The 10 Best Day Trips From Budapest

travel tips
October 14, 2024

Disclaimer: we’re an independent blog but some of our posts contain affiliate links. If you buy through those links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost to our readers.

Forget the typical tourist traps. The real magic of Hungary also lies beyond the bustling streets of Budapest. Just a stone’s throw from the capital, a world of enchanting towns, historic castles, and sun-drenched vineyards awaits.

From the artist’s haven of Szentendre to the royal splendor of Gödöllő, each destination on this list promises a unique adventure. Best of all? You can experience these hidden gems and still be back in Budapest for dinner. So, grab your day bag, hop on a train, and prepare to discover the soul of Hungary beyond its capital.

Treat yourself. Enjoy Budapest.

• Find the best activities with GetYourGuide and Viator
• Get a Budapest Card for public transport and the best attractions
• Get an Airalo eSim to save in roaming when in Hungary
• Landing soon? Get a miniBUD transfer to the city center
• Stay in Budapest with Booking.com
• Find the cheapest flights with Kiwi.com

1. Szentendre: The closest to Budapest

Just a quick jaunt from Budapest, Szentendre feels like stepping into a living canvas. This charming town, with its cobblestone streets and pastel-hued houses, has been inspiring artists for generations. It’s the perfect day trip from Budapest for those seeking a dose of culture and creativity.

As you stroll down its winding alleys, you’ll discover a treasure trove of galleries, museums, and craft shops. The town’s Serbian heritage adds another layer to its cultural mosaic, evident in the onion-domed churches and the tantalizing aromas wafting from traditional restaurants.

Must-See:

Skanzen Open Air Museum: A sprawling time capsule of traditional Hungarian rural life
Marzipan Museum: Sweet sculptures that boggle the mind, including a life-sized Michael Jackson
National Wine Museum: Housed in an 18th-century Baroque building, a journey through Hungary’s viticultural history
Main Square (Fő tér): The beating heart of Szentendre, where history and modernity dance cheek to cheek

Getting There:

By Train: A scenic 40-minute ride on the H5 suburban railway. Tickets cost between HUF 800-1000 round trip.
By Car: Quick 30-minute drive covering 22 km via Route 11.

2. Eger: Wine flows, History echoes

If you’re looking for a Budapest day trip that combines history, culture, and world-class wine, look no further than Eger. This charming city, nestled between the Bükk and Mátra Mountains, is a testament to Hungary’s indomitable spirit.

Eger’s claim to fame? A small band of defenders once repelled a massive Ottoman army here in 1552. Today, that fighting spirit lives on in the city’s vibrant culture and warm hospitality. But Eger isn’t just about reliving the past. The city pulses with life, from the bustling Dobó Square to the serene gardens of the Lyceum.

And let’s not forget the wine. A trip to the Valley of the Beautiful Women, with its hillside riddled with wine cellars, is a must for any oenophile. Sample the famous “Bull’s Blood” (Egri Bikavér) and understand why this city is a favorite for day trips from Budapest.

Must-See:

Eger Castle: A 13th-century fortress, standing proud as the symbol of Hungarian resistance
Eger Minaret: The northernmost Turkish minaret in Europe, offering unique views for those brave enough to climb
Eszterházy Károly Catholic University: Home to a stunning Baroque-style Lyceum and an 18th-century library that will take your breath away
Valley of the Beautiful Women: A wine lover’s paradise with over 200 cellars carved into the rock

Getting There:

By Train: A 1 hour 50 minute ride from Budapest, costing between HUF 2500-3000.
By Car: A 1 hour 30 minute drive covering 140 km via the M3 motorway.

3. Pécs: Melting pot of civilizations

Craving a taste of the Mediterranean without leaving Hungary? Pécs, with its balmy climate and multicultural charm, offers just that. This UNESCO World Heritage site, just a few hours from Budapest, feels like a world away from the capital.

Pécs is a city that whispers its stories to those who listen. Founded by the Romans over two millennia ago, it has been a melting pot of cultures ever since. From early Christian burial chambers to Ottoman-era mosques and Habsburg-style squares, Pécs is a living textbook of European history.

