15 Unmissable Attractions In Budapest
I visited Budapest during the winter when the city was always covered in fog for miles in the early morning and when I began my adventures before the sun rose. It was a dreamlike experience and perfect setting to fall in love with the capital of one of the oldest countries in Europe (founded in 897). The city is a beautiful place complete with a deep and sometimes traumatising history while also being home to a never-ending list of talented artists, musicians, filmmakers, sportspeople and scientists. Therefore its no wonder that there are 15 unmissable attractions in Budapest, and that it is always alive and buzzing with activity – even during the coldest months of the year where temperatures can drop to -10°C.
Budapest is definitely one of the most popular destinations to explore in Europe because it is one of the most affordable, so no matter the time of year you visit, be ready to dive into an energetic environment filled with activities and attractions.
Travel and Accommodation In Budapest
Flight prices to Budapest depends on the time of year you visit and where you are flying out from. I flew out of London in December and therefore spent less than £50 on a return ticket.
There really isn’t a bad time to visit Budapest; it just depends on:
- If you can handle sight-seeing in the cold
- What you want to explore (if you want to go to the festivals you would obviously have to plan a trip for the summer while winter trips are for the Christmas markets)
Like most capital cities in Europe the selection of accommodation are endless. You have access to a wide range of both local and international chain hotels. Some of these include:
Fifteen Beautiful Attractions In Budapest
Buda Castle
Buda Castle is a spectacular 13th century palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits atop Castle Hill. The palace contains the Hungarian National Gallery, Castle Museum, and the National Széchenyi Library, thereby being the perfect place to be surrounded by Hungarian history and culture.
During the winter, you can buy roasted chestnuts outside the palace to keep you warm as you appreciate the sweeping views of the city below.
The Funicular Railway
The cable car system links the Adam Clark Square at river level to Buda Castle. It is a very popular, and scenic, mode of transport found across Europe and is an easy way to get to the top of Castle Hill without walking. For the best of both worlds, I would recommend riding the funicular on the way up for panoramic views, but walking down the hill for wonderful photo ops and views of other landmarks, including the grand Chain Bridge.
Hungarian Parliament Building
Inspired by the Gothic Revival style of architectural design the parliament building is one the most prominent landmarks of Budapest as it imposes over the River Danube. Pictures of this building dominate Instagram’s travel space, and for good reason, it’s absolutely stunning.
I suggest viewing the building from afar to fully appreciate its magnificence and to take stunning landscape shots.
Fisherman’s Bastion
The iconic monument is one of the most beautiful, fairy-tale like parts of Budapest and although looks like it jumped straight out of Medieval Europe, was actually built in the 20th century. It acts as panoramic viewing platform across the Danube and if you visit in the summer, the perfect location to catch the sunrise.
It is also one of the attractions in Budapest that draws the most photographers and instagrammers, so if you want to enjoy it in its quiet beauty, try ,take your way here are early as possible.
Heroes’ Square
This is for the history obsessed tourists but is also one of the more important attractions in Budapest in regards to the country’s history. The large square features the statues of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars, who are believed to have led the Hungarian people from central Asia to the Carpathian Basin.
Danube Promenade
Walk along the Danube promenade for beautiful views of the Buda Castle, the Liberty Statue and the Fisherman’s Bastion from the other side of the river.
House of Terror
One of the more grim attractions in Budapest, House of Terror is on the site of what was once the headquarters for the secret police when Hungary was under Russian rule. Since 2002, it has housed a poignant museum commemorating the victims of the fascist and communist regimes.
St Stephan’s Basilica
I love exploring the churches, cathedrals and basilicas of Europe and the St Stephan’s Basilica in Hungary is no exception. This holy site is picturesque both on the inside and out, and if you walk to the base of the dome, you are met with scenic views overlooking the city. The Basilica also hosts classical music concerts if you are interested. Remember to keep your shoulder and knees covered when visiting.
Hungarian State Opera House
Hungary has always been home some of the most talented musicians in the world so the Opera House would naturally be on this list. This Neo-Renaissance building opened in 1884, and the 1200 seat auditorium is considered to be one of the best in the world for operatic performances. If you are not interested in seeing a show or don’t have the time, you can still book a tour during the day.
Vajdahunyad Castle
Surprisingly, I haven’t seen this attraction on many travel websites I have read. Nevertheless, the castle is something you have to see. It was built in 1896 to celebrate 1000 years of Hungary since the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin in 895. The castle contains parts of buildings from various time periods and therefore has different architectural styles including, Romanesque, gothic, renaissance, and baroque. It is unbelievable picturesque and captures the hearts of everyone that sees it.
Dohány Street Synagogue
Also known as the Great Synagogue or Tabakgasse Synagogue, this Jewish reglious site is one of the largest outside of Israel and has a weeping willow memorial whose metal leaves bear the names of some of the Hungarians killed during World War II.
The Faust Wine Cellar
A tribute to Dr. Faust, a character described in the German poet Goethes’ work, the cellar is a great attraction for wine enthusiasts who would like to sample incredible selections from 22 Hungarian wine regions.
The Rudas Baths
Travellers rarely visit Budapest without dipping their toes into the warm waters of the city’s 16th century baths. Due to being built during the Ottoman Empire’s occupation of this region, most have a Turkish feel that may remind you of the Hammam’s of Istanbul, but remain incredibly Hungarian through those that provide fantastic views overlooking the Danube. A visit to any of the 118 natural springs found across the city is almost always the highlight of any trip to Budapest.
Margaret Island
I did not visit Margret Island during my trip, but I have heard that during the summer, it is a great place to enjoy open-air swimming pools, running trails, bars and Europe’s most ironic dancing musical fountain.
Average Cost For Four Days In Budapest Per Person
Transport (flights from London + local travel): £80
Accommodation: £150 (£300 per double)
Attractions: £100
Food and amenities: £200
Keep In Mind
Validate your metro/tram tickets. Ticket inspections are common, and on-the-spot fines can be issued if you’re travelling on an invalidated ticket. However, I suggest just buying a Budapest Card for the time you’re there because it is far more cost-effective.
Avoid the Euro ATMs. They are everywhere but, their exchange rate is abysmal. It’s better to buy Hungarian forint before your trip or go to a Hungarian bank when you arrive.
Practical Information About Budapest
Location: Hungary, Central Europe
National Languages: Hungarian
Currency: Hungarian forint
Neighbouring Countries: Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Croatia and Austria
One Comment
simplyjolayne
Thanks for the great tips. It is nice to get tips and tricks from people who have already “Been there done that” to avoid mistakes or just to make things simpler.