The home of roman baths, incredible architecture and a non-stop party scene, you will never have trouble finding things to do in Budapest. Hungary is dominated by Gothic architecture and historically significant events stretching back to 16BC, today Hungary is a hub for travelers who want to mix beauty, architecture and history all in one visit. Take a trip to the extravagant fortified walls of Fisherman’s Bastion, or dance your night away in a derelict building nibbling on a carrot. Budapest is never short of entertainment.

In this Budapest Travel Guide, you’ll uncover the most unforgettable things to do in Budapest and will have you wishing you could extend your stay. The picturesque Budapest is a crowd favourite for most travelers who undoubtable come back to see more of this incredible European city.

Best Time to Visit Budapest

Spring (March–May): Mild weather and fewer crowds.

Summer (June–August): Hot weather and crowds are at its peak.

Autumn (September–November): Pleasant weather and often warmer than spring. Crowds are beginning to thin out after the summer rush.

Winter (December–February): Cold weather with temperatures dipping below freezing. Cheapest time to visit with fewer tourists.

Is Budapest Worth Visting?

Budapest is one of my favourite European cities, so yes Budapest is absolutely worth visiting. Budapest is full of incredible gothic architecture, great beer and cheap food. What’s not to love?

Where to Stay in Budapest

We easily found a place to stay in Budapest by scrolling on Airbnb and Booking.com. Their systems make it easy to locate and book accommodation that is best suited to your needs. We stayed in the Lipótváros district which encompasses the Hungarian Parliament building, Liberty Square and is close to the chain bridge which takes you across the Danube River to Fishermans Bastion.

Lipótváros was a great place to stay and we never had any security issues and were walking distance from a lot of great sights.

Fishermans Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion is one of Budapest’s most enchanting landmarks, perched atop Castle Hill with breathtaking views overlooking the Danube River, Hungarian Parliament building and Budapest’s skyline, making it one of the most popular things to do in Budapest. Built between 1895 and 1902, Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the best places to visit in Budapest that showcases Neo-Romanesque architecture. The seven ornate towers scattered around the fortification each represent the leaders of the seven tribes of the Hungarians who founded Hungary in 895.

Fisherman’s Bastion is part of the Buda Castle District and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. The main terraces are open all year round and are free to explore, but some upper terraces require a ticket during peak hours (9 am–9 pm).

Fishermans Bastion is walking distance to many other amazing things to see in Budapest, including Buda Castle and Matthias Church. Set yourself up for a half day historical stroll through Budapest by adding these to your Hungarian itinerary.

This decorative fortification in Budapest is a must-see if you’re into history, architecture, or just want that perfect Instagram shot. Wake early to see the incredible sunrise or stay late to watch the glow of golden hour light up the pale terraces.

Buda Castle

When it comes to UNESCO world heritage sights Budapest is no stranger, Buda castle has been recognized for its architectural and cultural importance since 1987. And rightfully so, Buda Castle is one of the most beautiful castles to visit in Europe; home to the Hungarian National Gallery, history museum all while welcoming in panoramic views across the Danube River.

Originally built in the 13th century by King Béla IV after the Mongol invasion, the Buda Castle has been rebuilt and renovated over the centuries, most notably during the 18th century in the Baroque style, and again after WWII when it was severely damaged.

If you’re looking for things to do in Budapest which involve a bit of recent history tickle your fancy, take a guided tour through the labyrinth of caves and tunnels once used as WWII shelters which lie beneath Buda Castle.

Parliament Building

A distant photo of Parliment building in Budapest, this is one of the largest buildings in Budapest

The Budapest Parliament building is one of the most magnificent government buildings you will ever feast your eyes on. With a height of 96 meters, 268 meters long and 123 meters wide, the Hungarian Parliament building takes center stage as the most magnificent building sitting on the banks of the Danube River.

Located in Kossuth Square and clearly visible from the terraces of Fisherman’s Bastion, one of the most popular things to do in Budapest is to tour some of the 691 rooms that inhabit Budapest Parliament, and to get a glimpse at the Holy Crown of Hungary. Otherwise if daytime tours don’t peak your interest, seek out a river boat ride where you can experience the glowing Gothic Revival architecture from the outside during a dinner cruise.

Built in Neo-Gothic style with Renaissance and Baroque influences, the parliament building in Budapest was completed in 1902 after 17 years of construction. The interior is decorated with 40kgs of gold along with frescoes mural paintings on the ceilings.

Budapest Nightlife Guide

Sziget

Sziget is one of the biggest EDM music festivals in Europe with crowds dominating the streets of Budapest for a week in August every year. Also known as The Island of Freedom; Sziget is a festival combining art, music and love to bring cultures from around the world together for a week of complete entertainment. Where freedom of expression is encouraged, and individual values are protected. Sziget is where you can express yourself and show love for thy neighbour through art and music.

Sziget music festival is held on Old Buda island in the Danube River for a week and hosts same of the biggest names in hip hop, RnB and pop music. From Ed Sheeran, Charli XCX and Ocean Alley to Kid Cudi, Post Malone and Outkast. Dance the night away and wake early for morning yoga on the field, share stories with other travelers and make lifelong friends with your campsite neighbours. Sziget is one of the happiest places on earth as long as you surrender yourself to the dusty atmosphere.

Checkout my Sziget Survival Guide for top tips on successfully living through a week long music festival.

party at Budapest Thermal Baths

Of course if you love to party then you can’t miss out on Sparty (spa + party), which is held in the Széchenyi Thermal Bath every weekend. These historic Budapest thermal baths are a relaxing outdoor activity during the day, but at night they turn into a raving hotbed of alcohol and excessive partying.

Ruin Bars

Ruin Bars are a name given to a genre of bars and pubs that are born from the ashes of derelict factories or apartments. These once abandoned buildings are now an integral party to Budapests’ nightlife, bringing a new life to buildings once long forgotten and left to rot. Don’t worry, these buildings have since been engineered to ensure everyone’s safety while still maintaining the dilapidated exterior of an abandoned building house party.

Scattered around the city with most making home in the Jewish Quarter, every Ruin Bar has it’s own unique theme, focus and ambience; some bars invite you to tag on the walls and tables, while others have their own carrot kiosk (yes you can purchase raw, peeled carrots to nibble on while you vibe with your friends). Experience the best pub crawls and dance around the trees that have rooted themselves in the ram shackled walls because you won’t experience anything like this anywhere else in the world.

Danube River Cruise

The Danube River cruise in Budapest is where you can relax and unwind. The floating restaurant experience takes you along the Danube River seeing Budapest from a different angle. The city turns from a bustling metropolis to a light up historic feature after sunset. The Budapest Parliament building sits centre stage creating an incredible backdrop for your night time river cruise.

More Experiences for your Budapest Travel Guide

Budapest is full of wonderful experiences but of course I haven’t indulged in them all. The following list of things to do in Budapest are worth adding to your Budapest travel guide, but you may need to do further research yourself as I am not lucky enough to share my experiences!

Buda Castle Cave Tour
St Stephens Basilica
Hungarian state Opera
The Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle
Dohány Street Synagogue