Best Things To Do in Budapest: 17 Experiences That Define the City

Explore the 17 best things to do in Budapest and experience a city where grand landmarks, thermal baths, and fun nightlife come together. From relaxing river cruises to vibrant street art and scenic views, Budapest offers the perfect mix of culture and energy.

With the largest selection of tours and tickets in Budapest, it’s easy to explore the city. But knowing where to start is another story. Exploring Budapest by car, soaking in the city lights on a Danube River evening cruise, or visiting theme parks in Budapest for family fun, there’s a lot to consider. It can get overwhelming fast.

This guide shows you what to do in Budapest, with all the practical details you need. With fully customizable Budapest travel packages and 17 must-do experiences, you can build a trip that fits your style. Go big on landmarks, chase views, find hidden corners, or try it all and see why Budapest never does boring.

Dive right in and discover the top 17 things to do in Budapest that will make your visit unforgettable.

17. Cruise the Danube for Picture-Perfect Views

Location: Buda and Pest sides

A Danube cruise is one of the top things to do in Budapest and the perfect way to see how the river divides the city. Buda enchants with castle-topped hills and landmarks like Matthias Church, while Pest dazzles with the neo-Gothic Parliament Building and lively promenades.

In the evening, choose a Budapest dinner and sightseeing cruise with live music and dance, or a relaxed Budapest evening cruise with a drink as the city lights sparkle. By day, a Danube River sightseeing cruise offers commentary that brings Budapest’s history to life.

Along the river, you can also enjoy Kopaszi Gat, a peaceful park with shaded trails and cafes, Romai Part, known for its lively open-air eateries, and Nepsziget, a quiet island retreat from the city’s bustle.

16. Relax on Margaret Island

Location: Pest side (Margaret Island, Budapest 1138)

The Musical Fountain on Margaret Island in Budapest. Image by TravelCoffeeBook from Pixabay.

Explore Margaret Island, one of the most relaxing things to do in Budapest. This car-free oasis in the Danube blends greenery, history, and leisure. Enjoy the musical fountain, cycle scenic paths on a bringo hinto (pedal buggy), picnic under the trees, or visit family-friendly playgrounds and the mini zoo.

Unwind at the Palatinus Strand Baths with a Palatinus Bath full-day admission and soak in pools surrounded by nature. Continue to explore medieval church ruins or join an investigation quest on Margaret Island for a playful twist. With culture, nature, and wellness combined, Margaret Island captures the essence of the top things to do in Budapest.

15. Sip, Dance, and Mingle at Budapest’s Ruin Bars

Location: Pest side (Kazinczy utca 14, Budapest 1075)

Exploring the ruin bars is one of the most unique things to do in Budapest at night. These quirky venues, set in abandoned buildings, mix urban decay with creativity. Each is filled with mismatched furniture, colorful lights, and eclectic art, making them feel like living installations rather than typical bars.

Visiting Szimpla Kert, the original ruin bar in the Jewish Quarter, is a must. By day, it offers a laid-back vibe for wandering its maze-like rooms, while at night, it turns into a lively hub of music, dancing, and conversation. To go deeper, join a ruin pub walking tour in Budapest or try a Hungarian craft beer tasting, both fun things to do in Budapest for an authentic local experience.

14. Find Local Treats at the Central Market Hall

Location: Pest side (Vámház körút 1-3, Budapest 1093)

The Central Market Hall in Budapest bustling with visitors. Image by Rene Staempfli from Pixabay.

Visiting the Central Market Hall, also known as the Great Market Hall, is one of the most exciting things to do in Budapest. This vast indoor market is the city’s hub for Hungarian food, culture, and crafts, buzzing with color and activity on every floor.

On the ground level, you can taste staples like paprika, smoked sausages, and langos, the golden flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese. Upstairs, browse traditional crafts such as embroidered linens and official Hungaricum products.

The basement offers pickled vegetables, preserves, and bottles of Tokaji wine. To make the most of the visit, join a private guided tour of the Central Market Hall or a food and wine walking tour in Budapest for tastings and nearby cafes.

13. Discover Hungary’s Dark Side at the House of Terror

Location: Pest side (Andrássy út 60, Budapest 1062)

Soviet tank at the House of Terror Museum. Image by Fred Romero from Paris, France - Budapest - Terror Háza Múzeum, CC BY 2.0, Source.

Visiting the House of Terror on Andrassy Avenue is one of the most thought-provoking things to do in Budapest. The former headquarters of the Arrow Cross Party and later the Communist secret police now houses exhibits that confront Hungary’s darkest chapters.

Inside, multimedia displays, testimonies, and artifacts reveal life under totalitarian regimes, from oppression to survival. The basement prison offers a sobering glimpse into past brutality. Though intense, the museum provides vital insight into Hungary’s resilience and history. For deeper context, join a Budapest Communist history walking tour that includes the House of Terror and other key sites.

