is Budapest worth visiting? heres 50 things to do in budapest!
Is Budapest worth visiting isn’t a hard question in my opinion. As a travel blogger who tends not to return to places I’ve already been, I have visited Budapest 4 times already. Why?
Well let’s take a look. Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is a vibrant and beautiful destination that offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring historic landmarks and soaking in thermal baths to indulging in local cuisine and immersing oneself in the city’s cultural scene, there is no shortage of things to do in Budapest.
To answer the question of is Budapest worth visiting, we have compiled a list of 50 must-do activities and experiences in Budapest, so whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.
1. Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building:
One of the largest parliament buildings in the world, this emblematic structure is a perfect example answering the question: is Budapest worth visiting? Enjoy the beautiful neo-Gothic architecture and tour the grand interior.
2. Stroll along the Danube Promenade:
This leisurely walk along the river offers stunning views of the Buda side of the city. It’s a great way to see why is Budapest is worth visiting.
3. Explore the Buda Castle Quarter:
Home to the historic Buda Castle, this area is rich in medieval and Baroque architecture. Its historic significance and beauty make Budapest worth visiting.
4. Relax in Budapest’s Thermal Baths:
The Széchenyi Baths or Gellért Baths are iconic establishments where visitors can unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters, proving Budapest is worth visiting for relaxation seekers. Budapest has lots of thermal spas, check out our Ultimate Guide To Budapests Thermal Spas Here!
5. Take a Boat Tour on the Danube River:
Experience Budapest from a different perspective. The panoramic views will make you further appreciate why is Budapest worth visiting.
6. Visit the Fisherman’s Bastion:
This terrace offers mesmerizing views of the city, especially at sunset. It’s a must-visit if you’re wondering, is Budapest worth visiting?
7. See the Shoes on the Danube Bank:
This poignant memorial commemorates the Jews killed during WWII. It’s a significant site that adds depth to your visit.
8. Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica:
This beautiful church is a key part of Budapest’s skyline and a testament to its rich religious history.
9. Ride the Millennium Underground Railway:
As the oldest metro line in continental Europe, this ride is a history lesson unto itself, showcasing why Budapest is worth visiting.
10. Walk across the Chain Bridge:
This iconic bridge offers panoramic views and a wonderful photo opportunity.
11. Visit the Hungarian National Museum:
Explore Hungary’s rich history and culture, answering the question: is Budapest worth visiting for history enthusiasts?
12. Explore the Central Market Hall:
This bustling market offers a variety of local products, from traditional Hungarian foods to handcrafted souvenirs.
13. Tour the Opera House:
Enjoy the opulent interior and rich history of this renowned cultural institution.
14. Visit the House of Terror Museum:
This museum provides a chilling insight into the fascist and communist regimes that once ruled Hungary.
15. Picnic in City Park:
This expansive park is an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic, further proving that Budapest is worth visiting.
16. See the Memento Park:
This outdoor museum houses statues from the communist era, offering a unique cultural experience.
17. Etyek-Buda Wine Tasting:
Sample the region’s best wines and learn about Hungarian viticulture.
18. Visit the Hungarian State Opera House:
This cultural institution offers a variety of performances, from operas to ballets.
19. Take a Segway Tour:
Experience Budapest’s sights in a fun, unique way on a Segway tour.
20. Explore the Jewish Quarter and Visit the Great Synagogue:
This area is rich in history and culture, with the Great Synagogue being one of the largest in the world.
21. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts:
This museum houses an extensive collection of international art.
22. Tour the Palace of Arts:
This contemporary arts venue hosts a wide range of performances and exhibitions.
23. See Vajdahunyad Castle in City Park:
This castle is a visual catalogue of architectural styles, featuring copies of several landmark buildings from different parts of the Kingdom of Hungary.
24. Explore the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden:
One of the oldest zoos in the world, it’s home to a variety of species and a beautiful botanical garden.
25. Visit Matthias Church in Buda Castle:
This stunning church boasts a beautiful mixture of architectural styles.
