Hungary: Budapest – Two Cities and One Soul

March 22, 2025
Hungary
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Contents

1. About Budapest
2. Things to do
– Discover Buda Castle
– Unwind at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths
– Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building
– Cross the Iconic Chain Bridge
– Check out the Shoes on the Danube Bank
– Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica
– Explore St Mathias Church
– Walk Around Fishermen’s Bastion
– Browse the Great Market Hall
– Experience the Ruin Bars in the Jewish Quarter
– Take a cruise on the Danube River
– Try Budapest’s Famous Strudel House

3. Getting to and around Budapest
4. Budapest Card
5. Vegan dining options in Budapest
6. The best time to visit
7. Where to stay

about

About Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a stunning city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It is located in central Europe, divided by the Danube River into two main parts: Buda and Pest. These two sides were historically separate cities until their unification in 1872. Here’s an overview of what makes Budapest a fascinating destination:

1. Historical Significance:

Buda is the older, hilly side of the city, home to the Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Fisherman’s Bastion, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Pest is the flat, more urban side, where many of Budapest’s grand buildings, such as the Parliament Building and St. Stephen’s Basilica, are located.
The city has a history dating back to Roman times, and it flourished during the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and in the 20th century through the communist era.

2. Architectural Beauty:

Budapest boasts an eclectic mix of architectural styles, from Gothic and Baroque to Neoclassical and Art Nouveau. Notable landmarks include:

Parliament Building: An impressive Gothic-style structure that sits on the banks of the Danube.
Chain Bridge: A historic suspension bridge connecting Buda and Pest, one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath: A grandiose, neo-baroque thermal bath complex that showcases Budapest’s longstanding thermal spa culture.
Heroes’ Square: A monumental square with statues commemorating Hungarian history.

3. Thermal Baths:

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, stemming from Roman, Turkish, and Ottoman influences. Visitors can relax in hot springs at places like the Széchenyi and Gellért Baths, which are not only historical but also offer a unique and relaxing experience.

4. Vibrant Cultural Scene:

Museums: Budapest is home to many museums, such as the Hungarian National Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, and the House of Terror (a museum dedicated to the history of fascism and communism in Hungary).
Theatre and Music: The city has a thriving performing arts scene, including the Hungarian State Opera House and the National Theatre. Budapest is also known for its classical music, with figures like Franz Liszt and Béla Bartók connected to the city’s cultural heritage.

5. Cuisine:

Hungarian food is hearty and flavorful. Some must-try dishes include:

Goulash: A rich stew made with meat, potatoes, and paprika.
Lángos: A deep-fried flatbread often topped with sour cream, cheese, or garlic.
Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács): A sweet, cylindrical pastry often served at fairs and markets.

6. Danube River:

The Danube, one of Europe’s major rivers, divides the city into two halves—Buda and Pest—and provides an opportunity for scenic boat tours, with landmarks like the Parliament building and Buda Castle lining the riverbanks. A boat ride is a popular way to see the city’s beautiful skyline.

7. Nightlife:

Budapest has a lively nightlife, from ruin pubs (bars set up in abandoned buildings or courtyards) like Szimpla Kert to trendy cafes and restaurants. The city also has a vibrant café culture, with famous spots like New York Café.

8. Festivals:

Budapest hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Budapest Spring Festival, Sziget Festival (one of Europe’s largest music festivals), and the Budapest Christmas Market, which is one of the best in Europe.

thingstodo

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Things to do

🏰 Discover Buda Castle

Buda Castle sits on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube in Budapest, and it is well worth the trip up. You can reach it by funicular, bus or simply walking up the cobbled paths. The castle complex is enormous, housing the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, so give yourself at least half a day. The buildings themselves are handsome and the views across the river to Pest are genuinely impressive. Restoration work is ongoing in parts, but this does not spoil the visit. The surrounding streets are pleasant to wander, with cafés and quiet corners to explore. It feels grand without being overwhelming.

Location: Szent György tér 2, Budapest 1014, Hungary
Website: budacastlebudapest.com
Telephone: +36 1 458 3000
Opening hours: Grounds open daily; museums Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–18:00
Entry fees: Grounds free; museums from approx. 3,800 HUF (around £8)

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🛁 Unwind at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Budapest’s Széchenyi Thermal Baths offer a genuinely relaxing experience in one of Europe’s largest medicinal bath complexes. Built in 1913, the striking yellow neo-baroque building sits in City Park and draws visitors and locals alike throughout the year. The outdoor pools are particularly popular, even in winter, when steam rises from the warm water into the cold air. Inside, you’ll find a quieter atmosphere with indoor pools, saunas and steam rooms at varying temperatures. The water is naturally mineral-rich, drawn from thermal springs deep below the city. Whether you spend an hour or an afternoon, it’s a straightforward and unhurried way to rest.

