TOP 20 best things to do
in Budapest
in Budapest
The capital of Hungary, often referred to as the Pearl of the Danube, is one of the most photogenic cities in Europe, packed with world-class attractions for every taste. Check out this list of the best things to do in Budapest to be prepared for your Hungarian journey.
Great Market Hall
What is it?
The largest and oldest indoor market in the city, situated at the end of the famous shopping street, Váci Utca
Why should you go?
Built in the late 19th century, the beautiful Great Market Hall is worth a visit if only to admire its architecture. From the outside, this neo-Gothic brick building resembles a basilica. At the time of the opening, it was even called 'the Church of Food.' Inside, it is filled with over 200 stalls and small shops, inviting you to buy local specialties, from paprika to sausages, sample authentic Hungarian food, and choose souvenirs for your loved ones.
Specialization
Shopping, Food & Architecture
Perfect for
Foodies, architecture lovers
The largest and oldest indoor market in the city, situated at the end of the famous shopping street, Váci Utca
Why should you go?
Built in the late 19th century, the beautiful Great Market Hall is worth a visit if only to admire its architecture. From the outside, this neo-Gothic brick building resembles a basilica. At the time of the opening, it was even called 'the Church of Food.' Inside, it is filled with over 200 stalls and small shops, inviting you to buy local specialties, from paprika to sausages, sample authentic Hungarian food, and choose souvenirs for your loved ones.
Specialization
Shopping, Food & Architecture
Perfect for
Foodies, architecture lovers
Szechenyi Thermal Baths
What is it?
One of the largest and most famous thermal bath complexes in Europe, built in 1913 in a Neo-baroque style
Why should you go?
Hungary is famous for its traditional thermal bath culture, so relaxing in the healing water is a must-do in Budapest. The Szechenyi complex boasts 15 indoor baths, three grand outdoor pools, a variety of saunas, steam rooms, massage facilities, and a unique beer spa. In winter, you can enjoy the warm water while surrounded by snow. In summer, you can catch one of the mega night spa parties, or sparties for short.
Specialization
Spa & Recreation
Perfect for
Everyone
One of the largest and most famous thermal bath complexes in Europe, built in 1913 in a Neo-baroque style
Why should you go?
Hungary is famous for its traditional thermal bath culture, so relaxing in the healing water is a must-do in Budapest. The Szechenyi complex boasts 15 indoor baths, three grand outdoor pools, a variety of saunas, steam rooms, massage facilities, and a unique beer spa. In winter, you can enjoy the warm water while surrounded by snow. In summer, you can catch one of the mega night spa parties, or sparties for short.
Specialization
Spa & Recreation
Perfect for
Everyone
Hungarian Parliament Building
What is it?
The third-largest parliament in the world and one of Hungary's most iconic and recognizable landmarks
Why should you go?
Situated on the Pest side of the city, on the eastern bank of the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament Building dominates the skyline wherever you go in Budapest. Still, it is better to get up close and peek inside. This lavishly decorated House of the Country features gorgeous interiors and serves as the guardian of the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Taking a tour through the most beautiful rooms in the building, you will marvel at ornate frescoes, hand-knotted carpets, and the crown.
Specialization
Architecture & Heritage
Perfect for
Architecture lovers, history buffs
The third-largest parliament in the world and one of Hungary's most iconic and recognizable landmarks
Why should you go?
Situated on the Pest side of the city, on the eastern bank of the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament Building dominates the skyline wherever you go in Budapest. Still, it is better to get up close and peek inside. This lavishly decorated House of the Country features gorgeous interiors and serves as the guardian of the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Taking a tour through the most beautiful rooms in the building, you will marvel at ornate frescoes, hand-knotted carpets, and the crown.
Specialization
Architecture & Heritage
Perfect for
Architecture lovers, history buffs
Related tours:
Buda Castle
What is it?
The historical castle of the Hungarian Kings, first completed in 1265 and later turned into a massive Baroque palace
Why should you go?
The imposing Buda Castle, crowning the city atop Castle Hill, is one of the best places in Budapest to get your culture fix. It is not just a landmark building but a complex split up into a handful of museums, including the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. The western forecourt is decorated by the spectacular Matthias Fountain, and the castle terrace offers amazing views over the famous Chain Bridge and Hungarian Parliament.
