One of my favorite places to visit in the world is Budapest, which is the capital and largest city of Hungary. Finding the best things to do in Budapest can be difficult because there are so many attractions, activities, and restaurants to choose from.

This travel guide, which details the top things to do in Budapest, is the product of a collaboration between myself and a number of other people who are experts in the field of travel.

We’ve got you covered when it comes to deciding what to do in Budapest, from the must-see major tourist attractions to the off-the-beaten-path recommendations of knowledgeable locals.

The Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary

Experience the Thermal Baths of Budapest

A trip to the city’s most well-known baths comes highly recommended by Natalie of Love and Road.

It is impossible to visit Budapest and leave without at least taking a few laps in one of the city’s world-famous thermal baths. If you can only visit one, I suggest you pay a visit to the world-famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath.

This was the first bath to open on the Pest side of the city, and it is now part of one of the largest spa complexes in all of Europe. The structure itself is absolutely breathtaking. The building has the appearance of a palace from the outside, and on the inside, guests will find 21 swimming pools, a sauna, massage services, a restaurant, and a cafe.

The outdoor pools, on the other hand, are what make Széchenyi one of the most popular destinations in all of Budapest. Even if you are surrounded by hundreds of other people, you will still be able to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere in the outdoor area because it features breathtaking architecture, warm pools, chess tables, and everything else you could possibly need to unwind.

The bath is open daily, from six in the morning until ten at night, to both men and women. The cost of using the facilities ranges from 5,900 Thai baht, which is equivalent to $20 USD, to 2,000 Thai baht, which is equivalent to $7 USD for a tour that does not include swimming. What is my input? Put on your swimsuit, because you’re going to be there for at least a couple of hours. You won’t regret it.

Soak In a Thermal Beer Spa

In addition, there is a spa called the Thermal Beer Spa that is connected to the Széchenyi baths. Here, guests can relax in a bubbling bath made of actual beer ingredients such as malt, hops, and yeast.

It is said that going to a beer spa can help clean your pores, reduce the appearance of acne and cellulite, and give your skin a more youthful appearance. It also supplies vitamins, sugars, and proteins, all of which help your body release muscle tension and can even reduce stress, improve blood circulation, and eliminate harmful substances, in addition to enhancing the activity of the heart.

It is also rumored to be effective in treating hangovers.

In addition, while you relax in the hot tub, you can enjoy an ice cold beer from the bar’s unlimited supply of beer during your spa session.

Be aware, however, that in order to participate in this beer spa, you will need to purchase a separate ticket.

Visit the Lesser Known/Less Crowded Thermal Baths

Not only Széchenyi, but also Peter from Where Is Your Toothbrush? recommends a few of the less well-known baths, including:

Although Szechenyi and Gellert thermal baths receive the majority of the attention from tourists, and for good reason, there are many other public thermal baths that were left by Ottoman occupiers many centuries ago.

Király Bath may be a bit more run-down compared to others; however, a renovation that is the first of its kind since the 1950s is currently underway. In addition to being more affordable, Bath provides visitors with a look into the Ottoman past of the city by way of an old health facility. The fact that most of the customers are elderly residents of the area contributes to the off-the-beaten-path allure of the bath. I strongly suggest that you get up early and make your way to the bath that is buried beneath Castle Hill. You are welcome to take a seat in the fragrant mineral water that is used to fill the octagonal main pool that is kept at a temperature of 36 degrees Celsius and look up at the sky as it is reflected in the round dome. This is the most convenient and economical way to travel through time that is possible.

On the other hand, Rudas Bath, which can be found at the westernmost end of Elizabeth Bridge, is superior in size and quality and has more customers. Night bathing, which is only available on Fridays and Saturdays, provides a peaceful escape from the crowds, especially after midnight. For a magical thermal bath experience that blends Ottoman tradition with contemporary design, guests have their choice of six pools, three sauna rooms, and two steam rooms. After that, toast your successful journey with an apple or pear brandy shot at the Rudas bar, which is located right next to the entrance to the bath.

Get This Epic Photo For Yourself

Kate, from Our Escape Clause, offered the suggestion.

Gellert Hill is the one viewpoint in Budapest that you absolutely cannot miss out on seeing if you go there. The Statue of Liberty, which can be seen from all over the city, is located on the top of the mountain. This hill is the best place in all of Budapest to get a bird’s-eye view of the city.

