Budapest is one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe. It has plenty of historic landmarks, gorgeous architecture, and many fun things to see and do. You’ll find old castles, relaxing thermal baths, tasty local food, and lively ruin bars. In this blog post I will share everything you should include on your Budapest bucket list to help you plan a fantastic trip here, especially if you visit for the first time. This blog post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Find out more here.
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Take a tour of the Hungarian Parliament building
Hungary has a famous parliament building that boasts some of the most beautiful architecture in the world. However, you can’t visit the Hungarian Parliament building on your own. You must join a guided tour, which takes about 45 minutes.
I highly recommend this tour. This is a must-see attraction that should be on your Budapest itinerary.
The interior of the parliament building is gorgeous. You are allowed to take photos, but not videos during the visit.
Inside the dome room, you can see the Hungarian Crown. This is the only room where taking photos is not allowed.
I was lucky enough to see the changing of the guards for the two soldiers who stand by the Crown. It was a very special moment.
Also, don’t forget to bring your passport, as it’s required for entry.
You’ll need to go through security checks, similar to the ones at the airport, so try to arrive a bit early.
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Visit the Shoes on the Danube memorial
The River Danube has a very rich history. It is one of the biggest rivers in Europe and crosses 10 European countries.
Near the Parliament building, right on the Danube’s bank, there is a very important memorial called “Shoes on the Danube”.
It is one of the most moving and powerful memorials in Budapest. The memorial displays 60 pairs of metal shoes left on the river’s edge.
It honors the Jewish people who were killed by the Arrow Cross, a Nazi group in Hungary, during World War II. Victims were forced to take off their shoes before being shot.
Αs shoes were considered a valuable possession at the time due to widespread poverty and hunger, the perpetrators wanted to take the shoes for themselves.
The victims’ bodies then fell into the river. The shoes represent the people who never returned.
It’s a simple but deeply emotional place. Many visitors leave flowers or candles as a sign of respect. If you ever walk by, take a moment to stop and reflect. It’s a sad but important part of Hungarian history.
When I visited, I was so moved and focused on taking a picture that I almost fell into the river while walking backwards. Be careful when you visit, the area is very close to the water and can be slippery.
Cross the Széchenyi Chain Bridge
The Szechenyi Chain Bridge is one of the most famous and beautiful landmarks in Budapest. There are other bridges over the Danube River, but this one is the most impressive and popular.
The bridge connects the Buda side and the Pest side of the city. It is not just for pedestrians, but there is a separate path for people to walk safely.
Crossing the bridge is not a big adventure, but it is something you should definitely do for your city bucket list. The views of the river and the city from the bridge are amazing.
The bridge looks great during the day and even more magical at night when it is lit up.
Walking across the bridge is a great way to enjoy Budapest and you can also get some nice photos.
The Szechenyi Chain Bridge is close to both the Parliament building and the Shoes on the Danube memorial. It is about a 20 minute walk to the Parliament and around 10-15 minutes on foot to the Shoes memorial.
If you visit one, it’s easy to walk to the others and enjoy the beautiful views of the Danube River.
Interesting fact for history buffs: The Szechenyi Chain Bridge was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest. It opened in 1849 and was a big step for the city, helping Budapest grow into the capital it is today.
During World War II, the bridge was destroyed but later rebuilt and reopened in 1949.
Because of its history and design, the Chain Bridge is a symbol of Budapest and a must-see attraction.
Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of the most important and beautiful churches in Budapest. It is named after the first king of Hungary, Saint Stephen, and holds many treasures inside.
The church is famous for its impressive dome and stunning architecture.
You can also climb up to the dome for amazing panoramic views of the city. The Basilica is close to the city center, making it easy to visit during your trip.
Go on a food tour in the Jewish Quarter
If you love food and culture, try a food tour in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter. I joined a 3-hour walking tour with Laura, a fantastic local guide. It was one of my favorite things to do in the city.
The tour started near an old synagogue. We walked through the 7th district and stopped at small local places. It was a great way to learn more about both Hungarian cuisine and history.
