Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest, HungaryI’ll admit that Budapest wasn’t at the top of my travel list, mainly because I didn’t know much about the city. But after visiting, Budapest immediately turned into one of my favorite European cities! The architecture is on a level I still can’t wrap my head around. Not to mention the food (Hungarians are definitely foodies), the design, and the historic thermal baths – this city truly is any traveler’s dream, and it’s also super affordable! Trust me, this Budapest Travel Guide might make you re-prioritize your European bucket list destinations…

City of budapest hungary at sunset
View of Buda Castle from Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest
Vintage car in front of hungarian houses in Budapest Hungary
Fisherman's bastion at sunset overlooking the parliament building in Budapest, Hungary

Left to right from top: Taking a dip at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, rooftop views of Budapest from the Aria Hotel, views of Buda Castle from Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a vintage car in Buda, overlook the Parliament Building at sunset from Fisherman’s Bastion.

5 DAYS

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needed to take it all in

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Palazzo Zichy – located in a quiet street with shops and restaurants nearby, this old-meets-new hotel was a former palace from the 19th century. The staff is unfailingly friendly and the pricing is very reasonable.
Exterior of Old Palace Hotel Palazzo Zichy

The exterior of Hotel Palazzo Zichy.

  • Hotel Moments Budapest – if you’re looking to shop, this boutique hotel situated on Budapest’s famous Andrássy boulevard is the one for you. It’s also less than a 5 minute walk from some of the city’s most famous buildings, like St Stephen’s Basilica. 
  • Danubius Hotel Astoria – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time in this old-world hotel, from the chandeliers to the marble columns and vintage chairs. This historic hotel should be high up on your list if you want to experience a historic property in the city.
  • Aria Hotel – if you are looking for luxury and convenience, look no further. The musically inspired Aria Hotel is situated within the old town of Pest (Buda and Pest together make up what we know as Budapest), and has one of the most incredible views of the city.
Rooftop views of St Stephen's Basilica from Aria Hotel in Budapest, Hungary

Rooftop views of St Stephen’s Basilica from the Aria Hotel Budapest.

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Where to Eat

  • Két Szerecsen – this cozy café has the most amazing tapas. A clear winner is their buttery garlic shrimp.
  • Pest-Buda Bistro – I suggest trying the classic Hungarian dish “Paprika Chicken” here. It’s so tasty.
  • New York Café – this lavish restaurant is an experience on its own, and perfect for a leisurely meal amongst beautiful architecture.
The beautiful ceiling at New York Cafe budapest hungary

The ceiling inside New York Cafe in Budapest.

  • Noir ChocoBar – craving something sweet? This chocolate bar serves up the most decadent and unique desserts, including lavender hot chocolate and chili ginger chocolate fondue.
  • ToLTo – if you are looking for something classic with a unique spin, don’t miss Tolto. Their sausages (yes, sausages!) are works of art.
Hungarian sausages local food at ToLTo Budapest Hungary

Hungarian sausages for lunch at ToLTo.

  • Kürtőskalács Food Stands – don’t miss a classic Chimney Cake if you’re visiting during the colder months – look for a stand with a line so you know they are being made fresh!

Where to Drink

  • Ruin Pubs – Budapest is known for its Ruin Pubs, old tenement houses and factory buildings converted into bars (which started happening in the 21st century). Try Ellato Kert Taqueria or Szimpla Kert for a fun night out.
  • Jonas Sorhaz – This is the spot for craft beers, views, and outdoor seating on a sunny day.
  • Espresso Embassy – this cozy cafe serves the best coffee in town and is a locals’ favorite.
coffee and hot chocolate at Espresso Embassy in budapest hungary

Lattes and hot chocolate at Espresso Embassy.

Where to Shop

  • Andrassy Avenue – this avenue features the big brands as well as some smaller boutiques once you venture down the side streets.
  • Váci Utca – the most famous shopping street in Budapest is great for an afternoon stroll and a bite to eat.
Cute plant shop in Budapest Hungary City Center

One of the many picturesque pop-up shops in Budapest.

  • Central Market Hall – this indoor market hall features local produce, food stalls, souvenirs, gifts and more.

Where to Go

  • St Stephen’s Basilica – this grand church is located in the central part of town and often hosts concerts.
  • The Parliament Building – it’s worth viewing this incredible structure from across the Danube River and also getting up close to admire the details.
St Stephen's Basilica in the rain budapest hungary

St Stephen’s Basilica in the rain.

Fisherman's bastion overlooking the parliament building in Budapest, Hungary

The Parliament building from Fisherman’s Bastion.

  • Fisherman’s Bastion – this is a great spot for city views. Go in the morning or at sunset and you can likely walk the walls free of charge.
Fisherman's bastion overlooking the parliament building in Budapest, Hungary

Fisherman’s Bastion in the early morning.

What to Do

  • Browse the Budapest History Museum. This museum is located within Buda Castle and perched overlooking the city. Take the funicular up and explore the works of art – some are massive!
  • Visit a bathhouse. I suggest going in the morning (before the crowds) to the grand outdoor baths at Szechenyi.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest, Hungary

A morning dip at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths.

  • Get a spa treatment. The bathhouses have a variety of services. I recommend trying a massage or treatment at Gellert Baths or Szent Lukács Baths.
  • Take a TukTuk ride. This is a great way to see the city as TukTuks can enter side streets that trams or cars simply can’t. It’s also a perfect rainy day activity!
The indoor pool at Gellert Baths Budapest Hungary

The indoor pool at Gellert Baths.

View of the parliament building from Budapest Tuk Tuk

Viewing the parliament building from our Tuk Tuk.

More Things to Do in Budapest

Besides a visit to the Széchenyi thermal spa (a must, if you don’t go right at sunrise to beat the crowds this ticket is worth it), I’d recommend going on a cruise down the Danube river. We regretted missing a boat trip during our visit, and I would’ve loved to see Budapest from this angle! The Parliament building tour will also allow you to explore one of the most beautiful buildings first-hand. I was fascinated with the scale of the parliament building.

 

What to Bring

  • A warm jacket. The weather in Budapest can get chilly in the colder months.
  • A swimsuit. You really can’t miss the thermal baths!
  • A public transport card. The tourism office offers city cards which provide unlimited use of public transportation (very useful in Budapest!) and additional discounts on some of the places I mention above.

Danube River view from Elizabeth Bridge in Budapest Hungry

Views of the Danube River from Elizabeth Bridge.

The Complete Budapest Travel Guide via Find Us Lost
The Complete Budapest Travel Guide by Selena Taylor of Find Us Lost
The Complete Budapest Travel Guide by Selena Taylor of Find Us Lost

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You won’t run out of things to see here – every street in this magical city is fascinating. I hope I’ve convinced you to visit soon!

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What’s your favorite city for beautiful European architecture and sights? Let us know in the comments below!