – Budapest’s original Ruin Pub located in the heart of Pest – offering ales from local and international craft breweries and pub grub staples like bratwurst and schnitzel. Beerland is also worth checking out– an old-school beer hall where visitors can sample “foam magic” (dry ice beer) and traditional Hungarian fare such as goulash.
If you’re looking for some late-night dancing, Ellátó Kert is your best bet with its sprawling garden lounge vibes complemented by electro music sounds, or Der Zwiebel Klub brings the soul scene back with regular funk D.J. sets. Lastly, check out Utopia LandClub, which offers different themed events each night, including contortionists, stilt walkers, and trampoline performers providing entertainment well into the early morning!
Whatever your preference – from pubs to clubs – there’s no shortage of great places to have a good time in Budapest!
Eating and Drinking
Budapest is a melting pot of several different cultures, reflected in the city’s culinary landscape. Eating in Budapest is a sensory experience; you can find many dishes, from Central European favorites to Turkish-inspired treats. Regarding drinks, Budapest has a thriving bar scene, from craft breweries to hipster cocktail bars.
Let’s explore the amazing eating and drinking options in Budapest:
Sample Hungarian Cuisine
If you’re planning a trip to Budapest and want to try some authentic Hungarian cuisine, there are several places around the city that you should visit for an authentic experience. Many traditional dishes in Hungary feature pork, beef, chicken, and fish, often served with potatoes or noodles as a side dish. Commonly used ingredients like paprika, pickles, and fresh vegetables also help to define Hungarian cooking.
The National Dish of Hungary is a soup called “halaszle” or “fish soup,” composed of freshwater carp fish and flavored with paprika, onions, and tomatoes. The city is also known for its goulash soups, featuring beef stewed in paprika-based spices and chicken paprikas served with dumplings. A popular street food in Budapest is the Langos Fried Breads – fluffy deep-fried dough topped with garlic butter, sour cream, and cheese.
Traditional Hungarian desserts often feature poppy seeds milled into a jam or syrup called ‘Mézeskalács,’ used in sweet coatings on pastries or strudels filled with layered apples-soaked apples raisins. Palacsinta (crepes) are pancakes filled with ground walnuts, while the Szilvásgombóc (plum dumpling) contains sweet juicy plums wrapped in dough balls sprinkled generously with sugar before serving. So enjoy your stay sampling Hungarian cuisine!
Visit a Traditional Hungarian Market
Hungary stands out from other European countries due to its diverse local markets. Visiting a traditional Hungarian market is essential for those wishing to taste the region’s cuisine, culture, and atmosphere. Budapest has excellent markets, with many located in city centers or near popular attractions.
A visit to one of these bustling markets is a unique way to discover Hungarian history and culture and offers visitors an opportunity to buy traditional Hungarian produce such as salami, paprika, honey, bread, and spices. In addition, local vendors are happy to offer advice on what’s in season or how to prepare dishes at home. Market-goers can sample various delights demonstrating the country’s culinary wealth, from fluffy lángos (a deep-fried flatbread served hot) smothered with garlic sauce, cheese, or sour cream to goulash soup – typical meals usually enjoyed in the morning or afternoon with a beer!
For those who enjoy experiencing attractive scents or grabbing souvenirs such as ceramics and crafts unique to Hungary, fruit markets are also ideal as they offer all sorts of pickles, jams, and food products. While wandering around a market, make sure you don’t miss sampling some of Hungary’s sweet treats – consider purchasing one of Eszterházy cakes at Dobos Bakery!
Indulge in a Gourmet Food Tour
Budapest food lovers won’t want to miss out on a gourmet food tour! By taking one of these tours, visitors can indulge in some of the most popular dishes this fantastic city offers. From rich, hearty Hungarian stews and hearty goulashes to exquisite desserts, dumplings, and much more, there is something for everyone!
The tours also visit culturally significant places like market halls, traditional restaurants, and bustling food stalls. Guided by an experienced guide who will provide all the information you need about the different dishes and ingredients you’re about to taste, these tours are perfect for any food lover looking to embrace Hungarian cuisine truly. Visiting iconic eateries such as Central Market Hall and Szimpla Kert (ruin pubs) will also ensure visitors can take in the many flavors of Hungary.