We tried street food like Lángos (fried bread with sour cream and cheese) and warm soup. It felt like home since Hungarian food is quite similar to Romanian food (I’m Romanian).
Later, we had a full meal with classic Hungarian dishes. My favorite was nokedli dumplings — soft, comforting, and so delicious.
Dumplings are a typical dish from European cuisine, and I absolutely love it. You’ll find it in almost every restaurant in Budapest, in different versions.
We also tasted local drinks. Pálinka is too strong for my taste. The Tokaji wine was sweet and easy to drink. Everything came with a story. The guide talked about the area, the people, and the food culture.
The tour was very relaxed. Just walking, tasting, and chatting with other travelers. If you want to explore Budapest like a local, this is a great way to do it.
Have a coffee at New York Café
They say it’s one of the most beautiful cafés in the world, and honestly, I agree. The chandeliers, the marble, and the ceiling paintings make you feel like you’re inside a palace.
I went for a cappuccino. It cost €11, or €13 if you order it with a gold-leaf logo on top. That’s what I did, just for the experience.
I was lucky. I only waited about two minutes to get in. But depending on the time of day or season, the line can be much longer. Sometimes people wait for hours. If you want to go, try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening.
The prices are high, but you’re mostly paying for the atmosphere. It’s not just a coffee, it’s an experience. One of those things you do once, just to say you did it.
Buy souvenirs at Central Market Hall
The Central Market Hall is one of the best places in Budapest to buy souvenirs. It’s a big, colorful building full of local products, foods, and crafts.
You can find everything from handmade lace and embroidered bags to traditional paprika, sausages, and other local delicacies.
What I also loved is that there are food stalls inside selling street food that even locals grab on the go. I had a really tasty bagel and some delicious piroshki.
I also saw some dumpling dishes that looked amazing. This is a great spot to try traditional Hungarian snacks without sitting down at a restaurant.
The market doesn’t feel too touristy. Many locals shop here too, especially for fresh produce and spices. I spent a lot of time just walking around, looking at the stalls. Even if you don’t buy much, it’s a fun place to visit.
Tip: The ground floor is mostly food and spices, while the upper floor has souvenirs and handmade goods. If you want something small to bring back home — or something tasty to eat right away — this is the perfect stop.
Eat a meal at Getto Gulyas
This was hands down the best Hungarian food I had in Budapest. Getto Gulyas is a small and cozy restaurant in the Jewish Quarter.
The lights are warm and the place feels welcoming as soon as you walk in. It’s popular, so sometimes there’s a small line, but it’s really worth it.
I highly recommend the goulash. It was full of flavor and came with soft bread to dip. I also loved the veal paprikash.
The meat was very soft and the sauce was creamy and rich with paprika flavor. The paprikash comes with noodles wrapped in bacon. So delicious!
For dessert, try the cheese curd dumplings. They were warm and sweet, with breadcrumbs and a little sugar on top. So tasty!
To drink, I had the sour cherry lime lemonade. It was cold, fresh, and a bit sour, it was perfect with the meal.
The prices are good, and the portions are big. So if you want to eat real Hungarian food in a nice and simple place, Getto Gulyas is a great choice.
Go on a cruise on the Danube River
If you want to see Budapest from a different angle, a cruise on the Danube River is a great idea. I went on a one-hour boat ride and Ι enjoyed it so much!
The cruise started from Dock 42, not far from Margaret Bridge. During the boat ride, I saw some of the city’s most famous sights — the Buda Castle, the Várkert Bazár, the Parliament building, and the beautiful bridges.
I went just before sunset, and I highly recommend that time. Watching the city lights turn on as it gets dark is simply magical.
The welcome drink was a nice touch, not something special though. You can choose something alcoholic or non-alcoholic when you enter the boat.
There was no guide or commentary, but honestly, I didn’t miss it. I just relaxed, took pictures, and enjoyed the view. You can sit inside or on the open deck, and you’re free to move around.
Tip: arrive early to get a good spot and bring a light jacket — it can get chilly on the water in the evening.
Enjoy the views from Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the most beautiful places in Budapest and one of the most popular spots for photos. Its white towers and arches look like they came out of a fairytale.