Specialization
History & Architecture
Perfect for
History buffs, architecture lovers
The historical castle of the Hungarian Kings, first completed in 1265 and later turned into a massive Baroque palace
Why should you go?
The imposing Buda Castle, crowning the city atop Castle Hill, is one of the best places in Budapest to get your culture fix. It is not just a landmark building but a complex split up into a handful of museums, including the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. The western forecourt is decorated by the spectacular Matthias Fountain, and the castle terrace offers amazing views over the famous Chain Bridge and Hungarian Parliament.
Specialization
History & Architecture
Perfect for
History buffs, architecture lovers
Szimpla Kert
What is it?
An eclectic bar located in the Jewish Quarter and considered to be one of the
pioneers of the ruin pub movement
Why should you go?
The grandfather of the city's ruin bars, Szimpla Kert (which means Simple Garden), is a must-visit for all those looking for crazy things to do in Budapest. Housed in a formerly abandoned factory building, this extremely funky decorated place serves as a cultural hub and hosts various events, from live music performances to flea markets and vinyl record fairs. Get there to enjoy the atmosphere, try local craft beer, and dive into an all-night party.
Specialization
Nightlife & Entertainment
Perfect for
Young adults, couples, groups of friends
An eclectic bar located in the Jewish Quarter and considered to be one of the
pioneers of the ruin pub movement
Why should you go?
The grandfather of the city's ruin bars, Szimpla Kert (which means Simple Garden), is a must-visit for all those looking for crazy things to do in Budapest. Housed in a formerly abandoned factory building, this extremely funky decorated place serves as a cultural hub and hosts various events, from live music performances to flea markets and vinyl record fairs. Get there to enjoy the atmosphere, try local craft beer, and dive into an all-night party.
Specialization
Nightlife & Entertainment
Perfect for
Young adults, couples, groups of friends
@budapesttours.es
Dohány Street Synagogue
What is it?
The largest synagogue in Europe and the second-biggest one in the world, with a seating capacity of about 3,000 people
Why should you go?
The Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue, is one of the best places to visit in Budapest if you want to see impressive architecture, delve into the rich history, and learn about the life of Hungarian Jewry. Built in the mid-19th century, it features a distinctive facade with two towers and intricate ornamentation. Today, it serves not only as a place of worship but also as a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and includes a mass grave.
Specialization
Religion & Heritage
Perfect for
History buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in Jewish culture
The largest synagogue in Europe and the second-biggest one in the world, with a seating capacity of about 3,000 people
Why should you go?
The Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue, is one of the best places to visit in Budapest if you want to see impressive architecture, delve into the rich history, and learn about the life of Hungarian Jewry. Built in the mid-19th century, it features a distinctive facade with two towers and intricate ornamentation. Today, it serves not only as a place of worship but also as a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and includes a mass grave.
Specialization
Religion & Heritage
Perfect for
History buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in Jewish culture
Fisherman's Bastion
What is it?
An impressive fairytale-like viewing terrace situated on the riverbank in the Buda Castle District
Why should you go?
Looking like the logo of Walt Disney films, the beautiful Fisherman's Bastion, with its ornate turrets and spires, offers stunning panoramic views of the city in an unforgettable setting. Walk along its 140-meter-long facade to look at boats bobbing down the Danube and take fabulous photos of Budapest — or take a longer stroll to explore all the landmarks of Buda Castle Hill with our in-app audio tour.
Specialization
Architecture & Sightseeing
Perfect for
Everyone
An impressive fairytale-like viewing terrace situated on the riverbank in the Buda Castle District
Why should you go?
Looking like the logo of Walt Disney films, the beautiful Fisherman's Bastion, with its ornate turrets and spires, offers stunning panoramic views of the city in an unforgettable setting. Walk along its 140-meter-long facade to look at boats bobbing down the Danube and take fabulous photos of Budapest — or take a longer stroll to explore all the landmarks of Buda Castle Hill with our in-app audio tour.
Specialization
Architecture & Sightseeing
Perfect for
Everyone
Margaret Island
What is it?
