When you visit Budapest, you will witness a city that combines history, culture and architecture in a unique way.
One of the major advantages of visiting Budapest is the fact that you have the chance to visit so many neighbouring cities.
In this city travel guide, we will provide you with information about what to do in Budapest.
But before that, let’s see some general information that you need to know, before visiting Budapest.
General Information about Budapest – Hungary
Where is Budapest Located?
Budapest is the capital of Hungary, right in the heart of Central Europe. Budapest has two sides. Buda (the hilly, quieter west side) and Pest (the flat, bustling east side).
What Language Do They Speak in Budapest?
The official language is Hungarian (Magyar). Hungarian sounds nothing like the surrounding Slavic and Germanic tongues.
But, since it has many visitors, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
What’s the Time Zone in Budapest?
Hungary is in the Central European Time (CET) zone:
- Standard Time: CET (UTC +1)
- Western Europe (like the UK or Portugal), you’ll be an hour ahead.
- From the US East Coast Add 6 hours.
What is the Budapest Currency?
Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF) — not the euro!
Approximately:
- 1 EUR ≈ 380–400 HUF (rates vary)
- 1 USD ≈ 350–370 HUF (again, give or take)
Of course you will be able to find many exchange places and card payments are widely accepted. But it’s good to carry a bit of cash for smaller shops or rural areas.
The Must-Visit Budapest Attractions
Buda Castle & Castle Hill
Buda Castle, is a massive complex, located on a hill with panoramic views that you will always remember.
Inside the castle, you’ve got the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. The history of Budapest is very rich, so it’s only fair you visit these at least once.
The cherry on top with the Castle is the views across the Danube to the Parliament Building. It offers the best scenery.
Matthias Church
IMatthias Church is covered in these colorful Zsolnay tiles that shimmer in the sunlight—it almost feels like stained glass on the outside. Inside, it’s Gothic overload in the best way possible.
And the history? Wild. Coronations, wars, and reconstructions galore. When I walked through, I joined a short guided tour, and learning how it served as a mosque during the Ottoman era blew my mind.
House of Terror Museum
This museum is particularly special and unique. It is located in the Avenue 60 and it is housed in the headquarters of the secret police.
The exhibits dive into Hungary’s Nazi and Communist past and is also a memorial to the victims who were tortured in the building.
For a better and complete experience i highly recommend a guided tour or the audio guide. Each room is of great importance but the basement prison cells especially stuck with me.
It is life changing experience that will wonder in your mind from time to time. But if you want to understand Hungary’s recent history, it’s essential.
Must-See Cultural Attractions
Hungarian Parliament Building
We already mentioned the view from the parliament but i feel like it needs more attention. A very common misunderstanding is that you can only visit the outside area. But this is not true.
There are available tours for the inside of the Parliament that will literally leave you speechless. The decorations, the gold details and the Hungarian Crown Jewels literally steal the show!
St. Stephen’s Basilica
Basilica was named after Hungary’s first king and is known as the largest church in Budapest. The Stephen’s Basilica is a jewell on its own. There is no way that you will pass by and not appreciate it.
The church is open to the public with a very small fee. But, once you climb the 364 steps and see the view, you will see that it is totally worth it.
Fun Facts about Stephens Basilica
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Inside, it’s all marble and gold, with King Stephen’s mummified right hand. The movie Inferno was filmed in the St. Stephen’s square, so it might look familiar.
Thermal Baths and Unique Experiences
Budapest is widely known for its thermal baths. So, if you leave Budapest without soaking in a thermal bath, did you even go? Let’s see some of the options you have.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Something tells me you already know about this but let me enhance your knowledge. This thermal bath is the largest and most known of all Budapest’s thermal baths.
It is enhnaced with huge outdoor pools and steam rising all around. I think wwe can both agree that it is must visit during winter time.
But that’s not it. In case you don’t want to get in the thermal bath you can choose between saunas, steam rooms and plunge pools. If i can quarantee something, is that everyone leaves happy and rejuvenated.
Gellért Spa
Is this place even real? I don’t know yet but maybe you can tell me when you visit. This thermal bad stand out for its superiority and The Art Nouveau architecture.
Dressed with mosaic tiles, marble columns, and stained glass everywhere. It seriously feels like bathing in a cathedral.
Did you think that it stops here? Nope. It has more. The Gellert spa has a wave pool in summer. Actual waves but you are safe. Just think of the photos there. I would be jealous.