House of Terror Opening Hours and Holiday Schedule

• Regular Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 – 18:00 (cash desk closes at 17:30). Closed Mondays.
• Holidays:

House of Terror Admission Ticket Prices

• Full-price ticket: 10 EUR (4000 HUF)
• Reduced-price ticket: 5 EUR (2000 HUF)

12. Step into History’s Shadows at Memento Park

Location: Outskirts of Buda (Balatoni út, Budapest 1223)

Soviet-era statue in Budapest's Memento Park. Image by diaan11 from Pixabay.

Add Memento Park to your list of things to do in Budapest if you want a striking look at the city's socialist past. There, towering statues of Lenin, Marx, and Hungarian leaders stand alongside propaganda reliefs that once filled public squares.

The on-site museum deepens the experience with Cold War artifacts, including equipment once used by the secret police. For a fuller perspective, join a walking tour about life under communism in Budapest paired with entry to Memento Park. This combination offers powerful insight into how ideology shaped the city.

Memento Park Admission Fees

• Adults: 8 EUR (3000 HUF)
• Students: 4.80 EUR (1800 HUF)
• Children (under 14): 3.20 EUR (1200 HUF)

Memento Park Opening Hours

• May to October: Daily, 10:00 to 18:00
• November to April: Daily, 10:00 to 16:00

11. Pause and Reflect at the Shoes on the Danube

Location: Pest side (Id. Antall József rakpart, Budapest 1055)

Take a quiet walk along the riverbank to experience one of the most meaningful things to do in Budapest. Near the Parliament Building, the Shoes on the Danube memorial tells a haunting story.

Sixty pairs of iron shoes, styled after 1940s designs, line the riverbank to honor Jewish men, women, and children executed by the Arrow Cross Party during World War II. Each pair feels deeply human, as if its owner had just stepped out of it. Flowers and candles often fill the shoes left by those paying their respects.

This poignant memorial is an essential stop on a two-week city break in Budapest, complementing visits to the Holocaust Memorial Center or the Great Synagogue.

10. Hike and Explore Normafa’s Scenic Trails

Location: Buda side (Normafa, Budapest 1121)

Sometimes, a hike through Normafa’s scenic trails is all it takes to recharge. Nestled in the Buda Hills, this peaceful escape offers fresh air, stunning views, and outdoor adventures. Exploring it and its trails is one of the most invigorating things to do in Budapest.

The paths lead through leafy woods and open clearings to the Elizabeth Lookout Tower, where panoramic views of Budapest and the countryside unfold. Fairy Rock formations add a touch of wonder, while families can enjoy playgrounds, picnic spots, and quiet areas to relax outdoors.

Things To Know Before You Go:

• Getting There: Take the Cogwheel Railway to Normafa station or use public buses. Parking is also available.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) for blooms and greenery or autumn (September to November) for vibrant foliage.
• Trail Info: Trails range from 1 to 3 miles (2 to 5 km), taking 1 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and a camera. Dress in layers during cooler months.

9. Feel the Drama at Budapest’s Opera House

Location: Pest side (Andrássy út 22, Budapest 1061)

Attending a performance or touring the Hungarian State Opera House is one of the most memorable things to do in Budapest. Built in 1884, this neo-Renaissance masterpiece features gilded details, marble staircases, frescoed ceilings, and a chandelier weighing over three tons. Emperor Franz Joseph approved its construction on the condition it remain smaller than Vienna’s, yet it is celebrated for its intricate design and world-class acoustics.

Visitors can enjoy a performance, join a guided tour, or see the Opera House on a private electric tuk-tuk tour along Andrassy Avenue. In December, a Budapest Christmas market tour adds to the experience, showcasing the Opera House glowing with festive lights.

8. Glide Through History at Heroes’ Square

Location: Pest side (Hősök tere, Budapest 1146)

Heroes’ Square captures Budapest’s history in a single landmark. The Millennium Monument dominates the plaza with statues of the seven Magyar chieftains and the Archangel Gabriel, while the Museum of Fine Arts and Hall of Art frame the square with cultural weight. Visiting here connects you to Hungary’s defining stories of resilience and pride, making it one of the top things to do in Budapest.

Join a Segway tour through Heroes’ Square and nearby landmarks like Vajdahunyad Castle and Szechenyi Thermal Bath. On a 7-day city break in Budapest, Heroes’ Square works as both a cultural highlight and a gateway to the city’s most visited attractions.

7. Relax at Szechenyi and Other Thermal Baths in Budapest

Location: Pest side (Állatkerti körút 9-11, Budapest 1146)

Unwinding in Budapest’s thermal baths is one of the top things to do in Budapest, combining history, wellness, and culture. The city is often called the “City of Spas,” with Szechenyi Thermal Bath known for its Neo-Baroque pools, Gellert Thermal Bath for its Art Nouveau design, and Rudas Thermal Bath for its Ottoman interiors and rooftop views of the Danube.

