Budapest, Hungary is a stunning city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the “Pearl of the Danube,” Budapest is famous for its breathtaking architecture, including the iconic Parliament Building and Buda Castle. 

The city is divided by the Danube River, with the hilly Buda side offering panoramic views and historic landmarks, while the Pest side is bustling with vibrant cafes, shops, and nightlife. Budapest is also known for its thermal baths, where locals and tourists can relax and rejuvenate. With its vibrant atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and welcoming locals, Budapest is a must-visit destination in Europe.

BUDAPEST TRAVEL GUIDE

Top Attractions

Fisherman’s Bastion

Situated on Castle Hill, Fisherman’s Bastion offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Danube River. The bastion was built between 1895 and 1902 and is a mix of neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque architecture. It is named after the medieval guild of fishermen who were responsible for defending this part of the city walls in the Middle Ages. 

The bastion consists of seven turreted towers, which represent the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century. You can explore the various terraces and staircases, as well as admire the intricate details and decorative elements of the bastion’s design.

Hungarian Parliament Building

The most recognizable building in Budapest, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a dazzling architectural masterpiece that showcases the grandeur and elegance of the city. Built in the Gothic Revival style, the building is known for its intricate details and imposing size. Standing on the banks of the Danube River, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hungary and a symbol of the country’s rich history. 

The Parliament Building features a symmetrical design with a central dome and two impressive wings. The interior is equally impressive, with opulent halls, ornate staircases, and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Buda Castle

Buda Castle stands prominently on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River. With its rich history and stunning design, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city’s heritage. The castle complex consists of several buildings, including the Royal Palace and the National Gallery. The intricate details and grandeur of the architecture showcase the artistic prowess of the past. 

From its vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Danube River and the cityscape. Buda Castle is not just a historical landmark but also a cultural hub, hosting various exhibitions, events, and performances throughout the year.

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St Stephen’s Basilica

Located in the heart of Budapest in Szent IIstván Square, St. Stephen’s Basilica is one the most notable Roman Catholic Churches in Hungary. Named after the first King of Hungary, St. Stephen, the basilica is a prominent landmark and a popular tourist attraction. It was completed in 1905 and stands as one of the tallest buildings in Budapest, with its towering dome reaching a height of 96 meters.

The basilica’s exterior showcases a blend of neoclassical and Renaissance architectural styles, while the interior is adorned with stunning mosaics, intricate sculptures, and beautiful stained glass windows. The basilica also houses the Holy Right, a relic of St. Stephen, which is displayed for public viewing on special occasions. 

Be sure to climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Budapest or attend one of the organ concerts held regularly within the basilica.

Hungarian State Opera

The Hungarian State Opera is a cultural jewel that showcases the beauty and grandeur of opera. Located in the city center, the opera house is a magnificent architectural masterpiece, with its ornate interiors and stunning exterior. 

The opera house hosts a wide range of performances, from classic operas to modern productions, attracting both local and international audiences. The talented artists and musicians of the opera house deliver exceptional performances that captivate and inspire.

Shoes on the Danube Bank

The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a memorial created to honor the Jewish victims who were killed during World War II. The memorial consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes lined up along the bank of the Danube River. Each pair represents a victim who was forced to take off their shoes before being shot and thrown into the river. The shoes are different sizes and styles, symbolizing the diverse group of people who were tragically killed. This powerful memorial serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the war and stands as a tribute to those who lost their lives.

View from Castle Hill

Varhegy (Castle Hill)

Varhegy, also known as Castle Hill, is a historical site located on the western bank of the Danube River that offers breathtaking views of the city. Varhegy is home to several important attractions, including the Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion. The area is rich in history and has witnessed various architectural influences throughout the centuries. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets, visit museums and art galleries, and marvel at the medieval atmosphere.

Szedenyi Chain Bridge

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is a remarkable piece of engineering and a prominent symbol of the city. Completed in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge to connect the two sides of the Hungarian capital, Buda and Pest. The bridge spans across the Danube River and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The design of the bridge is both elegant and sturdy, with its distinctive iron chains giving it a unique character. It has become an iconic landmark of Budapest and a popular spot for both locals and tourists to admire and capture the beauty of the city.

Vajdahunyad Castle

Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the most romantic castles in Hungary and is a unique blend of various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. It was originally built in 1896 as a part of the Millennial Exhibition to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of Hungary. 

The castle is situated in the City Park and offers visitors a picturesque view of its beautiful surroundings. Inside the castle, there are several exhibitions showcasing Hungarian history and culture. The castle’s intricate design, with its towers, turrets, and courtyards, make it a popular tourist attraction in Budapest.

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Thermal Baths

Széchenyi

Budapest is very well-known for its thermal baths. Probably the most popular, Széchenyi is located in City Park and offers a range of thermal pools, both indoor and outdoor, with water temperatures ranging from 18 to 38 degrees Celsius. The grand architecture of the building adds to the charm of the experience, and you can also enjoy various wellness services such as massages and saunas.

Gellert

Another popular thermal bath is Gellert, situated in the Gellert Hill area. This bath is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, with intricately designed tiles and sculptures adorning the interior. The thermal pools in Gellert offer a relaxing experience, with water temperatures ranging from 26 to 40 degrees Celsius. There are spa treatments and sauna and steam room facilities.

