The 25 best things to do in Budapest

What is Budapest Famous For?

things to do
January 3, 2024

Planning a trip to Hungary in 2024, and wondering what you should not miss in Budapest? We’ve got you covered!

Dive into our list of the best 25 things to do in Budapest, and find what you need to know – what is Budapest known for, which ones are the best Budapest attractions, why they’re important, where to find them, how much they cost, when they’re open, etc.

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The 25 best things to do in Budapest: what is Budapest famous for?
1. Thermal Baths
2. Ruin bars
3. Gellért hill
4. Buda Castle
5. Fisherman’s Bastion
6. Matthias Church
7. Budapest Funicular
8. House of Terror Museum
9. Heroes’ Square
10. Vajdahunyad Castle
11. Danube Promenade
12. Budapest’s iconic bridges
13. St Stephen’s Basilica
14. Great Market Hall
15. Hungarian Parliament
16. “Shoes by the Danube” memorial
17. Margaret Island and Margaret Bridge
18. Jewish Quarter
19. The Great Synagogue
20. Budapest Opera House
21. Local food
22. Budapest’s nightlife
23. New York Cafe
24. Oldest metro in Continental Europe
25. Danube river cruise

Budapest Essentials

Best things to do in Budapest:

1. Go to one of the thermal baths

Thermal baths still remain as one of the main things to do in Budapest – carrying an Ottoman influence from the Middle Ages, they deliver quite an experience. Alongside their therapeutic waters, these baths provide spaces for relaxation and enjoyment, which makes them popular among locals and tourists. But the options are abundant, so first you might want to know the best thermal baths in Budapest.

Our top 3 is:

• Szechényi – located in the City Park on Pest side, it’s the most likely pick when aiming for an authentic experience. Its neo-baroque structure, dating back to 1913, houses 18 natural water pools and various saunas, as is probably the most popular option.

• Gellért – another iconic choice, it’s situated on Buda features multiple pools and saunas within its 19th-century establishment, now designed in the Art-Nouveau style. Price per person starts at it’s HUF 9,400.

• Rudás – close to Gellért, Rudás traces its origins back to the 16th century, standing out with its Ottoman design and a terrace that overlooks the Danube. The minimum price per person is HUF 5,900.

This is a great experience any time of the year, but especially if you visit Budapest in winter.

2. Visit the best ruin bars

Ruin pubs, a distinct feature of Budapest, are old buildings that still carry the marks of World War II, transformed into nighttime venues where one can eat, drink and dance. Inside, a mix of decor takes the spotlight, contributing to the unique identity of each pub – rooms feature an assortment of artifacts, mainly antiques, lit by vibrant lighting.

Our top choices are:

• Szimpla Kert, the most popular (pronounced ‘Simpla’) – located in the Jewish Quarter, it spans two floors and offers a dance floor, bars, a restaurant, a shisha lounge, a terrace, and more. All this in a chaotic but captivating decor (if you don’t like waiting in lines, try to go before 22:00).

• Instant & Fogas Ház, the biggest nightclub – if your focus is to revel deep into the night, you also have this 19th-century building hosting an array of dance floors.

• Csendes, a small typical ruin pub (pronounced ‘Tchendesh’) – with its lofty ceilings, also has a chaotic ambiance and a unique allure. A great place to meet for drinks or just for some coffee.

• Mazel Tov, restaurant and bar – in some cases, the focus shifts to gastronomic pleasures: that’s Mazel Tov, a blend of restaurant and bar vibes that presents Mediterranean and Israeli culinary delights, complemented by live music.

Related articles:
• Best ruin bars in Budapest
• Szimpla Kert Budapest: a visitors’ guide

3. Go up the Gellért Hill

If you want to catch the best views of Budapest, head over to Gellért Mountain on the Buda side. From there, you’ll get an awesome look at the Danube, the famous Chain Bridge (‘Széchenyi Lánchid’), and the Parliament. These sights are like the city’s classic picture postcards, along with the other bridges that light up the skyline.

