Budapest, the beautiful capital of Hungary, is a city of spas, breathtaking architecture, and a complex history. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, there are countless things to do in Budapest. From relaxing in Budapest's famous thermal baths to cruising along the Danube River at sunset, here is a curated list of the top 10 things to do in Budapest that should be on every traveler’s itinerary.
There are obviously a lot more than 10 things to do in Budapest, however, for the purposes of this guide, I have curated a list of my personal favorites along with some of the city's most popular tourist attractions. As always, if you are looking for even more travel tips and suggestions for Budapest, be sure to check out our Budapest Travel Guide. Now, without further ado, here are the top 10 things to do in Budapest!
One of the most iconic and rejuvenating things to do in Budapest is visiting one of the city's world-famous thermal baths and spas. Thanks to its natural hot springs, Budapest has earned the title of the "City of Spas," offering an unparalleled experience for those looking to unwind and relax in mineral-rich waters. There are multiple thermal baths in Budapest, however, none are as famous or as grand as Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
To be completely transparent, my personal experience with the thermal baths in Budapest is limited to just two: Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Bath. Therefore, for the purposes of this blog, we will focus on these two bath houses more in-depth. However, there is also Lukács Bath and Rudas Thermal Bath if you are looking for additional options during your time in Budapest!
Located in City Park, Széchenyi is the largest thermal bath complex in Europe, featuring 15 indoor pools and three large outdoor pools, each with naturally heated water that stays warm year-round. The thermal baths in Budapest are known for their therapeutic benefits, as the waters are rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sulfate, which are believed to help with joint pain, circulation, and overall relaxation.
What makes Széchenyi Thermal Bath truly special is its majestic neo-Baroque architecture. Built in 1913, the stunning yellow façade, grand columns, and intricate details make it feel like a palace rather than a spa. The outdoor pools are particularly popular, where you will find visitors soaking in steaming waters while locals engage in friendly games of chess while soaking in the warm waters, a beloved tradition at the thermal baths in Budapest.
In addition to the pools, Széchenyi offers saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, and massage services, allowing visitors to fully embrace the spa culture that Budapest is known for. Whether you visit in the summer to bask under the sun or in the winter when the steam rises dramatically against the chilly air, a visit to Széchenyi is an unforgettable experience.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath offers a couple of different experiences for visitors aside from the traditional baths, including: Sparty (spa party) events, an onsite Thermal Beer Spa, and the exclusive Palm House Spa. All of these offerings should be booked online, in advance of your visit to Széchenyi Thermal Bath. General admission tickets for the baths can also be booked online on the Széchenyi Thermal Bath website. I highly recommend that you book an option that includes a private cabin (changing room and locker) for your time at Széchenyi Thermal Bath. These private cabins are small and not for lounging, just changing and storing your belongings while you enjoy the baths. The private cabins can be shared, so that is something else to keep in mind if you are looking to save a little bit of money!
Széchenyi Thermal Bath is open daily, including on national holidays. For the most up-to-date hours and for additional information, please visit the Széchenyi Thermal Bath website.
During our visit to Budapest in 2023, Brian and I visited the Thermal Beer Spa at Széchenyi Thermal Bath and LOVED it so much that I have booked it again for our next trip to Budapest this spring. The Beer Spa is a private and relaxing spa experience, which allows allow guests to soak in warm, mineral-rich thermal water infused with natural beer ingredients like hops, malt, and sea salt, known for their skin-nourishing and detoxifying properties. The experience lasted 45 minutes and was really relaxing. My skin has also never felt softer or more refreshed than after my visit to the Termal Beer Spa! However, the best part is arguably the complimentary (and unlimited!) beer pours you get while soaking in the Thermal Beer Spa! Admission to the Thermal Beer Spa at Széchenyi Thermal Bath also includes admission to Széchenyi Thermal Bath and a private cabin. You can visit Széchenyi Thermal Bath either before and/or after your reservation at the Thermal Beer Spa.
The Thermal Beer Spa at Széchenyi Thermal Bath does need to be booked in advance of your visit. For more information, and to book the Thermal Beer Spa experience, please visit the Thermal Beer Spa website.
The Thermal Beer Spa has a second location at Lukács Bath with some additional add-ons available like massages and ice baths. Just make sure you are booking the correct location when you make your online reservations!
If you are looking for a more lowkey or private spa experience, I definitely recommend Gellért Bath, located inside the beautiful Gellért Hotel on the Buda side of Budapest. This Art Nouveau masterpiece is more than just a spa—it is an architectural wonder and an essential stop on any list of things to do in Budapest.