Ruin Bars in the Jewish Quarter (e.g., Szimpla Kert)
Yeah, thermal baths are nice but what about Budapest nightlife? Well, guess what. Some of the most amazing and one of a kind parties are hosted in these thermal baths. So you can choose between thermal baths at daytime or nightime. It’s up to you!
Budapest’s nightlife scene is really different from what i was used to. And that is because of the ruin bars. And it is exactly what you expect to see when you hear ruins.
These are abandoned buildings turned into artsy, chaotic, unforgettable pubs. Szimpla Kert is trully one of the best but there are houndreds of “ruins” that willl match your vibe.
Liberty Bridge and Chain Bridge
And last but not least, the marvelous bridges of Budapest.
The Chain Bridge. I know you have been waiting for this and now you have it. I like to see it as the “equator” of Budapest. And that because Buda and Pest rise up on either side.
The Liberty Bridge. The freedom bridge is a smaller and less crowded bridge. But offers the same beautiful scenery.
It is painted in this bold green, and has this almost industrial-chic aesthetic. if you want to feel like a local, grab a beer and enjoy it while sitting on the bridge.
Why Day Trips by Train from Budapest Are Underrated
Budapest has one of the most accessible train networks out there. And the fact that it is in the central europe, offers many options for exploring. But why choose the train for your transportation?
- Comfort and routes that make a trip feel less tiring
- Easy Planning with MÁV (Hungarian Railways). Hungary has the MÁV website and app which allows you to check routes and book tickets.
- Punctual at boarding times, affordable tickets for long routes and often faster than driving
Types of Trains and What to Expect
- Regional Trains: They usually service basic routes and have more regular stops. Ideal for short destinations.
- InterCity (IC): These are fast, comfortable, and they often have power outlets, and decent Wi-Fi.
- EuroCity (EC): These are cross-border trains. You can easily visiti Vienna or Bratislava without getting in an airplane.
Epic Train Day Trips from Budapest You Need to Take
If you are wondering how many days to stay in Budapest, i would say that is depends on the things you want to do. For example, if you want to explore Budapest then 4 days is quite enough.
But, if you are planning to visit neighbouring places then a week would be ideal.
So let’s take a look at the options you have if you choose to saty for a week.
Szentendre
Only 50 minutes away from Budapest, is the city of Szentendre. The city is known for its galleries, art museums and beauty. The highlight of this city is the beautiful main square and the riverside.
The square is fully equipped with restaurants, coffe shops and souvenir shops. You can hop on a boat on the riverside and enjoy the city from another point of view.
Gödöllő
This city is quite opposite from Szentendre. First of all, it is 30 minutes away by train which is closer but this is not the main difference.
Gödöllő is known for the Royal Palace of Queen Sisi which decorates the city with such a charm. The palace has a baroque style that grabs your attention.
If you visit, i recommend getting inside of the palace with a guided tour. It will enhnace your knowledge and give you a whole new appreciation of the 19th-century Hungarian royalty.
The rooms are lavish and the gardens are so peacefull that make you relax instantly.
Vác and Tata
Vác stands out for riverside calm and art and Tata for lakes and historic buildings. It would be better if you visit during spring or summer time due to water element.
Vác is a sleepy riverside town just 30 minutes north of Budapest. It’s got a relaxed local feel, a charming main square, and a solid collection of art galleries and museums.
Tata is about an hour away from Budapest. Lake Öreg sits right in the center of town and offers an amazing scenery. You will find the stunning castles and enjoy your coffe somewhere close.
It is the perfect choice if you want to be away from the city but still exlpore.
International Trips Worth Taking from Budapest
As mentioned previously, Budapest offers many chances for international trips around other european countries.
The distances vary and you can choose between one day trips or more. You can even visit two or three countries together in one week.
Let’s see the available options thoroughly.
Train from Budapest to Vienna
Visiting Vienna has never been this easier. The direct trains are approximately 2.5-hours and depart almost every hour. That way you can start early in the morning and catch the last train back home. Or make it a weekend gateaway.
There are so many things to do in Vienna and this city is trully magnificent! Vienna delivers such an aura and Baroque architecture. Definitelly visit for art and change of scenery.
If you are visiting for just one day, i’ve got you covered with these must-sees in Vienna:
- Schönbrunn Palace: Over-the-top luxury with jaw-dropping gardens.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Gothic, iconic, and smack in the city center.