Rudas

Rudas is another historic thermal bath located on the Buda side of the city. This bath dates back to the 16th century and has retained its unique Turkish architectural features. The thermal pools in Rudas offer different temperature options, including a rooftop pool where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Budapest while soaking in the warm waters. The bath also offers wellness services and has a traditional Turkish steam room known as a hammam.

Budapest’s thermal baths provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and relax in the healing waters while experiencing some of Budapest’s intriguing history and culture.

Citadella

Situated on top of Gellért Hill, the Citadella is a prominent landmark that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The fortress was originally built by the Habsburgs in the mid-19th century as a strategic defense point but now serves as a popular tourist attraction. The Citadella’s imposing structure is made up of thick stone walls and bastions, providing a glimpse into the country’s military past. 

From there you can see the impressive Budapest skyline, including the Danube River, the Buda Castle, and the majestic Parliament building. Whether day or night, the Citadella offers a breathtaking perspective of this beautiful city.

Jorge Franganillo from Barcelona, Spain, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ruin Bars

The Ruin Bars are a unique and popular attraction in the city. These bars are located in abandoned buildings and have a distinct, shabby-chic atmosphere. They are characterized by their eclectic decor, which often includes vintage furniture, graffiti-covered walls, and mismatched decorations. The bars offer a laid-back and alternative vibe, attracting both locals and tourists. 

They serve a wide variety of drinks, including local craft beers and Hungarian wines. In addition to the vibrant nightlife, some ruin bars also host cultural events such as live music performances and art exhibitions. They truly are a one-of-a-kind experience of the city’s unique nightlife scene.

Other Notable Churches

Matthias Church

Matthias Church is a gorgeous example of Gothic architecture. The church holds great historical and cultural significance, as it has been a prominent landmark in the city for centuries. Its intricate exterior features a combination of spires, arches, and decorative details that captivate visitors.

Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and ornate frescoes that depict religious scenes. The highlight of Matthias Church is its unique and colorful roof, which showcases traditional Hungarian motifs and adds to the overall grandeur of the structure.

Dohány Street Synagogue

The Dohány Street Synagogue in Budapest is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world. The synagogue is located in the heart of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Designed in a Moorish Revival style by Viennese architect Ludwig Förster, the building features intricate details and beautiful ornamentation. 

Its stunning facade is adorned with colorful ceramic tiles and elaborate arches. Inside, the synagogue boasts a grand main prayer hall with a capacity of 3,000 people, as well as several smaller prayer rooms and exhibition spaces. 

The synagogue also houses the Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives, which hold a vast collection of Jewish artifacts and documents. The synagogue is a place of worship as well as a symbol of resilience and strength for the Jewish community in Budapest.

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Food

Budapest has a diverse and delicious food scene. The food there was some of the best food we’ve had in all of our travels!

One of the most popular dishes in Budapest is goulash, a hearty and flavorful stew made with tender beef, vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices. 

Another must-try dish is langos, a Hungarian street food that consists of deep-fried dough topped with various savory toppings like sour cream, cheese, and garlic. 

Chicken Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish consisting of tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy sauce made with plenty of paprika. The flavors are rich and hearty, making it a definite favorite. 

There’s also Halászlé (fish soup). Made with a variety of freshwater fish, this soup is seasoned with paprika, onions, and garlic, resulting in a flavorful and comforting broth. It is often served with a side of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the soup. 

If you’re in the mood for sweets, chimney cake (Kürtös Kalács) is a delightful treat not to be missed. These cylindrical pastries are coated with sugar and cinnamon and baked until they have a crispy exterior and a soft, doughy center. 

Somlói Galuska is a must-try dessert. This Hungarian trifle-like dessert consists of layers of sponge cake, chocolate sauce, rum-soaked raisins, and whipped cream.

The Central Market, also known as the Great Market Hall, is a huge (and beautiful!) indoor food market that you need to visit! There’s fresh meat, produce, produce, and spices on the bottom and many food stalls and eateries on the upper floors.

There are quite a few really cool and delicious street food markets in Budapest. We stumbled upon one called Karavan. We had goulash in a bread bowl, a langos burger, and kürtös kalács that were all wonderful!!

Where to Stay

Vaci Street

City Center

One of the most popular areas is the city center, particularly around Vaci Street. This bustling area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. 

Castle District

Another great area to consider is the Castle District, located on the Buda side of the city. This picturesque neighborhood offers stunning views of the city and is home to iconic landmarks such as Buda Castle and Matthias Church. 

Jewish Quarter

For those seeking a more hip and trendy vibe, the Jewish Quarter is the place to be. Known for its unique ruin bars and eclectic street art, this area is perfect for nightlife enthusiasts. 

Obuda

If you’re looking for a peaceful and upscale neighborhood, consider staying in the residential district of Óbuda. With its beautiful parks and historic charm, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city center.

Transportation

Budapest-Keleti Train Station

There’s a variety of transportation options in Budapest. The city has an efficient and reliable public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and the metro. The metro is especially convenient for navigating the city quickly, with four lines that connect all major areas. The tram offers a scenic way to explore the city. 

If you know us, you know we always prefer walking when possible. Budapest is a pedestrian-friendly city with many attractions within walking distance of each other. We walked almost everywhere in Budapest.

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for those who prefer door-to-door transportation. We took an Uber once when we needed to get a longer distance and because it was late and we were tired.

Currency

The national currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (Ft).  Click here to get the daily conversion.