Location: Állatkerti körút 9-11, Budapest 1146, Hungary
Website: szechenyibath.com
Telephone: +36 1 363 3210
Opening Hours: Daily 06:00–22:00
Entry Fees: From approximately 8,900 HUF (weekday cabin ticket); prices vary by day and locker/cabin type

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🏛️ Explore the Hungarian Parliament Building

Budapest’s Parliament Building stands proudly on the eastern bank of the Danube, and it is one of the most recognisable structures in Europe. Completed in 1904, the building was designed by Imre Steindl in a Gothic Revival style, with its distinctive red dome and symmetrical towers reflected beautifully in the river below. Visitors can explore the grand interior, which includes the impressive central staircase, ornate frescoes, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels displayed in the domed hall. Guided tours take you through the state rooms and offer a genuine sense of the building’s historical and political significance. It remains the seat of the National Assembly and is an essential visit for anyone in the city.

Location: Kossuth Lajos tér 1–3, Budapest 1055, Hungary
Website: parlament.hu
Telephone: +36 1 441 4904
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday 08:00–18:00 (tour times vary; last entry 16:00)
Entry Fees: EU citizens free; non-EU adults approx. €8; students approx. €4

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🌉 Cross the Iconic Chain Bridge

Budapest’s Chain Bridge is perhaps the city’s most beloved landmark, stretching gracefully across the Danube to connect Buda and Pest. Opened in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge to link the two sides of the city, and its construction was championed by the reformer Count István Széchenyi. The bridge is flanked by four stone lion sculptures at its base and supported by two imposing stone towers that frame stunning views of the castle and the river. Walking across is a thoroughly pleasant experience, especially at dusk when the bridge is lit up against the darkening sky. Fully restored in recent years, it remains both a working crossing and a symbol of national pride.

Location: Széchenyi Lánchíd, Budapest 1011, Hungary
Website: en.bkk.hu
Telephone: +36 1 258 4636
Opening Hours: Open to pedestrians and vehicles daily, 24 hours
Entry Fees: Free

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👟 Check out the Shoes on the Danube Bank

The Shoes on the Danube Bank is one of Budapest’s most moving and sobering memorials, situated along the western bank of the river in the heart of the city. Created by sculptor Can Togay and director János Uhl, the memorial was unveiled in 2005 to honour the Jewish men, women, and children who were shot and killed at this spot by Arrow Cross militiamen during the winter of 1944 to 1945. Sixty pairs of iron shoes are fixed to the stone embankment, representing the victims who were ordered to remove their footwear before being killed. The memorial is modest in size but enormously powerful, and visitors often leave candles and flowers as a mark of respect.

Location: Pest embankment, between Chain Bridge and Parliament, Budapest 1054, Hungary
Website: No official website
Telephone: Not applicable
Opening Hours: Open at all times
Entry Fees: Free

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⛪ Visit St Stephen’s Basilica

Budapest’s St Stephen’s Basilica is the city’s largest church and one of its most impressive landmarks, sitting at the heart of Pest. Construction began in 1851 and took over fifty years to complete, resulting in a grand neoclassical building with a dome that reaches 96 metres, matching the height of the Parliament Building. Inside, the basilica is richly decorated with marble, mosaics, and gilded details, and it houses the country’s most sacred relic, the mummified right hand of St Stephen, Hungary’s first king. Visitors can also climb to the dome terrace for sweeping panoramic views across the city. The basilica remains an active place of worship as well as a popular concert venue.

Location: Szent István tér 1, Budapest 1051, Hungary
Website: bazilika.biz
Telephone: +36 1 311 0839
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday 09:00–17:00, Saturday 09:00–13:00, Sunday 13:00–17:00
Entry Fees: Church free; treasury and dome approx. €4–€8

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⛩️ Explore St Matthias Church

St Matthias Church stands at the top of Castle Hill in Buda and is one of the oldest and most ornate churches in Hungary. Originally built in the fourteenth century, it has been rebuilt and restored several times over the centuries, giving it the striking mix of Gothic architecture and colourful ceramic roof tiles that it is known for today. The interior is richly decorated with frescoes, stained glass windows, and elaborate stonework, making it feel more like a museum than a typical place of worship. The church has witnessed coronations of Hungarian kings and queens and continues to hold regular services. A small ecclesiastical museum inside offers additional historical context.

