Budapest travel guide

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Introduction to Budapest

Budapest, Hungary - When thinking about this capital and largest city of Hungary, images of the spectacular Castle District, Fisherman's Bastion, and Heroes' Square instantly come to mind. As you explore beyond these attractions and read through this Budapest travel guide, you'll find that this region in Hungary is more than what we see in books and social media. Budapest, and its community of more than 1.7 million people, is a culturally-rich and diverse travel destination offering plenty of unforgettable experiences.

Easily accessible from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International airport, Budapest is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Hungary any time of the year.

Travelers curious about Budapest might find it interesting that the region was named after Buda and founded in 1873. You'll learn more fascinating facts about Budapest as you explore this spectacular region.

Traveling to Budapest is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the region of Budapest below!

History of Budapest

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is steeped in rich history and culture. Its origins can be traced back to the Roman settlement of Aquincum, which later became the Roman capital of Lower Pannonia around 106 AD.

In the 13th century, King Béla IV of Hungary established a royal residence in Buda, and the city began to grow around this royal court. The city was united from three separate parts - Buda, Pest, and Óbuda (Old Buda) - in 1873, creating the modern metropolis we know today.

Budapest has seen various rulers, from the Ottomans in the 16th century to the Habsburgs in the 18th century, each leaving their own unique mark on the city's architecture and culture. The city was a significant site of the Hungarian Revolution in 1848 and the Battle of Budapest in 1945.

Today, Budapest is renowned for its stunning landmarks, like the Buda Castle, thermal baths, and the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, which reflect the city's vibrant history.

Top services in Budapest

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Budapest, Hungary. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 396 airlines that fly to Hungary. Browse the 772 top-rated tours available to you in Budapest. Compare the rates and services of the 8 types of places to stay in Budapest and the 9 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Budapest.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Budapest, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Budapest on your vacation in Hungary.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Budapest from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the region of Budapest!

Best time to visit Budapest

The best time to explore Budapest is during the spring (March to May) and the fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C, ideal for outdoor sightseeing. The city is less crowded as compared to the peak summer months (June to August), making it easier to explore popular attractions like the Buda Castle and Heroes' Square at a leisurely pace. If you visit in the spring, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the Budapest Spring Festival, a major cultural event featuring music, theatre, and art. In the fall, the city's parks and gardens are awash with vibrant autumn hues, offering stunning photo opportunities. While the winter months (December to February) are cold with occasional snowfall, they bring the festive charm of Christmas markets and the thrill of ice skating on the City Park Ice Rink. However, note that some attractions may have shorter opening hours during this period. Regardless of the season, it's advisable to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly to enjoy your visit to Budapest to its fullest.

Weather in Budapest

Budapest experiences a temperate, transitional climate, where weather patterns generally follow four distinct seasons. Winter, from December to February, is cold and often blanketed with snow, with temperatures typically ranging from -6 to 4 degrees Celsius. Spring, between March and May, brings milder temperatures and more sunshine.

Summer, from June to August, is the warmest season with temperatures averaging around 25 degrees Celsius, but can reach up to 35 degrees Celsius during heat waves. Autumn, from September to November, is relatively mild and is characterized by less rainfall than in spring.

Always check weather forecasts before your trip as sudden weather changes can occur. Be prepared for heatwaves in summer and potentially heavy snowfall in winter. Despite its seasonality, Budapest's climate is generally inviting for travelers, offering a different charm with each changing season.

Local tip for visiting Budapest

In Budapest, the real magic lies in its vibrant, creative 'ruin bars'. These aren't your typical watering holes; they're eclectic spaces, often located in formerly abandoned buildings with mismatched furniture and quirky decor. These bars are a staple of Budapest's nightlife and a hub for local artists and musicians. The insider tip here is to visit Szimpla Kert, the original ruin bar, on a Sunday morning. Unlike any other day, on Sundays, the bar transforms into a bustling farmers' market. Locals frequent this place to buy fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade pastries. It's an authentic Budapest experience that many tourists miss. You can mingle with locals, sample Hungarian delicacies, and enjoy a leisurely brunch in a unique setting. While the ruin bars are a must-see at night, the Sunday morning market at Szimpla Kert offers a truly special glimpse into local life in Budapest.

Learn more about Hungary

There are many reasons to visit the region of Budapest, but a trip to Hungary needs no explanation.

Exploring Hungary, which spans 93,011 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Hungary offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Castle District, Fisherman's Bastion, and the Heroes' Square, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Hungary.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Hungary.

