17 Things to do in Budapest: Must-See Sights and Hidden Gems
From sunrise over the Danube to candlelit Art Nouveau restaurants, Budapest invites travelers into a world of timeless beauty and quiet romance. You might be drawn in by its grand architecture, fascinated by its complex past, or simply here to enjoy the lively café culture and vibrant nightlife. No matter the reason, there are countless things to do in Budapest.
Best things to do in Budapest Hungary
Romantic yet gritty, opulent yet worn, Budapest is a city of contrasts. From iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament to slow afternoons in thermal baths and nights that begin in a ruin bar and end on a rooftop, every traveler finds something to fall in love with in Budapest.
Our guide takes you through everything from the must-see sights in Budapest to hidden gems beyond the typical highlights. You will discover off-the-beaten-path spots, cafés adored by locals, and so much more. For those seeking romance, adventure, or a new city to explore, our list has it all.
Walk through The Palace District
The Palace District isn’t just one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the city. It is quickly gaining recognition as one of the best places to visit in Budapest. The neighborhood blends imperial elegance with a bohemian spirit.
Strolling through the Palace District feels like discovering a secret side of Budapest. Historic mansions line quiet streets filled with artsy cafés, contemporary galleries, cozy bars, and unique vintage shops. It is no surprise the area is becoming one of the top things to do in Budapest for those looking to explore beyond the tourist path.
The Palace District is also home to the Hungarian National Museum, one of the country’s most important cultural landmarks.
Alternatively, if walking isn’t your thing, book a Tuk Tuk or bike city tour. Super fun!
Szabó Ervin Library
If you’re wondering what to do in Budapest beyond the usual landmarks, visit one of the city’s most beautiful libraries. For book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike, these spots are local favorites: the Szabó Ervin Library, the University Library, and the historic Eötvös Loránd University.
The Szabó Ervin Library is our top recommendation. Located inside a former aristocratic palace, it is a true hidden gem in Budapest. Velvet armchairs, gilded walls, grand chandeliers, and hand-painted frescoes make the space feel like a room taken out of a 19th-century novel.
Spend an afternoon here reading or simply admiring the interiors. It is one of the most magical things to do in Budapest, especially if you are looking for a quiet and romantic escape from the buzz of the city.
Vinyl Record Stores and Vintage Shops
Letting our love for stories lead the way, we’ve always felt that in a city with as much history and cultural richness as Budapest, it’s always worth seeking out treasures that are small enough to bring home as a piece of the city’s soul. If you found a book you loved at the library, you just might discover a version to keep forever as you browse the dusty and dreamy aisles of Központi Antikvárium, a bookstore filled with antique books, vintage maps, and curious finds.
They say music is a universal language, so if all the stories you fell for were written in Hungarian, follow the rhythm instead. Visit some of the city’s famous record stores. MG Records Lemezbolt and Kalóz Records are must-visits for music lovers, offering impressive collections that span decades and genres. No translation is needed when you feel the beat.
And if you’re anything like me and love vintage fashion, don’t miss Typo Showroom. It is one of the best places in Budapest for unique and one-of-a-kind pieces, perfect for adding a little wearable history to your wardrobe.
St. Stephen’s Basilica
If you’re wondering what to do in Budapest that’s both spiritually powerful and culturally iconic, start with St. Stephen’s Basilica. This is a place where beauty, history, and soul all come together.
This stunning basilica is a masterpiece of Neo-Classical architecture with majestic columns, grand domes, and intricate sculptures. It was named after Hungary’s first king and patron saint, and it is today one of the must-see sights in Budapest Hungary, and a highlight on any list of Budapest attractions.
Step inside, and you are met with a golden glow —marble altars, hand-painted frescoes, gilded details, and soft light streaming through stained glass windows. One of the most unique things inside the Basilica is the mummified hand of St. Stephen, displayed in a reliquary.
