Budapest, the pearl of the Danube, captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. This enchanting capital of Hungary offers a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking to explore its many charms. From relaxing in thermal baths to indulging in mouthwatering cuisine, Budapest has something to offer for every type of adventurer.
Visitors wondering what to do in Budapest Hungary will find no shortage of options. This guide delves into the city’s most rewarding experiences, including soaking in its famous thermal baths, discovering its historical landmarks, savoring Hungarian culinary delights, and immersing in its lively nightlife scene. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to unwind, Budapest’s diverse attractions are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Relax in Budapest’s Famous Thermal Baths
Széchenyi Baths: A Thermal Oasis
Budapest’s renowned thermal baths have been an integral part of the city’s culture for centuries, with Széchenyi Baths standing out as one of the most famous and popular complexes. Located in the heart of Budapest’s City Park (Városliget), this massive neo-baroque palace, built in 1913, holds the distinction of being the largest medicinal bath complex in Europe.
The Széchenyi Baths complex is a true thermal oasis, featuring an impressive array of 15 indoor and 3 outdoor pools, all fed by natural thermal springs. Visitors can enjoy water temperatures ranging from 18°C to 40°C, providing the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. The outdoor area, with its stunning blue waters contrasting against the pale yellow buildings, creates a picturesque setting that’s particularly enchanting in winter when steam rises from the hot water.
Széchenyi Baths Facilities
The facilities at Széchenyi Baths cater to a wide range of preferences and needs. The outdoor area boasts three main pools: two heated immersion pools (one activity pool at 30-34°C and one thermal pool at 38°C) and a 50m swimming pool (26-28°C). Inside, visitors can explore 15 indoor pools with varying temperatures, saunas, steam rooms, and massage services.
For those seeking additional relaxation, the baths offer various massage therapies, including refreshing, aroma, and harmony massages. Fitness enthusiasts can participate in free aqua fitness classes held every half hour from 8 am to 5:30 pm. The complex also includes a fitness center, body shaping gymnastics classes, and even chess parties for those looking to exercise their minds.
Széchenyi Baths Pricing and Tips
As of January 2024, weekday tickets with locker access start at 10,500 HUF (approximately €35), while weekend tickets are priced at 12,000 HUF (approximately €40). For a more private experience, cabin upgrades are available for an additional 1,000 HUF. To make the most of your visit, consider these tips:
- Visit on weekdays for lower prices and smaller crowds.
- Arrive early in the morning or opt for afternoon tickets (5-7 pm) for discounted rates.
- Bring your own towel, flip-flops, and swimwear to avoid rental fees.
- Consider purchasing a Budapest Card for a 20% discount on entry tickets.
- Respect the bathing etiquette by showering before entering the pools and following the dress code.
By following these guidelines, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the unique and relaxing experience that Széchenyi Baths offers, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Budapest.
Explore Budapest’s Rich History and Architecture
Castle Hill: A Journey Through Time
Castle Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to Budapest’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Perched high above the Danube River, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s enchanting skyline. The hill has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Roman period.
At the heart of Castle Hill lies Buda Castle, a magnificent structure first completed in 1265. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous renovations and transformations, serving as the residence of Hungarian kings, a strategic fortress, and the administrative center of the country. The castle complex now houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest Historical Museum.
Walking through Castle Hill is like stepping into a living museum, showcasing a harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Visitors can explore the charming cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and hidden courtyards that surround the castle.
Fisherman’s Bastion: Fairy Tale Views
Fisherman’s Bastion, designed by architect Frigyes Schulek, has become one of Budapest’s most famous landmarks. This Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque style structure was built between 1895 and 1902 as part of the series of developments to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarian state.
The bastion offers some of the most stunning views of Budapest, making it a top attraction for visitors. Its seven towers represent the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in 895. The structure is named after the guild of fishermen responsible for defending this stretch of the city walls in the Middle Ages.
For the best experience, visitors are advised to arrive early in the morning, ideally around sunrise, to enjoy the bastion with fewer crowds. The upper terraces are accessible for a small fee between 9 am and 11 pm, while the lower areas are free to visit at any time.
Parliament Building: Gothic Revival Masterpiece
The Hungarian Parliament Building, situated on Kossuth Square in the Pest side of the city, is a notable landmark and popular tourist destination in Budapest. Designed by Hungarian architect Imre Steindl in neo-Gothic style, it opened in 1902 and has been the largest building in Hungary since its completion.
This impressive structure is 268 m long and 123 m wide, featuring 10 courtyards, 13 elevators, 27 gates, 29 staircases, and 691 rooms. The building’s height of 96 m symbolizes the nation’s millennium, 1896, and the conquest of the Kingdom of Hungary in 896.
The Parliament’s interior is equally stunning, with two identical parliament halls on opposing sides of the building. Visitors can admire the 242 sculptures adorning the walls, both inside and outside, as well as the stained glass and glass mosaics by Miksa Róth. The hexadecagonal central hall, with its adjoining chambers for the Lower House and Upper House, is one of the most famous parts of the building.
Indulge in Hungarian Culinary Delights
Traditional Hungarian Goulash
Hungarian goulash, or gulyás, is a prime example of how simple ingredients can create an incredible flavor. This hearty dish has its origins in the 9th century, when Magyar shepherds prepared a simple meat and onion stew in heavy iron kettles. The introduction of paprika in the 15th century by Ottoman Turks transformed goulash into the iconic dish it is today.