What to see in Budapest

Photo of the parliament at night, Budapest, Hungary.

Budapest has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the region.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the region of Budapest.

Top attractions in Budapest

Home to plenty of top attractions, Budapest is more than just a wonderful region in Hungary. Budapest is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Hungary.

One fascinating sight in Budapest is the unforgettable Castle District. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the region, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Budapest. This remarkable attraction is located at Budapest, Országház u. 2, 1014 Hungary and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 08:00-23:59.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Hungary, check out our list of top attractions in Budapest below. Discover the best places to visit in Budapest, including the fascinating Castle District, Fisherman's Bastion, Heroes' Square, City Park, and Szimpla Kert.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Budapest.

Things to do in Budapest

Budapest Eye and Basilica during sunset hour.

Enrich your travel experience in Budapest by joining tours and activities. Budapest offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the region.

Discover the most popular experiences in Budapest below.

Most popular experiences in Budapest

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the region of Budapest.

Budapest offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and Half-day Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Hungary.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Budapest by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Budapest

Travelers in Budapest can choose from 21 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Budapest is the fantastic 101 things you have to see in Budapest - Full Day Tour with Lunch & Dessert. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Budapest one of the best travel destinations in Hungary.

Budapest also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Guided Tour in Budapest Castle District is the cheapest tour in the region, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 3 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Budapest. This Historical Tour is available in 4 languages: German, English, Italian, and French. Around 16 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 4 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Budapest and book a top-rated tour in the region. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Budapest below.

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Discover the best things to do in Budapest. Choose from 772 fantastic tours and activities available in the region.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Budapest. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Budapest

Budapest, the Hungarian capital, offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape that ranges from delightful street food to luxurious fine dining experiences. The city's vibrant dining districts, such as the Jewish Quarter and the Central Market Hall, are among the best places to eat in Budapest. Here you can savor traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash, a hearty beef stew seasoned with paprika, or langos, a deep-fried flatbread typically topped with sour cream and cheese. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the District V, known for its high-end restaurants serving innovative interpretations of classic Hungarian dishes. When in Budapest, don't miss out on tasting the local wine varieties, particularly the Tokaj. As for dessert, sample a slice of Dobos torte, a caramel-topped sponge cake that is a staple in Hungarian patisseries. To enhance your culinary journey, consider joining a local food tour or cooking class to discover the secrets of Hungarian cuisine. Finally, remember to make reservations in advance, particularly for popular high-end restaurants, to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Best free things to do in Budapest

The best free things to do in Budapest provide rich experiences without requiring a hefty budget. Start by strolling along the historic Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which brims with elegant neo-renaissance mansions, cafes, and luxury boutiques. Next, head to Heroes' Square, a grand monument showcasing statues of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important Hungarian national leaders. Don't miss the changing of the guards at the Hungarian Parliament - an impressive spectacle against the backdrop of one of Europe's oldest legislative buildings. If you're a nature lover, the City Park is perfect, offering vast green spaces, a beautiful lake, and the Vajdahunyad Castle. Explore Margaret Island, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city with its musical fountains, ancient ruins, and a small zoo. Lastly, hike up to the Citadel on Gellért Hill. It's a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views of this magnificent city are worth every step. Each of these locations embody the rich history and vibrant culture that make Budapest a must-visit European city.

Vacation packages in Budapest

Photo of the chain bridge in Budapest, Hungary.

The best and easiest way to visit Budapest is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Hungary.

Booking a vacation package to Budapest means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Budapest to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Budapest is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 195 unique vacation packages to Budapest, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the region of Budapest.

Popular types of vacations in Budapest

The most popular way to experience Budapest is by visiting the region as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Hungary. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Budapest on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Hungary, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Hungary, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Budapest, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Budapest below.

Top vacation packages in Budapest

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Hungary. In fact, you can choose from as many as 195 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Budapest, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Hungary.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the region of Budapest.

For an epic vacation, discover Budapest and other top destinations in Hungary on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Hungary Road Trip around Budapest to Eger and Székesfehérvár. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Budapest, but also in other top places to visit in Hungary. If Fisherman's Bastion, Szimpla Kert, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Tropicarium-Oceanarium Kft. , and City Park are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Budapest, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Hungary City Break in Budapest and spend as little as 138 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Budapest, including the fantastic Heroes' Square, Matthias Church, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Fisherman's Bastion, and Citadella.