Location: Szentháromság tér 2, Budapest 1014, Hungary
Website: matyas-templom.hu
Telephone: +36 1 355 5657
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday 09:00–17:00, Saturday 09:00–12:00, Sunday 13:00–17:00
Entry Fees: Adults approx. €4; students approx. €2

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🏰 Walk Around Fishermen’s Bastion

Fishermen’s Bastion sits directly beside St Matthias Church on Castle Hill and offers some of the finest views of Budapest to be found anywhere in the city. Built between 1895 and 1902, it was designed by Frigyes Schulek as a decorative terrace rather than a defensive structure, despite its castle-like turrets and walkways. The name is said to come from the guild of fishermen who once defended this stretch of the city walls. Seven towers represent the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary. The terraces and staircases are free to wander at lower levels, and the structure is particularly beautiful at sunrise and in the evening when it is lit up. It is one of the most photographed spots in the city.

Location: Szentháromság tér 5, Budapest 1014, Hungary
Website: fishermansbastion.com
Telephone: +36 1 458 3000
Opening Hours: Open daily 09:00–23:00 (upper terraces seasonal)
Entry Fees: Lower terraces free; upper terraces adults approx. €3

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🏪 Browse the Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall is Budapest’s largest and oldest indoor market, housed in a magnificent iron and brick building close to the Liberty Bridge on the Pest side of the river. Opened in 1897, it was designed by Samu Pecz and features a colourful Zsolnay ceramic roof that is striking from the outside. Inside, the ground floor is filled with stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, paprika, and other local produce, making it a genuine working market for local residents. The upper floor is aimed more at visitors, with embroidered tablecloths, folk art, lace, and traditional Hungarian food stalls. It is an excellent place to pick up affordable souvenirs and sample Hungarian street food.

Location: Vámház körút 1–3, Budapest 1093, Hungary
Website: piaconline.hu
Telephone: +36 1 366 3300
Opening Hours: Monday 06:00–17:00, Tuesday–Friday 06:00–18:00, Saturday 06:00–15:00, Sunday closed
Entry Fees: Free

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🍺 Experience the Ruin Bars of the Jewish Quarter

Budapest’s ruin bars are a unique cultural phenomenon that began in the early 2000s when entrepreneurs began opening bars and cultural spaces inside derelict buildings and abandoned courtyards in the old Jewish Quarter of the seventh district. The result is a collection of eclectic, mismatched venues filled with salvaged furniture, street art, plants, and vintage objects that give each place a chaotic but charming atmosphere. Szimpla Kert is the most famous and the original, but there are dozens of similar venues spread across the neighbourhood. Many host live music, film screenings, and markets during the day. The area comes alive at night and attracts a lively mix of locals and visitors throughout the week.

Location: Seventh District (Erzsébetváros), centred around Kazinczy utca, Budapest 1075, Hungary
Website: szimpla.hu (for Szimpla Kert)
Telephone: +36 20 261 8669 (Szimpla Kert)
Opening Hours: Most open daily from midday or early afternoon until late; Szimpla Kert opens from 12:00
Entry Fees: Generally free entry; occasional charge for events

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🚢 Take a Cruise on the Danube

A cruise along the Danube is one of the most relaxed and rewarding ways to see Budapest, offering unobstructed views of both the Buda and Pest sides of the city from the water. Several operators run daytime and evening departures, and the experience changes considerably depending on the time of day. Daytime cruises allow you to appreciate the architecture clearly, while evening cruises offer the spectacle of the illuminated Parliament Building, Chain Bridge, and Castle Hill reflected in the river. Most cruises last between one and two hours. Some include commentary and onboard drinks, and a number of operators offer dinner cruises for a longer and more formal experience. It is worth booking in advance during the summer months.

Location: Departures from Vigadó tér pier, Budapest 1051, Hungary
Website: legenda.hu
Telephone: +36 1 317 2203
Opening Hours: Departures vary by operator; typically multiple daily sailings from 10:00
Entry Fees: Sightseeing cruises from approx. €15; dinner cruises from approx. €60

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🥐 Try Budapest’s Famous Strudel House

The Strudel House, known locally as Rétesvár, is a charming and informal café dedicated entirely to the Hungarian strudel, a beloved pastry that has been part of the country’s culinary tradition for centuries. Located in a relaxed setting, the café bakes its strudels fresh throughout the day, with a wide variety of both sweet and savoury fillings on offer. Popular choices include sour cherry, poppy seed, apple and cinnamon, cottage cheese, and seasonal options. Visitors can watch the pastry being made by hand, which adds to the appeal. The portions are generous and the prices are very reasonable by Budapest standards, making it an excellent stop for a mid-morning or afternoon break while exploring the city.