But don’t think for a moment that Pécs is stuck in the past. Home to Hungary’s oldest university, the city buzzes with youthful energy. The Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, built on the grounds of the famous porcelain factory, showcases Pécs’ ability to reinvent itself while honoring its heritage.

As the day turns to evening on your Budapest day trip, find a spot in one of the city’s many cozy wine bars. Sip on a glass of full-bodied red from the nearby Villány region and watch as the setting sun paints the city’s colorful Art Nouveau buildings in a warm, golden light.

Must-See:

Early Christian Necropolis: A UNESCO World Heritage site, where 4th-century burial chambers reveal stunning early Christian murals
Mosque of Pasha Qasim: A 16th-century mosque-turned-church, embodying Pécs’ multicultural heritage
Zsolnay Cultural Quarter: A revitalized industrial complex now pulsing with contemporary art and culture
Pécs Cathedral: An architectural palimpsest, with layers from Romanesque to Neo-Romanesque periods

Getting There:

By Train: A 2.5-hour journey from Budapest, with tickets ranging from HUF 3800 to 4400.
By Car: A 2 hour 15 minute drive covering 200 km via the M6 motorway.

4. Esztergom: Where Hungary's heart began to beat

For a day trip from Budapest that takes you to the very roots of Hungarian history, set your sights on Esztergom. Perched on the Danube where Hungary meets Slovakia, Esztergom was the nation’s first capital and remains the seat of the Catholic Church in Hungary.

The skyline is dominated by the magnificent Esztergom Basilica, its dome rising above the city like a beacon of faith. But Esztergom’s story begins long before the basilica was built. It was here that St. Stephen, Hungary’s first king, was born and crowned in the year 1000, setting the nation on its path to Christendom and European integration.

As you explore the winding streets of the castle district, you’re walking in the footsteps of kings and cardinals. The remnants of the medieval royal palace, now housing the Castle Museum, offer tantalizing glimpses into the opulence of Hungary’s early royal court.

End your Budapest day trip with a stroll across the Maria Valeria Bridge to Slovakia. This connection gives Esztergom a unique, international flavor that blends seamlessly with its deeply Hungarian character.

Must-See:

Esztergom Basilica: Hungary’s largest church, with a dome offering breathtaking views of the Danube Bend
Castle Museum: Housed in the remains of the medieval royal palace, a window into Esztergom’s regal past
Keresztény Museum: Home to Hungary’s largest ecclesiastical art collection, a treasure trove of religious artistry
Maria Valeria Bridge: A bridge between nations, offering a unique two-country experience

Getting There:

By Train: Enjoy a scenic 1-hour ride along the Danube from Budapest, with tickets costing between HUF 1000-1200.
By Car: A 50-minute drive covering 50 km via Route 11.

5. Székesfehérvár: Where kings were crowned

For a royal day out from Budapest, make your way to Székesfehérvár. This city, whose name translates to “white castle with the seat,” was once the coronation site of Hungarian kings. For over 500 years, from the reign of St. Stephen to the Ottoman invasion, Székesfehérvár played a crucial role in shaping Hungary’s destiny.

As you step into the historic center, you’re walking on hallowed ground. The Ruins Garden, all that remains of the once-magnificent Royal Basilica, still whispers tales of pomp and ceremony, of kings kneeling to receive their crowns.

But Székesfehérvár is not a city that dwells solely in the past. Its streets buzz with the energy of a modern university town, its squares come alive with festivals and markets, and its parks offer peaceful retreats from the urban hustle.

Don’t miss the chance to climb the stairs of the City Hall tower. From this vantage point, you can see the entire city spread out before you – a patchwork of red roofs, green parks, and gleaming spires. It’s a view that encompasses a thousand years of history and a future full of promise, all just a short journey from Budapest.

