So, you’re traveling to Budapest, Hungary? There is a lot to see and do, so much that it’s hard to see all the posiibilities. In our ultimate Budapest travel guide, we collect all the information you need in order to have an epic, unforgettable trip to the capital of Hungary.
What we’ll discuss in this travel guide for Budapest: a perfect itinerary, insight in the best activities and tours, a detailed guide to the best thermal baths, ruin bars, and so much more. Scroll on and discover the beauty of Budapest!
Your own Budapest itinerary
When visiting a new city, you got a few choices of going around. Walking along to see what comes on your way, that’s an option. But you could also do some research and make an itinerary. Or, even better, roam the internet and use someone else’s itinerary, like this one!
The perfect 3 day itinerary to Budapest
Let’s get started with an itinerary for your trip.
We created the perfect 3 day itinerary for visiting Budapest. This roadmap is ready to use and it has all the attractions you don’t want to miss during your visit.
The itinerary is based on our own visit. We researched our trip extensively (and returned again later). With our research in hand, we managed to make the itinerary easy to manage, walking the city.
Of course, if you like other things, it’s still easy to change and add your own personal flavours to it.
What to expect:
Day 1
The first day, we explore the inner city of Budapest, seeing all the major cultural attractions that are considered must-see attractions.
Day 2
This day is filled with relaxing activities, like thermal baths, city parks, a cozy market, and the most quirky castle in Budapest.
Day 3
The third day is also a relaxed day, where we get some street food, visit a ruin bar or two, and explore Margaret Island.
What to pack for Budapest?
When preparing for a trip abroad, there’s always the same question that arises:
What should I pack for my trip to Budapest?
We try to solve that problem with our dedicated packing list for Budapest. Have a look!
What Budapest is known for: don't miss these
Budapest is one of the most popular city trip destinations in Europe right now. It’s popular among young travellers, who are looking for a week-long party, but also among travellers who want to absorb the unique culture of Budapest.
These are a few activities that Budapest is known for, so we recommend including them in your itinerary, according to your needs and expectations.
Most eclectic ruin bars
The ruin bars in Budapest are famous. They have been for over 15 years. For some people, they are the reason to visit, or to come back a second time.
Most have transformed into vibrant party venues, while others maintain their artistic charm. With surreal decor and off-beat charm, ruin bars provide an unconventional nightlife. Each ruin bar boasts a unique design, reflecting Budapest’s creative spirit and nostalgic character.
Exploring these bars is like immersing in Budapest’s art scene. They are an essential part of the city’s identity and a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Whether you visit one or explore them all, these are the best ruin bars in Budapest.
The best thermal baths
Exploring Budapest’s thermal baths is a must when visiting Budapest. Each bath boasts its unique architectural charm, ranging from the ornate to the modern.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, healing, or simply a unique experience, the baths offer something for everyone. So, take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters and let the therapeutic qualities of Budapest’s thermal baths envelop you. You won’t be disappointed.
Want to visit one thermal bath, just for the sake of a relaxing evening? Or would you rather visit all of them, in order to be able to tell other people which one was the best?
The best tours in Budapest
We already introduced our 3 day itinerary for Budapest, but it’s always a good idea to add a local tour to your travel plans. This way, you get to know the city through the eyes of a local. Along the way, you get to socialize with other travellers and get an insight into the city.
In Budapest, there are a few ways to discover the city, on foot, by bike, or by drinking the night away. Just kidding! Having a knowledgeable guide to take you around a city, is always a good idea. And there is really something for everyone!
Best ruin bar tours
As eclectic as the ruin bars are, so diverse are the ruin bar tours in Budapest.
While you might just wander off on your own to discover the coolest ruin bars, there’s nothing like a ruin bar pub crawl tour, where you visit some of the best ruin bars, together with other visitors.
We collected the very best ruin bars pub crawls in Budapest in this article, so check them out and see if there’s one that draws your attention!
Best Danube boat tours
One of the most breathtaking sights in Budapest is the exquisite Danube River, adorned with its magnificent bridges connecting the districts of Buda and Pest. To experience the city from a unique perspective and bask in its romantic allure, a river cruise is an absolute must!
Whether you seek an affordable daytime excursion to explore the iconic landmarks or desire an romantic evening dinner cruise or even a lively party cruise along the Danube, there is a boat tour that will captivate your senses.
Book a seat on the perfect Danube boat trip to make sure you get an unforgettable experience in the heart of Budapest!
Best walking tours
Do you ever feel like you’ve journeyed for miles on end, yet missed out on countless sights? If you want to make sure that your steps are useful and that you don’t miss any important sights, it’s a good idea to have a knowledgeable guide who can guide you through important sights and hidden gems.
Guided walking tours are simply the best way to explore a new city.
It happened more than once that a local tour guide showed us the best eatery in town or guided us through the most beautiful alleyways in the city.
So, without further ado, allow me to present to you the finest guided walking tours available in Budapest!
Best food tours in Budapest
Travel is not just exploring the highlights and sights, it more. You don’t truly know a country if you haven’t tasted the local foods and specialties.
So, you can’t say you visited Budapest if you haven’t tried the food.
The best way to explore the food culture in a country? Booking a guided food tour, of course.
Have a look at this curated list with the very best food tours in Budapest.
Best Segway tours in Budapest
Budapest is an absolute delight to be explored on a Segway! Segway tours offer a thrilling blend of adventure and culture, allowing you to navigate through the city’s quaint alleys and grand boulevards effortlessly.
Instead of tiring walks or being stuck in traffic, you glide swiftly, covering more ground and witnessing Budapest’s charm in a fun, unique way.