Location: Október 6. utca 22, Budapest 1051, Hungary
Website: retesvar.hu
Telephone: +36 1 428 0134
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00–19:00
Entry Fees: Free entry; strudels from approx. €2–€4

gettingaround

Getting around Budapest

Getting around Budapest is relatively easy due to its excellent public transportation system, as well as walkable streets and scenic bike paths. Here’s an overview of the best ways to get around the city:

1. Public Transportation

Budapest has a comprehensive public transport system, including buses, trams, and metro lines.

Metro: The city has four metro lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4), with the M1 being the oldest and running from Vörösmarty Square to the City Park. The M3 connects key points like Deák Ferenc Square and Kőbánya-Kispest. The M4 line connects the western and eastern parts of the city.
Trams: Trams are a scenic way to get around, with several routes running along the Danube River, offering views of the city’s landmarks. The most famous is Tram 2, which runs along the river from the southern Buda side to the northern Pest side.
Buses: Buses cover areas not served by the metro or trams. Some routes are more frequent, such as those connecting the airport to the city center.
Trolleybuses: These are electric buses that run in some parts of the city, with routes covering the downtown area and Buda hills.
Tickets: You can buy tickets for all public transport modes at kiosks, metro stations, or through the mobile app. A standard ticket is valid for a single journey on any type of transport, but you’ll need to validate your ticket before boarding.

2. Trams and Buses

Trams are a popular and scenic way to get around, with many routes along the river or in historic areas.
Buses complement the metro and trams, covering areas the other systems don’t.

3. Biking

Budapest has bike rental services and plenty of bike lanes, especially in central areas like Pest. You can rent bikes from services like MOL Bubi (public bike sharing), where you pick up and drop off bikes at stations around the city. The city’s parks and streets offer a great biking experience.

4. Walking

Many parts of Budapest, especially the historic areas like the Castle District, the Jewish Quarter, and the city center, are very walkable. You can easily explore these on foot, soaking in the architecture and landmarks.

5. Taxis and Ride-hailing Apps

Taxis are widely available, but it’s better to book one via a phone app or through an official taxi company (such as Főtaxi). Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber (Uber operates under different regulations in Budapest, but you can still use some alternatives).

6. River Cruises and Boats

Budapest’s location along the Danube River makes boat tours a popular activity. There are public transport boats (like D11, D12, etc.) that operate on the river and can be a unique way to explore the city.

7. Airport Transportation

Budapest Airport (Liszt Ferenc International) is located about 20 km from the city center. You can take:
- Bus 100E (express airport bus), which goes directly to Deák Ferenc Square.
- Taxi: Taxis from the airport are available at fixed fares to the city center (around 30–40 minutes).
- Private transfers: Several services can pre-arrange airport transfers.

8. Car Rentals

While driving in Budapest is possible, it’s not recommended due to the heavy traffic, narrow streets, and expensive parking. The public transport system is more efficient for getting around the city.

9. Hop-on Hop-off Tours

For tourists, hop-on-hop-off bus tours are a convenient way to see the main attractions. They allow you to explore Budapest at your own pace with the option to jump on and off at popular tourist spots.

In summary, public transportation, trams, and walking are the best ways to get around Budapest, with bikes and river cruises offering great alternatives for scenic travel.

card

The Budapest Card

The Budapest Card is a versatile travel pass designed to make exploring Budapest convenient and cost-effective for tourists. It offers unlimited access to the city’s efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. Additionally, the card provides free entry to many museums and attractions, discounts on tours, restaurants, and thermal baths, and even complimentary guided walking tours. Available in different durations—24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours—it caters to various itineraries and budgets. Ideal for travellers who want to maximize their experience in Hungary’s vibrant capital, the Budapest Card is a great way to save money while enjoying the city’s rich culture, history, and iconic landmarks.

30+ Free attractions
Free sightseeing tours
Free entry to thermal bath
50+ discounts

vegandining

Eating out for vegans in Budapest

While Bergen might not be the most vegan-friendly city in the world, there are still plenty of high-quality options to choose from.

