It’s no secret that Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The city is widely known for its stunning architecture, famous landmarks, and scenic views along the Danube River. To fully experience the beauty of Budapest, taking a city cruise is a must-do activity. In this post, we’ve rounded up the 14 best city cruises in Budapest that will take you through the heart of the city and show you the best views of its attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler to Budapest, these city cruises are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of the city.
The 14 Best City Cruises in Budapest
- Budapest: 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Welcome Drink
- Budapest: Evening Sightseeing Cruise and Unlimited Prosecco
- Budapest: Nighttime Sightseeing Cruise
- Budapest: 1-Hour Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Drink
- Budapest: 70-Minute Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube
- Budapest: Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise
- Budapest: Danube Cruise with Hungarian Dinner and Live Music
- Budapest: Evening Cruise including Drinks and Live Music
- Budapest: Evening Cruise and Dinner with Champagne
- Budapest: Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music
- Budapest: Dinner Cruise with Operetta and Folk Show
- Budapest: 3-Course Dinner Cruise and Piano Battle Show
- Budapest: Dinner Cruise with Live Music and Folk Dance Show
- Budapest: Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube with Live Music
The 14 Best City Cruises in Budapest
1. Budapest: 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Welcome Drink
Discover Budapest’s illuminated landmarks with a 1-hour sightseeing cruise along the Danube River. Marvel at the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Vigadó Concert Hall, and Gellert Hill from the open deck while sipping on a complimentary welcome drink, such as prosecco or a seasonal option. Share your photos with free Wi-Fi and enjoy a fast check-in with your mobile voucher. A live tour guide will provide commentary on the main sites passed during the cruise. Additional food and drinks are available for purchase on board. Please meet at Dock 42 North side, located 800m north from Margaret Bridge. Pets and unaccompanied minors are not allowed. Seats are taken in the order of arrival, and there are no assigned seats, although special seating options are available.
2. Budapest: Evening Sightseeing Cruise and Unlimited Prosecco
Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Budapest at night with the Evening Sightseeing Cruise and Unlimited Prosecco tour. Get ready to be swept away as you cruise along the Danube River and witness the city’s landmarks illuminated by the night lights. Sip on unlimited glasses of high-quality prosecco or homemade lemonade as you take in the stunning views through the panoramic windows or from the open-air terrace. The audio guide provides insightful commentary about each landmark, allowing you to fully appreciate the architecture and history of the Hungarian capital. Indulge in typical Hungarian cuisine, including local ham, cheese, and vegetables, and enjoy lounge music playing in the background. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and you can pay by card onboard the boat. However, please note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Join us at the dock on Carl Lutz Rakpart with the big red zero for an unforgettable experience.
3. Budapest: Nighttime Sightseeing Cruise
Experience Budapest’s stunning landmarks by night with a sightseeing cruise on the River Danube. Feast your eyes on the Royal Palace, Gellért Hill, Liberty Bridge, and the iconic Chain Bridge as you sail under some of Budapest’s most well-known bridges. Climb up to the panoramic upper terrace for the best views of the city and snap some sensational pictures of the city at night. You’ll enjoy an audio guide or live commentary during the cruise and hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the package. Food and drinks are available for purchase during the cruise, so sit back and relax as you take in Budapest’s spectacular sights. Meet at Dock #11 next to the Elizabeth bridge on the Pest side and look for the “Silverline” logo. Note that non-folding wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs are not allowed on the tour.
4. Budapest: 1-Hour Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Drink
This 1-hour evening sightseeing cruise is the perfect way to experience the charming city of Budapest. Sail between the Buda and Pest sides of the city on the legendary blue Danube and see the top sights of Budapest, including the majestic Chain Bridge and Elisabeth Bridge, the massive Budapest Parliament Building, and the Buda Castle on the hill. Circle the Margaret Island and admire the city’s skyline as you learn about the main attractions from the 30-language audio guide. During the cruise, you can sip on a glass of champagne, wine, beer, soft drink, or mineral water, and enjoy a complimentary special Duna Bella lemonade. Make use of the free Wi-Fi onboard as you take in the stunning views of the city. The boat will take you back to the pier in central Budapest once the tour has concluded. Board the boat at Dock 7 Jane Haining rakpart Budapest, located near the tram stop Petőfi tér, which is a 10-minute walk from the Ferenciek Tere Metro stop. Look for Legenda City Cruisess.
5. Budapest: 70-Minute Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube
Embark on a 70-minute sightseeing cruise on the Danube in Budapest and explore the city’s famous landmarks from the water. Marvel at the unique bridges, including the iconic Chain Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge with its large bronze statue, and Liberty Bridge. You’ll also get to see the House of Parliament, Castle Hill, Royal Palace, and Gellért Hill. Head to the upper deck for panoramic views of Budapest and take sensational pictures of the city’s landmarks. An audio guide or live commentary is provided during the cruise, and food and drinks are available for purchase. Please note that non-folding and electric wheelchairs are not allowed on the tour. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.