You will be able to see the Danube River winding its way through Parliament, Buda Palace, Fisherman’s Bastion, the Chain Bridge, and St. Stephen’s Basilica from Gellert Hill. Of course, the Danube River will also be visible.

The scenery is absolutely breathtaking…

I think you’ll get the best results if you go there when the sun is setting.

One of the most enchanting experiences I had in Budapest was watching the sun go down over the city as the lights of the city began to flicker on. This is one of my favorite memories from my time there.

The illuminated landmarks, structures, and bridges, along with the watercraft, combine to form an unforgettable mosaic that is most easily appreciated from above.

Hike Gellert Hill

Jonathan from Journey Maxx recommends going on a climb up this same hill during the afternoon so you can take in the beautiful scenery:

an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture. The stone and iron Chain Bridge, which is adorned with colossal lion sculptures. The marble-white Elizabeth Bridge and the green metal Liberty Bridge The city of Buda is connected to Pest by the Danube. Even though it’s from a distance, you can see Buda Castle and the cone-shaped spires of Fisherman’s Bastion. All of these wonderful sights are among the most picturesque in all of Budapest. Hiking up Gellert Hill is one way to see everything without having to deal with such enormous groups of people.

The path may be found only a short distance from the opulent Gellert Hotel and Baths. This is the ideal location to work off those langos you’ve been eating on a beautiful day in the spring or summer. You may either take a break at the first viewpoint with the statue of St. Stephen or continue climbing to the Citadella at the top of the hill. You get to decide what to do. Feel free to make up your own route and wander aimlessly along a variety of different paths. This is the ideal spot to take in Budapest at a leisurely pace while learning about the important part that the hill’s fort played in Hungary’s most eventful and tumultuous moments in history.

When you think of its history, this location’s current peacefulness seems like something out of a dream. The views over the river provide a wealth of opportunities for interesting photographic compositions. There is no need to look any further if you are looking for the best place in Budapest to get a sense of the city on a bright and sunny day. If you climb to the top, you might not want to come back down again!

Visit The Citadella

After you have reached the summit of Gellert, Taiss of Together to Wherever recommends that you pay a visit to the Citadel, where you can:

The Citadella, which may also be translated as citadel or fortress, can be found perched atop Gellért Hill. Because there is a station near the fort on the Hop On Hop Off bus route, you won’t have any trouble getting there with your pass. On the other hand, if you want to get some exercise and some air, you may go for a stroll instead. It shouldn’t take more than approximately 15 minutes to get it to the summit of the mountain.

There are two main reasons why I consider this to be one of my top recommendations for things to do in Budapest. For one, there is no cost involved. And two, the scenery is really gorgeous!

You will have breathtaking views of the Danube River (which, if I may be so bold, are even more impressive than those from Fisherman’s Bastion!) in addition to the Chain Bridge, the Margaret Bridge, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and a great many other landmarks. During your exploration of the area, don’t forget to stop by the Statue of Liberty.

In addition, there is a museum and a coffee shop. I would suggest that you sit on one of the benches during the summers and have an ice cream cone filled with Chimney Cake flavor while taking in the scenery.

Take a Walking Food Tour of Budapest

Ali, from the YouTube channel “Ali’s Adventures,” suggested it.

My experience on a food tour with Taste Hungary was the highlight of my time in Budapest. The relationship between a city’s cuisine and its history is always an intriguing topic to research because food plays such a significant role in almost every culture.

My tour started in the Central Market Hall, where we sampled Unicum, Hungary’s national drink, and learned the history behind how the recipe was affected by communism. My tour ended in the Buda Castle District. Before leaving the market, we also consumed langos, cheese, and a variety of salamis, one of which was made from horse.

After that, we had lunch at a restaurant that had formerly operated as a butcher shop. Because the food at this establishment was so delicious, my husband and I came back for another meal during our trip. However, as if we hadn’t already eaten enough, our tour guide then took us to a cafe for cake, a candy shop for sweets, and then finished the tour off with a tasting of wine.

This tour was such a fun way to learn more about Budapest and the Hungarian culture surrounding food, and I really enjoyed everything I ate while I was on it. In addition, our guide provided us with a list of additional restaurants in Budapest that they both like and recommend. Because of this, I strongly encourage you to participate in this tour at the beginning of your trip.

Experience the Most Scenic Tram Ride in Budapest

Gabor from Surfing the Planet is the one who suggested this.

