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Budapest

Ruin-bar nights, thermal baths & Danube panoramas

Browse Budapest

Budapest is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle and Szechenyi Thermal Baths. Food lovers should not miss Blind Mice Exchange Pub and Bors GasztroBar. Below you will find 44 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Budapest at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Hungarian Parliament and Buda Castle
  • Where to stay: District VIII and District V
  • Local picks: 44 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Budapest

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Budapest

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District VIII

Nem Adom Fel Cafe & Bar

The first cafe in Budapest founded and run by people with disabilities, its name meaning Never Give Up. Around 90% of the team are differently-abled, and it doubles as a cultural venue; proceeds fund advocacy for disabled and Roma communities. Warm, welcoming and fully accessible.
★ 4.7
$
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Lipotvaros

Parliament Guided Tour

The only way to see inside the Parliament is a guided tour, taking in the golden staircase, the domed hall and the Holy Crown of Hungary. Tickets sell out, so book ahead, especially for the English tours.
★ 4.7
$$
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District VIII

Rosenstein

A warm, family-run restaurant behind Keleti station serving soulful Hungarian and Jewish home cooking, from goose to matzo-ball soup to the famous flodni cake. Old-fashioned in the best way; book ahead.
★ 4.6
$$
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Rubik’s cube Mural

The Rubik’s Cube is a simple toy that has entertained millions over years. In Erzsébetváros (7th District of Budapest) you’ll find a tribute to this in the form of a 3D Rubik’s…
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Lipotvaros

Shoes on the Danube Bank

A simple, devastating memorial on the river promenade: sixty pairs of iron shoes marking the spot where Jews were shot into the Danube in 1944-45. Quiet, powerful and unmissable; pause here with respect.
★ 4.8
$
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Lipotvaros

St. Stephen’s Basilica

Budapest’s grandest church, holding the mummified right hand of Hungary’s first king. Step into the opulent nave for free, then take the lift or stairs up to the dome for a superb 360-degree panorama over the city.
★ 4.7
$
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Danube

Szechenyi Chain Bridge

The elegant lion-guarded suspension bridge that first joined Buda and Pest in 1849, and still the city’s defining landmark. Walk across for the classic view of Parliament and the castle, especially magical after dark.
★ 4.8
$
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City Park

Szechenyi Thermal Baths

Europe’s largest medicinal bath complex, a butter-yellow neo-baroque palace of steaming outdoor pools (open even in winter), indoor thermal pools and saunas. The quintessential Budapest experience; go early or book a timed ticket.
★ 4.6
$$
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Day trip

Szentendre & Danube Bend Day Trip

A relaxed day trip up the scenic Danube Bend to Szentendre, a pretty riverside town of cobbled lanes, Serbian churches, galleries and marzipan, often paired with Visegrad castle or Esztergom basilica.
★ 4.6
$$
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Budapest travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Budapest?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Budapest at a relaxed pace. See our Budapest itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Budapest?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Budapest guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Budapest?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Budapest?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Budapest is worth visiting year-round.

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