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
Visit Budapest
Budapest Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Budapest
Budapest City Centre
Known for its stunning cathedral, charming cafes, and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Budapest City Centre. Top attractions like Ferenc Deak Square and Ferris Wheel of Budapest are major draws. Catch the metro at Deak Ferenc ter Station or Deák Ferenc tér M Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Inner City Budapest
Situated on the east bank of the Danube, this central area offers sightseeing at landmarks like Buda Castle and shopping on Váci Street. Easily accessible via Ferenc Deák Square, where three Budapest Metro lines converge.
Erzsebetvaros
Situated on the Pest side of the Danube, this densely populated district boasts the historic Jewish quarter and the largest functioning synagogue in Europe, Dohány Street Synagogue.
Lipotvaros
Known for its stunning river views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Lipotvaros. Check out top attractions like Danube Palace and Szechenyi Istvan Square, and jump on the metro at Széchenyi István tér Tram Stop or Kossuth Lajos ter Station to see more of the city.
District VI
If you're spending time in District VI, check out sights like House of Terror Museum or Andrássy Út and hop on the metro to see more the city at Vorosmarty Street Station or Oktogon M Tram Stop.
Belváros - Lipótváros
Heart of Budapest, District V boasts political, financial, and touristic significance. Explore iconic sites like Hungarian Parliament Building, St Stephen's Basilica, and Széchenyi Chain Bridge.
Continental Hotel Budapest
Clean hotel and rooms. Big bed and plenty of storage in rooms. Welcoming and friendly staff. Great selection at breakfast. Good location and easy access to all forms of transport. Would recommend to others and we would stay again.
Reviewed on Feb 20, 2026
H2 Hotel Budapest
clean and modern great location. friendly and helpful staff
Reviewed on Feb 17, 2026
Corinthia Budapest
Beautiful hotel with a lovely staff and a nice breakfast. I would definitely come back.
Reviewed on Feb 20, 2026
Elisabeth Downtown Apartments by FirstHost
Was a very beautiful spot loved it
Reviewed on Feb 16, 2026
Marbles Residence
Rooms were okay and location is good but accidentally left behind my prescription glasses and had to chase multiple times for them to check lost and found. I politely asked if they could check the room I stayed in and they said they did and they weren’t there, without me even giving them the room ...
Reviewed on Feb 9, 2026
Marriott Executive Apartments Millennium Court
Location was just brilliant! Staff were exceptionally kind and helpful. Rooms were super. Was the highlight of our trip!
Reviewed on Feb 11, 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.
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.
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.
St. Stephen's Basilica
Ride an elevator to the dome of this large church to admire the panoramic views across Budapest and the Danube.
Things to do
Budapest Danube Cruise with Drink, Audio Guide, Margaret Island
Budapest Danube River Candlelit Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Budapest: Lotus Cruise with Unlimited Aperol and Prosecco
Reviews of Budapest
5/5 - Excellent
We visited Margaret Island, which wasn't on our original itinerary and really enjoyed it. Lunch at the Grand hotel was fantastic and the spa next door was wonderful. The island itself is very picturesque and a nice place to walk and view the city.
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful city
5/5 - Excellent
It’s beautiful city
5/5 - Excellent
Underrated city. Was a nice place to visit.
5/5 - Excellent
I'm going to go back to Budapest as soon as I can!
5/5 - Excellent
Didn’t expect too much, but Budapest stole our hearts and tastebuds. Food was delicious and plentiful, typical home/comfort food. Restaurants and staff spoke good English, even the little ones off the broken path. Fantastic history and buildings.
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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
- Heroes' Square
- Danube River
- Hungarian National Museum
- Rudas Baths
- Budapest Castle Hill Funicular
- Andrassy Avenue
- Matthias Church
- Vajdahunyad Castle
- Liberty Bridge