The city of Budapest is home to some very breathtaking scenery, which serves as one of the city’s primary draws. The city is divided in two by the Danube River, with the plains of Pest on one side and the hills of Buda on the other.

Taking a ride on tram number 2, which travels along the Pest bank of the Danube on the Pest side of the city, is the most enjoyable way to take in this mesmerizing view. The views that can be had from this tram are just breathtaking. You will be able to view Buda Castle, the Buda Hills, as well as the Danube River and all of its bridges, including the world-famous Chain Bridge.

On the Pest side of the river, you will come close to a number of significant historic structures, including the National Academy, which is one of the city’s most well-known buildings, and the Parliament. The voyage is on a public tram, which means you may purchase a single ticket or choose from a variety of different multi-day ticket choices. This is the nicest part of this tour.

I suggest going on the ride around the end of the day or after it becomes dark. At that time, the lights are turned on to beautifully highlight the bridges and the most notable structures.

Eat Your Way Through the Street Food Karaván Park

Advised by Maria, a resident of Europe Up Close

The Street Food Karaván, which can be found in the middle of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, is the ideal location for those who want to eat themselves silly while getting a taste of all the delicious foods that Budapest has to offer.

These food trucks and vendors sell a wide variety of foods, ranging from traditional Hungarian fare to sweets, options that are heart-healthy and vegan, and even dishes that are like an attack on your heart but are incredibly delicious.

The fact that EVERYONE will be able to find something that they like makes this restaurant an excellent choice for the companions of picky eaters.

Lángos, a type of flatbread typical of Hungary that is piled high with sour cream and cheese, is an item that you simply must try. This is the best option for you to take if your next stop will be at one of the ruin bars.

It is strongly suggested that you travel with a large group of friends or even complete strangers that you have met in the lobby of your hostel. This way, you’ll have more opportunities to sample the delectable fare that’s available at Street Food Karaván.

Visit the Stunning Parliament Building

Nomination made by Kaila from the Nom List

If you go to Budapest, you can’t skip out on seeing the Hungarian Parliament Building. It’s a must-see attraction. This well-known landmark can be found in Lajos Kossuth Square, which is situated on the riverbanks of the Danube in Budapest. It is widely considered to be one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. The Hungarian Parliament is not only the largest and tallest building in Hungary but also in all of Budapest. Even more spectacular than it appears during the day is the way in which it is illuminated once the sun goes down.

It is imperative that you book a tour guide in advance of your visit to the building because you will not be permitted entry without one. You will have the opportunity to view one of Hungary’s most priceless artifacts, the Holy Crown of St. Stephen, once you enter the building. The Gothic Revival style can be seen in the symmetrical design of the building, and the building is well-known for the central hall that has sixteen sides. Sculptures, frescoes, mosaics, and stained glass are some of the other decorative elements that can be found inside. Don’t even think about leaving Budapest without first paying a visit to this incredible national monument!

Have a Drink At One of Budapest’s Many Famous Ruin Bars

Submitted by Aleah of the Solitary Wanderer as a suggestion

The ruin bars in Budapest are the best spots in the city to meet people and have a drink if you’re looking for an alternative to the typical drinking establishments. The shape of these bars inspired them to be called by that name. On the outside, they have the appearance of deserted buildings that are on the point of collapsing, and on the inside, things aren’t much better. There are inconsistencies in the arrangement of the furniture, the walls are unpainted, and in some instances, the doors are damaged. You’ll stumble upon a few paintings and various types of artwork here and there.

When the first ruin bar, Szimpla Kert, opened its doors in 2004, it was more of an underground club that was packed with locals than it was with visitors. When I went to Instant a few years later, the information was still accurate.

Instant, which was once utilized as an apartment building, is now home to Budapest’s most extensive ruin bar. The bar was built on many levels, and the original walls that separated the flats have been knocked down. There was a DJ and a dance floor when I attended, and I had a terrific time sitting on one of the couches and drinking beer with a buddy I met via Couchsurfing. As a result of CNN and other prominent websites writing about them, ruin bars are no longer considered to be hangouts frequented by locals. Instead, they are more of an open secret. We can only hope that despite the onslaught of visitors, they have managed to keep their unique identity.

