Things to do in Budapest
Budapest is two cities with the Danube in between: hilly Buda with its castle and flat, lively Pest with Parliament, the cafés and the bars. Bridges link them, and hot springs lie beneath.
Parliament
The Parliament building on the Danube is the city's landmark. Photo: Ervin Lukacs / Unsplash
Budapest: a city break with thermal baths
Budapest only became one city in the 1870s, when Buda, Óbuda and Pest were united. The two sides of the Danube still feel different. Buda is green and hilly, with the castle and the Fisherman's Bastion. Pest is the centre for restaurants, shops and nightlife.
The city sits on hot springs, and its bathing culture is a reason to go in itself. Prices are often lower than in western Europe, and the currency is the forint. The view over the Danube, especially at night when the bridges and Parliament are lit, is among the finest in Europe.
Budapest is the capital of Hungary. If you like the great cities of central Europe, see also Prague.
The Chain Bridge
Photo: Dan Freeman / Unsplash
The best things to do in Budapest
Parliament: see it from the river or from the Buda side, and book a guided tour in advance.
The castle and the Fisherman's Bastion: the view over Pest and the Danube from Buda hill.
The thermal baths: Széchenyi Baths with their yellow buildings and outdoor pools, or the art nouveau Gellért Baths.
The ruin bars: bars in old courtyard buildings in the Jewish Quarter, Szimpla Kert being the best known.
A Danube cruise: best in the evening, when the bridges are lit.
The Great Market Hall: paprika, sausages and lángos under one roof.
Széchenyi Baths
Photo: Linda Gerbec / Unsplash
Where to stay in Budapest
Belváros (central Pest): in the middle of everything, near the river and the bridges.
The Jewish Quarter: restaurants and nightlife.
Around the Basilica: central and a little quieter.
Buda: quiet, green and with views over Pest.
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Four Seasons Gresham Palace
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Four Seasons Gresham Palace: the art nouveau palace by the Chain Bridge
A luxury hotel in an art nouveau palace at the end of the Chain Bridge, looking across the Danube to the castle.
Book your city break: See rooms at Four Seasons Gresham Palace
Aria Hotel Budapest: music and a rooftop bar by the Basilica
A music-themed hotel next to St Stephen's Basilica, with a roof terrace over the city.
Book your city break: See rooms at Aria Hotel Budapest
Hotel Clark
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Hotel Clark: adults only, on the Buda side
An adults-only hotel at the bridgehead on the Buda side, with a roof terrace looking across the river to Pest.
Book your city break: See rooms at Hotel Clark
When is the best time to visit Budapest?
Spring and autumn are often best for walking. Summer is hot and winter cold, but the baths are just as good in the snow, and the Christmas markets in December are popular. See also Christmas market breaks.
Frequently asked questions about Budapest
Where is the best area to stay in Budapest?
Stay in central Pest or around the Basilica to walk to most sights. The Jewish Quarter suits restaurants and nightlife, and Buda is best for peace and views.
Which thermal bath should I visit in Budapest?
Széchenyi Baths is the largest and best known, with outdoor pools all year. Gellért Baths is famous for its art nouveau interior. Check opening hours and whether booking is needed before you go.
How many days do you need in Budapest?
Three days is enough for Parliament, the castle, a bath, a river cruise and an evening in the ruin bars.
What currency does Hungary use?
Hungary uses the forint. Cards are accepted in most places.
When is the best time to visit Budapest?
April, May, September and October bring pleasant weather. December is popular for the Christmas markets, and the baths are good all year.