Looking for the best things to do in Budapest? For a day-by-day plan, pair it with our Budapest itinerary.This guide covers 25 top attractions, typical entry costs, and practical tips so you can plan a brilliant first trip.
Budapest is one of those cities that really does have a bit of everything. Grand buildings? Yes. Thermal baths? Obviously. Beautiful river views, dramatic hilltop landmarks, ruin bars, food markets, churches, castles, and a suspiciously high number of places that make you stop mid-walk and say, “Wait, this is stunning”.
Pair this list with our Budapest itinerary if you want a day-by-day plan. Honestly, I expected Budapest to be nice. I did not expect to like it this much.
It’s one of the best city breaks in Europe if you want a mix of sightseeing, history, food, and slightly chaotic fun, without the same eye-watering prices you get in some other capitals. And if you’re wondering what the best things to do in Budapest actually are, here are the places I’d put at the top of your list.
I’ve also included useful things people are actually searching for, like entry fees, quick tips, and the best time to visit Budapest.
- Quick Answer: What are the best things to do in Budapest?
- Best time to visit Budapest
- Best things to do in Budapest
- 1. Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building
- 2. Walk Across the Chain Bridge
- 3. Explore Buda Castle
- 4. Go to Fisherman’s Bastion
- 5. Step Inside Matthias Church
- 6. Soak in Széchenyi Thermal Bath
- 7. Try Gellért Thermal Bath
- 8. Head Up Gellért Hill
- 9. See St. Stephen’s Basilica
- 10. Take a Danube River Cruise
- 11. Visit Shoes on the Danube Bank
- 12. Explore the Jewish Quarter
- 13. Visit Dohány Street Synagogue
- 14. Go to a Ruin Bar
- 15. Ride the Funicular to Castle Hill
- 16. Walk Along Andrássy Avenue
- 17. Visit Heroes’ Square
- 18. Spend Time in City Park
- 19. See Vajdahunyad Castle
- 20. Visit the Hungarian State Opera House
- 21. Browse the Central Market Hall
- 22. Eat Proper Hungarian Food
- 23. Visit Margaret Island
- 24. Go to the House of Terror Museum
- 25. See Budapest at Night
- How much do Budapest attractions cost?
- Useful Budapest travel tips
- Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Budapest
- FAQ: Things to Do in Budapest
Quick Answer: What are the best things to do in Budapest?
If you only have 2 days in Budapest, prioritise:
- Hungarian Parliament Building
- Fisherman’s Bastion
- Buda Castle
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath
- St. Stephen’s Basilica
- a Danube river cruise
- the Jewish Quarter and a ruin bar
- Shoes on the Danube Bank
Best time to visit Budapest
The best time to visit Budapest is usually spring, from April to May, and early autumn, from September to October.
Why? Because:
- The weather is pleasant
- The city is easier to walk around
- Queues are generally shorter than in peak summer,
- It’s more comfortable for sightseeing than in July and August
Summer is lively and great for outdoor evenings, but it can be hot, busy, and more expensive. Winter can actually be lovely if you like Christmas markets and cosy city breaks, but you’ll need to be prepared for cold weather and shorter days.
My honest take? September is a really sweet spot. Still warm enough to enjoy the city properly, but without feeling like you’re fighting half of Europe for the same viewpoint.
Best things to do in Budapest
1. Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building
If there’s one building you’ll end up taking a million photos of, it’s this one.
The Hungarian Parliament Building is easily one of the most beautiful landmarks in Budapest, and somehow it looks good from every angle. Morning, golden hour, lit up at night — it just does not have a bad side. If you can, book a tour inside as well, because the interior is every bit as grand as you’d expect.
- Approx cost: from around 9,000 to 12,000 HUF for non-EU visitors
- Time needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Tip: book your tour in advance because this one sells out
- Official Ticket booking site: Hungarian Parliament
I have a list of my favourite activities and some free walking tours in Budapest listed here. Browse at your leisure.