We climbed the narrow staircase to the rooftop lookout. From the dome, one of the highest points in Budapest, the city below shimmers in warm amber light. The rooftops of Pest, the curve of the Danube, and the distant hills of Buda looked like a living painting. It felt like time had paused just for us.
Whether you are drawn to sacred spaces, incredible architecture, or unforgettable views, St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of the best things to do in Budapest.
Hungarian Parliament Building
Rising like a fairytale castle along the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament Building is one of those places that is on almost everyone’s Budapest itinerary.
And while the exterior is majestic, with its glowing red dome and towering spires, it’s the interior that truly impresses. To experience it for yourself, join one of the 45-minute guided tours, where you’ll walk the grand staircase, admire the gilded Assembly Hall, delicate ceiling frescoes, and stand beneath the Dome Hall, where Hungary’s Holy Crown is carefully guarded.
For the best views of the Parliament Building, cross the Danube to Fisherman’s Bastion or go past on a river cruise. At night, when the entire façade is illuminated, it becomes even more enchanting, a glowing testament to Budapest’s elegance and history. This is one of those places where romance and heritage meet in breathtaking harmony.
The Hungarian Parliament Building is truly the crown jewel of Budapest’s skyline.
Budapest Opera House
If your heart beats for music, beauty, and history, the Hungarian State Opera House is a must on your list of things to do in Budapest. Growing up, my grandparents were opera singers, and their stories filled my childhood with the magic of soaring voices and timeless melodies. Visiting the Opera House felt like stepping into a familiar world.
Opened in 1884 and designed by Miklós Ybl, the Neo-Renaissance building is considered one of the most acoustically perfect opera houses in the world. From the moment you approach it on Andrássy Avenue, you know you’re about to step into something extraordinary.
The building is truly impressive, with glittering chandeliers and lavish gold detailing that surround you in old-world glamour. The grand staircase, marble columns, and frescoed ceilings feel fit for royalty.
Attend a performance or go on a guided tour! Even if opera isn’t your usual rhythm, sitting in this stunning space, surrounded by history and art, will move you in unexpected ways.
Chain Bridge
If you’re wondering what to do in Budapest that truly captures the spirit of the city at night, a slow walk across the Chain Bridge at sunset is one of the most unforgettable experiences.
Watching the lights shimmer across the river is pure magic. On one side, the Parliament glows in golden light. On the other, Buda Castle stands quietly, bathed in soft shadows. The lion statues at each end add a regal touch.
Stretching across the Danube since the 19th century, the chain bridge has been connecting Buda and Pest in more ways than one. It feels like a gentle passage between two worlds: Buda and Pest.
Ruin Bars
When it comes to iconic things to do in Budapest, ruin bars often top the list. Scattered across the Jewish Quarter, these establishments are known for their mismatched furniture, crumbling walls, and glowing fairy lights.
Szimpla-Szimpla Kert: As the original and best-known ruin bar, Szimpla feels like stepping into an art installation. Housed in a once-abandoned factory, it’s a whimsical maze of eclectic rooms filled with vintage bathtubs, graffiti-covered walls, and glowing lanterns. While it can get busy with tourists, its quirky charm and electric atmosphere still make it one of the must-see sights in Budapest at least once.
Manyi: Located a bit off the usual tourist path, this cultural space combines art, design, and nightlife with a boho spirit.You’ll find everything from exhibitions and film screenings to cocktails and DJ sets. It’s a great pick if you’re looking for fun things to do in Budapest that feel a little more under-the-radar.
If you’re looking for what to do in Budapest that feels more intimate, romantic, and a bit more local, head to a natural wine bar or book a wine tour. These cozy bars, often tucked away on quiet streets, are where locals go to unwind.
A few of the best wine bars in Budapest include:
Marlou: Just steps from the Budapest Opera House, Marlou is a romantic little haven with exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and a rotating list of Hungarian and French wines. Pair your glass with refined bites and stay a while.