Take In The House of Terror

Gemma of Two Scots Abroad offers the following suggestion:

Young tourists will find that Pest is an appealing destination thanks to the city’s many ruin bars and party spas. On the other hand, this side of the city is home to one of the city’s most compelling attractions: the House of Terror on Andrássy, which recounts the horrific history of torture in Hungary.

Audio guides, photographs, and artifacts will be placed on each of the four floors of the home to educate guests about the two different terror regimes that residents of the area have been subjected to.

The periods of terror caused by the Nazi invasion and the Soviet invasion are covered in exhibitions.

The museum was established as a memorial for the victims of these regimes, including those who were held captive, questioned, tortured, and ultimately put to death within the walls of the building.

The self-guided audio tour is well worth a visit for those who are looking for alternative things to do in Pest as it takes approximately two to three hours to complete.

Go Cave Diving – Yes, In Budapest!!

Something that Halef of theRTWguys recommends doing is so awesome that I can’t wait to get back to Budapest so that I can try it for myself:
There are plenty of things to see and do in Budapest, both above and below ground. You can go to the underground secret hospital museum or explore Budapest’s caves by joining an organized spelunking tour, but the most unique way to explore “underground Budapest” is to dive into the Molnar Janos Cave, which is relatively unknown to the general public.

Divers who want to get the most out of their time cave diving in Budapest should make a stop at the Molnar Janos Cave. Since the area surrounding the cave was designated a National Park in 1992, only a select few people are permitted to enter the cave each day to explore it and dive.

Each diver is responsible for completing all of the relevant documentation and participating in a comprehensive pre-dive orientation session. The divemaster for your Molnar Janos cave diving session will keep a close eye on you at all times to ensure your safety because of the inherent peril and delicate nature of the cave environment.

The caves are completely pitch black, but with the right lighting, you’ll be able to find fossils that are see-through, fascinating rock formations, and an endemic species of blind shrimp that can be found nowhere else on the planet. You may even be able to hear the subway above you shaking!

Your time spent in Molnar Janos will be one of the most memorable and exciting of your life. It is without a doubt one of the strangest things that visitors to Budapest may do while they are there.

Check out this video on YouTube to learn more about cave diving in the Molnar Janos area:

Take In a Performance at the Budapest Opera House

According to Noel, who works with Travel Photo Discovery

It is highly recommended that you make reservations for a performance at the Budapest Opera House if you are looking for a spectacular and one-of-a-kind experience while in Budapest. Attending a show there is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.

The glamorous Opera House in Budapest is home to a variety of artistic performances, including those by the Budapest Philharmonic Symphony, the Budapest Ballet, and other performance groups. The events take place on a regular basis and come at pricing that are far more reasonable than comparable Western offerings. When you walk into the hall and see the elaborate decor, including the grand staircase that leads to your seat, you’ll have an inkling that this is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for you.
Check out some of my favorite spots to take pictures in Budapest while you’re here in the city to get some ideas on where to go and what to see and do.

Discover Margaret Island

Alex, from “The Swedish Nomad,” recommended this phrase.

The verdant Margaret Island, or Margitsziget as it is referred to in its native language of Hungarian, can be found in the middle of the Danube in the city of Budapest.

Greenery and lovely gardens can be found here, alongside medieval attractions that are sure to pique the interest of those who are passionate about history. The most frequented park in all of Budapest is located on Margaret Island.

In the 12th century, the island served as the location for the headquarters of the Knights of St. John. The Franciscan church, which was built in the 13th century, contains relics from this time period that can be viewed by visitors today.

The Music Fountain is one of the most visited places in the city and plays host to a number of musical performances on a daily basis. The water in the fountain is timed to different songs playing in the background.

In addition to the Music Fountain, the island is home to a well-known bath house as well as a beach where guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the water.

In modern times, Margitsziget has also become the location of an increasingly well-known festival known as Sziget. DJs and artists of the highest caliber from all over the world are scheduled to perform here. The celebration lasts for a full week and is typically held in the first week of August.

Walking across the bridges is the most convenient way to make your way to Margitsziget. You could also take the tram or bus, or sign up for one of the city’s many tours. Budapest has a lot of them.

Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

Recommendation provided by Sally of Luxurious Lifestyles

The St. Stephen’s Basilica, also known as the Szent Istvan Bazilika, is the largest church in all of Hungary. It is devoted to St. Stephen, who was the first king of Hungary and can be found in Budapest.