2. Walk Across the Chain Bridge
This is one of the easiest free things to do in Budapest, and it still feels iconic.
The Chain Bridge links Buda and Pest, and walking across it gives you some of the best views in the city. It’s especially lovely early in the morning or in the evening, when everything starts to glow.
- Cost: free
- Time needed: 15 to 30 minutes
- Tip: go around sunset or after dark when the city starts glowing
3. Explore Buda Castle
Buda Castle is one of the main sights in Budapest, and yes, it’s touristy, but it’s touristy for a reason.
The whole Castle District is beautiful to wander around, with historic buildings, cobbled streets, viewpoints, and museums. Even if you’re not planning to go deep into every museum, it’s still worth spending a few hours here just soaking it all in.
- Cost: grounds are free, museums cost extra
- Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Tip: wear comfortable shoes because this area involves a lot of walking
4. Go to Fisherman’s Bastion
This is one of the prettiest places in Budapest and, honestly, looks like a fairy-tale set.
Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the prettiest places in Budapest, with terrace views over the Danube and Parliament that are almost ridiculously good. If you want the best experience, go early. It gets busy, and trust me, this is one of those places everyone wants a photo at.
- Cost: some lower areas are free, upper terraces may have a small fee
- Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Tip: go early in the morning for fewer crowds and better photos
5. Step Inside Matthias Church
Right beside Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Budapest.
The roof is beautiful, the interior is full of detail, and it adds so much history to the area. Even if churches aren’t normally your thing, this one is hard not to appreciate.
- Approx cost: around 2,900 to 4,000 HUF
- Time needed: 30 to 45 minutes
- Tip: combine this with Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle in one morning
6. Soak in Széchenyi Thermal Bath
You cannot go to Budapest and skip the thermal baths. It would just feel wrong.
Széchenyi is the famous one, and yes, it’s popular, but it’s still worth it. Sitting in steaming outdoor water while surrounded by grand yellow buildings is such a Budapest experience. It’s touristy, yes, but also iconic.
- Approx cost: around 11,000 to 16,000 HUF depending on day, cabin, and timing
- Time needed: 2 to 4 hours
- Tip: bring flip-flops and book ahead if you’re visiting in peak season
- Official Website: Szechenyi Thermal Bath
7. Try Gellért Thermal Bath
If Széchenyi feels a little too busy for you, Gellért is a lovely alternative.
It has more of that elegant, old-world feel, with beautiful Art Nouveau interiors and a slightly calmer atmosphere. Basically, if you want your thermal bath experience to feel a bit more aesthetic, this is the one.
- Approx cost: around 11,000 to 14,000 HUF
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
- Tip: good option if you want a more classic spa feel
- Official Website: Gellert Bath
8. Head Up Gellért Hill
If I’m ever in a city with a viewpoint, I will go to the viewpoint. No questions asked.
And Gellért Hill is 100% worth it. The views over Budapest are incredible, especially around sunset. Bring water, wear sensible shoes, and prepare to stop every few minutes pretending you definitely didn’t need a break.
- Cost: free
- Time needed: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Tip: wear trainers, not “cute but painful” shoes
9. See St. Stephen’s Basilica
This is one of the most important churches in Budapest, and it’s stunning both inside and out.
If you have time, go up to the dome for panoramic views over the city. Budapest really does know how to do a skyline.
- Approx cost: church entry may be donation-based or ticketed; dome access extra
- Time needed: 30 to 60 minutes
- Tip: go up for the city view if the weather is clear
10. Take a Danube River Cruise
I know river cruises can sound a bit overly touristy, but in Budapest, it just works.
Seeing the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the bridges from the water is such a different experience. If you can, do it in the evening when the city lights come on. It’s one of the best things to do in Budapest at night, without a doubt.
