Budapest, Hungary

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment. Located on the banks of the Danube River, Budapest offers a unique blend of thermal baths, stunning architecture, and lively nightlife. This comprehensive guide will take you through the must-see places, activities, and experiences to make your trip to Budapest an unforgettable one.

Places to Visit

  1. Parliament Building (Országház): The iconic Parliament Building is a striking example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Take a guided tour to explore its grand halls and chambers.
  2. Buda Castle: This historic castle complex houses several museums, art galleries, and exhibitions. Don’t miss the stunning views of the Danube River from its hilltop location.
  3. St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István-bazilika): Visit this beautiful basilica to admire its impressive dome and take in the panoramic views of the city from its top.
  4. Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Relax and rejuvenate at one of Budapest’s most famous thermal baths, offering a range of pools, saunas, and massage services.
  5. Fisherman’s Bastion (Halászbástya): This picturesque promenade offers breathtaking views of the Danube River and the city skyline.
  6. Hungarian State Opera House: Attend a performance at this grand opera house to experience the best of Hungarian music and dance.
  7. Rudas Baths: Another famous thermal bath, Rudas is known for its stunning architecture and relaxing atmosphere.

Activities

  1. Take a River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Danube River to see Budapest’s landmarks from a different perspective.
  2. Explore the Ruin Bars: Visit one of Budapest’s many ruin bars, where you can enjoy drinks, live music, and eclectic decor in an underground setting.
  3. Visit a Market: Browse the stalls at Great Market Hall or Hold Street Market to sample local delicacies and souvenirs.
  4. Go Hiking: Take a hike up Gellért Hill for stunning views of the city and the Danube River.
  5. Take a Food Tour: Sample traditional Hungarian cuisine on a guided food tour, exploring markets, cafes, and restaurants.

Where to Eat

  1. Goulashmuseum: Try this unique restaurant that serves goulash in a variety of flavors and presentation styles.
  2. Café Gerlóczy: Visit this charming cafe for delicious pastries, cakes, and coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
  3. Lokál: Enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine at this restaurant, which offers a range of dishes and an extensive wine list.
  4. Café New York: This classic cafe has been a Budapest institution since 1870, serving sandwiches, salads, and desserts.
  5. Szimpla Kert: Visit this popular ruin bar for a unique dining experience, with a menu that features traditional Hungarian cuisine.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Moments: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Pest, offering stylish rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  2. Andrássy Hotel: A 4-star hotel situated on the famous Andrássy Avenue, providing comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  3. InterContinental Budapest: A luxurious hotel located on the Danube River, offering stunning views and top-notch amenities.
  4. Art’otel Budapest: A unique hotel that combines art and design, with a range of stylish rooms and a vibrant atmosphere.
  5. Hostel One Budapest: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dorms and private rooms, perfect for travelers on a shoestring.

Things to Know

  1. Language: Hungarian is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  2. Currency: The Hungarian Forint (HUF) is the local currency, although euros are widely accepted.
  3. Weather: Budapest has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters.
  4. Safety: Budapest is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  5. Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions during peak season.
    • Try local cuisine and drinks, such as langos, rétes, and pálinka.
    • Respect the local culture and customs, especially when visiting churches or other sacred sites.

Transportation

  1. Public Transportation: Budapest has an excellent public transportation system, with buses, trams, and metro lines connecting major attractions.
  2. Walking: Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and enjoy the scenery.
  3. Taxi: Take a taxi for short journeys or when you’re tired from walking.
  4. Ride-sharing Services: Use services like Uber or Bolt for convenient transportation.
  5. River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Danube River to see Budapest’s landmarks from a different perspective.

Tips and Tricks

  1. Learn Some Hungarian Phrases: Impress locals with basic phrases like “Szia!” (hello), “Köszönöm” (thank you), and “Viszontlátásra” (goodbye).
  2. Use the Budapest Card: Get discounts and free entry to many attractions with this card.
  3. Visit Budapest in the Spring or Autumn: Avoid peak tourist season by visiting during these shoulder seasons.
  4. Take Your Time: Don’t rush your trip – take time to explore, relax, and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.
  5. Be Prepared for Crowds: Peak season can be busy, so plan ahead and arrive early at popular attractions.

Bonus Tips

  1. Try Local Pastries: Sample delicious Hungarian pastries like rétes or pogácsa.
  2. Visit a Museum: Explore Budapest’s rich history and culture at one of its many museums.
  3. Attend an Event: Check out the city’s event calendar for festivals, concerts, or other exciting events.
  4. Take a Day Trip: Visit nearby Szentendre or Visegrád for a day trip and explore their charming towns and scenic countryside.
  5. Explore Budapest’s Underground: Visit one of the city’s many underground bars or clubs to experience its vibrant nightlife.

This comprehensive guide has covered everything you need to know about traveling in Budapest, Hungary. From must-see places and activities to tips and tricks for navigating the city, we hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip. Enjoy your time in Budapest!