Opened in 1918, Gellért Bath is renowned for its beautiful mosaic tiles, intricate stained-glass windows, and grand Roman-style columns that transport visitors back in time. As you soak in the mineral-rich waters, you will feel as if you are relaxing inside a regal palace rather than a traditional spa. The thermal baths in Budapest are famous for their natural healing properties, and Gellért’s waters—rich in calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen carbonate—are said to help with joint pain, arthritis, and circulation.
One unique feature that sets Gellért apart from other thermal baths in Budapest is the option to rent private bath spaces. If you are looking for a more exclusive and intimate experience, you can book a private thermal bath, perfect for couples or those wanting a tranquil escape from the main pools. This makes it an ideal choice for special occasions or a relaxing retreat after a long day of sightseeing. The private bath experience was really enjoyable at Gellért Bath. The private bath experience consisted of a large private suite, featuring a seating area, private bathroom (including a shower), and a large thermal bath that fit two adults comfortably. Towels and toiletries for the shower were also provided. The experience even included a bottle of Hungarian sparkling wine and some chocolate, adding to the experience!
Beyond the thermal baths, Gellért Bath also offers steam rooms, saunas, massage services, and even a wave pool, providing a well-rounded spa experience. Whether you are admiring the spectacular Art Nouveau design, enjoying a rejuvenating soak, or indulging in a private bath session, visiting Gellért Bath is one of the most elegant and unforgettable things to do in Budapest.
If you are interested in booking massages or a private bath experience at Gellért Bath, I definitely recommend doing so online before your visit. Gellért Bath is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The outdoor pool is closed during the winter months. Reservations and additional information can be found on the Gellért Bath website.
Whether you are seeking relaxation, a social atmosphere, or a unique cultural experience, visiting the thermal baths in Budapest is a must-do activity that perfectly captures the essence of this incredible city. If you are visiting on the of thermal baths in Budapest during your time in the city, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Seeing Budapest from the Danube River is an unforgettable experience, and one of the best ways to do so is on a sunset river cruise. As the sun sets, watch the city come alive with twinkling lights, illuminating the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Chain Bridge, and other landmarks throughout the city. Some cruises offer drinks and dinner, making for a romantic and magical evening on the water.
I highly recommend taking a sunset river dinner cruise down the Danube as this turned out to be one of my favorite things to do in Budapest! Brian and I booked a dinner cruise via our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide, when we visited in 2023 and we are planning on taking another one (albeit this time just a sunset cruise without dinner) on our upcoming trip to Budapest this spring. It was a perfect way to end our time in Budapest and a great way to spend our last evening in the city. The food was excellent and the views from the boat could not be beat. The dinner cruise also included traditional music and dancing which elevated the experience further and helped us gain some additional insight into traditional Hungarian culture. However if a dinner cruise does not fit within your travel itinerary for Budapest, other cocktail, sightseeing, and private river cruises are also available. For additional options, be sure to visit GetYourGuide.
For one of the most breathtaking views in Budapest and another one of the top things to do in Budapest, head to Fisherman’s Bastion. Perched atop Castle Hill on the Buda side of the city, Fisherman’s Bastion is one of Budapest’s most picturesque spots, offering panoramic views of the Danube River, the Pest skyline, and the stunning Parliament Building.
This fairy-tale-like structure, built in the late 19th century, blends Neo-Romanesque architecture with seven decorative turrets symbolizing the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary. Visitors can wander through its elegant arches and terraces, take in gorgeous views, and capture postcard-perfect photos of Parliament and the Pest skyline.
While the lower terraces are free to access, the upper towers and turrets require a small fee—but the view is worth it, especially at night when the city lights up. Fisherman's Bastion is open 24/7, however, access to the upper towers is only from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, daily. If you wish to visit the upper towers, tickets can be purchased on site (only credit cards are accepted, no cash).
I highly recommend visiting Fisherman’s Bastion at sunrise for a peaceful experience, or at night when the city is illuminated. It is also a fantastic spot to watch the sunset in Budapest!
While visiting Fisherman's Bastion, and if time allows, I also recommend checking out Matthias Church. Matthias Church, also known as the Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle, is one of Budapest’s most beautiful landmarks, famous for its vibrant, colorful tiled roof and intricate Gothic details. The church has played a pivotal role in Hungarian history, hosting several royal coronations, including that of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (Empress Sisi), and it was even converted into a mosque during a period of Ottoman rule in the 16th century. Inside the church, visitors can admire beautifully painted stonework, stained glass windows, and an ornately carved pulpit, all contributing to its grandeur.