Must-See:

Ruins Garden – National Memorial Site: The ghostly remains of the Royal Basilica, where 37 Hungarian kings were crowned
Bory Castle: A 20th-century fairy tale castle, built as one man’s monument to love
St. Stephen Cathedral: A stunning Baroque church dedicated to Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen
City Hall and Öreg Street: The historic heart of the city, where Baroque and Rococo buildings line the main thoroughfare

Getting There:

By Train: A comfortable journey of less than an hour from Budapest, with tickets costing between HUF 1100-1400.
By Car: A quick 45-minute drive covering 65 km via the M7 motorway.

6. Tata: The city of waters

Nestled between the Gerecse and Vértes Mountains, Tata is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a day trip from Budapest. Known as the “City of Waters” due to its picturesque Old Lake and numerous springs, Tata offers a refreshing escape from urban life.

The town’s history stretches back to Roman times, but it truly flourished under the patronage of the Esterházy family in the 18th century. Their legacy is evident in the elegant Esterházy Palace, which overlooks the Old Lake like a vision from a fairy tale.

Tata is a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The Old Lake, fed by karst springs, is a haven for migratory birds and water sports enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the medieval castle and the English Garden offer glimpses into different periods of the town’s rich past.

As you wander through Tata, you’ll feel the harmonious blend of nature and history that gives this town its unique character. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Must-See:

Tata Castle: A 14th-century fortress overlooking the Old Lake, now housing a fascinating museum
English Garden: A beautifully landscaped park featuring a variety of tree species and the elegant Esterházy Palace
Old Lake (Öreg-tó): The heart of Tata, offering boating, fishing, and stunning views
Water Mill: A picturesque 18th-century mill on the banks of the Által-ér stream

Getting There:

By Train: A quick 1-hour train ride from Budapest, costing less than HUF 2000.
By Car: About a 1-hour drive covering 70 km via the M1 motorway.

7. Gödöllő: A royal retreat

Just a stone’s throw from Budapest lies Gödöllő, a town that whispers tales of imperial grandeur and romantic interludes. This charming destination, perfect for a day trip from Budapest, is home to one of the largest baroque palaces in the world, once a favorite retreat of the beloved Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) of Austria.

As you wander through the opulent halls of the Gödöllő Royal Palace, you can almost hear the rustle of Sisi’s gowns or the echoes of imperial balls. But Gödöllő is more than just its palace. The town has a rich cultural heritage, evident in its museums and art galleries.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the palace gardens, where Empress Elisabeth often sought solace. The carefully manicured lawns and hidden nooks offer a peaceful respite, much as they did for the royal couple over a century ago.

Gödöllő also played a significant role in the development of Hungarian Art Nouveau, thanks to the artists’ colony established here in the early 20th century. Their influence is still visible in the town’s architecture and artistic spirit.

Must-See:

Gödöllő Royal Palace: One of the largest baroque palaces in the world, a testament to imperial splendor
Town Museum: Housed in the historic Hamvay Mansion, showcasing local history and the legacy of the Gödöllő artists’ colony
Szent István University Botanical Garden: A verdant oasis featuring over 1,600 plant species
Art Nouveau-style Main Square: The heart of Gödöllő, where early 20th-century architectural heritage comes to life

Getting There:

By Train: A short 40-minute train ride from Budapest, with tickets costing between HUF 700-850.
By Car: About a 30-minute drive covering 30 km via the M3 motorway.

8. Hollókő: A living museum of rural Hungary

Step back in time with a day trip from Budapest to Hollókő, a picturesque village that seems frozen in the 17th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled in the Cserhát mountains about 100 km northeast of Budapest, offers a unique glimpse into traditional rural life of the Palóc people.

As you wander through the Old Village, with its 67 protected buildings, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a living museum. The whitewashed houses with their characteristic timber-framed construction and overhanging upper stories line the winding streets, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

But Hollókő is more than just its architecture. The village is alive with traditional crafts, folk customs, and seasonal festivals. Don’t be surprised if you stumble upon locals dressed in traditional Palóc costumes, especially during holidays and special events.

Perched on a hill above the village, the 13th-century Hollókő Castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding Cserhát hills. The name “Hollókő” means “Raven Stone” in Hungarian, inspired by a local legend involving ravens and a noble’s kidnapped daughter.

