15 best things to do in Budapest for couples
A full guide on the most romantic things to do in Budapest
- things to do
- January 27, 2024
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Is Budapest good for couples?
Budapest has a rich history, beautiful landmarks, beautiful panoramic views along the river, making it an ideal setting for a romantic escape. That’s why some people even call it the “Paris of the East.” So, if you’re wondering if Budapest is romantic, the answer is a resounding yes!
In this article, you’ll find our selection of the best things to do in Budapest for couples. Read through and get some inspiration for your romantic trip.
Quick links:
1. Romantic River Cruise
2. Dinner at New York Café
3. Castle District
4. Vajdahunyad Castle
5. Danube Promenade
6. Margaret Island
7. Thermal Baths
8. Budapest Opera
9. 360 Rooftop Bar
10. Budapest Eye
11. Hot air balloon
12. Tram tour
13. Budapest bridges
14. Sunset from Géllert Hill
15. Budapest Parliament
Most romantic things to do in Budapest:
1. Hop on a romantic river cruise
Embark on a romantic Budapest river cruise or boat tour along the Danube River, one of the city’s most popular experiences. As you glide along the river, you’ll be captivated by the city’s mesmerizing and illuminated sights, from the iconic Parliament building to the historic Buda Castle and the picturesque Matthias Church. Whether you prefer a quick one-hour cruise or a leisurely eight-hour voyage, a day-time cruise or a Budapest night cruise, you’ll find options to suit your budget and schedule. You can depart from various points in the city center.
And if you’re visiting on Valentine’s Day, don’t miss the special cruises designed for this romantic occasion, including wine tasting cruises and candlelit dinner options. Just avoid the party cruises if intimacy is your preference.
4 Best Romantic Dinner Cruises with GetYourGuide
Cruises along the Danube are scheduled daily and continuously from morning to the late evening.
Itineraries usually include:
• Hungarian Parliament
• Margaret Bridge
• Matthias Church
• Buda Castle
• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Citadella
• Gellért Hill
*all cruises can be cancelled for free, with full refund
€45 | 2.5h | 4 courses | Live music
€91 | 2.5h | 4-7 courses | Piano show | Reserve now, pay later
€80 | 2h | Champagne | Reserve now, pay later
€69 | 2h | Reserve now, pay later
2. Dine at New York Café
Consider a visit to Budapest’s New York Café, housed within the opulent New York Palace. Dating back to 1894, this café immerses you in an Art Nouveau wonderland. Once a thriving hub for intellectuals and artists, it’s now a tourist attraction and architectural masterpiece where you can savor Hungarian food (but not only).
The café’s history is rich, from its days as a literary haven to a sports store during the Communist era. However, a meticulous 2006 renovation restored its grandeur, featuring marble columns, bronze statues, and exquisite frescoes.
While prices aren’t budget-friendly (€10 for a cappuccino help set the standard), the experience is unparalleled. Hardly there will a more romantic place for a meal. But to beat the crowds, just make sure you arrive early and/or make a reservation.
New York Café – Best tips
You can dine here from 6:00 PM, or enjoy coffee, breakfast or their Hungarian cakes from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Just make sure you book a table on their website here.
3. Explore the Castle District
The Castle District in Budapest is a captivating historical enclave boasting rich heritage and breathtaking vistas, perfect to visit during a romantic escape. But what will you find there?
Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers panoramic views of the Danube, Pest, Chain Bridge, and Parliament. Its architectural blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles is awe-inspiring. And withing the Castle you’ll find the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Széchenyi Library with a vast collection.
Nearby, the Fisherman’s Bastion, a neo-Gothic marvel, provides incredible cityscape views, while Matthias Church, a Gothic gem since 1015, impresses with its intricate façade and stunning interiors.
Exploring the Castle District
When exploring the Castle District, which is open 24/7, you’ll have access to stunning views for free. However, if you decide to enter any of the places mentioned above, there will be an entry fee associated to each one of them.
4. Admire Vajdahunyad Castle
Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest’s City Park is a dreamy and romantic escape, espcially if you see it at night facing the lake in front.
Built for the millennial celebrations in 1896, this castle is an architectural masterpiece blending Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. This captivating complex showcases Hungary’s architectural history over a thousand years. It features elements from renowned Hungarian buildings like the Cathedral of Pécs and the Church of Ják. Wander through its Gothic cathedral-style courtyard, admire the Baroque palace facade, and explore the Renaissance wing. And to make it more romantic, try to go on a sunny morning or in the evening, with its lights reflected in the lake.
Visiting Vajdahunyad Castle
It’s free to stroll around the castle and to admire it beauty. But if you want to get in, there’s a fee:
Adults: HUF 2,500
Students / Seniors: HUF 1,200
Optional add-on for visiting the Gate Tower: HUF 400
5. Stroll the Danube Promenade
The Danube Promenade in Budapest offers a delightful riverside stroll with enchanting views and historical landmarks. It’s perfect for couples.