The city's largest green oasis, situated in the middle of the Danube River and accessible by bridges at either end
Why should you go?
Often called the 'Green Lungs' of the city, Margaret Island is filled with peaceful flower gardens, century-old trees, and romantic ruins and offers plenty of fun and relaxing activities in Budapest. The island features a water park with a large outdoor swimming pool, a small zoo with rabbits, birds, deer, and ponies, and a fountain playing music every hour and projecting light shows and short films onto the water curtain in the evening.
Specialization
Recreation & Entertainment
Perfect for
Families, nature lovers
The city's largest green oasis, situated in the middle of the Danube River and accessible by bridges at either end
Why should you go?
Often called the 'Green Lungs' of the city, Margaret Island is filled with peaceful flower gardens, century-old trees, and romantic ruins and offers plenty of fun and relaxing activities in Budapest. The island features a water park with a large outdoor swimming pool, a small zoo with rabbits, birds, deer, and ponies, and a fountain playing music every hour and projecting light shows and short films onto the water curtain in the evening.
Specialization
Recreation & Entertainment
Perfect for
Families, nature lovers
House of Terror
What is it?
A museum chronicling Hungary's dark past and documenting the grim legacy of the fascist and communist regimes
Why should you go?
Housed in the building that once served as the headquarters of the secret police, the House of Terror museum provides a detailed and thought-provoking exhibition commemorating two bloody periods of Hungarian history. You will be taken on an immersive journey from the Nazi era through communist rule, learn about systematic prosecution, torture, and murder of innocent people, and listen to first-hand accounts from survivors.
Specialization
History
Perfect for
History buffs, anyone interested in human rights
A museum chronicling Hungary's dark past and documenting the grim legacy of the fascist and communist regimes
Why should you go?
Housed in the building that once served as the headquarters of the secret police, the House of Terror museum provides a detailed and thought-provoking exhibition commemorating two bloody periods of Hungarian history. You will be taken on an immersive journey from the Nazi era through communist rule, learn about systematic prosecution, torture, and murder of innocent people, and listen to first-hand accounts from survivors.
Specialization
History
Perfect for
History buffs, anyone interested in human rights
Széchenyi Chain Bridge
What is it?
The world-famous suspension bridge connecting the districts of Buda and Pest and considered a symbol of the city
Why should you go?
The beautiful Chain Bridge, guarded on either side by two giant stone lions, was the first permanent bridge to be built across the Danube between Buda and Pest, which were separate cities at the time. Today, it is an iconic landmark and a crucial part of Budapest's cultural heritage. Although it is temporarily closed to pedestrians due to renovation, you can cross the bridge by bicycle or book a sightseeing cruise to glide right under it.
Specialization
Architecture & Sightseeing
Perfect for
Everyone
The world-famous suspension bridge connecting the districts of Buda and Pest and considered a symbol of the city
Why should you go?
The beautiful Chain Bridge, guarded on either side by two giant stone lions, was the first permanent bridge to be built across the Danube between Buda and Pest, which were separate cities at the time. Today, it is an iconic landmark and a crucial part of Budapest's cultural heritage. Although it is temporarily closed to pedestrians due to renovation, you can cross the bridge by bicycle or book a sightseeing cruise to glide right under it.
Specialization
Architecture & Sightseeing
Perfect for
Everyone
Related tours:
St. Stephen's Basilica
What is it?
The largest church in Budapest, featuring a monumental neoclassical facade and a viewing platform on the dome
Why should you go?
The magnificent Roman Catholic St. Stephen's Basilica is considered one of the city's most impressive religious landmarks and well worth a visit. Religious people can be impressed by the relics of St. Stephen, the church's patron saint and the first king of Hungary. If that does not turn you on, get there to admire beautiful dome paintings, catch a wonderful organ concert, or enjoy incredible panoramic views of the old town from the cupola.
Specialization
Architecture, Religion & Sightseeing
Perfect for
Architecture lovers, art lovers, religious visitors
The largest church in Budapest, featuring a monumental neoclassical facade and a viewing platform on the dome
Why should you go?