From up there, you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the city, including the Parliament, the Danube River, and the whole Pest side. It’s the perfect place to just stand, take a breath, and enjoy the view.
The bastion was built in the late 19th century as a viewing terrace, not for defense. The name comes from the fishermen’s guild, who used to protect this part of the city wall in the Middle Ages.
Most of the area is free to visit, but there’s a small ticket price (about €2–€3) if you want to climb the highest towers. Honestly, even from the lower part, the view is amazing.
I took bus 16, which left right in front of the Fisherman’s Bastion. I went in the morning and it wasn’t too crowded, which made it feel even more magical.
Tip: Visit around sunrise or sunset for soft light and fewer people — perfect for quiet moments and great pictures.
Explore the Buda Castle
Buda Castle is one of the most famous places in Budapest. It sits at the top of Castle Hill and has great views of the city, the Danube River and even the neighboring Gellert Hill.
Today, the castle is home to the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. If you’re interested in art or history, it’s a great place to visit.
But even if you don’t go inside, the outside area is beautiful. There are big courtyards, statues, and stone walls to explore.
Many people get to the top by taking the funicular, but there’s usually a long line and the price is pretty high for the short length of the ride. Pro tip: there is a great alternative.
Secret shortcut to get to Buda Castle: a hidden elevator
If you go to the left of the funicular, you’ll find a path that goes through some stone tunnels and open areas. If you keep walking, you’ll see a narrow side path next to a small café. There, almost hidden, are two free elevators that take you nearly to the top.
They work until late at night and not many people know about them, so there’s usually no waiting. I found them by accident and I was the only one there. It felt like a secret shortcut only locals know about.
Honestly, walking up is also easier than it looks. The stairs aren’t too steep, and the walk is actually very nice if you feel like skipping the elevator.
The whole castle area is lovely, but my favorite part was the view. From up there, you can see the whole city. For me, this is the most beautiful view in Budapest. Peaceful, bright, and unforgettable.
Tip: The castle area is open day and night, and it’s free to explore the outside. However, if you want to visit the museums inside, you’ll need a ticket. But even just walking around is completely worth it.
Take a walk through Castle Hill
Castle Hill is a beautiful, historic area in the Buda Castle district. When you walk here, you can see old houses, narrow streets, and small cozy cafes. It feels like stepping back in time.
You will see old houses with colorful walls, and traditional restaurants. There are many little squares and hidden courtyards too.
Close to Castle Hill, you will find famous places like Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church, which you can visit separately.
Besides walking around, you can explore small shops with handmade crafts and souvenirs. There are also quiet spots where you can sit and enjoy the views of the city and the Danube River.
Castle Hill is a great place to for a leisurely stroll, taking photos, and feeling the old charm of Budapest.
Eat lunch at Royal Guard Cafe
Royal Guard Cafe is a really fancy restaurant right next to Buda Castle. The atmosphere is elegant but welcoming. The prices are not too bad for the quality you get.
I really recommend trying the goulash. Ιt’s a classic Hungarian dish, warm and full of flavor. For dessert, don’t miss the Kaiserschmarrn, which is a sweet, fluffy pancake. The Budapest version comes with cherries, and it’s delicious!
It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a tasty meal after exploring Castle Hill.
Take a tour of the tunnels underneath Castle Hill
Under Castle Hill, there’s a whole world most people never see. Α hidden network of caves and tunnels. I went on this guided tour, and it was one of the most surprising parts of my trip.
The tunnels are a mix of natural limestone caves and man-made cellars that are over 800 years old. Over time, they were used for many things. Wine storage, bomb shelters, even a medieval prison.
During the tour, we walked through narrow passageways and stone chambers. It felt like stepping into another time. Our guide explained the geology of the area and how people shaped the caves to fit their needs.
There are different tour options, and the meeting point depends on which one you choose. I did the shorter tour, which was around 40 minutes, and it was perfect.
But note: the temperature down there is quite cool (around 12°C), so take a jacket with you. Also, it’s not ideal for people with claustrophobia or limited mobility.
It’s a fun and unusual experience. Something different from the typical sights.