- Approx cost: from around 4,000 HUF for basic cruises to much more for dinner cruises
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
- Tip: evening cruises are usually the most memorable
11. Visit Shoes on the Danube Bank
This is one of the simplest but most moving memorials in Budapest.
The iron shoes on the riverbank honour Jewish victims killed during World War II, and it’s the kind of place that makes you stop for a moment. It’s an important visit, and one that stays with you.
- Cost: free
- Time needed: 15 to 20 minutes
- Tip: visit quietly and respectfully
12. Explore the Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter is one of the most interesting parts of Budapest, and you’ll probably end up spending more time here than you planned.
There’s history, street art, cafés, bars, restaurants, and loads of atmosphere. It’s one of the best areas to wander without too much of a plan.
- Cost: free to explore
- Time needed: 2 hours to a full evening
- Tip: great area for dinner and nightlife
13. Visit Dohány Street Synagogue
While you’re in the Jewish Quarter, don’t miss Dohány Street Synagogue.
It’s the largest synagogue in Europe and one of the most important historical sites in the city. If you’re interested in Budapest’s history beyond the postcard views, this is a really worthwhile stop.
- Approx cost: around 9,000 to 13,000 HUF
- Time needed: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Tip: dress respectfully and allow time for the memorial areas, too.
14. Go to a Ruin Bar
One of the most unique things to do in Budapest is to visit a ruin bar.
These are quirky bars set inside old buildings and courtyards, filled with random furniture, odd decorations, and somehow a very good atmosphere. Szimpla Kert is the classic one.
- Cost: entry often free, drinks extra
- Time needed: as long as your social battery allows
- Tip: go earlier if you want to see the place before it gets too crowded
15. Ride the Funicular to Castle Hill
Could you walk up? Yes. Is the funicular more fun? Also yes.
It’s short, scenic, and gives you great views over the river. Not essential if you’re on a tight budget, but definitely enjoyable.
- Approx cost: around 5,000 HUF return
- Time needed: 10 minutes ride time, longer with queues
- Tip: worth it for the views if you don’t fancy the uphill walk
16. Walk Along Andrássy Avenue
If you want a more elegant side of Budapest, head to Andrássy Avenue.
It’s lined with beautiful buildings, shops, cafés, and important landmarks, and it’s a nice route to walk if you want to connect the city centre with Heroes’ Square.
- Cost: free
- Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Tip: combine with the Opera House and Heroes’ Square
17. Visit Heroes’ Square
Heroes’ Square is one of the city’s major landmarks and an easy stop to include while exploring this part of Budapest.
It’s grand, impressive, and a good place to get a little more context on Hungarian history.
- Cost: free
- Time needed: 20 to 30 minutes
- Tip: easy to pair with City Park
18. Spend Time in City Park
Right behind Heroes’ Square is City Park, which is ideal when you need a bit of breathing space from all the sightseeing.
It’s great for a stroll, a picnic, or just slowing down for a while. It also has a few attractions nearby, so it’s easy to build into your day.
- Cost: free
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
- Tip: good place to slow down if your itinerary is getting a bit too intense
19. See Vajdahunyad Castle
This is one of those places that makes you stop and go, hang on, why have I never heard more about this?
Vajdahunyad Castle looks like something from a storybook and is one of the most photogenic places in Budapest. If you like slightly random but beautiful places, add it to your list.
- Cost: exterior free
- Time needed: 30 to 45 minutes
- Tip: visit when exploring City Park
20. Visit the Hungarian State Opera House
Even if you’re not massively into opera, the building itself is worth seeing.
It’s one of the most beautiful interiors in Budapest, and if you do fancy a performance, it can be a really memorable way to spend an evening.
- Cost: varies a lot depending on performance or tour
- Time needed: 1 to 3 hours
- Tip: check if there’s a guided tour or an affordable ticket while you’re in town
21. Browse the Central Market Hall
If you like food markets, you’ll want to stop here.