It’s a great outing, especially if you’re into hiking, and there’s plenty to see on the way, like:

• Liberty Bridge (or ‘Szabadság híd’) and Gellért Spa are down at the bottom.

• Caves of Saint Ivan, home to the chapel of the Order of Saint Paul, known as the St. Gellért Rock Church.

• The Citadella, the Statue of Liberty, and the great views from there are on the way up.

4. Go to Buda Castle and its museums

Buda Castle is an awe-inspiring palace that presents panoramas of the Danube, Pest, the Chain Bridge, and the Parliament. Referred to as “Budavári Palota” this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s origins trace back to the 13th century, and its architectural style is an intricate blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance elements.

Access to the Castle district is free 24/7, but delving into the castle’s interior involves a visit to these places:

• Hungarian National Gallery showcases an extensive collection of Hungarian art spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including works by celebrated artists featured across various permanent exhibitions. Operating every day except Mondays, the entry for adults is HUF 4,200, while a discount can reduce it to HUF 2,100.

• Budapest History Museum, situated in the building E of Buda Castle and known as the Castle Museum (Vármúzeum), offers a voyage through the city, from prehistoric eras to the contemporary age. It’s divided into distinct areas: the Aquincum Museum, the Castle Museum, the Kiscell Museum, and the Budapest Gallery. Open daily, except Mondays, the entry fee for adults is approximately HUF 2,400. For visitors aged up to 26 or 25 and older, discounts are available at HUF 1,200.

• National Széchenyi Library, located in the west wing opposite the Hungarian National Gallery, in the Bulding F of Buda Castle, was founded in the early 1800s by Ferenc Széchenyi. His substantial donation of over 1500 books and manuscripts served as the library’s cornerstone, and it now contains a copy of every book published in Hungary.

5. Visit the breathtaking Fisherman's Bastion

Budapest Fisherman’s Bastion is a neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque marvel from 1902, offering breathtaking cityscape views over the river. Comprising seven towers, each symbolizing a distinct Hungarian tribe that settled in the Carpathian Basin, the bastion beckons exploration of its balconies, terraces, and staircases.

Where: a mere 10-minute stroll from Buda Castle.

Entry: Open daily, the operating hours shift with the seasons. Access to the outdoor area is free, but a fee is required for some of the taller towers. Prices range from HUF 600 (children up to 14, students, or 65 and above) to HUF 1200 (adult price), and 10% discounts are applicable for groups or Budapest Card holders.

6. Visit Matthias Church

Matthias Church is a Gothic marvel with origins that trace back to 1015. Also referred to as the Church of Our Lady, it presents a remarkable façade adorned with intricate details and ceramic rooftops. Inside, you can explore the stained glass windows, splendid altars, the adorned ceiling, and enjoy panoramic views from the terrace.

Where: Castle Hill, adjacent to the Fisherman’s Bastion.

Entry: HUF 1,900 for students and seniors, or HUF 2,500 for a full ticket.

7. Try using the Funicular

Inaugurated in 1870 and subsequently rebuilt in 1986 after the damages of World War II, the Budapest funicular stands today as a historic marvel. Its two cars, Margit and Gellért, operate every 5-10 minutes, providing access to the Castle District and an unforgettable experience with beautiful views.

Where: Adjacent to the end of the Chain Bridge.

Entry: Tickets, available at the station, range from HUF 2,000 (ages 3-14) to HUF 4,000 (adults), covering a round trip. Comprising two cars, the funicular works daily from 8 am to 10 pm.

8. Visit the House of Terror Museum

The Budapest House of Terror (‘Terror Háza’) is a must-visit for those into recent History. It occupies the former headquarters of the communist secret police to show the horrors of Nazi and communist dictatorships. Hosting authentic exhibits and documents, it keeps the original setting that witnessed interrogations, torture, and political oppression during these dark eras.

Where: Along Andrássy Avenue, near Oktogon (leading to Heroes’ Square).