- Naschmarkt: Perfect for grazing your way through local food, spices, and quirky little shops.
Budapest to Bratislava
The closest destination of all is Bratislava with only 2 hours away by train. Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia and is so underrated.
The main reason i visited was because was the closest destination so I had zero expectations. But, i was so surprised and ended up loving every second.
The old town is filled with colorful building and cozy cafés. And how could i forget the castle perched above the Danube. It’s the perfect spot for panoramic city views and a little quiet reflection.
Budapest to Prague Train
Visiting Prague is for sure a longer trip. It is approximately 6.5–7 hours of scenic route through the Czech and Slovak countryside. So i think is best visiting for a weekend otherwise it is going to be very tiring.
The route though? The Budapest to Prague route winds through lush hills, riverside villages, and the countryside which makes the time fly by.
Prague itself needs no hype, you can see for yourself. These are some of the must visit places inn Prague if you are planning to stay for the weekend:
- Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí): It’s the beating heart of Prague and impossible to skip.
- Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
- Prague Castle Complex: Climb up to Hradčany (castle district) which is basically a royal village.
- Pop into St. Nicholas Church
- Visit Lennon Wall for a splash of rebellious color
Budapest to Amsterdam
And last but not least, the most challenging trail route of all.
To begin with a disclaimer, this trip is not for the impatient and i never said it is close but it is doable.
The trip is approximately 16 hours with a connections in the meantime.
The most difficult thing is probably to piece together connections and find the best timeline.
You can book a night train but connect through Vienna or Frankfurt. You could maybe visit vienna for the day and then take the train to Amsterdam.
Pro tips for this route:
- Book a sleeper cabin for the full experience (and some actual sleep).
- Use international rail apps like ÖBB or Deutsche Bahn for smooth transfers.
- Take your time. Amsterdam’s worth the effort, especially if you love museums, canals, and next-level stroopwafels.
Where to Stay in Budapest – Best Areas by Travel Style
When you visit a new place one of the things that cause me anxiety is if i have chosen the right place to stay. Lucky for you, you are reading this Budapest travel guide so that you enjoy the trip at the fulest.
Here’s a breakdown of the best areas in Budapest based on how you travel, what you’re into, and how much sleep you actually plan on getting.
City Center (District V, VI & VII) – First-Timers & Easy Sightseeing
If it’s your first time in Budapest and want to be close to every attraction then this is the area for you. District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) is basically Budapest’s front porch.
Parliament, the Danube, St. Stephen’s Basilica they all have very easy access. Also, the area is full of transportation options. Buses, trains and taxi’s of course.
District VI (Terézváros) is near to Andrássy Avenue and the Opera House. It’s got that classic European look. It is ideal for museum-hopping or café-sitting.
District VII (the Jewish Quarter) This district is best known for the ruin bars, street food and indie shops. You are so close to everything that using a car is unnessary.
Buda Side (District I & XII) – Quieter, Historic Vibes
Close to Buda Castle, Gellért Hill, and peaceful neighborhoods
If you are going for the vibes and the scenery head to the Buda side. District I is like looking at a postcard. It has the perfect views of Pest across the river.
It’s where Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion live. So if you plan visiting, this area is calling you.
District XII (Hegyvidék) is a bit more suburban, tucked into the hills. Best for people who enjoy their morning walks, fewer crowds and more space.
The only downside is the limited transportation, so probably renting a car would be a great solution.
Near Train Stations (Keleti, Nyugati, Déli) – For Day Trippers
These areas are the best in case you are combining your stay with international or smaller trips. For example, if you have booked early train departures or plan to do a lot of day trips, staying near a train station makes a lot of sense. More specifically the areas:
- Keleti (East Station): Major hub for international and domestic trains. Area can be gritty but has good hotels and metro access.
- Nyugati (West Station): Closer to downtown and better for restaurants, cafés, and shops.
- Déli (South Station): Best if you’re heading into western Hungary or the Buda side.
Pro tip: Don’t stay too close to the station unless you’re just sleeping there. A 5-10 minute walk away puts you in better surroundings with more local flavor.
Let Budapest Be Your Base for Unforgettable Journeys
Budapest is a city that offers so many things to see. From the best views, to one of a kind thermal baths and one of the best railway system. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit as many cities as possible by train.