The Central Market Hall is a good place to try Hungarian snacks, pick up souvenirs, and have a nose around local produce. Yes, some of it is geared towards tourists, but it’s still fun.
- Cost: free to enter
- Budget: food and gifts extra
- Tip: good place to try lángos, but do expect tourist pricing in some stalls
22. Eat Proper Hungarian Food
This may be obvious, but eating well is absolutely one of the best things to do in Budapest.
Try goulash, lángos, chicken paprikash, chimney cake, and anything involving paprika, honestly. Budapest is the kind of city where a casual meal can turn into one of your favourite travel memories.
- Try:
- goulash
- chicken paprikash
- lángos
- chimney cake
- stuffed cabbage
- Cost: budget meals can be affordable, mid-range restaurants are still reasonable by Western European standards
- Tip: step a few streets away from the busiest tourist areas for better value
23. Visit Margaret Island
If you need a break from churches, castles, and climbing hills, Margaret Island is a great reset.
It sits in the middle of the Danube and feels much calmer than the rest of the city. You can walk, cycle, or just sit for a bit and enjoy not looking at Google Maps for five minutes.
- Cost: free to visit
- Time needed: 1 to 3 hours
- Tip: great for walking, cycling, or just doing absolutely nothing for a bit
Other Budapest Resources to help:
24. Go to the House of Terror Museum
This is not a light visit, but it is an important one.
The museum looks at fascist and communist rule in Hungary, and it gives a much deeper understanding of the country’s recent history. It’s powerful, heavy, and worth doing.
- Approx cost: around 4,000 to 6,000 HUF
- Time needed: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Tip: not a light activity, so maybe don’t pair it with your most carefree evening plans
25. See Budapest at Night
If you do one thing in Budapest, make sure you see the city after dark.
The bridges light up, Parliament glows, the Danube reflects everything beautifully, and the whole city somehow becomes even more dramatic. Whether you watch it from a river cruise, a viewpoint, or just the riverbank, it’s genuinely special.
- Cost: free if you walk the riverbank, extra if you do a cruise or rooftop bar
- Tip: Some of the best views are from the Buda side, looking back across the river
How much do Budapest attractions cost?
Budapest can be done on a moderate budget, but costs add up quickly if you do lots of paid attractions.
A rough guide:
- free attractions: bridges, viewpoints, memorials, parks, neighbourhood walks
- major sights: often around 3,000 to 13,000 HUF
- thermal baths: usually one of the pricier activities
- River cruises: can be budget-friendly or very extra, depending on what you book
If you want to save money, mix paid highlights with free walks, viewpoints, and neighbourhood exploring.
Useful Budapest travel tips
1. Book in advance for the big attractions
Especially Parliament and the thermal baths.
2. Group nearby sights together
- Do Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church together.
- Do Heroes’ Square, City Park, and Vajdahunyad Castle together.
- Do the Jewish Quarter, synagogue, and ruin bars together.
3. Wear comfortable shoes
Budapest is very walkable, which is lovely for your itinerary and less lovely for your feet if you dress for aesthetics only.
4. Leave room for wandering
Some of the nicest moments in Budapest happen between attractions, not just at them.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Budapest
Budapest is one of those cities that manages to feel impressive without feeling cold. It has the big landmarks, the history, the views, and the architecture, but it also has personality. It feels a bit grand, a bit gritty, and very easy to get attached to.
So if you’re planning a trip, these are the Budapest attractions I’d start with. You definitely won’t do all 25 at once unless you’re on a mission, but they’ll give you a really good mix of what makes the city so memorable.
FAQ: Things to Do in Budapest
What are the best things to do in Budapest for first-time visitors?
The best things to do in Budapest for first-time visitors include seeing the Hungarian Parliament Building, visiting Fisherman’s Bastion, exploring Buda Castle, relaxing at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, walking across the Chain Bridge, visiting St. Stephen’s Basilica, and taking a Danube river cruise. These attractions give you a great mix of history, views, and local culture.