Get more Budapest vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Hungary that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Budapest

Discover and compare 195 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful region of Budapest.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Budapest get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Hungary. Your customized holiday package to Budapest is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Budapest

To get to the region of Budapest the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Hungary can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Budapest by booking flights with any of the 87 airlines that offer direct flights to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International airport are Lufthansa, British Airways, United Airlines, Ryanair, and Delta Air Lines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Budapest.

To reach the region of Budapest, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Budapest, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International airport and Budapest below.

Find cheap flights to Budapest

Budapest filmed from a drone.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Budapest, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Hungary. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Budapest, Hungary, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Budapest costs around 18 EUR and is offered by the airline Ryanair. The flight leaves on May 9 at 3 and departs from Göteborg Landvetter airport in Gothenburg, Sweden.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Budapest cost approximately 252 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on May 10 and the return flight is scheduled on May 13. The flight time is around 5 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Budapest Ferenc Liszt International.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Hungary and the region of Budapest from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Budapest

Travelers visiting Budapest in Hungary can fly to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International airport directly from 2327 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International airport and the region of Budapest in Hungary depart from Albany airport in Albany, Australia, Santa Rosa airport in Santa Rosa, Argentina, and Pitt–Greenville airport in Greenville, the United States.

Travelers can fly to Hungary by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Albany; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Santa Rosa; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Greenville.

The airline that operates most flights to Hungary is Cambodia Angkor Air. Cambodia Angkor Air offers 5 scheduled flight routes to Hungary.

Discover the most popular flights to Budapest below. Click to view flights to Budapest, Hungary from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Budapest

Budapest - St. Stephen's Basilica, Hungary.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a region as fantastic as Budapest is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Budapest usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Budapest offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the region allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Budapest and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Budapest planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Budapest, you'll find 8 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Hungary can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Budapest. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the region, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Budapest.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Budapest in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Budapest

A trip to the fascinating Budapest, Hungary, means opportunities to relax at any of the 8 different types of places to stay in the region. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 2442 vacation rental apartments, 1411 hotels, 24 hostels, 12 cottages, 9 guesthouses, 2 castles and 2 resorts. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Budapest provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the region, H2 Hotel Budapest is one of the top picks of travelers in Budapest.

The hotel is located at Arany Janos Utca 21 and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, Restaurant, and Free Wi-Fi.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Budapest. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Budapest, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Island Hostel - Adults only. For approximately 14 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 8 different types of places to stay in Budapest. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Budapest

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Budapest for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the region is home to around 3,903 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Budapest provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Budapest are created equal, finding the best in the region often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Budapest.

InterContinental Budapest offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Budapest. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Aquaworld Resort Budapest, the top 4-star hotel in the region. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Budapest, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, T62 Hotel, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Budapest. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the region of Budapest on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the region of Budapest that match the information provided.

Car rental in Budapest

View on the Old Fisherman Bastion in Budapest.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Budapest. Budapest has 9 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Budapest start from 36.96 EUR per day or 258.72 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Toyota Yaris Automatic.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Budapest, starting from 28.54 EUR per day or 199.8 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Hyundai I10.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Budapest, Hungary, below.

Popular types of car rental in Budapest

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the region of Budapest to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Budapest can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Hungary at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Budapest is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Budapest is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the region of Budapest.

Check out all options available in Budapest and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Hungary below.

Search for car rental in Budapest

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful region of Budapest. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Budapest, Hungary, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Budapest

An Asian woman tourist on one of the main attractions of Budapest - Heroes Square.

The region of Budapest is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Hungary. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Hungary has it all.

Hungary is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Hungary that are as magical as the region of Budapest. The most popular travel destinations in Hungary are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Hungary

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Hungary. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Budapest

Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, Hungary.

A taste of Hungary through a visit to Budapest can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Budapest to another remarkable destination in Hungary.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the region of Budapest to other spectacular locations in Hungary, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Budapest

Travelers in Hungary can catch flights to domestic airports in Debrecen, and Hévíz. Domestic flights in Hungary are operated by 11 airlines: Finnair, Wizz Air, Ryanair, Tarom, and British Airways. There are around 20 scheduled flight routes operating to Budapest on a weekly basis.

From Budapest, travelers can book scheduled flights to 2 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Budapest depart to many top-rated destinations in Hungary and are offered by Finnair, Wizz Air, and Ryanair.

Search domestic flights from Budapest

Traveling to another city or region in Hungary? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Budapest to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Hungary on the selected dates.

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