Huncutka Bite and Wine: A true hidden gem near the Parliament Building, this spot serves only Hungarian wines, think pét-nats and orange wine, alongside homemade dumplings and welcoming stories from the friendly staff.
ESCA: Stylish yet unpretentious, ESCA quickly became our go-to spot, where we found ourselves returning night after night for a glass of Hummel’s ‘Karasica’ Pet Nat. Small plates, candlelight, and soft conversations make it perfect for a quiet evening.
Buda Castle
A visit to Buda Castle is easily one of the best things to do in Budapest. The castle complex has sweeping views of the city and houses the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Széchényi Library, making it a must for art and history lovers. Consider getting the Budapest Card for discounted entry to the Castle and other attractions, along with free public transportation and even thermal bath access.
If you love vampire stories, a nighttime vampire castle tour led by a local guide is one of our top recommendations.
Castle District
The Castle District is one of the most iconic and enchanting neighborhoods in Budapest. Located on the Buda side of the Danube, it’s a historic area filled with cobblestone streets, medieval charm, and panoramic viewpoints.
The neighborhood is known for its winding alleys, pastel-hued buildings, and breathtaking views overlooking the Parliament building, Danube River, and Pest side.
There are plenty of things to do in the Castle District besides visiting Buda Castle: walk the turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, admire the Neo-Gothic splendor of Matthias Church, and stop by hidden cafés tucked into quiet courtyards.
Fisherman’s Bastion
Don’t miss a stop at Fisherman’s Bastion at golden hour. It’s one of the most magical places to visit in Budapest. And for a peaceful break, settle into a bench at one of the nearby viewpoints, where you can take in the soft glow of the rooftops and watch the city unfold below.
Whether you’re visiting for the views, the architecture, or the history, the Castle District is a must on any list of the best things to do in Budapest Hungary.
It’s the perfect place to slow down, get lost, and fall in love with the city’s old-world romance.
Day Trips from Budapest
If you’re longing to escape Budapest’s bustling city streets, a day trip outside the city is always a good idea. These towns and serene spots invite you to stroll hand in hand along ancient cobblestones, breathe in the gentle river breeze, and lose yourself in stories whispered by time.
Szentendre: Less than an hour away, the town of Szentendre sits along the Danube River. Its pastel-colored houses, draped in ivy and sunlight, frame narrow, winding streets where local artists display their works in small galleries.
Spend the afternoon wandering without care, pausing to savor homemade pastries in a local café, watching the Hungarians walk by. As evening falls, the town softens into a quiet romance, with warm lights glowing from windows and the gentle murmur of the river in the distance.
Lake Balaton: Lake Balaton is where the locals go during the summer months when the days grow long and warm. Stroll along the charming promenades filled with fishermen’s boats and lively markets. At sunset, couples gather on grassy banks to watch the sky blush pink and gold, sharing quiet moments that feel suspended in time.
The Museum of Fine Arts
Visiting the Museum of Fine Arts is easily one of the best things to do in Budapest. They house an impressive collection spanning thousands of years, from classical antiquities and Old Masters’ paintings to modern Hungarian art. Walk through galleries filled with works by artists like El Greco, Goya, and Monet, and admire exquisite sculptures and ancient artifacts that tell stories of Europe’s artistic heritage.
The museum opens Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and admission is free with the Budapest Card.
New York Café and other coffee shops
One of the best things to do in Budapest is to go from one café to the next while embracing the city’s rich coffeehouse culture. Step into these elegant salons where poets, artists, and dreamers gathered beneath glittering chandeliers and, through golden candlelight, shared stories, ideas, and stolen moments over steaming cups of coffee in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The New York Café, often called one of the most beautiful cafés in the world, transports visitors to an era of opulence. Here, you can indulge in exquisite coffee, delicate pastries, and classic Hungarian desserts like Dobos torte, all while seated beneath ornate ceilings and beside elegant marble columns.
Gerbeaud offers a similar experience with its elegant interiors and a tempting display of pastries that feel like little works of art.