Entry: open every day except Mondays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. It costs HUF 4,000, though citizens of the European Economic Area aged 6-25 or 62-70 can enter for only HUF 2,000.

9. Marvel at Heroes' Square

Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere) stands as a grand and impressive space, anchored by the Millennium Monument — a towering column crowned by a statue of the Archangel Gabriel. Around the column, a collection of statues pays homage to historical leaders of the Hungarian nation, amongst whom the seven chiefs of the Magyars.

This square has been a pivotal backdrop for recent Hungarian history, hosting significant political events including the 1989 reburial of Imre Nagy. Many of the sculptures adorning the square were crafted by sculptor György Zala from Lendava, with one work by György Vastagh.

On each side of the Heroes Square you’ll also find two majestic buildings, housing one museum each: the Fine Arts Museum and the Hall of Art are worth great visit in case you’re into art, either international or Hungarian.

Where: next to the City Park, at the end of Andrássy út.

10. Go to Vajdahunyad Castle

Originally erected in 1896 to commemorate a millennium since the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin, this castle shows the richness of the Kingdom’s architecture. Ultimately completed in 1904, it includes replicas of iconic structures (like Transylvania’s Hunyad Castle, now within Romania), and, as a result, it fuses elements from medieval castles, Gothic fortresses, Renaissance palaces, and even a Romanesque church.

Where: in the City Park, close to Heroes Square.

Entry: adults pay HUF 1600, students and seniors HUF 800. It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday.

11. Stroll along the Danube Promenade

The Danube Promenade beckons to leisurely stroll beside the river. It offers enchanting vistas and historic landmarks, including the oldest church in Pest (built in 1046), Marcius 15 Square with its Roman remnants, and the statue of the poet Sándor Petőfi.

As you traverse the promenade, you’ll encounter several five-star hotels, terrace bars, cozy cafes, enticing restaurants, and even casinos. And when night falls, the Danube and its illuminations craft a romantic panorama that has earned Budapest the moniker of the “Paris of the East.”

Where: Along the Pest waterfront, nestled between the Chain Bridge and the Elizabeth Bridge.

12. Check Budapest's most iconic bridges

Admiring bridges is free, and in Budapest it might even be something better than others you’ll have to pay for – especially if you find them at night. Here’s the most beautiful bridges of Budapest:

Széchenyi Chain Bridge, an emblematic symbol of the city inaugurated in 1849, holds the distinction of being the first permanent connection between Buda and Pest. Marked by regal lions adorning its ends, it connects the Széchenyi Square (Pest) and the lower end of the Castle Hill Funicular (Buda).
Liberty Bridge, the verdant one, constructed in 1896 to honor the Magyars’ millennium in Hungary, exhibits art nouveau design, Hungary’s coat of arms, and mythological sculptures. It links Gellért Square with the Central Market of Budapest.
Elizabeth Bridge, a masterpiece in its own right, opened in 1903, and features a classic design with broader dimensions. This white suspension bridge elegantly spans between Roosevelt and March 15 squares in Pest, and the monument of Saint Gellért on the Gellért Hill.

13. Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica (“Szent István Bazilika” in Hungarian) is a historic building in the country. Dedicated to St. Stephen, founder and first king of Hungary, the construction of this high neo-renaissance building was finished in 1906. Inside you can find several relics, including the right hand of the founding king. Its main features are its (96 meters high), a beautifully ornamented inside, and the tower – with a great view over the city.

Where: Saint Stephen square (“Szent István tér”).

Entry: You can buy tickets in person or online. To enter the Basilica the price is HUF 2300, to climb to the top of the tower the cost is HUF 4300¹⁸. If you decide to go for both, the it’s HUF 6000. It’s open every day (Mondays from 9:00-16:30, Tuesdays-Saturdays from 9:00-17:45m Sundays from 13:00-17:45), though the ticket office closes 30 min before the basilica.