Spending a few hours in these historic spas is a refreshing way to balance sightseeing with relaxation. A Szechenyi spa ticket with dinner and cruise combo adds a memorable twist, blending wellness and sightseeing, and you can even include the baths as part of a one-week relaxed self-drive adventure from Budapest to Eger for the perfect mix of relaxation and discovery.

6. Explore City Park’s Cultural and Green Gems

Location: Pest side (Városliget, Budapest 1146)

When it comes to the top things to do in Budapest, exploring the City Park in Budapest (Varosliget) should definitely be on your list. Sprawling across 300 acres, this park is a go-to spot for culture, relaxation, and a bit of fun. 

It’s packed with landmarks, family-friendly attractions, and beautiful green spaces, making it perfect for a day out, especially during a 10-day city break in Budapest, when you have time to explore its many offerings.

Key Details About City Park

• City Park Budapest Entrance Fee: Strolling through the park is free, but attractions like the Szechenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest Zoo, and museums have their own ticket prices.
• City Park Budapest Opening Hours: Open all day, every day, so you can enjoy a morning walk or an evening stroll. Just note that attractions inside have their own hours.
• City Park Budapest Directions: Getting here is simple. Take the M1 metro line to Hosok tere (Heroes’ Square) station, or hop on one of the buses that stop nearby.

What To Do in City Park

Some of the best things to do in Budapest’s City Park include exploring Vajdahunyad Castle, a stunning blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles built for the 1896 Millennial Exhibition. Its fairytale-like charm makes it ideal for a stroll and photos.  

Dive into culture at the House of Music, an interactive space celebrating sound and music history, or visit the Museum of Fine Arts, home to masterpieces by El Greco and Raphael. For something unforgettable, take a balloon ride to see sweeping views of the park and Budapest’s skyline. Families can enjoy the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden, one of Europe’s oldest, along with playgrounds for kids to explore.

Free Things To Do in City Park

• Stroll through the tree-lined paths and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
• Visit Heroes’ Square, an iconic Budapest landmark, and admire the Millennium Monument.
• Find the Anonymous Statue, a mysterious hooded figure honoring Hungary’s medieval chronicler.
• Spread out a picnic blanket by the lake or relax in the park’s open spaces.

Things To Do in City Park in Summer

In summer, some of the most enjoyable things to do in Budapest’s City Park include renting a boat to explore the lake and relaxing in the vibrant gardens filled with seasonal blooms.

For a lively atmosphere, visit Kertem Garden, where you can savor street food, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy live music.

Things To Do in City Park in Winter

During winter, the ice rink near Vajdahunyad Castle becomes a must-visit spot, offering one of the best skating experiences in Europe.

Things To Do in City Park at Night

At night, taking a dip in the illuminated Szechenyi Thermal Bath is an unforgettable experience. For something different, look out for night events hosted by the Budapest Zoo, which add an exciting twist to the usual things to do in Budapest’s City Park after dark.

Guided Tours To Maximize Your City Park Experience

To make the most of your visit, consider a guided e-scooter tour in Budapest, which covers not only City Park but also other key attractions across the city. Another excellent choice is a bike tour that combines City Park’s highlights with Budapest’s iconic landmarks, offering an active way to explore.

5. Explore Budapest’s Jewish Roots at the Great Synagogue

Location: Pest side (Dohány utca 2, Budapest 1074)

The Great Synagogue on Dohany Street is the centerpiece of Budapest’s rich Jewish heritage, and exploring it is one of the most meaningful things to do in Budapest. As Europe’s largest synagogue, it impresses with Moorish-style architecture, colorful stained glass, and golden domes. Outside, the Tree of Life Memorial honors Holocaust victims with names engraved on its silver leaves, adding powerful meaning to the site.

Guided experiences bring this history to life. A Jewish heritage tour covers the synagogue, Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park, and other landmarks with expert insight, while a private Jewish historical tour offers added convenience. Afterward, explore the Jewish Quarter with its kosher bakeries, cultural landmarks, and the restored Rumbach Street Synagogue, an essential stop on a 6-day city break in Budapest.

4. Hike Gellert Hill for Stunning Views

Location: Buda side (Gellért Hill, Budapest 1118)

If breathtaking panoramas are what you’re after, hiking up Gellert Hill is a rewarding experience. Rising over 200 meters above the Danube, the hill offers sweeping views of landmarks like the Hungarian Parliament and the Chain Bridge. Peaceful green paths wind to the top, with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the scenery. It’s easily one of the top things to do in Budapest.

Along the way, you’ll pass the Liberty Statue, symbolizing Hungary’s freedom, and the Citadella, a fortress with commanding views of the city. For a 3-day weekend getaway in Budapest, the hill is a refreshing escape into nature. A Segway tour to Gellert Hill and the Citadella adds convenience and context, offering a mix of history and adventure.