Matthias Church regularly hosts classical music concerts and we had the pleasure of attending one in 2023. The acoustics and the scenery make for an incredible experience! Concert tickets can be purchased online. For the most up-to-date opening hours, concert schedule, and more, please visit the Matthias Church website.
One of the most impressive religious landmarks and a must-see on any list of things to do in Budapest is St Stephen's Basilica Budapest. As the largest church in the city, it dominates the skyline with its majestic dome, intricate Neoclassical design, and beautifully elaborate interior. Named after Saint Stephen, the first King of Hungary and the founder of the Hungarian state, the basilica holds deep historical and spiritual significance for the country.
To truly appreciate St Stephen's Basilica Budapest, it is important to understand the man behind its name. Saint Stephen (Szent István in Hungarian) was crowned as Hungary’s first king in approximately 1000 AD and played a crucial role in establishing Christianity as the nation’s official religion. His leadership united Hungary under one faith, shaping the country's cultural and religious identity for centuries to come. Saint Stephen was later canonized as a saint, and his legacy remains deeply honored in Hungary today.
One of the most unique aspects of St Stephen's Basilica Budapest is the Holy Right Hand—a relic believed to be the mummified right hand of Saint Stephen himself. Kept in a beautifully adorned glass case, this sacred artifact is a major pilgrimage site for both locals and visitors. Every year on August 20th, Hungary commemorates its national holiday, Saint Stephen’s Day, with festivities reminiscent of the United States' Independence Day celebrations.
Beyond its religious significance, St Stephen's Basilica Budapest is an architectural masterpiece. Completed in 1905, the basilica boasts an impressive 96-meter-high dome, making it one of the tallest buildings in Budapest. Inside of the basilica, visitors can admire the gilded ceilings (as pictured below), detailed frescoes, stunning stained-glass windows, and the grand marble altar, all of which make it one of the most magnificent churches in Central Europe.
For travelers looking to enjoy breathtaking views of the city, one of the best things to do in Budapest is climbing to the panoramic terrace atop the dome of St Stephen's Basilica Budapest. After ascending 364 steps (or taking the elevator!), you will be rewarded with a stunning 360-degree panorama of Budapest, offering picture-perfect views of the Danube River, Buda Castle, Parliament Building, and beyond.
Music lovers will appreciate that St Stephen's Basilica Budapest is also known for its exceptional acoustics. The church regularly hosts classical music concerts and organ performances, where visitors can hear the grandeur of live orchestras and choirs in a truly majestic setting. Attending a concert here is not only a cultural experience but also one of the most incredible things to do in Budapest. Tickets for upcoming classical music concerts can be booked online via the Budapest Opera Tickets website, while upcoming organ performances can be booked via our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide.
Whether you are drawn by the historical importance, religious significance, architectural beauty, or panoramic views, visiting St Stephen's Basilica Budapest is one of the absolute must-do things to do in Budapest! Tickets for St Stephen's Basilica Budapest can be purchased both online on the St Stephen's Basilica website and in-person at the basilica ticket office. We highly recommend purchasing the Adult Panoramic Terrace-Treasury Entry Ticket for your visit to the basilica as this combo ticket provides access to the basilica, treasury, and scenic outdoor terrace with incredible views of the city.
St Stephen's Basilica Budapest is open daily, but access to the church may be limited due to wedding ceremonies and other religious events taking place inside on weekends. Opening hours are typically Monday through Saturday from 9:45 AM to 5:45 PM and on Sundays from 1:00 PM to 5:45 PM.
One of the most historically significant and moving things to do in Budapest is visiting the Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue of Budapest. As the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world, this architectural masterpiece is not only a place of worship but also a powerful reminder of Hungary’s Jewish heritage and the devastating impact of the Holocaust.
Built in 1859, the Dohány Street Synagogue is an extraordinary example of Moorish Revival architecture, featuring intricate brickwork, soaring onion-domed towers, and a richly decorated interior adorned with stained-glass windows, golden accents, and a breathtaking organ.
However, while the beauty of the Dohány Street Synagogue is undeniable, this site carries deep sorrow. The Dohány Street Synagogue stands on the edge of the former Jewish Ghetto, where thousands of Hungarian Jews were forced to live under dire conditions during World War II. The synagogue itself witnessed the tragic loss of thousands of its members during the Holocaust, as over half a million Hungarian Jews perished between mid-1944 and the end of the war.