Along the Pest waterfront between the Chain Bridge and Elizabeth Bridge, you’ll find the city’s oldest church, Marcius 15 Square with Roman remnants, and the statue of poet Sándor Petőfi. The promenade also boasts five-star hotels, terrace bars, cafes, restaurants.
But the best comes at the end of the day. When evening descends, the illuminated Danube transforms into a romantic panorama, earning Budapest the title “Paris of the East.” Enjoy the best views of Buda Castle, the Citadel, Gellért Hill, and several iconic bridges from this picturesque esplanade.
Some of the things you’ll find along the Danube Promenade:
- Stunning views over the Danube river, especially when it’s dark
- Elizabeth Bridge
- Inner City Parish Church
- Sándor Petőfi statue
- Cathedral of the Dormition
- Széchenyi István Square
- and more…
6. Discover Margaret Island
Margaret Island is an idyllic haven for romance. This former royal hunting ground is now a charming public park, easily accessible via a walk-bridge or tram. Spend a day exploring its delights – from climbing the Art Nouveau Water Tower with cultural exhibitions to strolling hand in hand through beautiful gardens.
For the more adventurous couples, the Palatinus Strand Thermal Baths offer a modern twist on thermal baths, complete with water slides and a wave pool. But the true magic lies in the island’s serenity, with meadows, trees, rose arbors, and benches where you can share quiet moments and gaze at the Danube.
Avoid weekend crowds and visit during the week for a more intimate experience. Explore the island’s typical attractions, like the music fountain, wildlife park, and Japanese Garden, where you can truly escape and cherish each other’s company. The Japanese Garden, with its tranquil lake, goldfish, and lush flora, provides a perfect setting for relaxation and romance.
Oh – and don’t forget to admire the stunning Margaret Bridge, offering picturesque views of the island and the Parliament, making it a delightful backdrop for your romantic escapade.
Some of the things you’ll find in Margaret Island:
- Great views over Budapest Parliament and Margaret bridge, especially after it gets dark
- The Japanese Garden
- A music fountain
- Wildlife park
- And lots and lots of Nature to enjoy
7. Soak in the Thermal Baths
Amidst the city’s grandeur, lies an enchanting opportunity for romance – Budapest thermal baths. After a day of exploration, there’s nothing quite like unwinding together in these magnificent spa havens.
Gellért Thermal Baths, famous for its art-deco appearance, and Széchenyi Thermal Baths, with its majestic architecture, are top choices for couples. Both baths welcome all genders, creating an inclusive and inviting atmosphere for couples to share in the relaxation. The beauty of these thermal baths extends beyond their waters, as the architecture itself is a sight to behold, evoking a sense of timeless elegance.
Just imagine soaking in warm, soothing waters with your loved one, surrounded by the stunning design and history of Budapest’s thermal baths. And for those seeking an extra touch of romance, some spas even organize evening activities, like music-filled parties, adding an element of excitement to your wellness experience.
There are 2 best thermal baths for couples: Szechényi baths, located in the City Park on Pest side, with its neo-baroque structure, dating back to 1913, and housing 18 natural water pools and many saunas. Prices start at HUF 7,500/person; and Gellért baths, in Buda, also has lots of pools and saunas within a 19th-century building. The price per person starts at HUF 9,400.
8. Visit and experience Budapest Opera
The Hungarian State Opera House, nestled along Budapest’s Andrássy Avenue, offers a splendid setting for a romantic night out. A neo-Renaissance masterpiece, it has welcomed musical greats like Gustav Mahler, and its recent restoration in the late 20th century rekindled its former glory, blending Neo-Renaissance and Baroque elements and creating a spectacular ambiance.
The exterior’s symmetry and sculptural accents entice, while the opulent interior, including the main hall and royal box, exude timeless elegance. Enjoy opera and ballet performances with exceptional acoustics, and consider guided tours for an immersive experience in Hungary’s cultural heritage.
Visiting the Budapest Opera
Tours in English are available every day at 13:30, 15:00, and 16:30, for HUF 9,000, and each tour ends with a short concert with talented soloists of the Opera. You can also enjoy the Opera by going on a concert for two – the program is available online on their website.
9. Sip at 360 Rooftop Bar
Elevate your romantic evening in Budapest to new heights at 360 Bar, an iconic rooftop terrace perched atop one of Andrássy Avenue’s tallest buildings. With its 360° panoramic views, this rooftop oasis offers an enchanting backdrop for your special moments. You can gaze upon Budapest’s landmarks, including St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Citadel, and the Parliament, as the city comes alive with colors during sunset.
360 Bar is a hub of urban life, attracting both locals and tourists. Whether you’re lounging in the summer sunshine or cozying up in winter igloos, the views remain constant. The rooftop hosts various events, from live DJ sets to yoga, or brunch in Budapest with a view, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.