Good To Know Before Hiking Gellert Hill

• Trail Length: The hike is approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometers.
• Estimated Time: It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the top, depending on your pace.
• Difficulty: The trail is moderate, with some steep sections, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

3. Roam Castle Hill’s Timeless Beauty

Location: Buda side (Castle District, Budapest 1014)

Castle Hill is where Budapest’s history and charm come to life. Perched above the Danube, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and sweeping city views. It’s one of the most unforgettable things to do in Budapest.

At its heart is Buda Castle, a grand palace now home to the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Nearby, the colorful roof tiles of Matthias Church shine with intricate patterns, while the Fisherman’s Bastion offers postcard-perfect views of the Parliament, the Danube, and the bustling cityscape.

For a deeper experience, join a Fools and Kings tour around the Castle District or explore the Labyrinth of Buda Castle, with its underground tunnels and mysterious past. The Castle District is also a highlight of a 10-day self-drive road trip through Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic.

2. Soak in City Views from St. Stephen’s Basilica

Location: Pest side (Szent István tér 1, Budapest 1051)

St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of the best places to visit in Budapest, admired for its Neo-Classical design and sweeping city views. Named after Hungary’s first king, it took over 50 years to complete. Visiting it is one of the best things to do in Budapest.

Inside, the basilica impresses with mosaics, marble details, and the mummified right hand of St. Stephen. The dome offers panoramic views of the Parliament and Buda Castle, reached by stairs or elevator. Seasonal highlights include August 20 festivities and the Christmas market. For convenience, book a skip-the-line ticket to St. Stephen’s Basilica or join a private tour with lunch and a Danube cruise.

1. Marvel at the Hungarian Parliament Building

Location: Pest side (Kossuth Lajos ter 1-3, Budapest 1055)

The Hungarian Parliament Building is Budapest’s crown jewel and the city’s most iconic landmark. Rising 96 meters above the Danube, this neo-Gothic masterpiece was completed in 1904 with 691 rooms, marble interiors, and gold details that showcase Hungary’s pride and craftsmanship. Experiencing the Parliament is the top thing to do in Budapest.

You can learn its history on the Welcome to Budapest Walking Tour or step inside with the Private Budapest First-Class Tour for a closer look at its grandeur. The building is equally stunning from afar, especially on an evening Danube river cruise, when its glowing reflection lights up the water.

Hungarian Parliament Building Opening Hours

Guided tours are available daily between 08:00 and 18:00, depending on the season, and last about 45 minutes. 

How To Get To the Hungarian Parliament Building

• By Metro: Take Metro Line 2 (Red Line) to Kossuth Lajos Square Station, a 2-minute walk from the Parliament. Travel time from central areas like Deak Ferenc Square is about 5-10 minutes.
• By Tram: Tram Line 2 stops at Kossuth Lajos Square and runs along the Danube, offering scenic views. Travel time from Vigado Square is 10-15 minutes.
• By Walking: It’s a 15-20 minute walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica or the Chain Bridge, and about 30-40 minutes from Buda Castle via the Chain Bridge.
• By Taxi or Ride-Hailing: Taxis or apps like Bolt can take you to Kossuth Lajos Square in 5-10 minutes from central locations, depending on traffic.
• By Car: Drive to Kossuth Lajos Square via Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Road. Parking is limited, but Szabadsag Square Parking is a 5-minute walk away. Travel time is about 10-15 minutes from central Budapest.

Popular Things To Do in Buda

Buda is where Budapest’s history feels most alive. From hilltop views to winding cobblestone paths, this side of the city is a haven for explorers who enjoy a slower pace. Many city sightseeing tours on this side of Budapest focus on its landmarks, including Castle Hill, Matthias Church, and the Fisherman’s Bastion. For something more active, try outdoor adventures in Budapest, such as hiking up Gellert Hill or taking a scenic walk along the Danube Promenade. Both activities offer panoramic views of the skyline and bridges.

Popular Things To Do in Pest

Pest brims with excitement and brings together many of the experiences already highlighted. This is where you can dive into cultural tours through iconic neighborhoods in Budapest, such as the trendy Jewish Quarter. It blends history with modern street art and offers plenty to explore. Another favorite is a stroll along Andrassy Avenue, lined with grand architecture and cafés.

When the sun sets, Pest pulses with energy, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the dynamic nightlife scene in Budapest. Classic ruin bars like Szimpla Kert create a quirky atmosphere, while rooftop lounges offer sweeping views of the Danube.

Pest also shines with its waterside experiences. Sailing tours on the Danube River let you admire illuminated landmarks, including the Parliament and Chain Bridge. It’s one of the most spectacular ways to see the city’s skyline at night.