6. Budapest: Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise
Enjoy a daytime sightseeing boat cruise and explore Budapest from the water with this tour. This legendary blue Danube cruise takes you between the Buda and Pest sides of the city. You’ll see the top sights of Budapest, including the Chain Bridge and Elisabeth Bridge, the Budapest Parliament Building, the Buda Castle, and Margaret Island. Learn about these sights from the multilingual audio guide available in 30 languages while you sip on a glass of champagne, wine, beer, soft drink, or mineral water with a complimentary special Duna Bella lemonade.
If you’re taking the tour during the summer, you can also take an optional stop at Margaret Island. The island is cool and green, and you’ll receive a free map with recommended walking tours and information about the sights to see. Afterward, board the boat for the return trip to central Budapest.
The tour includes free WiFi on board and the meeting point is at Dock 7 Jane Haining rakpart 1052 Budapest. The closest tram stop is Petőfi tér which is a 10-minute walk from the Ferenciek tere Metro stop. Note that due to current travel and health issues, the tour may operate on a reduced schedule and without the Margaret Island stop. Additionally, the maximum capacity per departure is reduced to 80 passengers to allow enough room for everyone onboard to be seated separately. Book this tour now and enjoy the unique experience of sightseeing in Budapest from the water!
7. Budapest: Danube Cruise with Hungarian Dinner and Live Music
Experience Budapest from a whole new angle with a Danube River cruise complete with a Hungarian dinner and live music. Board the vintage Gróf Széchényi and take in the illuminated city as you sail past landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Fisherman’s Bastion. Indulge in a self-service buffet of traditional Hungarian delicacies before being serenaded by the Rajkó Folk Orchestra at your table. Sip on a complimentary welcome drink and enjoy one more beverage of your choice as you take in the sights and sounds of Budapest from the river. The cruise is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and does not allow pets or large bags. The meeting point is Akadémia dock 3, and the cruise lasts for either 2 or 1.5 hours depending on the starting time. Relax, unwind, and experience Budapest in a truly unique way on this Danube River cruise.
8. Budapest: Evening Cruise including Drinks and Live Music
Experience the beauty of Budapest at night on a 1.5 or 2-hour Evening Cruise that includes drinks and live music. Begin the journey at the designated meeting point and board the boat called “Gróf Széchenyi.” Cruise under all 6 of the main bridges of Budapest and marvel at the iconic buildings such as the House of Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica. Sit back and relax with your favorite drinks, including wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks, while enjoying the live Hungarian folk music performance by the award-winning Rajkó Folk ensemble. Head to the open-air upper deck to take in the panoramic view of Budapest by night. During the performance, guests even have the chance to request their favorite songs. End the tour at the city center, feeling enchanted by Budapest’s unforgettable atmosphere.
9. Budapest: Evening Cruise and Dinner with Champagne
Explore the beauty of Budapest from a different perspective on this evening cruise along the Danube River. This tour offers a stunning view of the city’s historical monuments and other sights. You’ll be served a delicious 3-course dinner with table service while enjoying live entertainment, including a folklore performance with traditional music. To complete your experience, sip on champagne and immerse yourself in the local ambience and history of this charming city. This package includes a welcome drink, live gypsy music, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Extra drinks are available for purchase on board. Boarding starts at 7:10 PM at MAHART PassNave Passenger Shipping Company, Vigadó Square ship station. Don’t miss out on one of the best city cruises Budapest has to offer.
10. Budapest: Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music
Experience a romantic and enchanting evening on the Danube River with the Budapest: Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music. Step aboard one of the most elegant and modern cruises in Budapest and enjoy a complimentary welcome drink as you glide along the waters. Feast on a catered 4-course dinner while listening to live music performed by local Hungarian artists. Take in the stunning illuminated views of the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, Margaret Island, and many other landmarks along the river. With retractable windows, you’ll have the best possible photo opportunities throughout the night. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience on your trip to Budapest.
11. Budapest: Dinner Cruise with Operetta and Folk Show
Experience an enchanting evening in Budapest with a dinner cruise on the River Danube, passing by the city’s most beautiful monuments. Enjoy a meal prepared by the ship’s chef as you listen to live gypsy music and watch an authentic folklore show performed by professional dancers. See the illuminated sights of Buda and Pest, and savor a bowl of soup and a dessert with the dinner lite option. Choose between a 3 or 6-course meal, and indulge in locally inspired dishes like Hungarian Goulash Soup, baked cod fillet, and chocolate brownie with salted caramel sauce. This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and does not allow pets or large bags. Meet your cruise at the designated Budapest River Cruises dock next to Elizabeth Bridge on the Pest side, identified by the “Silverline” logo on the boat. A vegetarian option is available upon request. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infant seats can be provided upon request at the time of booking.