The magnificent Roman Catholic St. Stephen's Basilica is considered one of the city's most impressive religious landmarks and well worth a visit. Religious people can be impressed by the relics of St. Stephen, the church's patron saint and the first king of Hungary. If that does not turn you on, get there to admire beautiful dome paintings, catch a wonderful organ concert, or enjoy incredible panoramic views of the old town from the cupola.
Specialization
Architecture, Religion & Sightseeing
Perfect for
Architecture lovers, art lovers, religious visitors
Shoes on the Danube Bank
What is it?
A memorial to the victims killed at the riverbank by the Hungarian fascist militia during World War II
Why should you go?
The sculpture series, consisting of a line of 60 pairs of iron shoes, can hardly be missed on a walk along the riverbank on the Pest side of the Danube. This moving and poignant memorial tells one of Budapest's most tragic tales. It represents the footwear of Jewish people who were ordered to take off their shoes before they were shot, and their bodies fell into the river. Get there to have a moment of reflection and pay tribute to the victims of the Holocaust.
Specialization
History & Culture
Perfect for
History buffs, human rights defenders, Jewish visitors
A memorial to the victims killed at the riverbank by the Hungarian fascist militia during World War II
Why should you go?
The sculpture series, consisting of a line of 60 pairs of iron shoes, can hardly be missed on a walk along the riverbank on the Pest side of the Danube. This moving and poignant memorial tells one of Budapest's most tragic tales. It represents the footwear of Jewish people who were ordered to take off their shoes before they were shot, and their bodies fell into the river. Get there to have a moment of reflection and pay tribute to the victims of the Holocaust.
Specialization
History & Culture
Perfect for
History buffs, human rights defenders, Jewish visitors
Vajdahunyad Castle
What is it?
A whimsical castle featuring a blend of different architectural styles and resembling the Hunyad Castle in Romania
Why should you go?
Exploring the fairytale-like Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the most unusual and fun things to do in Budapest. Despite its imposing appearance, the castle is not an actual historic landmark but a fantasy pastiche showcasing the architectural evolution through centuries and styles in Hungary. The most exciting part is the main courtyard, modeled after the courtyard of the Hunyad Castle in Transylvania, which links this place to the legend of the vampire Count Dracula.
Specialization
Architecture
Perfect for
Architecture lovers, fans of vampire stories
A whimsical castle featuring a blend of different architectural styles and resembling the Hunyad Castle in Romania
Why should you go?
Exploring the fairytale-like Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the most unusual and fun things to do in Budapest. Despite its imposing appearance, the castle is not an actual historic landmark but a fantasy pastiche showcasing the architectural evolution through centuries and styles in Hungary. The most exciting part is the main courtyard, modeled after the courtyard of the Hunyad Castle in Transylvania, which links this place to the legend of the vampire Count Dracula.
Specialization
Architecture
Perfect for
Architecture lovers, fans of vampire stories
Buda Castle Hill Funicular
What is it?
One of the oldest funiculars in the world, built on the slop of Castle Hill between the river and the Buda Castle above
Why should you go?
A ride on the Castle Hill Funicular is one of the best things to do in Budapest, not only because it is the fastest way to climb to the top of Castle Hill. This now-popular visitor attraction was opened in 1870, so you can get a unique experience of using such a vintage mode of transportation. Moreover, it offers fascinating panoramic views out across the Danube. The track is open until 10 pm, and the best tip is to take a ride at the last hour to avoid crowds and enjoy views of Pest at night.
Specialization
Sightseeing
Perfect for
Everyone
One of the oldest funiculars in the world, built on the slop of Castle Hill between the river and the Buda Castle above
Why should you go?
A ride on the Castle Hill Funicular is one of the best things to do in Budapest, not only because it is the fastest way to climb to the top of Castle Hill. This now-popular visitor attraction was opened in 1870, so you can get a unique experience of using such a vintage mode of transportation. Moreover, it offers fascinating panoramic views out across the Danube. The track is open until 10 pm, and the best tip is to take a ride at the last hour to avoid crowds and enjoy views of Pest at night.
Specialization
Sightseeing
Perfect for
Everyone
Heroes' Square
What is it?
The largest square in the city noted for its iconic Millennium Monument with a statue of Archangel Gabriel
Why should you go?