14. Experience Budapest's Central Market

Budapest’s Great Market Hall (“Nagyvásárcsarnok”), inaugurated in 1897, is the largest covered market in Budapest.

From the colourful stalls full of fresh produce to the local delicacies – paprika, sausages, cheeses, sweets – there are many experiences (and souvenirs!) to take away. On Saturdays, you might see the “Cultural Day” – when different countries show off their products, travel destinations, live music, etc.

Where: Pest side, close to the Liberty bridge.

15. Witness the majesty of the Hungarian Parliament

Perhaps the most iconic building in city, the Budapest Parliament – designed by Imre Steindl – was completed in 1902.

Being the third largest parliament in the world, this Neo-Gothic building also has sculptures, statues, and Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque details on its facade. It’s symmetrical outside and inside, has 691 rooms in total and one parliamentary room on each side. One hall is still used for sessions of the Hungarian National Assembly, while the other is for ceremonies, conferences and tours.

Entry: HUF 5,000 for EEA citizens (or HUF 2500 between 6-24). Non-EEA pay HUF 10,000 (or HUF 5,000). The tour, lasting 45 minutes, has emphasis on the “Grand Hall” and the Upper House (among other attractions), and includes either a tour guide or an audio guide. Open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm or 6:00 pm, depending on the season.

Where: bank of the Danube River, on the Pest side.

16. Visit the “Shoes on the Danube bank” memorial

If you’re going to the Parliament, you might want want to see the Memorial “Shoes on the Danube Promenade”.

Created in 2005, ‘Budapest Shoes‘ comprises sixty pairs of cast-iron shoes laid out in the open along the bank of the Danube. It represents the 3,500 Hungarian victims, 800 of which Jews, executed in the winter of 1944-1945 on the banks of the river, by members of the The Arrow Cross Party. Each pair of shoes evokes human tragedy and serves as a solemn reminder of the horrors of the past.

Where: between the Parliament and Chain Bridge, by the Danube (Pest).

17. Explore Margaret Island

Margaret Island (or “Margitsziget”) is a peaceful haven located in the heart of Budapest, between the banks of Buda and Pest. And it’s not small: 2.5 km of length and 500 m of witdh. Ideal for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, cycling and picnics, it offers many attractions and facilities, such as thermal spas and pools, bars, parks, playgrounds for children, a zoo or a musical fountain. Oh, and that view to the Parliament from right under Margaret bridge…if you’re looking for beauty, we couldn’t recommend it enough – especially if you go there at night.

Where: The yellow Margit Bridge connects Jászai Mari square (Pest) to Buda, and leads to Margit Island in its middle.

18. Immerse yourself in Budapest's Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter has a profound historical and cultural richness. Epicenter of the Jewish community in Budapest over the centuries, it has the Great Synagogue as a major tourist attraction.

But there’s so much more in this neighbourhood: picturesque streets, filled cafes, bars, restaurants, shops and art galleries, as well as the ruins of ancient Jewish buildings…and the Holocaust Memorial.

Where: District VII.

19. Marvel at the Great Synagogue (or even go inside)

The Dohány Street Synagogue, known as the Great Synagogue of Budapest, is the largest in Europe, accommodating over 3,000 people. Built between 1854 and 1859 in the Moorish and Neo-Moorish style, it also has Corinthian columns, arches, colored stained glass, a pipe organ, and other elements.

Entry: HUF 9,000 per adult, HUF 7,100 for students, HUF 3,300 per child between 6-12 years old. However, there are many tours from different companies – and some of them include the Synagogue in tours to the whole Jewish Quarter. Make sure you have a good look before you book anything.

Where: District VII – Jewish Quarter.

20. Discover the Budapest Opera House

This is one of Budapest’s most illustrious attractions. Budapest Opera House was inaugurated in 1884 and envisioned by architect Miklós Ybl, this neo-Renaissance masterpiece edifice captivates with both its facade and interior opulence. Besides its enthralling opera, ballet, and artistic performances, the building also opens doors to guided tours.