26. Take a Night-time River Cruise:
Experience the city’s stunning lights reflecting on the Danube, a sight that truly makes Budapest worth visiting. Is Budapest worth visiting at night? Absolutely.
27. Visit the Terror Háza Museum:
This museum provides a sobering look at the impact of fascist and communist regimes in 20th-century Hungary.
28. Attend a Concert at the Liszt Academy of Music:
Enjoy world-class performances in this stunning Art Nouveau building.
29. See Heroes’ Square and the Millennium Monument:
This square houses iconic statues of the leaders of the seven tribes that founded Hungary.
30. Visit the Museum of Applied Arts:
This museum showcases Hungarian craftsmanship and design through the ages.
31. Tour the Dohány Street Synagogue and Jewish Museum:
Learn about the rich Jewish history and culture in Budapest.
32. Explore Károlyi Garden:
This is one of the oldest public parks in the city, offering a quiet escape from the bustling city centre.
33. Visit the Museum of Ethnography:
Enjoy collections showcasing Hungarian folk traditions and other cultures.
34. Gastro-crawl Through Budapest’s Trendy Restaurants and Cafes:
Discover why Budapest is worth visiting for food lovers, sampling local flavours and international cuisines.
35. Take a e-scooter or Bike Tour:
A guided bike tour is a fun and active way to see the city’s sights but even better is a self guided e-scooter tour around the city.
36. Visit Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market:
Known as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, it offers a wide range of festive treats and crafts.
37. Have a Drink in a Ruin Bar:
Is budapest worth visiting for drinking? One of the best we’d say. Bars like Szimpla Kert or Instant are set in dilapidated pre-war buildings, creating a unique atmosphere that makes Budapest worth visiting.
38. Ride the Children’s Railway:
Is Budapest worth visiting with children? Well this railway, operated by children gives them a chance to explore what being a train officer is really like!
39. Visit the House of Hungarian Art Nouveau:
This museum is a treasure trove of Art Nouveau artefacts, making it an essential stop for art lovers.
40. Explore the City Park Ice Rink:
Is Budapest worth visiting in the winter? YES – One of the largest in Europe, this rink offers a fun winter activity that proves Budapest is worth visiting all year round.
41. Continue Sightseeing in the Castle District:
With its cobbled streets and medieval buildings, this district is a charm to explore.
42. Dip in the Rudas Baths:
Dating back to the Ottoman era, these baths offer a unique mix of history and relaxation.
43. Visit the Hungarian Museum of Natural History:
This museum offers a wide range of exhibits, from dinosaurs to minerals.
44. Explore Gül Baba Tomb and Rose Garden:
This Turkish dervish’s tomb is surrounded by a peaceful rose garden.
45. Stroll Through Margaret Island:
This oasis in the middle of the Danube River offers beautiful parks, a small zoo, and thermal baths.
46. Visit the Museum of Music History:
Learn about the rich musical history of Hungary through various interactive exhibits.
47. Tour the Hungarian State Opera House:
Renowned for its beautiful architecture, the Opera House is a cultural highlight, reinforcing why Budapest is worth visiting.
48. Go on a Food Tour:
Is Budapest worth visiting for foodies? Yup, discover Budapest’s burgeoning street food scene, indulging in everything from traditional Hungarian dishes to modern fusion cuisine.
49. Visit the House of Hungarian Wines in Buda Castle:
Is Budapest worth visiting for wine bars? Yes, you can sample wines from all over Hungary, and learn about the country’s rich wine-making traditions.
50. Take a Day Trip:
Visit nearby attractions like the Danube Bend for natural beauty or the historic town of Szentendre for folk art. These easily accessible excursions further prove why Budapest is worth visiting.
So we hope there are plenty of reasons to answer the question of is Budapest worth visiting. Yes it most definitely is. We know creating an itinerary can be difficult and time consuming when you haven’t visited a city before, so if you want the perfect 3 day plan for Budapest, Check out or guide here!