Is 2 days enough in Budapest?
Yes, 2 days are enough to see the main highlights in Budapest. In a short trip, you can visit Parliament, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Jewish Quarter, and a thermal bath. If you want a slower pace or plan to visit several museums, 3 days in Budapest is better.
What is Budapest best known for?
Budapest is best known for its thermal baths, the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, the Danube River, ruin bars, and panoramic viewpoints such as Fisherman’s Bastion and Gellért Hill. The city is also known for its grand architecture, rich history, and relatively affordable prices compared with many other European capitals.
What are the best free things to do in Budapest?
Some of the best free things to do in Budapest include walking across the Chain Bridge, visiting Shoes on the Danube Bank, exploring the Jewish Quarter, enjoying the view from Gellért Hill, visiting Heroes’ Square, strolling along Andrássy Avenue, and relaxing on Margaret Island. Budapest has many free attractions that still feel iconic and memorable.
What are the best things to do in Budapest on a budget?
The best budget-friendly things to do in Budapest include seeing free viewpoints, visiting public squares and memorials, exploring Castle Hill, walking along the Danube, browsing the Central Market Hall, and spending time in the Jewish Quarter. To keep costs low, combine free attractions with one or two paid highlights like a thermal bath or river cruise.
Which thermal bath is best in Budapest?
The best thermal bath in Budapest depends on the experience you want. Széchenyi Thermal Bath is best for first-time visitors and outdoor pools, while Gellért Thermal Bath is ideal if you want a more elegant and historic setting. Rudas Bath is another good option for traditional baths and rooftop views.
Are Budapest thermal baths worth it?
Yes, Budapest thermal baths are worth it for most visitors. They are one of the city’s most famous experiences and a big part of what makes Budapest unique. Széchenyi is the most popular, but there are other bathhouses if you prefer something quieter or more traditional.
What should I not miss in Budapest?
If you are short on time in Budapest, do not miss the Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Chain Bridge, and at least one thermal bath. A Danube river cruise is also one of the best ways to see the city.
What are the best things to do in Budapest at night?
The best things to do in Budapest at night include taking a Danube river cruise, seeing the Parliament Building lit up, walking along the riverbank, visiting a ruin bar, and enjoying city views from Gellért Hill or a rooftop bar. Budapest is especially beautiful after dark when the bridges and landmarks are illuminated.
Is Budapest expensive for tourists?
Budapest is generally more affordable than many other major European capitals, but costs can add up if you stay in central hotels, book premium experiences, or dine in very touristy areas. Many of the best things to do in Budapest are free or low-cost, so it is still possible to visit on a moderate budget.
How many days do you need in Budapest?
Most travellers need 2 to 4 days in Budapest. Two days is enough for the main landmarks, 3 days gives you time for a thermal bath and more relaxed sightseeing, and 4 days lets you explore museums, cafés, and local neighbourhoods without rushing.
What is the best area to stay in Budapest for sightseeing?
The best area to stay in Budapest for sightseeing is usually central Pest, especially District V, because it is close to Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Danube, and public transport. The Jewish Quarter is also a popular area for restaurants, nightlife, and easy access to major attractions.
When is the best time to visit Budapest?
The best time to visit Budapest is usually spring, from April to May or early autumn, from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, sightseeing is more comfortable, and crowds are often smaller than in peak summer. December is also popular for Christmas markets.
Can you walk everywhere in Budapest?
You can walk to many of the main attractions in Budapest, especially in central Pest and around Castle Hill, but public transport is helpful for longer distances. Budapest is a walkable city overall, although some areas involve hills, stairs, or longer walks between neighbourhoods.
What food should you try in Budapest?
In Budapest, you should try goulash, chicken paprikash, lángos, chimney cake, stuffed cabbage, and local pastries. Hungarian food is hearty, flavourful, and one of the highlights of visiting the city.
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