Budapest Highlights: A First Timers Guide

In this article, we’ll take you through the top Budapest highlights, providing a comprehensive guide for first-time visitors.

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, was formed in 1873 with the merging of the historic cities of Buda and Óbuda on the west bank of the Danube River, and Pest on the east. Despite a history filled with wars and conflicts, Budapest has risen as a vibrant metropolis, drawing thousands of visitors every year.

Not only is Budapest one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, but it also offers a rich mix of activities and lively nightlife, making it a perfect destination for couples or groups of friends seeking a weekend getaway. Its central location in Europe also makes it a convenient stop on a road trip, with easy access to other fascinating cities like Vienna and Bratislava.

Read on for helpful tips to plan your upcoming Budapest adventure!

The Best Budapest Highlights

Budapest, much of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is often hailed as one of the best cities in Europe. The city dazzles with a blend of impressive architecture, showcasing both ancient and modern styles. Known for its thermal springs, many of which date back to Roman times, Budapest offers a unique combination of history and relaxation.

Now, let’s dive into the best things to do in Budapest!

1. Thermal Baths

Budapest’s thermal springs are a must-try experience. During our visit, we checked out Széchenyi and Gellért baths, both offering unique experiences.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of Europe’s largest and most popular. It features three outdoor pools and 15 indoor pools, all fed by two thermal springs. While you can enjoy the thermal pools, massage services and therapy treatments come at an additional cost.

Gellért Thermal Bath, smaller but equally famous, boasts stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Its mineral-rich waters come from the Gellért Hill hot springs and are offered in ten pools with varying temperatures. In summer, the outdoor pool creates artificial waves every 30 minutes. Bring your own towels, slippers, and caps to save money, as these can be rented on-site.

2. Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the Neo-Gothic style, it stands impressively along the Danube River. For the best views, head to the opposite bank.

You can tour the Parliament when the government isn’t in session. Guided tours, lasting around 45 minutes, highlight key features like the Hungarian Crown Jewels and stunning lobbies. To avoid long waits, especially during the summer, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance.

3. Buda Castle and Castle Hill

Budapest’s Castle Hill is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with medieval landmarks and museums. The Buda Castle, built in the 13th century, is the highlight, offering panoramic views and housing institutions like the Hungarian National Gallery and the Castle Museum. For a deeper experience, join the Buda Castle Free Tour.

4. Fisherman’s Bastion

The Fisherman’s Bastion is a stunning Neo-Gothic structure built between 1895 and 1902. Located within the Buda Castle area, it offers fantastic panoramic views of Budapest. Visitors can explore the lower terraces for free, but there’s a small fee to access the upper levels. Open 24/7, it’s easily reached by funicular or a short walk from Szell Kalman square. For a deeper understanding, join a Budapest Guided Tour.

5. Heroes Square

Heroes’ Square is a grand tribute to Hungarian history, featuring the Millennium Column and statues of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars. The 36-meter column is topped by Archangel Gabriel, and the surrounding colonnades honor notable historical figures.

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6. St. Stephen Basilica

St. Stephen Basilica is Hungary’s top religious site, completed in 1905 in honor of King Stephen. Its Neo-Classical design attracts visitors, with two key highlights: the mummified right hand of St. Stephen and the Basilica’s renowned organ concerts. For stunning views of the city, visit the cupola. The Historic Budapest Free Tour provides in-depth knowledge of this landmark and its cultural significance.

7. Margaret Island

Margaret Island is a peaceful green space on the Danube River, located between Buda and Pest. Locals escape the city’s hustle here, with a 5 km running track for jogging or biking. The island offers rental kiosks for self-powered vehicles and attractions like the “music fountain” that dances to classical music, a small zoo, and the ruins of a 13th-century Dominican convent.

8. Gellért Hill and Citadella

Gellért Hill, located on the Buda side of the Danube, offers stunning views of Budapest from over 200 meters above sea level. Once a military stronghold, it is home to the Citadella, a fortress built in 1851 under the Austrian Empire. Visitors can explore the open-air exhibit within the Citadella, which displays WWII-era weaponry from the Red Army. Access to the hill and the exhibit is free, providing a glimpse into the region’s military history.

9. Ruin Bars and Food

Exploring Budapest’s ruin bars and food scene is a must. These bars, often in abandoned or historic buildings, are cultural gems, offering eclectic decor, flea markets, and retro video games. Notable spots like Szimpla Kert and Instant are favorites for their unique charm and affordable drinks.