Napfényes (meaning sunny in Hungarian) is one of the oldest fully plant-based restaurants in Budapest, right in the heart of the city. There are plenty of vegan fast food options around the capital, but Napfényes offers something a bit more special, making it a good choice for a date or dinner with family members. If you want to try some authentic traditional Hungarian dishes, with a plant-based twist, then this is the place to eat. I recommend the Bean Goulash soup, Stuffed Cabbage à la Kolozsvár, Seitan Roast à la Brasov and the Somló Sponge Cake to complete your Hungarian taste experience.
Vegan Love is an epic fast food place next to Gellért Hill and the Gellért Bath, and the perfect place to refuel after a long walk or when you’re super relaxed from enjoying the thermal baths. The space is small, but when the weather is nice you can bask in the sun on the outside seating. Vegan Love gained a reputation for its sensational plant-based burgers, but you can’t go wrong with the döner kebab or Mexican-style hot dog either.
Vegan Garden offers soups, burgers, pasta dishes, pizzas, and a few Hungarian classics. The Forest Mushroom Paprikash with homemade dumplings, vegan sour cream and cucumber salad is a real stand-out. This is a fully vegan version of a traditional Hungarian dish that locals will cook for a Sunday lunch. If you want an authentic experience of Hungary, give it a try!
Tucked away in a small street close to Margaret Island, Tökmag is a hidden gem you wouldn’t find unless you knew what you were looking for. But don’t let the tiny ground-floor reception fool you, there is a large dining room below ground, and if the weather is nice, you can enjoy your meal at one of the tables on the pedestrian street outside. This delightful bistro offers a selection of soups, salads and cakes
You really can’t go wrong with freshly baked pita and a selection of creamy, vibrant dips, and that’s exactly what Dobrumba does so well. With two locations – one on the Buda side of the river, and the other on Pest, this Middle-Eastern gem is not to be missed. The restaurant is not fully vegan but offers a selection of plant-based dips and some easily customized dishes that will leave any meat and dairy dodger fully satisfied.

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The best time to visit Budapest

The best time to visit Budapest is typically spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, attractions are less crowded than in the peak summer months, and accommodation prices can be more reasonable. Here’s a breakdown:

Spring (March to May):

Weather: Mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Activities: Blossoming gardens, river cruises on the Danube, and outdoor cafes opening up.
Crowds: Moderate, as it’s not yet peak tourist season.

Fall (September to November):

Weather: Comfortable, with temperatures between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Activities: Beautiful autumn foliage, wine festivals, and cultural events.
Crowds: Lower than summer, making it easier to explore popular sites like Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion.

Summer (June to August):

Weather: Warm to hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).
Activities: Outdoor festivals, thermal baths, and late-night entertainment.
Crowds: This is the busiest season, with higher accommodation costs and crowded attractions.

Winter (December to February):

Weather: Cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
Activities: Christmas markets, thermal baths (especially magical in winter), and fewer crowds at major attractions.
Crowds: Minimal, except during the Christmas and New Year period.

If you enjoy comfortable weather and fewer crowds, spring or fall are ideal times to visit Budapest.

stay

Where to stay in Budapest

1. Mid Range: Bo18 Hotel Superior

Bo18 Hotel Superior is a stylish and modern three-star hotel located in Budapest, Hungary, offering a comfortable and welcoming stay for travellers. Situated near the bustling Corvin Promenade, it provides easy access to cultural landmarks, shopping areas, and vibrant nightlife. The hotel features elegantly designed rooms equipped with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning, ensuring a pleasant experience for guests. Bo18 Hotel Superior is renowned for its exceptional service, relaxing wellness area with a sauna and jacuzzi, and a delicious buffet breakfast catering to diverse tastes. It’s an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers alike, blending convenience with a touch of luxury.

2. Luxury – Áurea Ana Palace

The Áurea Ana Palace is a remarkable hotel located in the heart of Budapest, Hungary. Nestled near the Danube River, it embodies a harmonious blend of historical elegance and modern luxury. The building, once a stately 19th-century palace, has been meticulously restored to preserve its architectural grandeur, including its ornate facades and intricate interior details. Guests are treated to sophisticated accommodations, combining classic charm with contemporary amenities. The hotel’s proximity to Budapest’s iconic landmarks, such as the Parliament Building and Buda Castle, makes it a prime location for travelers. Offering exceptional hospitality, gourmet dining, and wellness facilities, the Áurea Ana Palace provides a regal experience reflective of the city’s rich heritage.

3. Budget – Avenue Hostel

Avenue Hostel in Budapest is a popular choice for travelers seeking affordable yet comfortable accommodation in the heart of the city. Located on the bustling Oktogon square, it offers easy access to Budapest’s iconic attractions, vibrant nightlife, and convenient public transportation. The hostel features a welcoming atmosphere with modern, clean dormitories and private rooms, ensuring options for all types of travelers. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, a shared kitchen, and cozy common areas to socialize. The friendly staff is always ready to assist with tips on exploring the city, making Avenue Hostel a top pick for backpackers and budget-conscious adventurers.

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