12. Budapest: 3-Course Dinner Cruise and Piano Battle Show
Enjoy a memorable evening in Budapest with a 3-Course Dinner Cruise and Piano Battle Show. Spend 3 hours cruising along the Danube River, taking in stunning views of Budapest’s landmarks and monuments, including the Parliament Building, Matthias Church, and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Indulge in a delicious 3 or 6-course meal, including options such as Hungarian Goulash Soup, Baked Cod Fillet, and Breezy Tapioca Pudding. The highlight of the evening is the Piano Battle Show, featuring two talented pianists competing for the audience’s favor while a hostess provides commentary on the musical selections. Depending on the option selected, drinks and a window table may also be included. Hotel pickup and drop-off is provided for your convenience. Join this unforgettable evening of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment on the Danube River in Budapest.
13. Budapest: Dinner Cruise with Live Music and Folk Dance Show
Experience the beauty of Budapest at night with a lively and entertaining Danube River dinner cruise. This 2-3 hour journey takes you on a scenic route passing by iconic landmarks such as the Chain Bridge, Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Fisherman’s Bastion, while you savor a traditional Hungarian dinner buffet and listen to live music on board. Be entertained by a Hungarian folklore dance show and spot the traditional cimbalom instrument in action. The cruise also provides a bottle of water and a welcome drink, with an optional drink of beer, wine, or soft drink. Hotel pickup and drop-off service is available for selected options. This is a must-do experience for those wanting to take in the beauty of Budapest at night.
14. Budapest: Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube with Live Music
Discover the Pearl of the Danube on a sightseeing cruise with live music. Board the exclusive Gróf Széchényi ship and marvel at Budapest’s most famous attractions, as you cruise under six bridges including the Chain Bridge and Margaret Bridge. Listen to live music on board and purchase drinks from the on-board bar. Enjoy stunning views of Budapest from the open balconies on the boat, as you pass by the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Gellert Hill. The tour lasts for 2 hours with a guide to provide more information about Budapest’s landmarks. Look for the boat with the “Gróf Széchényi” sign as your meeting point. Pets are not allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budapest
Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, known for its historic architecture, thermal baths, and stunning vistas of the Danube River. If you’re planning a trip to Budapest, here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about the city:
1. What is the best time to visit Budapest?
Budapest can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is in the spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, but many find the festive atmosphere during the winter holidays to be worth braving the cold.
2. Is Budapest safe?
Budapest is a generally safe city for tourists, but as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other crimes. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid unlit areas at night, and keep your valuables secured. Scams are also common in tourist areas, so be wary of unsolicited help or requests for money.
3. What is the currency in Budapest?
The currency in Budapest is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). While some restaurants and tourist attractions may accept Euros or US dollars, it’s best to exchange your currency to Forints for the best exchange rate. There are many exchange offices and ATMs throughout the city, but be sure to check the exchange rates and any fees before exchanging money.
4. What are the must-see attractions in Budapest?
Budapest is home to many must-see attractions, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and St. Stephen’s Basilica. Additionally, a visit to one of the city’s famous thermal baths, such as the Széchenyi or Gellért Baths, is a must-do experience.
5. Do I need a visa to visit Budapest?
If you’re a citizen of the European Union, you do not need a visa to visit Budapest. Citizens of other countries may need a visa, so it’s best to check the Hungarian embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.
6. What is the public transportation like in Budapest?
Budapest has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro system. The most convenient way to get around is with a Budapest Card, which offers unlimited transportation on all public transport options as well as discounts for many tourist attractions.
7. What is the food like in Budapest?
Budapest is known for its hearty and flavorful cuisine, with dishes such as goulash, chicken paprikash, and chimney cake (a sweet pastry). There are also many restaurants serving international cuisine such as Italian, Chinese, and Japanese.
8. What is the language spoken in Budapest?
The official language of Hungary is Hungarian, which is spoken by nearly all residents of Budapest. However, many people in the hospitality and tourism industries speak English and other languages, so it’s generally easy to get by without knowing Hungarian.
9. How many days should I spend in Budapest?
While it’s possible to see the major attractions of Budapest in two or three days, it’s recommended to spend at least four or five days in the city to fully explore its many sights and experiences. It’s also worth considering a day trip to nearby destinations such as Szentendre or Eger.
10. Where can I stay in Budapest?
Budapest has many accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The most popular areas for tourists to stay are the District V (Belváros) and District VII (Erzsébetváros) neighborhoods, which are centrally located and offer easy access to many attractions and restaurants.
Overall, Budapest is a beautiful and fascinating city that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope to have helped you plan a memorable trip to Budapest!Table of Contents
