The beautiful capital of Hungary is the perfect destination for a city break. Budapest is known for its historic thermal baths, impressive architecture and vibrant culture. The city consists of 2 parts, Buda and Pest, both parts are definitely worth a visit. Buda is hilly and authentic, Pest is flat and hip. We’ve put together 9 things to do in Budapest for you, as well as the Budapest attractions and nightlife spots that shouldn’t be missed during your city trip to Budapest.
1. Cycling with a Dutch-speaking guide
Discover Budapest in 1 day and cycle – in just 2.5 hours – past the hidden gems and main attractions in Budapest during the Pest Highlights bike tour with Dutch guide. Cycle to the fairytale castle of Buda, where you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view over the city. Make a stop at the Shoes on the Danube Bank, an impressive monument in memory of the victims of World War II. Explore old Pest and learn more about the story behind the Hungarian Parliament Building, Szabadsag Tér (Freedom Square), the Basilica and the Synagogue, the Jewish Quarter and much more. Ready for something active after soaking up culture? Read on for other fun things to do in Budapest.
2. Relax in the Széchenyi thermal baths
After a morning of cycling, it’s time to relax in the warm waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. This grand bathhouse, located in the heart of the city park, is accessible for cyclists, with safe and affordable parking nearby. Don’t forget to buy your ticket for thermal baths and spa in Budapest online in advance, then you’re guaranteed access. Bring swimwear, a towel, and slippers for the ultimate relaxation experience.
3. Taste Hungarian culinary delights
No visit to Budapest is complete without tasting the local cuisine! Rent bikes and cycle to the Great Market Hall (Nagy Vásárcsarnok) where you can try delicious traditional dishes like goulash, paprika, and kürtőskalács. This market is the perfect place to have lunch, buy souvenirs for back home and soak up the diverse culture of the city. A tip: make sure you have enough cash. Card payment is far from possible everywhere here.
4. Visit the city park Városliget
What is one of the best parks in Budapest to relax? The city park Városliget; a favorite destination for tourists and locals. Cycle along Andrássy Út, known as the Champs-Élysées of Budapest, towards the impressive Heroes’ Square where the entrance to the park is located. This square is on the world heritage list and here you’ll find the Millennium Monument, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Art Hall. In Városliget you won’t get bored easily thanks to the wide range of activities and attractions. Visit for example the zoo, one of the many museums, the castle, thermal baths and or even the amusement park.
5. Take a boat trip on the Danube
Experience Budapest from the water, board a river cruise and admire the beautiful attractions along the shore, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle and Gellért Hill. Relax on deck and listen to interesting facts about the city during this boat trip on the Danube.
6. Wander through the Jewish District and dive into history at the House of Terror (Terror Háza Múzeum)
Discover the Jewish District during our Budapest Highlights Bike Tour. This diverse neighborhood is known for its synagogues (including the Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe), boutiques, street art and famous ruin bars. A somewhat heavier theme, but essential for understanding Budapest’s complex history, is a visit to the House of Terror. This museum, housed in the former headquarters of the secret police, tells the stories of the victims of both the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary.
7. Cycle to Gellért Hill and enjoy a panoramic view
Rent bikes and cycle to the top of Gellért Hill where you can admire a spectacular view over the city, including the Danube, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge and the skyline. Also visit the Gellért Hotel and the Gellért spa, a beautiful Art Nouveau complex with thermal baths and wellness facilities.
8. Go out in Szimpla Kert
Szimpla Kert is an old squat that has been transformed into a fun, alternative and cozy nightlife spot. It’s not a nightclub, but a hip place where you can relax with a beer or a cocktail.
9. Experience adventure on Margaret Island
In the middle of the Danube lies Margaret Island, a green oasis perfect to explore by bike since the island is car-free. Discover the ruins of medieval monasteries, relax by the musical fountain, or take a dip in one of the outdoor swimming pools. Ideal for a picnic or simply to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.