To achieve the authentic taste, generous amounts of high-quality Hungarian paprika are essential. As one Hungarian advised, “however much paprika the recipe calls for – at least double or triple it!”. A traditional goulash typically includes beef, onions, carrots, potatoes, peppers, caraway seeds, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Chicken Paprikash: This creamy chicken dish features a flavorful sauce made with paprika, tomatoes, sour cream, onions, and green peppers. It’s usually served with “gnocchi” noodles and a dollop of sour cream.
- Stuffed Cabbage: A fusion of nomadic Magyar and settled Hungarian cuisines, this dish consists of pickled cabbage leaves wrapped around tender, slow-cooked meat and rice. It’s often served with sour cream and rustic bread.
- Fisherman’s Soup (Halászlé): Known as one of the hottest dishes native to Europe, this spicy soup is made with river fish, typically carp, and generous amounts of paprika. It’s a traditional Christmas Eve dinner in Hungary.
New York Cafe: The Most Beautiful Cafe in the World
The New York Cafe, often referred to as “The Most Beautiful Café in the World,” has been a cultural icon in Budapest for over 120 years. Its opulent interior, adorned with spiraled marble columns and ornamental brass statues, has been a gathering place for famous Hungarian writers and artists throughout history.
The cafe’s menu reflects the multicultural cuisine of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. Visitors can enjoy classic dishes such as Beef Goulash, Fishermen Soup, Chicken Leg Paprikash-style, Wiener Schnitzel, and Grilled Foie Gras, alongside famous desserts like Dobos, Sacher, and Eszterházy cake.
Experience Budapest’s Vibrant Nightlife
Ruin Bars: Drinking in Abandoned Buildings
Budapest’s nightlife scene is renowned for its unique ruin bars, or “romkocsma,” which emerged in the early 2000s. These eclectic drinking spots are located in abandoned pre-war buildings, primarily within the historic Jewish Quarter. Ruin bars offer a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, characterized by their mismatched furniture, quirky decorations, and bohemian vibe.
Szimpla Kert, the pioneer of Budapest’s ruin bar scene, opened in 2004 and remains a must-visit attraction. It’s often described as a “playground for grownups,” offering a funky treasure hunt experience with live music. Other notable ruin bars include Púder Bárszínház, known for its immersive art, and Doboz, featuring a giant King Kong statue in its outdoor patio.
Danube River Cruise: City Lights by Night
A night cruise on the Danube River is an essential experience for visitors to Budapest. These cruises offer breathtaking views of the city’s illuminated landmarks, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. Visitors can choose from various cruise options, such as dinner cruises with live music or party boats for a more lively experience.
The UNESCO World Heritage riverfront panorama includes iconic sights like Gellért Hill, Gellért Spa, and historical bridges. These night cruises typically last around 55 minutes and are particularly popular during the high tourist season from May to September.
Budapest’s Best Nightlife Areas
The Jewish Quarter, also known as District VII, is the epicenter of Budapest’s nightlife. This area is home to many famous ruin bars and a diverse mix of clubs and restaurants. Another popular nightlife hub is the area around Erzsébet tér and Király utca in District VI, known for its concentration of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Gozsdu Court, located near Deák Square, is a bustling nightlife destination with numerous bars and restaurants open throughout the night. Kazinczy Street, deep in the Old Jewish Quarter, is another vibrant area for nightlife enthusiasts, offering a variety of pubs, restaurants, and nightclubs.
For those seeking a more extreme experience, party boats depart every Friday and Saturday night, offering a unique way to enjoy Budapest’s nightlife while cruising along the Danube.
Conclusion
Budapest’s rich tapestry of experiences offers something for every traveler. From soaking in thermal baths to exploring historic landmarks, savoring culinary delights, and diving into the vibrant nightlife, the city has an influence on visitors with its unique charm. The blend of old-world elegance and modern energy creates an unforgettable atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
To wrap up, Budapest stands out as a destination that combines relaxation, culture, and adventure in equal measure. Whether you’re looking to unwind in therapeutic waters, delve into centuries of history, or party the night away in quirky ruin bars, this Hungarian capital delivers on all fronts. It’s a city that leaves a lasting impression, inviting travelers to discover its hidden gems and fall in love with its captivating spirit.
FAQs
How much time should I allocate for a trip to Budapest?
To get a good feel of Budapest, plan to spend at least two full days. This allows you to cover the major sights without rushing too much. If you have more time, consider staying for three to four days, which would also allow for some interesting day trips around the city.
Where do locals like to hang out in Budapest?
Locals in Budapest often frequent places like:
- Instant: A legendary ruin bar and a staple of Budapest's nightlife.
- Fogas: Known for its perpetual carnival vibe.
- LÄRM: A popular underground club that plays top-quality techno and drum & bass.
- Liebling: A trendy bar perfect for a relaxed evening.
- Robot: A rock club that regularly features live bands.
- FRAME: A modern venue with a vibrant atmosphere.
What can I do if I only have one day in Budapest?
If your time in Budapest is limited to just one day, focus on visiting some of the city's most famous sites. You can realistically enjoy Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church, one of the thermal baths, the Parliament building, and the Central Market Hall within a single day.