For a more intimate and local experience, we recommend slipping into the city’s newer favorite cafés where Budapest’s creative spirit still lingers in every corner.
Lumen Café is a local favorite, and it quickly became one of ours too. We loved the tomato soup with warm pita bread. It’s pure comfort on a chilly day. Their rich chocolate cake is an indulgence worth every bite, perfectly paired with a strong espresso.
Espresso Embassy specialty café, is sleek and beloved among locals for its expertly brewed coffee and buzzing, cozy energy. It’s the perfect spot to start your morning before exploring nearby sights.
For a relaxed brunch or an early evening glass of wine, Portobello is the place to be. With a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, it serves everything from perfectly brewed coffee to small plates and natural wines—all in a space that feels effortlessly stylish and welcoming.
These spaces invite you to pause, savor the moment, and let the beauty of everyday Budapest reveal itself one cup at a time.
Budapest’s Thermal Baths
One of the most iconic and beloved things to do in Budapest is to spend a few blissful hours soaking in its thermal baths. Budapest isn’t called the “City of Spas” for nothing. Its natural hot springs have drawn visitors since Roman times. Today, the city has many bathhouses where you can relax, rejuvenate, and experience a vital part of Hungarian culture.
The Széchenyi Baths are the most famous, and for good reason. Located in City Park, this sprawling complex offers outdoor pools with steaming water, as well as dozens of indoor thermal baths, saunas, and treatment rooms. During the winter months, the contrast of the cool air and warm water creates an almost surreal, dreamlike setting.
For art nouveau elegance, Gellért Baths provide an opulent escape, complete with mosaic tiles, stained glass, and Roman-style columns.
Looking for a local favorite? Rudas Baths offers night bathing on weekends and rooftop views over the Danube.
Whichever Bath you choose, you’ll leave refreshed and relaxed. Visiting the thermal baths is a must-do in Budapest and a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening in the city.
Danube River Cruise
I’ve always been utterly obsessed with cities built along rivers or by the sea. There’s something about being close to the water that makes a city’s rhythm a little more poetic. Budapest is no exception! A cruise along the Danube, the river that gently divides the hilly Buda side from the elegant Pest side, is an experience that belongs on every Budapest itinerary.
Whether you choose a daytime sightseeing boat or a dinner cruise, sailing along the Danube offers a different perspective on the city’s famous architecture. Watch as the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge shimmer and reflect on the surface like a moving painting.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, book an open-air deck cruise and enjoy the breeze and panoramic views. During the winter months, cozy up inside with a glass of Tokaji.
Quiet, beautiful, and unforgettable, a Danube River cruise is truly one of the best things to do in Budapest and the perfect way to end a dreamy day in this magnificent city.
Margaret Island
Margaret Island floats in the middle of the Danube, filled with lush gardens, centuries-old ruins, scenic walkways, and playful fountains.
Rent a bike or pedal cart, stroll under the shade of sycamore trees, or visit the Japanese Garden for a quiet moment. You’llalso find medieval ruins like the Franciscan church and monastery. Another highlight is the Musical Fountain, where water jets move in sync with classic music and lights.
During the summer, locals come here for picnics, open-air concerts, and swimming at the Palatinus Baths, one of Budapest’s most beloved outdoor pools. Margaret Island is truly one of the best things to do in Budapest, especially if you’re craving a blend of relaxation, beauty, and a little everyday magic.
Things to Do in Budapest and Beyond: Explore More of Europe
After discovering the best things to do in Budapest, explore more incredible destinations across Europe! Our European guides will help you discover the coziest cafés in Prague and craft the perfect Paris itinerary. Whether you’re chasing culture, cuisine, or scenic beauty, dive into our curated Europe guides and start planning your next trip filled with new things to do and see.
Don’t forget to pin this guide to your travel board so you can easily find it later! And if you’ve visited the Hungarian capital or other nearby European cities, we’d love to hear your favorite things to do in Budapest. Leave a comment below and share your tips with us.
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