Entry: HUF 9,000 per person, with groups priced at HUF 5,000 per person.

21. Taste the local food

Hungarian cuisine is a delectable adventure you won’t want to miss. Drawing from a palette of meats, seasonal vegetables, bread, dairy products, cheeses, and – of course – lots of paprika, the culinary landscape is rich. Make sure you try:

Goulash, an exquisite and hearty stew, resembling a soup, that features a medley of potatoes, vegetables, and meat.
Langos, fried dough topped with cheese, garlic, and cream.
Paprikás Csirke, the typical Hungarian paprika chicken, which has its meat simmered in a paprika-infused roux.
Halászlé soup, a hot, spicy paprika-based soup with carp or mixed river fish.
Kürtőskalács, the eastern Europe chimney cake made from sweet dough, of which a strip is wrapped around a cone–shaped spit, and rolled in sugar.
Pálinka, a traditional fruit brandy with (at least!) 37.5% ABV.

22. Experience Budapest's nightlife

If you’re seeking to infuse your days some vibrant nightlife in Budapest, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a few areas where you can have fun:

• Madách Imre Square can be a great start. Here, a myriad of bars invites you for a drink, accompanied by an array of dining options.

• Gozsdu-Udvar, adjacent to the square, resembles a corridor, and comprises many restaurants, bars, karaokes and nightclubs.

• Király utca and Kazinczy utca – the whole Jewish district is full of good places to meet for food and drinks. But these two streets of the so-called “party district” – Király and Kazinczy – stand out for being a swarm of small taverns, ruin bars, and clubs.

• Akvárium Klub, at one end of Király utca, is a big and modern club known by hosting foreign bands and electronic music productions.

23. Visit Anantara New York Cafe

Consider adding the Anantara New York Cafe to your itinerary. Open since 1894, its building is adorned in the Art Nouveau style, and the interior boasts opulent decor.

Once a thriving hub frequented by artists and intellectuals, the cafe served as a vibrant center for cultural discussions. Today, having been meticulously restored, it’s mostly a tourist attraction, and a place of awe-inspiring architectural beauty that you can admire…while indulging in Hungarian cakes.

Entry: For dinner, bookings are available after 6:00 PM. If you’re in for coffee, plan to visit between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Arriving early (or checking Google Maps for quiet periods) might be helpful.

24. Experience Continental Europe's oldest metro

The M1 metro, also known as the yellow M1 Line, was inaugurated in 1896 and it proudly holds the title of Budapest’s oldest metro line, and third oldest in the world. This distinction has led to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Each station boasts Art Nouveau and Neoclassical elements, rendering a captivating aesthetic experience for an estimated daily average of 80,000 passengers. In total, there are 11 stations: Vörösmarty tér, Deák Ferenc tér, Bajcsy–Zsilinszky út, Opera, Oktogon, Vörösmarty utca, Kodály körönd, Bajza utca, Hősök tere, Széchenyi fürdő, Mexikói út.

Where: It exclusively serves Pest, creating a vital link between Andrássy út and Városliget (City Park).

Entry: A single journey encompassing all stops is priced at HUF 350.

25. Embark on a Danube River Cruise

Budapest, often dubbed the “Paris of the East,” offers an enchanting experience along the Danube – river cruises in the Hungarian capital are nothing short of magical. From themed cruises honoring local traditions to evening voyages beneath a starlit sky, Budapest’s cruises offer great experiences. With a wide array of themes (and brands), there’s something for everyone. You can opt for wine cruises, scenic sightseeing excursions, folk dance performances, live music serenades, or even lively boat parties, each offering its distinctive charm.

Prices vary based on cruise duration, amenities, and package inclusions, but you’ll find that many options offer budget-friendly rates, with some beginning at around 10-15 euros.

Read more
• What’s on in Budapest in January 2024?
• What’s on in Budapest in February 2024?
• What’s on in Budapest in March 2024?
• 2024 guide on the best restaurants in Budapest
• The best free things to do in Budapest

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