After the collapse of the dome, the neo-renaissance style was used to complete the basilica, which had been designed to be a neo-classical cathedral in the beginning. The construction of the cathedral took a total of fifty years, and it is large enough to accommodate 8,500 people.

The magnificent interior is home to the mummified right hand of Saint Stephen, known as Szent Jobb. This is the most sacred treasure in Hungary, and it is embellished with bracelets made of pearls and rubies, as well as gold leaves for added detail.

It is highly recommended that you ascend to the cupola so that you can take in the breathtaking views of the city that can be seen in every direction. The dome, which measures 96 meters in height, was painstakingly constructed to be exactly the same height as the Budapest Parliament Building. This architectural element was intended to serve as a visual representation of the harmonious coexistence of church and state in Hungary.

Throughout the course of the year, St. Stephen’s Basilica plays host to a number of different organ music concerts that are open to the public. Cafes and bistros with outdoor seating can be found on the spacious St. Stephen Square, which is located in front of the basilica. During the holiday season, the square is transformed into a magical winter wonderland that is bustling with people attending one of the many outdoor Christmas markets that Budapest has to offer.

Eat Your Way Through Central Market Hall

Authors Rashmi and Chalukya of GoBeyond Bounds are responsible for this suggestion.

There are a number of food markets that are included on the list of the best attractions in Budapest; however, the Central Market Hall is not only one of the oldest but also the best place to explore the numerous culinary options that are available in the city.

There is an indoor market in Budapest that spans three floors and is known as the Great Market Hall. It is also known as the Central Market Hall. The market can be found in the very center of the city, right next to the well-known Liberty bridge, and it is only a ten-minute walk away from Deak Ferenc Square. The Central Market can be found inside of a magnificent Neo-Gothic building that features a roof made of colorful Zsolnay tiles.
In the opposite direction from the market is the lively street known as Vaci Utca, which is lined with restaurants and souvenir shops.
The shops selling fresh vegetables, fruits, and meat are located on the ground floor of the market hall, while shops selling fish and pickled vegetables are located in the basement. In one of the shops on the first floor, you will have the opportunity to sample a variety of regional specialties. In addition, the first floor features a multitude of shops selling a variety of handicrafts in addition to apparel, making it the ideal location for an extended period of time spent shopping. Take note, however, that the market is closed on the weekends, specifically on Sundays.

Take A Historical Tour of the City

Don’t Forget to Move’s Jules offered this recommendation.

There is never a dull moment in Budapest because there is always something exciting to do. But when you’re not going from ruin pub to ruin pub or dipping your toes in the thermal baths, I suggest reading up on the city’s rich history instead. Tours of historical Budapest give you the opportunity to delve more deeply into various aspects of Budapest’s past, such as the city’s communist history.

Only a few short decades ago, Hungary was governed by an authoritarian Communist regime. The grey, box-like buildings tell the story of the city’s oppressive communist rule as one walks through the city, which is like walking through a visual history book.

We were able to hear a first-hand account of how life was during this era thanks to the assistance of a local tour guide. She explained to us that the general public was afraid to speak out against the government because it was common knowledge that people who opposed the government could “disappear.”

We noticed bullet holes as we passed by the United Nations Headquarters. These holes were caused by a student-led anti-communist demonstration that took place in 1956. We also visited the contentious Holocaust memorial, which was the impetus for the establishment of an alternative memorial in response to the Hungarian government’s denial of their involvement in the war.

Even though they have a reputation for being dull, we had a great time learning about the fascinating history of Budapest, and we highly recommend taking a tour as one of the top things to do while in the city.

Cruise Down the Danube River at Sunset

Inma from A World to Travel recommended this phrase.

Embark on a Danube ferry in Budapest just in time to see the sun go down over the city’s breathtaking riverfront. The cost of the ferry ride is very reasonable, and if you get lonely during the trip, you can either purchase something from the bar or bring your own headphones.
The city’s public transportation company, known as BKK, operates three boat lines that leave from a variety of docks on the Buda and Pest sides of the city respectively.
Your cruise pictures will have the perfect backdrop when they are taken in front of famous waterfront landmarks like Gellert Hill, the Parliament House, Chain Bridge, the Danube Promenade, and Buda Castle.
There are ferries that will take you all the way to Margaret Island, which is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful and scenic areas in all of Budapest.
A trip on a ferry across the Danube is not only inexpensive but also enjoyable and relaxing. It is, without a doubt, one of the attractions in Budapest that I appreciated the most.