The capital of Hungary, Budapest is two cities in one: older Buda on the west and Pest on the east. They are separated by the Danube River, sometimes flowing gently and other times rushing violently. Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue, has been declared an internationally protected World Heritage Site, recognizing the city as one of the world’s outstanding urban landscapes.
The city traces its history to Roman times. See this past on the Buda side at Aquincum, an excavated ancient Roman settlement in the Óbuda district, slightly north of the city center. Buda Castle Quarter lies at the heart of the city. Here you can see the Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom), with its colorful exterior. Buda Castle (Budai var), high on a western hill overlooking the city, lights up at night as the most recognizable part of Budapest’s skyline.
Just a few minutes away on Gellért Hill is another towering structure, the Citadella, which has served as a fortress during several struggles within the city. The Liberty Statue (Szabadság-szobor), also on Gellért Hill, was installed as a celebration of Hungary’s liberation from Nazi occupation during World War II.
Explore the interesting sights near City Park (Varosliget) on the eastern side of the city. Heroes’ Square (Hosok Tere) honors the city’s founders and defenders. Nearby is the Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum), while alongside a lake inside the park is the romantic looking Vajdahunyad Castle (Vajdahunyad vára).
For other cultural attractions, visit the Hungarian National Museum (Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum), the National Theatre (Nemzeti Színház) and the Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház) on the Pest side. Budapest has been the home of a number of famous sculptors, writers and composers.
Budapest is easy to get around by car or on foot. The western Buda side is hilly, while eastern Pest is flat. The city also has many public transportation options. The subway system, one of Europe’s earliest, is still functional more than 100 years after its construction. There are also numerous bus tours, Danube boat tours, and even bicycle and Segway rentals or tours.
Budapest
Travel Guide
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Budapest Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Budapest
Belváros - Lipótváros
Known for its fantastic nightlife and stunning river views, there's plenty to explore in Belváros - Lipótváros. Check out top attractions like St. Stephen's Basilica and Danube Palace, and jump on the metro at Deak Ferenc ter Station or Vorosmarty Square Station to see more of the city.
Terezvaros
Spend some time visiting places like Andrássy Út while getting to know Terezvaros, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Vorosmarty Street Station or Kodaly Circus Station to see more of the area.
Erzsebetvaros
Travelers love Erzsebetvaros for its luxurious spas, and you can see more of Budapest by jumping on the metro at Wesselényi utca - Erzsébet körút Tram Stop or Király utca / Erzsébet körút Tram Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Kiraly Street and Nagymezo Street.
Castle Hill
Travelers love Castle Hill for its stunning river views, and you can see more of Budapest by jumping on the metro at Halász utca Tram Stop or Batthyany Place Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Fisherman's Bastion and Europa Grove.
Jozsefvaros
Arena Plaza Shopping Mall and Corvin Plaza are top sights in Jozsefvaros, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Orczy tér (Baross utca) Tram Stop or Orczy tér Tram Stop to see more sights in the area.
Budapest Marriott Hotel
"Excellent location Good condition hotel friendly staff"
Reviewed on Jun 13, 2026
H2 Hotel Budapest
"Very nice and excellent service and professional. Thanks for your time."
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2026
Continental Hotel Budapest
"Loved the room, the food, and the especially friendly and helpful staff. I would definitely stay here again."
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2026
Elisabeth Downtown Apartments by FirstHost
"We had a executive penthouse apartment. It was very good inside with quality fittings and really big . I'm not sure it had been checked properly as there was no hairdryer, no sheet for sofa bed , batteries missing from remote control for blinds , and broken coffee maker. All were resolved eventually ..."
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2026
Marriott Executive Apartments Millennium Court
"The rooms are spacious. The hotel is centrally located with access to transport, shopping and dining."
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2026
7seasons Apartments Budapest
"Great location! … Clean … comfortable stay with kids …"
Reviewed on Jun 15, 2026
Popular places to visit
Margaret Island
Explore the great outdoors at Margaret Island, a popular spot to commune with nature in Budapest. Check out the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.
Parliament Building
Gaze at the grand building of the democratic government of the people of Hungary and enjoy its reflection in the Danube River.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Relish the remarkable experience of a bath party and relax in one of the 18 pools of Budapest’s famous hot spring water.
Gellért Thermal Bath
Soothe your aching joints in Budapest’s famous mineral hot springs housed in an impressive building where you can also enjoy a range of spa treatments.
Buda Castle
One of the highlights of the Budapest skyline, this palatial structure also offers interesting galleries and museums.
Budapest Christmas Market
You can take time to visit Budapest Christmas Market during your travels to Budapest. Discover the area's entertainment choices and churches.
Things to do
Budapest: City Highlights Sightseeing Cruise
Budapest: 1-Hour Highlights Cruise with Welcome Drink
Budapest Historical Sightseeing - Free Walking Tour
Budapest: Unlimited Prosecco, Beer and Aperol Spritz Cruise
Budapest Danube Cruise with Drink, Audio Guide
Budapest: Buda Castle District Vampires and Myths Night Tour
Other places like Budapest
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- Margaret Island
- Parliament Building
- Gellért Thermal Bath
- Buda Castle
- St. Stephen's Basilica
- Hungarian State Opera House
- Szechenyi Chain Bridge
- Fisherman's Bastion
- Danube River
- Hungarian National Museum
- Heroes' Square
- Rudas Baths
- Andrassy Avenue
- Budapest Castle Hill Funicular
- Matthias Church
- Liberty Statue
