Budapest Travel Guide

Budapest Travel Guide: Iconic Landmarks & Monuments

Hungarian Parliament ♡

One of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, the Hungarian Parliament Building is an architectural masterpiece that dominates the Danube riverbank. Completed in 1904, this Neo-Gothic structure is one of the largest parliament buildings in the world, with intricate spires, a central dome soaring 315 feet (96 meters) high, and a stunning riverside façade that looks particularly magical when illuminated at night. Visitors can take a guided tour to admire the lavish interior, which features gold ceilings, ornate frescoes, and the Holy Crown of Hungary (also known as the Holy Crown of St. Stephen), a national treasure dating back to the 12th century.

The building’s grandeur reflects Hungary’s rich history and pride, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Budapest. For the best views, take a Danube river cruise or walk along the opposite bank of the Danube at Batthyány Square, where the Parliament’s reflection shimmers in the water.

The Hungarian Parliament 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. 

Fisherman's Bastion

♡

Perched atop Castle Hill, Fisherman’s Bastion is one of Budapest’s most picturesque spots, offering panoramic views of the city and the Danube River. 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 sunset 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 daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. If you wish to visit the upper towers, tickets can be purchased on site (only credit cards are accepted, no cash). 

Overlooking the Danube River from Castle Hill, Buda Castle is a symbol of Hungary’s rich and turbulent history. Originally built in the 13th century and later expanded into a grand palace, it has witnessed Mongol invasions, Ottoman rule, Habsburg opulence, and the devastation of World War II. Today, it houses the Hungarian National Gallery, showcasing Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to modern times, and the Budapest Castle Museum and Budapest History Museum, both of which delve into the city's fascinating past. The castle grounds are also perfect for strolling, with statues, courtyards, and panoramic viewpoints offering some of the best views of the city.

St. Stephen's Hall, located inside of the Castle Museum building and one of the most magnificent rooms within the castle complex, can only be visited on a guided tour. Guided tours are available, regularly, in English. For more information and to book a tour, please visit the St. Stephen's Hall website. Tickets for the museums housed inside of Buda Castle can be purchased both online and on-site.

Shoes on the Danube Memorial

One of Budapest’s most moving sites, the Shoes on the Danube Memorial is a poignant tribute to the Jewish victims executed by the Arrow Cross militia during World War II. Located along the Pest side of the Danube near the Hungarian Parliament Building, the memorial consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes, representing the men, women, and children who were forced to remove their footwear before being shot into the river. Created by artists Gyula Pauer and Can Togay, this simple yet powerful monument serves as a stark reminder of the horrors of war and the importance of remembering those who perished.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

A symbol of unity between Buda and Pest, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, also called the Chain Bridge for short, was the first permanent bridge to span the Danube River in Budapest. Completed in 1849, this elegant suspension bridge played a crucial role in the city’s development. Its massive stone lion statues, towering iron chains, and impressive arches make it one of Budapest’s most recognizable landmarks. Walking across the bridge provides stunning views of Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament, and the riverbanks. The bridge is especially enchanting at night when it is illuminated, casting a glow over the Danube.

Danube River

The Danube River is the heart of Budapest, dividing the city into Buda and Pest while also serving as its most scenic backdrop. Whether strolling along the banks, taking in the views from one of its bridges, or embarking on a river cruise, the Danube offers some of the best perspectives of the city. A daytime cruise provides views of landmarks like the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge, while an evening cruise showcases Budapest’s dazzling night lights, making it one of the most romantic experiences in the city. The river has shaped Budapest’s history, serving as a vital trade route for centuries, and today, it remains an essential part of the city’s charm.

We highly recommend taking a sunset river cruise down the Danube. We booked a dinner cruise via our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide, when we visited in 2023. However, other cocktail, sightseeing, and private river cruises are also available. For additional options, be sure to visit GetYourGuide.

If you book a tour or experience through one of our GetYourGuide affiliate links, we may earn a small commission. 

Budapest Travel Guide: Thermal Baths & Spas

Budapest is known as the "City of Spas," and for good reason. With its rich history of thermal bathing dating back to the Roman era and later perfected by the Ottomans, the city is home to some of the most stunning and relaxing thermal baths in the world. Whether you are visiting in the chilly winter months or during the height of summer, the thermal baths Budapest offers provide a unique and rejuvenating experience.

If you are planning to visit the thermal baths, make sure to pack a swimsuit, towel, and sandals. Swim caps are required in the lap pools. Children under 14 years old of age are generally not permitted to visit the thermal baths in Budapest, but may be allowed in some of the outdoor pools. For more information, be sure to check with each individual spa directly for their age policy.

Széchenyi Thermal Baths ♡

As the largest and most famous thermal bath complex in Budapest, Széchenyi Thermal Baths is a must-visit for travelers seeking relaxation and an iconic Budapest spa experience. Located in City Park, this Neo-Baroque complex boasts 15 indoor pools and three large outdoor pools, all filled with mineral-rich, naturally heated thermal water. The outdoor pools, surrounded by grand yellow architecture, offer an unforgettable experience, especially in winter when steam rises dramatically into the cold air. Visitors can enjoy a thermal soak, sauna sessions, whirlpools, and even chess games played in the warm waters. Whether you visit during the day for a spa retreat or at night for the lively Sparty (spa party) events, Széchenyi is a quintessential Budapest experience.