This Budapest day trip offers a chance to experience a slice of Hungarian rural life that has all but disappeared elsewhere, making it a truly unique destination.

Must-See:

Old Village: A perfectly preserved traditional Hungarian village, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Hollókő Castle: A 13th-century hilltop fortress offering stunning views of the countryside
Village Museum: A traditional Palóc house showcasing local customs and daily life
Palóc Doll Museum: A charming collection of dolls in traditional Palóc costumes

Getting There:

By Bus: A 2-hour bus ride from Budapest, costing between HUF 1400-2100.
By Car: About a 1 hour 30 minute drive covering 100 km via the M3 motorway and Route 21.

9. Lake Balaton: Hungary's Inland Sea

No list of day trips from Budapest would be complete without mentioning Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake. Often called the “Hungarian Sea,” Balaton offers a perfect escape from the city heat, especially during summer months.

The lake, situated about 100 km southwest of Budapest, is surrounded by charming towns, each with its own unique character. The northern shore is characterized by volcanic hills, historic towns, and excellent wineries, while the southern shore boasts long, sandy beaches and lively resort towns.

While you could spend weeks exploring all that Balaton has to offer, even a day trip from Budapest gives you a taste of its charms. Swim in its refreshing waters, sail on its surface, or simply relax on its shores with a glass of local wine.

Must-See:

Tihany Peninsula: A picturesque peninsula with a historic Benedictine Abbey and lavender fields
Balatonfüred: A charming town known for its picturesque promenade and 19th-century villas
Szigliget Castle: A 13th-century hilltop fortress offering panoramic views of the lake
Badacsony: A former volcanic hill famous for its wine region and hiking trails
Jankovic Strand (Balatonboglár): a quiet and shallow beach, our favorite place in Balaton

Getting There:

By Train: Trains to various Balaton towns depart regularly from Budapest, with journey times ranging from 1 to 3 hours depending on the destination. Prices vary but typically range from HUF 2000-4000.
By Car: The drive to the lake’s shores takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, covering a distance of 100-130 km depending on the specific destination, via M7 motorway.

10. Visegrád: Medieval splendor

For a finale to our list of Budapest day trips, we turn to Visegrád, a small town with a big history. Perched dramatically above the Danube Bend, about 40 km north of Budapest, Visegrád offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and medieval grandeur.

Once a royal seat, Visegrád played a crucial role in Hungarian history. The town’s name, meaning “high castle” in Slavic languages, hints at its most famous landmark – the hilltop citadel that offers breathtaking views of the Danube Bend.

But Visegrád’s allure goes beyond its castle. The remains of the Royal Palace, once one of the finest royal residences in Europe, offer a glimpse into the splendor of the Hungarian Renaissance. Meanwhile, the Solomon Tower, a hexagonal residential tower from the 13th century, stands as a testament to medieval engineering and architecture.

Nature lovers will find plenty to admire too. The surrounding Pilis Mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities, while the Danube Bend itself is a sight to behold, especially from the castle’s panoramic terrace.

Must-See:

Visegrád Castle: A 13th-century hilltop fortress with stunning views of the Danube Bend
Solomon Tower: A beautifully preserved 13th-century hexagonal tower
Royal Palace: Ruins of a once-magnificent Renaissance palace with reconstructed royal chambers
Sibrik Hill: Site of a former Roman fortress, offering beautiful views and historical insights

Getting There:

By Bus: A 1-hour bus ride from Budapest.
By Boat: A scenic option, especially in summer. The journey takes about 1.5-2 hours.
By Car: About a 45-minute drive covering 40 km via Route 11.

Treat yourself. Enjoy Budapest.

• Find the best activities with GetYourGuide and Viator
• Get a Budapest Card for public transport and the best attractions
• Get an Airalo eSim to use your phone in Hungary
• Landing soon? Get a miniBUD transfer to the city center
• Stay in Budapest with Booking.com
• Find the cheapest flights with Kiwi.com