The enormous Heroes Square, marking the end of Andrássy Avenue and serving as the gateway to the beautiful City Park, is worth at least a quick stop on your itinerary. Take a look at the magnificent colonnades, large statues, and the 36-meter-high Millennium Monument, commemorating the heroes of Hungarian history, before having a picnic in the park or visiting one of the two art museums flanking the square on either side.
Specialization
History & Architecture
Perfect for
History buffs, art lovers
The largest square in the city noted for its iconic Millennium Monument with a statue of Archangel Gabriel
Why should you go?
The enormous Heroes Square, marking the end of Andrássy Avenue and serving as the gateway to the beautiful City Park, is worth at least a quick stop on your itinerary. Take a look at the magnificent colonnades, large statues, and the 36-meter-high Millennium Monument, commemorating the heroes of Hungarian history, before having a picnic in the park or visiting one of the two art museums flanking the square on either side.
Specialization
History & Architecture
Perfect for
History buffs, art lovers
Hungarian National Museum
What is it?
The national museum for the history, art, and archaeology of Hungary, housed in an impressive neoclassical building
Why should you go?
A visit to the Hungarian National Museum is the perfect answer to what to do in Budapest on a rainy day or even on a sunny one if you are in the mood for museum hopping. Founded in 1802, the museum has built an impressive collection covering a wide range of topics related to the country's history and culture. You can admire archeological findings dating back to the prehistoric era, as well as the first Hungarian flag and the coronation mantle of the Hungarian kings.
Specialization
History & Culture
Perfect for
History buffs, anyone interested in Hungarian culture
The national museum for the history, art, and archaeology of Hungary, housed in an impressive neoclassical building
Why should you go?
A visit to the Hungarian National Museum is the perfect answer to what to do in Budapest on a rainy day or even on a sunny one if you are in the mood for museum hopping. Founded in 1802, the museum has built an impressive collection covering a wide range of topics related to the country's history and culture. You can admire archeological findings dating back to the prehistoric era, as well as the first Hungarian flag and the coronation mantle of the Hungarian kings.
Specialization
History & Culture
Perfect for
History buffs, anyone interested in Hungarian culture
Andrássy Avenue
What is it?
A grand boulevard lined with trees, bordered by magnificent historic buildings, and declared a World Heritage Site
Why should you go?
Taking a walk down Andrássy Avenue should be on your list of things to do in Budapest if you want to see what the city's life was like at the end of the 19th century. Running from the central Pest to the City Park, this iconic street is no less than Budapest's version of the Champs Élysées. You can look inside elegant boutiques, take a break at one of the charming cafes, and admire a variety of architectural styles, including Neo-Renaissance, Eclectic, and Art Nouveau.
Specialization
Architecture & Sightseeing
Perfect for
Architecture lovers, shoppers, and anyone interested in history and culture
A grand boulevard lined with trees, bordered by magnificent historic buildings, and declared a World Heritage Site
Why should you go?
Taking a walk down Andrássy Avenue should be on your list of things to do in Budapest if you want to see what the city's life was like at the end of the 19th century. Running from the central Pest to the City Park, this iconic street is no less than Budapest's version of the Champs Élysées. You can look inside elegant boutiques, take a break at one of the charming cafes, and admire a variety of architectural styles, including Neo-Renaissance, Eclectic, and Art Nouveau.
Specialization
Architecture & Sightseeing
Perfect for
Architecture lovers, shoppers, and anyone interested in history and culture
Gellért Hill
What is it?
A 235-meter-high (771 ft) hill overlooking the Danube, with a 19th-century citadel and the Liberty Statue on its top
Why should you go?
If you feel like you need a workout after eating goulash and other hearty Hungarian dishes, start with a 15-minute hike up Gellért Hill. On the top, you will find an 1851 fortification known as the Citadella, the famous 36-meter-tall Liberty Statue, and some of the best panoramic views of the city and photo opportunities. The foot of the hill also houses several prominent landmarks and attractions, including the famous thermal bath complex Gellért Bath.
Specialization
Sightseeing
Perfect for
Hikers, history buffs, photography enthusiasts
A 235-meter-high (771 ft) hill overlooking the Danube, with a 19th-century citadel and the Liberty Statue on its top
Why should you go?