Before the war, Budapest was home to a thriving Jewish community, one of the largest in Europe. However, with the rise of Nazi occupation in Budapest in 1944, the city became a site of unimaginable suffering. Tens of thousands of Hungarian Jews were confined to the Jewish Ghetto, where starvation, disease, and deportations to concentration camps decimated the population. The Nazis, along with Hungary’s fascist Arrow Cross Party, executed thousands along the banks of the Danube River, their bodies tragically lost to the water—a horror commemorated today by the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial.
Inside the Dohány Street Synagogue complex, you will find the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park, home to the moving Tree of Life (Weeping Willow Memorial). This metallic sculpture, shaped like a weeping willow tree with names of Holocaust victims engraved on its leaves, stands as a solemn tribute to the thousands who perished.
Visiting Dohány Street Synagogue is not just about seeing a historic building—it is about understanding the deep scars left on Budapest by the Holocaust. It is a heartbreaking yet essential experience, reminding us of the importance of remembrance, tolerance, and resilience which seems more important now than ever before. For those interested in history, culture, or paying their respects, this is one of the most important things to do in Budapest.
Tickets for the Dohány Street Synagogue can be purchased on-site. The synagogue is closed to the public on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. For the most up-to-date opening hours and to book a guided tour, please visit the Dohány Street Synagogue website.
Despite its tragic past, Budapest’s Jewish Quarter has emerged as one of the most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods in the city. Once a place of oppression, it is now filled with trendy cafés, shops, ruin bars, restaurants, and street art, making it one of the most interesting neighborhoods to explore in Budapest. Some of the top things to do in Budapest's Jewish Quarter today, apart from the Dohány Street Synagogue, include:
So, while Budapest dazzles with its grand architecture, lively nightlife, and relaxing thermal baths, it is also a city that has endured tremendous pain and loss. Taking the time to visit Dohány Street Synagogue and the Jewish Quarter is a way to honor the past while appreciating the strength of a community that continues to thrive today.
If you love food, one of the top things to do in Budapest is to visit the Central Market Hall. This massive indoor market is one of the best places to experience Hungarian flavors. Built in 1897, the Central Market Hall is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a striking neo-Gothic façade, a vast iron-and-glass interior, and colorful Zsolnay roof tiles. Stepping inside, you will be greeted by a busy atmosphere filled with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the lively chatter of locals and tourists alike.
The ground floor is packed with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and traditional Hungarian ingredients. Some of the highlights include:
Head upstairs, and you will discover one of the most exciting things to do in Budapest—sampling traditional Hungarian street food at the market’s food stalls. This is a great place to try authentic local dishes like:
In addition to food, the second floor is also home to stalls selling traditional Hungarian crafts and souvenirs, making it a fantastic place to pick up handmade lace, embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and folk art.
The food at Central Market Hall is definitely more expensive than what you can find at other establishments or from a real street food vendor in Budapest. However, in my opinion, the food we enjoyed at Central Market Hall was worth the price tag. The setting alone is pretty incredible and the portions were pretty large. Brian and I shared a plate of goulash and paprika chicken, and left feeling full (but not too full that we could not have a chimney cake, too)! If you do not want a full meal, do not leave without at least trying a chimney cake!
Central Market Hall can get really busy in the mornings and around lunchtime, so if you are looking to avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting mid-afternoon! More information about Central Market Hall can be found on the Central Market Hall website.
A trip to Budapest would not be complete without exploring Buda Castle! Buda Castle and the surrounding Castle District is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits atop Castle Hill, offering views of the Danube River and the city below. This area is rich in history, architecture, and cultural landmarks, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Budapest.
Originally built in the 13th century, Buda Castle has undergone multiple reconstructions due to wars, sieges, and historical changes. Once the royal residence of Hungarian kings, today it houses the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the Széchenyi Library (one of Hungary's national libraries).
The open-air courtyards at Buda Castle are open 24/7. However, festivals and other events may close these areas to the public without advance notice. The Budapest History Museum, within the Buda Castle complex, is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Hungarian National Gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but public holidays may impact opening hours. For the most up-to-date schedule, please visit the Hungarian National Gallery website.
