Things to do in Budapest
Discover the best attractions and experiences Budapest has to offer
Historic Monuments
Budapest's skyline is a tapestry of Gothic, Baroque and neoclassical landmarks that tell the story of the city across centuries.
Hungarian Parliament Building
A Gothic Revival beauty along the Danube; admire its facade and grand dome from the riverside.
Fisherman's Bastion
Fairy tale terraces in the Castle District offering sweeping views of the city and river.
Buda Castle
Historic palace complex with courtyards and museums perched on the hills above Pest.
Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Iconic suspension bridge connecting Buda and Pest with graceful arches and river vistas.
Museums
Discover Hungary through history, art and memory in some of the citys most respected museums.
Hungarian National Museum
Explores Hungary from ancient times to the modern era with a broad collection.
House of Terror Museum
A sobering look at Hungarys totalitarian past housed in a former feared building.
Museum of Fine Arts
Impressive European masterworks spanning several centuries.
Budapest History Museum
Tells the story of the city across its historic sites in the Old Town.
Religious Monuments
A string of grand churches and sacred spaces reflect the religious heritage of the city.
St. Stephen's Basilica
Magnificent church dedicated to Hungary's first king with panoramic city views from the dome.
Dohány Street Synagogue
Europe's largest synagogue, set in the historic Jewish Quarter.
Matthias Church
Colorful, ornate church in the Castle District with a storied past.
St. Anne's Church
Baroque church near the castle with a serene interior and river glimpses.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces and outdoor areas provide a welcome break from city sights.
City Park (Városliget)
A vast green space with promenades, monuments, and a family-friendly vibe.
Margaret Island (Margitsziget)
A car-free oasis in the Danube with gardens, water features and bikes for hire.
Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
Historic zoo set in City Park with expansive botanical displays.
Gellért Hill and Citadel
Lush climbs and hilltop views with a historic fortress on the summit.
Neighborhoods
Each district has its own character, from gilded avenues to winding medieval lanes.
Castle District (Várnegyed)
Castle, cobbled streets and terraces with sweeping city panoramas.
Jewish Quarter (Erzsébetváros)
Vibrant enclave famous for ruin pubs, street art and historic synagogues.
Terézváros (Andrássy Quarter)
Cultural hub around Andrássy Avenue with opera houses and cafes.
Belváros-Lipótváros (Inner City)
Dense historic core around the Danube with grand architecture.
Free Things to Do
Many of Budapests best experiences cost little or nothing to enjoy.
Danube Promenade
Stroll along the riverbank for views of Parliament and Buda across the water.
Walk Across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Cross the iconic bridge and enjoy river vistas without spending a fortune.
Explore City Park
Roam the green spaces, ponds and statues of Városliget at your own pace.
Stroll through the Jewish Quarter streets
Wander the lively lanes, hear street music and discover hidden photo spots.
Gastronomy
Budapests food scene blends markets, cafes and hearty Hungarian classics.
Central Market Hall
Bustling market with paprika, salami and local snacks to sample.
Gerbeaud Café
Historic coffee house offering classic pastries and elegant ambience.
New York Café
Lavishly decorated famed cafe renowned for traditional pastries.
Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake) stall
Try this iconic sweet pastry from a street stall in major squares.
Goulash at a traditional Hungarian restaurant
Sample hearty stew and other Hungarian staples in a local venue.
Nightlife
Budapests nightlife spans ruin pubs, rooftop bars and lively clubs.
Szimpla Kert
The quintessential ruin bar experience with a quirky, welcoming vibe.
A38 Ship
A converted ship hosting concerts and late-night revelry on the Danube.
Gozsdu Courtyard
A string of bars and eateries set in a lively undercover alley.
360 Bar
Rooftop venue with panoramic city views and cocktails.
Kazinczy Street ruin pubs
Cluster of atmospheric bars in the Jewish Quarter for an informal night out.
Entertainment
From opera to live performances, there are options for every taste.
Hungarian State Opera House
World-class opera and ballet in a grand neo-Renaissance setting.
MÜPA Budapest (Palace of Arts)
Modern performing arts complex hosting concerts and shows.
Budapest Puppet Theater
Family-friendly theater with whimsical, classic puppetry performances.
Vígszínház (Theatre)
Historic theater offering a mix of productions and plays.
Sports
Active ways to engage with Budapests energy, from stadiums to paddling.
Puskás Aréna
Modern national stadium hosting football matches and events.
Kayaking on the Danube
Paddle along the river and enjoy city views from the water.
Bike ride around Margaret Island
Rent a bike and explore the car-free island paths.
Running or walking tours around City Park
Join a self-guided route through Budapests green heart.
Off the Track
Delve into lesser-known spots that reveal Budapest beyond the standard sights.
Budavári Labirintus (Castle District Labyrinth)
A mysterious underground maze in the Buda Castle area.
Hospital in the Rock (Hospitál a Rock)
A museum housed in a former hospital inside rocks beneath Castle Hill.
Memento Park
Outdoor museum of socialist-era statues and memorials.
Gellért Hill Cave
Religious cave temple tucked into Gellért Hill with a small church.