Spend the afternoon at Szechenyi Thermal Baths
Getting to the Baths using the Oldest Metro in Continental Europe
One of the easiest and most fun ways to get to the Szechenyi Baths is by taking Metro Line 1, the yellow line. This is not just any metro.
It’s the oldest underground line in continental Europe, and it still runs with its original charm. The small yellow cars, old-style stations, and wooden benches make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
The Szechenyi stop leaves you right outside the baths, so it’s super convenient. Just walk through the park, and you’ll see the bright yellow building ahead.
Taking this metro line isn’t just a way to get around, it’s also a little piece of history. Many people even include it in their Budapest bucket list, not just for transportation, but for the experience itself. It’s a small but special part of the city.
The Szechenyi Thermal Baths Experience
I usually avoid places like thermal baths because I have a fear of water. This time I decided to step out of my comfort zone and try something different. I had to try Budapest’s thermal baths.
The Széchenyi Baths are very famous in Budapest, and many visitors expect an amazing time there. However, my experience was not as good as I hoped.
Indoor Pools
I started with the indoor pools, but I found the water very cold and the pools quite dirty. It was also very crowded inside, which made it hard to relax.
The whole indoor area felt dirty to me, and the noise and movement of so many people made it difficult to enjoy the experience fully.
There were several saunas and steam rooms, but they were also very busy, so it was not very comfortable.
Outdoor Pools
The outdoor pools were better. If you want to try the baths, I suggest spending your time only in the outdoor pools.
They are larger and, even though there are still many people, the water seemed cleaner after my disappointment inside.
The fresh air and the big space made the experience more enjoyable and helped me feel more relaxed overall.
Facilities and Rules
Before entering the pools, it is mandatory to take a shower. The bath area has many showers, and the facilities are quite large to accommodate everyone.
Although the women’s and men’s changing areas are separate, there is not much privacy overall. You can get lost a bit inside the complex, which can add to the feeling of confusion and stress.
Some baths offer private cabins or private baths for an extra fee, but this is not common and can be quite expensive. If you want more privacy, you might want to check this option in advance.
What to Bring
It’s important to bring your own towel, swimsuit, and slippers because they are required to use the baths.
If you forget anything, you can buy them there, but be ready to pay high prices. Also, wearing a swimming cap and slippers is mandatory.
Additional Services
The baths also offer spa treatments and massages, but I did not try any of those.
Other Baths in Buda
On the Buda side of the city, there are other famous thermal baths such as Gellért Baths and Rudas Baths. These might offer a different experience and could be cleaner or less crowded.
Final Thoughts
Maybe I was unlucky or just visited at a very busy time. Overall, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a famous and unique place to visit, but if you want a more private or relaxing experience, you might want to explore other options.
Visit Vajdahunyad Castle and the Museum of Ethnography
Right next to the Szechenyi Baths is Vajdahunyad Castle, a fairytale-like building surrounded by a lake. It looks ancient, but it was actually built in 1896 as part of Hungary’s 1000-year celebration.
The castle brings together different styles of architecture found around the country. It feels like walking through a mix of history and fantasy.
You can wander around for free and take beautiful photos. It’s also a good spot to grab a coffee or snack nearby.
Another cool place nearby is the Museum of Ethnography (not to be confused with the old one near Parliament). The new building has a modern design, and one of the best things about it is the rooftop.
You can go up and enjoy the view over the park and the city. The way up is fun, too. It feels like walking up a big ramp or slide.
It’s a creative and playful building, and not many tourists seem to know about it yet. It’s always exciting to discover such hidden gems while exploring the city.
Around the area, you will also find street vendors selling roasted corn and other street food snacks, adding a nice local touch to your visit.
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Ioana was born and raised in Romania, lived in NYC for 14 years, and is now back in Romania. She fell in love with traveling when she was little and used to visit her aunt in Vienna. Then in high school she was able to visit Siberia, Turkmenistan, Istanbul, and Tokyo through chemistry competitions. As an adult she started to travel solo once she turned 30 and visited 20+ countries so far. Ioana is a full time travel blogger and content creator with an audience of 80K+ people on Instagram. She loves to share travel recommendations and tips.