The tours are guided by local experts who share intriguing stories and facts about Budapest’s rich history. From the stunning Buda castle to the impressive Heroes’ square, the Segway tour takes you to all must-see spots, offering an immersive, unforgettable experience.
Where to rest your head? Best places to sleep
When planning a trip, one essential aspect to consider is finding a place to rest your head. Fortunately, Budapest boasts a wide range of accommodation options to cater to every type of traveler, whether you’re on a budget or seeking luxury.
Moreover, Budapest is renowned for its unique and extraordinary hotels that add a special touch to your stay.
Where to stay in Budapest
If you’re not sure where you want to stay in Budapest, then this guide is your best vantage point.
Deep dive into the best districts and neighbourhoods to spend the night while you’re exploring the capital of Hungary.
This is the one guide to rule them all!
Do you already know the type of accommodation you prefer? Then keep scrolling to find more ideas!
Quirky boutique hotels
For some time now, boutique hotels have captivated our interest. For a good reason. We noticed that more travellers are urging for this type of special accommodation that offers a unique experience, nothing like spending the night in one of these massive chain hotels.
Budapest, in particular, boasts a delightful array of these distinctive and charming establishments. Each boutique accommodation showcases a special design, ensuring a one-of-a-kind experience and a heartfelt reception.
Amazing wellness hotels
Budapest is renowned for its exquisite wellness and spa facilities. Flowing beneath the city for centuries, thermal waters serve as the foundation for the mesmerizing thermal baths.
To further indulge in the city’s wellness allure, consider booking your stay at one of the opulent spa & wellness hotels. Elevate your trip to Budapest to new heights of relaxation and tranquility.
Stunning luxury hotels
Are you checking out this travel guide to Budapest because you’re planning a special trip with your partner, lover, wife, family, or any special person in your life? Why not splurge on a luxury hotel in the capital of Hungary?
Budapest is known for its luxury hotels, where you get to feel like a king or queen during your stay. Have a look at the very best luxury hotels in Budapest!
Coolest hostels in Budapest
On the other hand, we all have to think about our budget. If you’re on a romantic trip, you might want to spend the extra money, but if you’re backpacking through Europe on a budget, then a budget-friendly hostel is the perfect way to go.
In these great hostels in the city centre, you can already get a bed for less than 12€ a night. Check out the very best hostels in Budapest.
Explore the accommodation of Budapest
A few days to spare?
Do you have a few extra days to spend in Hungary? Take your chance to venture out of the capital.
We gathered a few ideas for dat trips and other things to see and do.
These are some new and exciting places to visit.
Best day trips from Budapest
Three days in Budapest is only just about enough if you don’t want to skip any of the cool things to see. In the very best case, you even have some extra time to spend in the region.
That’s because there are quite a few other things to see and do in the area, well worthy of your time. And of course, an ultimate travel guide to Budapest wouldn’t be all too ultimate if it didn’t have a solution for that as well!
That’s why we created a list with the very best day trips from Budapest, with all the information you need to make your day trip into the perfect excursion.
Venturing out? The coolest cities in Hungary
Venturing further afield or planning a road trip through Hungary? Maybe you want to go a little further dan a simple day trip from Budapest and back.
If that is the case, then make sure to check out the other cool cities in Hungary. Because there’s more to see in Hungary than only Budapest, as some travellers seem to think.
Have a look at your options!
Expand your trip!
Want to explore more beyond Budapest? Hungary is a perfect country for road tripping!
There’s a lot more to see and do in this country, so make sure to check out our itinerary and roadtrip ideas!
Practical information
So, now that you know how to fill your days and nights with exciting things to do, let’s dive into the practical things for this Budapest travel guide.
Learn about how the city of Budapest is structured and how to make sure you don’t forget thigns while planning your trip!
Find your way around the city
Now, this guide is complementary, but we do recommend having a look at it before you go on your journey. I know you won’t get lost, as long as you have your smartphone at hand, but still, …
Knowing the different districts of Budapest before you go, gives you an advantage? You will already know which are the best districts to go when you want to do sightseeing or when you want to have a party. Also, you will have a pretty good idea of the exact location you want to find you accommodation for the night. Should it be quiet or should it be in the party area?
Find out which districts there are and discover the important landmarks in each district.
How to plan an international trip
While this travel guide contains all the information you need about the city of Budapest, there’s a lot more to planning a trip than just researching the destination. If you’re in doubt about how to get everything in order to start planning and booking flights, train, rental cars and all that, have a quick look at our guide to planning an international trip.
It has all you need to know about planning a trip, from choosing the destination, to selecting the dates, booking flights, and so much more.
Travel Insurance: just in case
Did you already take care of your travel health insurance? If you haven’t, you should. As your mom would also say, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
In any case, we won’t be pushing this too far, but here’s an article where you can compare the very best travel insurance for your trip to Budapest.
How to pay? Get a prepaid travel card
When going abroad, it’s always a question mark: will the ATM accept my card? We used to have a Belgian card that would charge us almost 5€ for an ATM withdrawal abroad. That’s why we switched to a prepaid travel card. We use ours every day, it’s the N26 travel card.
But here’s a list with a few alternatives as well. Check out the best international travel cards
Wrapping up - The ultimate Budapest Travel Guide
As you can see, this Budapest Travel Guide has quite a bit of information for your trip to Budapest. We tried to cover all bases, so you won’t need to look anywhere else in order to plan your trip.
But, we’re only human, so, if you think we missed a subject or if you feel like this page doesn’t have all the information you need to make your trip memorable, then let us know in the comments. We will definitely take notice and improve this travel guide if needed.
I hope you have the best time of your life during your trip to Budapest!