Opening hours:
Sun-Wed: 2PM-12AM
Thu-Sat: 2PM-2AM
10. Ride the Budapest Eye
The Budapest Eye, situated in Erzsébet Square, offers an enchanting experience throughout the year. This majestic Ferris wheel, standing at an impressive 65 meters, provides an adventurous experience in the city center, yet a very romantic one.
With 42 cozy cabins, it offers couples the perfect setting for intimate moments and unparalleled panoramic views of Budapest. Whether you’re taking in the city’s lights or simply enjoying some one-on-one time, the Budapest Eye is a dreamy and romantic activity that promises unforgettable moments together.
Riding the Budapest Eye
Going on the Ferris Wheel of Budapest comes at a fairly low price: HUF 4,300. From Mondays to Thursdays and on Sundays it opens from 11 AM to 11 PM. On Fridays and Saturdays it stays on a bit longer, until 12 AM.
11. Float Over Budapest in a Hot Air Balloon
Since we’re talking about heights, here’s one more idea for you: the City Park in Budapest offers an enchanting balloon ride experience, perfect for couples seeking a romantic adventure.
Guided by professional pilots, this hot air balloon ride provides a 360° panorama of Budapest’s iconic landmarks. Drift gracefully above the city, share intimate moments, and witness vibrant sunrises or the romantic glow of sunsets. The gentle breeze and stunning vistas make this balloon ride a truly enchanting experience, perfect for couples seeking a memorable and romantic adventure in Budapest.
Budapest Balloon Fly
Operating daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, tickets cost HUF 8,500 per adult for a 15-minute journey that reaches a maximum height of 150 meters.
12. Take a Tram Tour
Here’s another great thing to do in Budapest for couples: a tram tour through the city! If it sounds too simple, maybe that’s because you don’t know the Budapest yet. Trust us, it will be very romantic, if you’re planning to bring your beloved one and if you take the right tour…
Explore the city’s beauty aboard Tram #2. As it follows the gentle curve of the Danube, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Buda Castle, the iconic Chain Bridge, or Castle Hill.
Whether you hop on early in the misty morning for a touch of magic or at dusk to witness the city’s twinkling lights, this is a truly romantic experience. Get up close to the majestic Parliament Building and enjoy one of the world’s most picturesque trolley car rides.
Make the best out of Tram 2
There are many types of tickets and passes that you can buy to use the tram, but a simple 90 minute ticket will cost you just HUF 750.
13. Admire Budapest's Bridges
When the romantic Budapest comes out at night, the city’s bridges, spanning the Danube River, become veritable jewels. These architectural marvels, including Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge, Margaret Bridge, and Liberty Bridge, light up the city with a magical glow, casting a spell over the Hungarian capital.
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a symbol of unity and strength, connects Buda and Pest with its shimmering iron chains. Nearby, the Elizabeth Bridge, named after Empress Elizabeth (Sissi), blends history and modernity, standing as a testament to Budapest’s resilience. Margaret Bridge offers a bend and tranquil access to Margaret Island, boasting breathtaking panoramas of Budapest. And Liberty Bridge, the city’s shortest, connects vibrant spots and serves as a cultural hub, promising vibrant gatherings in the heart of the city.
Under the radiance of these illuminated bridges, couples share intimate moments, making them an essential part of any romantic escapade in Budapest.
How to have a magical walk and see the best bridges
Going from Margaret and Liberty (or vice versa) will take you through all four. This walk will take you on a scenic 52-minute stroll along the picturesque Danube, covering approximately 3.8 kilometers of Budapest’s riverside. Try do this in the evening and you won’t regret.
14. Watch the Sunset from Géllert Hill
Gellért Hill is probably one of the most romantic places in Budapest. For the ultimate rendezvous, go up the hill to the heights of passion and enchantment. Here, atop the round-shaped fortifications, the city unfolds in all its glory, offering a panorama from every angle.
You can also consider exploring Géllert Hill before the sunset, or just have a picnic, or go for a simple hike. And the the end of the day, you’ll have your reward – a great piece of heaven as you wander through this cherished park. Seek out the perfect spot, perhaps a cozy bench, and look at the sun setting over Budapest.
Getting to Géllert Hill
To reach Géllert Hill, choose between three options: a scenic tram ride to Rudas Gyógyfürdő and a stairway hike; a M4 metro ride to Móricz Zsigmond körtér, and then the 27 bus; or a 20 min walk starting from Liberty Bridge.
15. Admire the Hungarian Parliament
Another very good going for couples is to visit Budapest Parliament. And, to be completely honest, just admiring it from the outside is a very romantic scene already. Of course you can observe the Parliament right where it is, but the best spot to watch it might just be across the river – for a touch of romance, head to Batthyány Square, where you can capture enchanting views, especially at night when the Parliament glows, making it one of Budapest’s most romantic experiences.
About the Parliament
Budapest Parliament is a Neo-Gothic masterpiece completed in 1902. If you go for a tour, tickets range from HUF 2,500 to HUF 10,000, with opening hours varying by season.
