The 10 Best Sights & Activities to See and Do in Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is an enchanting and vibrant city with a unique mixture of culture and architecture. Located on the banks of the Danube River, it is known for its iconic bridges, stunning art nouveau architecture, and lively café culture. The city has been called the “Pearl of the Danube” for its stunning beauty and diverse culture. It’s a place where old-world charm intersects with modernity, making it an ideal destination for both new and seasoned travelers alike. From exploring the city’s iconic landmarks to relaxing in its thermal baths, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Budapest. Here are the top 10 sights and activities to see and do in Budapest.
1. Explore Castle Hill & Buda Castle
No visit to Budapest is complete without exploring Castle Hill, the historical district of Buda. Home to Buda Castle and numerous other sights, it is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Start your visit at Buda Castle, a magnificent 13th century fortress that is now home to the Hungarian National Gallery and the Hungarian National Library. From here, take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of Castle Hill, taking in the stunning Baroque architecture as you go. Be sure to also explore Fisherman’s Bastion, a neo-Gothic terrace with panoramic views of the city, and Matthias Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
Book your Castle Hill tour here.
2. Climb Gellért Hill
Gellért Hill is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, offering stunning views of the city. Climb the hill to reach its summit where you can find the Citadella fortress, which was built by the Habsburgs in 1851. From here you can admire views of the Danube River and the city’s skyline. On your way up the hill, be sure to take in the sights of Freedom Monument and Statue Park, which house numerous statues from Hungary’s Communist era.
Book your Gellért Hill tour here.
3. Enjoy Budapest’s Thermal Baths
Budapest is known for its thermal springs, which have been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for centuries. The largest and most iconic is Széchenyi Bath, a sprawling complex with 18 thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms and massage facilities. The water is said to have healing properties and many visitors come here to relax and unwind in its soothing waters. There are also numerous smaller thermal baths scattered throughout the city, including Lukács Bath, Király Bath and Rudas Bath, each with its own unique atmosphere.
Book your Thermal Baths tour here.
4. Visit Heroes’ Square
Heroes’ Square is one of Budapest’s most popular attractions and one of its most important landmarks. Located in City Park, it is home to a monument honoring the seven chieftains who led the Magyar tribes into present-day Hungary in 896AD. The square also features statues of various Hungarian kings and a stunning Art Nouveau entrance designed by architect Alajos Hauszmann.
Book your Heroes’ Square tour here.
5. Explore Jewish Budapest
Budapest is home to one of Europe’s largest Jewish populations and has some of the most important Jewish sites in Europe. Start your exploration at Dohány Street Synagogue, Europe’s largest synagogue which is also home to Europe’s largest Jewish Museum. From here, take a leisurely stroll through Budapest’s Jewish Quarter where you can explore the Great Synagogue, the Jewish Cemetery and numerous historic buildings.
Book your Jewish Budapest tour here.
6. Stroll Along The Danube Promenade
The Danube Promenade is one of Budapest’s most popular attractions and offers stunning views of both Buda and Pest sides of the city. The promenade stretches for almost 9 miles along both sides of the Danube River, providing plenty of opportunities for leisurely strolls or romantic walks at night. It’s also a great spot for taking pictures of some of Budapest’s most iconic sights such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge.
Book your Danube Promenade tour here.
7. Visit Margaret Island
Margaret Island is a 2-mile long island located in the middle of the Danube River that is one of Budapest’s most popular attractions. The island is covered with lush parks and gardens and features numerous attractions such as water slides, a swimming pool, an open-air theater and an observation tower offering stunning views of the city skyline. It’s also home to numerous medieval ruins dating back to the 13th century as well as a monastery built in 1250AD.
Book your Margaret Island tour here.
8. Enjoy Local Cuisine
Budapest is renowned for its unique culinary offerings which include traditional Hungarian dishes such as goulash soup, paprikash chicken, palacsinta (crepes) and lángos (fried dough). Be sure to try some local specialties such as beef goulash or chicken paprikash served with golden-brown dumplings called nokedli or try some Hungarian street food such as kolbász (smoked sausage) or lángos (fried dough).
9. Shop At Váci Street
Váci Street is Budapest’s main shopping street where you can find everything from international luxury brands to local boutiques selling traditional Hungarian products such as paprika, embroidered fabrics and carpets. The street is also lined with numerous cafes and restaurants where you can relax with a cup of coffee or enjoy traditional Hungarian dishes such as goulash soup or palacsinta (crepes).
Book your Vaci Street tour here.
10. Take A Cruise On The Danube
No trip to Budapest would be complete without taking a cruise on the Danube River which offers stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks including Buda Castle, Chain Bridge, Gellért Hill and Margaret Island. Cruises usually last around two hours and are offered during both day and night so you can experience two different sides of Budapest depending on which cruise you choose.
With its vibrant culture and stunning architecture, Budapest truly has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring its iconic landmarks or relaxing in its thermal baths, you’re sure to find something that will make your visit unforgettable. With so much to see and do in Budapest, it’s easy to see why its one of Europe’s most beloved cities.
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