Things to do in Budapest

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A river with a bridge, two green-roofed towers, and a boat named "EUROPA" on the water.
A grand building with a dome and statues, surrounded by well-maintained gardens and a cobblestone plaza.
A historic cathedral with a tall spire and a colorful roof, surrounded by a plaza with people and a statue of a horse.
A grand, ornate theater with multiple balconies and a large, intricate ceiling fresco.
A large public swimming pool with people swimming and sunbathing, surrounded by historic buildings and a prominent dome structure.

Things to do

Picture 2 for Activity Budapest: City Highlights Cruise with Welcome Drink

Budapest: City Highlights Sightseeing Cruise

￥2,867
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Budapest: City Highlights Sightseeing Cruise
Budapest: 1-Hour Highlights Cruise with Welcome Drink

Budapest: 1-Hour Highlights Cruise with Welcome Drink

￥2,867
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Budapest: 1-Hour Highlights Cruise with Welcome Drink
Budapest Danube Cruise with Drink, Audio Guide, Margaret Island

Budapest Danube Cruise with Drink, Audio Guide

￥3,699
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Budapest Danube Cruise with Drink, Audio Guide
Budapest: Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco

Unlimited Prosecco, Beer, Aperol & Limoncello Spritz Cruise

￥4,587
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Unlimited Prosecco, Beer, Aperol & Limoncello Spritz Cruise
Budapest Historical Sightseeing - Free Walking Tour

Budapest Historical Sightseeing - Free Walking Tour

￥555
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Budapest Historical Sightseeing - Free Walking Tour
Budapest: Buda Castle District Vampires and Myths Night Tour

Budapest: Buda Castle District Vampires and Myths Night Tour

￥3,699
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Budapest: Buda Castle District Vampires and Myths Night Tour
Budapest Sip and Sail Danube Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco

Budapest Sip and Sail Danube Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco

￥4,624
per adult
Budapest Sip and Sail Danube Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco
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Budapest must see attractions

1. Parliament Building

Hungarian officials wanted to create a grand celebration of the country’s Millennial in 1896 so they constructed the Parliament Building (Orszaghaz) using London’s Westminster Palace as inspiration. Hungarian architect, Imre Steindl, created plans for the impressive structure and built it in a prominent position along the Pest side of the Danube River. The site was selected on this flat central location as a symbol of the city’s new democratic government rather than the lofty hilltop castles of royalty.
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A grand illuminated building with a central dome and multiple spires, reflecting on a calm body of water.

2. Gellért Thermal Bath

Famed for its art nouveau design, the Gellért Thermal Baths and Swimming Pool has been an important fixture for locals and visitors since it was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century. These baths use the thermal springs from Gellért Hill to fill the pools in its majestic rooms. Spend a day taking advantage of the treatment options in this tranquil spa.
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A swimming pool with people, surrounded by buildings and a large dome structure.

3. Szechenyi Chain Bridge

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is the oldest bridge connecting the two sides of Budapest across the River Danube. Opened in 1849, it was considered a triumph of engineering and played a huge role in the growth of the city. Admire the elegant classicist design of this cast iron suspension bridge that has become an icon of Budapest.
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A bridge with lion statues, a large building with a dome, and a river.

4. St. Stephen's Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is a neoclassical church with an imposing dome and elegant turrets. With a height of 315 feet (96 meters), it is the tallest building in the city and among the largest churches in the country. Admire the opulence of this majestic church that features stunning stained-glass windows and works of art.
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An ornate church interior with high ceilings, gold accents, and a checkered floor.

5. Buda Castle

The Buda Castle (Budai var) is part of Budapest’s internationally protected World Heritage Site for its cultural and historical significance. The beauty of the large castle, with the Chain Bridge in the foreground and both structures reflecting in the Danube River, is a sight that shouldn’t be missed, especially when city lights have come on after dark. Find these inspiring views from many spots on the Pest side of Budapest, particularly from the Parliament area, or observe them while on a river cruise on the Danube.
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A historic castle with a green dome and red-roofed buildings in a lush, green valley.

6. Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is among the largest thermal spring spas in Europe. Its natural hot water is used for medicinal purposes to aid degenerative joint illnesses and inflammations. Admire the neo-Baroque style of the buildings and the pools that date back to the turn of the 20th century.
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A classical fountain with sculptures in front of a yellow building.

7. Fisherman's Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion is a unique viewpoint that is as spectacular as the view it provides. The white turreted fortress stands atop Castle Hill and looks over the River Danube and the eastern half of Budapest. Bring your camera to this impressive vantage point to take photographs of the city lights at sunset.
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A river with boats, a large cathedral, and surrounding buildings.

What to do in Budapest

Stay near popular Budapest attractions

A park with a tower, flowers, and trees.

Margaret Island

9.0/10 (234 reviews)
This peaceful green oasis in Budapest's heart offers tree-lined walkways and historical ruins amid lush parks. Rent a four-person pedal car to explore the musical fountain and open-air thermal baths at your leisure.
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Where to stay in Budapest

Find the best Budapest areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Budapest
Learn more about Budapest
A historic building with a large dome and a bridge spanning a river.

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.

Illuminated letters spelling "BUDA PEST" in a public square with a monument in the background.

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.

A clock tower with a star of David and golden decorations against a blue sky.

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.

A historic cathedral with intricate architecture and multiple spires.

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 Medieval Jewish Chapel.

A historic building with two domed towers and a clock tower, surrounded by trees and pedestrians.

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.

Popular day trips from Budapest

A town with red-roofed houses, a prominent church, and green hills in the background.

Budaors

A town with a prominent church tower, surrounded by red-roofed buildings and a sunset in the background.

Szentendre

Frequently asked questions

Is Budapest worth visiting?
Renowned for its bars and pubs and dining, discovering fun things to do in Budapest is easy. Remember to add Széchenyi Thermal Bath to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Budapest?
Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Buda Castle are two excellent places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Budapest while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Budapest?
The top tourist attraction in Budapest is Széchenyi Thermal Bath, so don't forget to put it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Budapest?
You can easily tour leading attractions like Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Buda Castle and St. Stephen's Basilica with a three-day break in Budapest. On average, most travelers book three days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a while longer and venture to Lipotvaros.
Is Budapest a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city center, Budapest is a good place to explore on foot. Enjoy wandering between Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Buda Castle. Then take a stroll through Inner City Budapest, located 0.16 kilometers from downtown, and Belváros - Lipótváros, which is about 0.80 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Budapest with kids?
Planning what to do in Budapest with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're traveling with teenagers or little ones, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Budapest for adults?
Ferenc Puskas Stadium and Andrassy Avenue are just a few of the things to do in Budapest. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Budapest?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around hip neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Budapest. If you're looking for inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. St. Stephen's Basilica is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.

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