Hungarian cuisine is famous for its bold flavors, with Goulash being a standout dish. This hearty stew, traditionally made with beef, carrots, potatoes, and paprika, embodies Hungarian cooking. Variations use veal or pork, offering a delightful range of flavors to try.

10. Danube River Cruise

One of the top things to do in Budapest is taking a Danube Cruise. Lasting around an hour, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city’s landmarks and iconic bridges. Plus, you get one drink included. With options like the popular Danube Sunset Cruise, it’s an experience not to be missed!

Popular Tours

TRAVEL ADVICE

If you’re short on time in Budapest or have an evening flight, consider using Radical Storage for luggage storage. With several locations around the city, it’s a convenient way to store your bags. Just book a storage spot, drop off your bags, and explore without the hassle. We’ve found it especially useful when we had a day to spare in the city and didn’t need to stay overnight.

How To Reach Budapest

Find Flights to Budapest

From Budapest Airport to the City Centre

Minibud provides shared minibus transfers to and from the airport, offering a fast and direct route to Budapest’s city center. It’s a convenient option, taking you straight to your desired destination. You can choose between one-way or round-trip tickets, with 24-hour service available. Tickets can be purchased HERE.

TRAVEL ADVICE

While Budapest is generally safe, there has been an increase in thefts and scams targeting tourists, particularly taxi scams. We recommend avoiding taxis at night, but if necessary, make sure you use official taxis with the meter on. For those looking to enjoy the nightlife, it’s best to stay near the party hotspots to reduce travel risks.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO BOOK AN OFFICIAL TAXI

Where to Stay in Budapest

Budapest is divided into two main areas: Buda, located on the left bank of the Danube River, and Pest, on the right. Together, they make up 23 districts. Given the city’s size, selecting the right area to stay in can be tricky, especially for first-time visitors. Your choice will depend on factors like preferences and budget. To help you plan, we’ve put together a list of the best areas to stay in Budapest. Let’s dive into the options!

1. Budapest I – Castle District

District I, also known as Budapest I, is home to the city’s most iconic tourist spots, including Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning city views and have easy access to top-notch restaurants. While the district is lively during the day, it becomes a peaceful and charming retreat at night.

For first-time visitors who want to be close to major attractions without the bustling nightlife, District I is a perfect choice. Its central location and proximity to key landmarks make it an excellent base for exploring Budapest.

Discover the best places to stay in Castle District

Budapest V - Belvaros

District V, also known as downtown Budapest, is a sophisticated area on the Pest side of the Danube. It’s known for upscale shopping, cafes, and landmarks like the Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica. With excellent public transport, it’s perfect for a luxurious stay, though it may be pricey for budget travelers.

Discover the best places to stay in Belvaros

Budapest VI – Terézvaros

District VI is a cultural hotspot, featuring Andrassy Avenue, the Opera House, Music Academy, and Szechenyi Baths. It’s also home to landmarks like the Millennium Monument and the Horror Museum. Offering a vibrant atmosphere, District VI is more affordable than districts 1 and 5, making it perfect for travelers seeking value without missing out on great experiences.

Discover the best places to stay in Terezvaros

Budapest VII – Erzsébetvaros

District VII, once the Jewish Ghetto, is now a vibrant, multicultural area. It’s home to the Dohany Street Synagogue, Europe’s largest, along with famous ruin bars, nightclubs, and cafes. Known for its diverse dining options, including Middle Eastern cuisine, the district thrives with lively nightlife, making it the perfect destination for those wanting to experience Budapest’s energetic party scene.

Discover the best places to stay in Erzsebetvaros

Budapest VIII – Jozsefvaros

Budapest’s 8th district, often called ‘the hipster district,’ is a hidden gem with stunning architecture, historical sites, and trendy spots. Located just 15 minutes from the city center, it offers easy access to attractions like the Hungarian National Museum and Rakoczi Market Hall, where you can find authentic Hungarian goods at affordable prices. Despite its vibrant atmosphere, this neighborhood remains under the radar for most tourists, offering a unique and local experience.

Discover the best places to stay in Jozsefvaros

SAVE ON ACCOMMODATION

If you’re still looking for the ideal place to stay in Budapest, check out the map on Booking.com. With a wide variety of accommodations available, you’re bound to find something that fits your preferences and budget.

Budapest Highlights

Conclusions

Budapest highlights make it a city suited for all ages and types of travelers. The unique thermal baths are small oases within the city, and the impressive architecture of the Castle District is unparalleled. The city’s bar culture, especially the famous Ruin bars, has become one of the top Budapest highlights. Enjoy exploring all the Budapest highlights in one of Europe’s most captivating cities!