The surrounding neighborhood is also worth exploring with its charming cobblestone streets, colorful Baroque buildings, and historical gems. Some additional highlights include:
Exploring Buda Castle and the Castle District is one of the most rewarding things to do in Budapest, offering a mix of history, culture, stunning architecture, and incredible views. Whether you are visiting the museums, enjoying a coffee in a historic café, or simply wandering the charming streets, this area is a perfect place to spend a morning or afternoon in Budapest.
For the best experience, take the Castle Hill Funicular from the Buda side of the Chain Bridge, or enjoy a scenic walk up the hill for stunning photo opportunities.
Food lovers will be in heaven in Budapest. Do not miss out on traditional dishes like goulash (a rich beef stew), paprika chicken (paprika-infused chicken stew), and my personal favorite, chimney cake (kürtőskalács), a delicious sweet pastry coated in cinnamon sugar. For an authentic experience, book a Hungarian cooking class, street food walking tour, or a Hungarian wine tasting! Alternatively, visit one of the city’s famous ruin bars to pair your meal with a glass of local Hungarian wine or pálinka (fruit brandy), or enjoy an exquisite meal in one of the many fantastic eateries in Budapest.
One of my favorite activities to do when visiting a new city is to take a cooking class, embark on a street food walking tour, and/or enjoy a wine tasting. Engaging in food-focused activities like these provides a deeper insight into the culture you are exploring and offers an opportunity to connect with locals. While we ran out of time to take a cooking class or a street food walking tour in Budapest during our last visit, there are a few on our radar for our next visit with our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide, which I have listed below.
If you have any thoughts as to which one(s) we should do, I am all ears! 😊 Let us know your thoughts in the blog comments!
Some of our favorite restaurants in Budapest, along with other popular restaurants that we are eager to try our next visit, are listed below. As with visiting any big city, I highly recommend making reservations, especially for dinner.
One of the most striking landmarks in Europe, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture and an absolute must-see among the top things to do in Budapest. Sitting majestically on the banks of the Danube River, this stunning structure features intricate details architectural, spires, and a grand dome that dominates the skyline.
Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the opulent interior, which includes the Golden Hall, the Old Upper House, and the Crown of St. Stephen, one of Hungary’s most treasured artifacts (the centerpiece of the Hungarian crown jewels). Even if you do not go inside the Hungarian Parliament Building, be sure to admire the Parliament Building from across the river at Batthyány Square (known as Batthyány tér in Hungarian) for the best panoramic views, especially at night when the building is beautifully illuminated.
As previously mentioned, the Hungarian Parliament Building can only be visited on a guided tour which lasts approximately 45 minutes. Guided tours are available in English, German, Italian, Spanish, French, and Hungarian. Tours can be booked, in advance, on the official Hungarian Parliament ticket partner website, Jegymester. A limited number of same-day tickets can also be purchased at the ticket office in the Hungarian Parliament's Visitor Center.
One of the most unforgettable things to do in Budapest is exploring the city’s famous ruin bars—a phenomenon that has transformed abandoned buildings into some of the most vibrant and eclectic nightlife spots in Europe. These quirky, artistic, and effortlessly cool bars are a staple of Budapest’s social scene, offering a mix of vintage décor, mismatched furniture, colorful graffiti, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Ruin bars first emerged in the early 2000s, when enterprising locals began repurposing dilapidated buildings in the city’s Jewish Quarter, many of which had been abandoned since World War II. Instead of demolishing these forgotten spaces, they transformed them into cultural hubs, filling them with art, retro furniture, and an effortlessly cool, underground vibe.
The first and most famous ruin bar, Szimpla Kert, opened in 2002, setting the trend for many others to follow. Today, visiting a ruin bar is one of the top things to do in Budapest, whether you are looking for a lively night out, a casual drink, or just a unique place to soak in the city’s alternative culture.
Unfortunately many of the ruin bars did not survive the shutdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. However, there are still a few remaining that are worth visiting:
Even if nightlife is not your thing, many ruin bars are open during the daytime, offering food and coffee—making them a great place to experience even if you are not a night owl.
Budapest is a city that blends history, culture, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you are soaking in the thermal baths in Budapest, cruising along the Danube River at sunset, or exploring the city's religious landmarks, there is no shortage of incredible things to do in Budapest. This vibrant city will capture your heart and leave you wanting to return again and again.
Have you visited Budapest? What were your favorite experiences? Let me know in the comments below! ⬇️
*If you book a tour or experience through one of our GetYourGuide affiliate links in this blog post, we may earn a small commission which helps us to continue producing this content for you!