If you feel like you need a workout after eating goulash and other hearty Hungarian dishes, start with a 15-minute hike up Gellért Hill. On the top, you will find an 1851 fortification known as the Citadella, the famous 36-meter-tall Liberty Statue, and some of the best panoramic views of the city and photo opportunities. The foot of the hill also houses several prominent landmarks and attractions, including the famous thermal bath complex Gellért Bath.
Specialization
Sightseeing
Perfect for
Hikers, history buffs, photography enthusiasts
Hungarian State Opera House
What is it?
One of Europe's most spectacular opera houses, known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage
Why should you go?
The magnificent neo-Renaissance opera house, designed by Hungary's most influential architect of his time Miklós Ybl, looks fantastic from the outside, but the interior is even more impressive. Its ornate decorations, frescoes, sculptures, and world-class acoustics are well worth buying a ticket to a show. If you do not really want to sit and listen to opera or watch a ballet, you can explore this spectacular building with a guided tour.
Specialization
Performing Arts & Architecture
Perfect for
Architecture lovers and anyone interested in opera, ballet, and classical music
One of Europe's most spectacular opera houses, known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage
Why should you go?
The magnificent neo-Renaissance opera house, designed by Hungary's most influential architect of his time Miklós Ybl, looks fantastic from the outside, but the interior is even more impressive. Its ornate decorations, frescoes, sculptures, and world-class acoustics are well worth buying a ticket to a show. If you do not really want to sit and listen to opera or watch a ballet, you can explore this spectacular building with a guided tour.
Specialization
Performing Arts & Architecture
Perfect for
Architecture lovers and anyone interested in opera, ballet, and classical music
Mazel Tov
What is it?
A Middle Eastern restaurant and bar located in the Jewish Quarter and known for its vibrant atmosphere and trendy decor
Why should you go?
A casual dinner with friends or a night out in Mazel Tow is one of the truly unique and cool things to do in Budapest. This ruin-bar-style restaurant offers delicious Israeli and Mediterranean dishes and boasts an exquisite design, with the fragments of the former ghetto wall placed at the end of the scenic courtyard garden. The long lines outside for a table every night attest to Mazel Tov's popularity, so it is better to call ahead for a reservation.
Specialization
Dining & Entertainment
Perfect for
Foodies, couples, groups of friends
A Middle Eastern restaurant and bar located in the Jewish Quarter and known for its vibrant atmosphere and trendy decor
Why should you go?
A casual dinner with friends or a night out in Mazel Tow is one of the truly unique and cool things to do in Budapest. This ruin-bar-style restaurant offers delicious Israeli and Mediterranean dishes and boasts an exquisite design, with the fragments of the former ghetto wall placed at the end of the scenic courtyard garden. The long lines outside for a table every night attest to Mazel Tov's popularity, so it is better to call ahead for a reservation.
Specialization
Dining & Entertainment
Perfect for
Foodies, couples, groups of friends
@mazeltovbudapest
FAQ
- 1What are the best outdoor activities in Budapest?
- Outdoor pools in the Széchenyi and Gellért Thermal Baths
- Danube River Sightseeing Cruises
- Margaret Island
- 2Where to stay in Budapest?Budapest has many great neighborhoods and areas to stay in. Here are just a few of them:
- District V (Belváros-Lipótváros), the city center of Budapest
- Castle District (Várnegyed), the city's historic district on the Buda side
- District VII (Erzsébetváros), the city's Jewish Quarter known for its lively nightlife and alternative atmosphere
- 3What are the best things to do in Budapest for couples?
- Relax in a thermal bath
- Enjoy the views from the Fisherman's Bastion
- Visit one of the numerous rooftop bars
- 4What fun and crazy things to do in Budapest for young adults?
- Check out Szimpla Kert and other famous ruin bars
- Catch one of the mega night spa parties at Széchenyi Thermal Bath
- Head underground for an exciting Caving experience
- 5Is Budapest worth visiting?Budapest is definitely worth visiting, thanks to its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cuisine. This city has something for everyone, from exploring the historic Castle Hill to soaking up the atmosphere of the iconic ruin bars.
Related tours:
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