Tickets for the Széchenyi Thermal Baths can be booked in advance of your visit on the Széchenyi Baths website. We highly recommend booking a private cabin (changing room and locker) for your time at Széchenyi Thermal Baths. Massages can also be booked online, in advance of your visit. 

Thermal Beer Spa

One of our favorite experiences in Budapest was the Thermal Beer Spa at Széchenyi Thermal Baths! 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 yeast, known for their skin-nourishing and detoxifying properties. And the best part? Unlimited self-pour beer taps are available at each station, allowing you to enjoy freshly brewed Hungarian beer while you soak.

Advance booking is required and is a popular add-on for Széchenyi Thermal Baths. For more information, and to book the Thermal Beer Spa experience, please visit the Thermal Beer Spa website. 

Gellért Thermal Bath

Housed within the stunning Art Nouveau Gellért Hotel, Gellért Thermal Bath is one of the most elegant and visually striking thermal spas in Budapest. Known for its beautiful mosaic tiles, stained glass windows, and intricate sculptures, this historic bathhouse offers a truly luxurious atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, and even a wave pool that dates back to the early 20th century. The naturally warm, mineral-rich waters are known for their healing properties, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and wellness. 

Gellért Thermal Bath is an excellent choice for those looking for a private thermal bath experience. Private rooms are available to book in 90-minute increments and include a bottle of sparkling wine and dessert; however, reservations should be made in advance on the Gellért Thermal Bath website. 

Lukács Baths

A favorite among locals, Lukács Baths offers a more authentic and less touristy thermal bath experience in Budapest. Located in Buda, this historic spa has been renowned for its healing waters since the 12th century, once attracting monks and later famous writers and artists. The bath features thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, and a wellness area. While quieter than Széchenyi and Gellért, Lukács is a hidden gem for those seeking a more relaxed and traditional spa experience.

Thermal Beer Spa

Like Széchenyi Thermal Baths, Lukács Baths also offers a Thermal Beer Spa. The Thermal Beer Spa is a private and relaxing spa experience, with additional add-ons like massages and ice baths at Lukács Baths.

Advance booking is required and is a popular add-on for Lukács Baths. For more information, and to book the Thermal Beer Spa experience, please visit the Thermal Beer Spa website. 

Rudas Thermal Bath

For a truly unique experience, Rudas Thermal Bath blends Turkish tradition with modern wellness, offering one of Budapest’s most atmospheric spa experiences. Dating back to the 16th century Ottoman era, Rudas features a beautiful octagonal thermal pool beneath a domed ceiling, evoking an air of ancient luxury. The bathhouse includes several thermal pools, a modern wellness area, and a rooftop with spectacular views over the Danube River and Budapest skyline. Uniquely, Rudas has men-only and women-only days in its traditional Turkish bath section, while the modern spa and pool welcome all visitors daily.

Tickets for night bathing at Rudas Thermal Bath are available online only. Night bathing is available on Friday and Saturday nights from 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM. Tickets can be purchased on the Rudas Thermal Bath website.

Budapest Travel Guide: Popular Churches & Synagogues

While Budapest is dotted with spectacular churches and synagogues, we have curated a list of some of the most popular ones for visitors to explore. As is the case when visiting any religious site, remember to dress appropriately. This means, having your shoulders covered, removing any hats or non-religious head coverings, and avoiding clothing that may be deemed inappropriate or too revealing. 

St. Stephen's Basilica (Szent Istvan Bazilika) ♡

One of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, St. Stephen’s Basilica is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture and a must-visit for its stunning interior, historical significance, and breathtaking city views from its dome. Named after Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen, the basilica houses his mummified right hand, the Holy Right, a revered relic displayed inside. The grand interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, marble columns, and a magnificent dome that visitors can ascend for one of the best panoramic views of Budapest. Concerts featuring organ and classical music are frequently held here, adding to the basilica’s appeal as both a religious and cultural site.

Tickets for St. Stephen's Basilica 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. The church is open daily, but access to the church may be limited due to wedding ceremonies and other religious events taking place inside on weekends. 

Dohány Street Synagogue (Great Synagogue) ♡

The Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue, is the largest synagogue in Europe and a deeply significant site for Hungary’s Jewish community. Built in the Moorish Revival style, its stunning façade and richly decorated interior make it one of Budapest’s most impressive religious landmarks. The complex includes the Jewish Museum, the Heroes' Temple, the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park, and the Tree of Life, a poignant sculpture honoring Holocaust victims. The synagogue also stands on the edge of the former Jewish Ghetto, making it a key site for understanding Budapest’s Jewish history. While the Dohány Street Synagogue is a rather somber visiting experience, it is an important landmark to visit and gain a better understanding of Budapest's Jewish history.

Tickets for the Dohány Street Synagogue can be purchased on-site. The synagogue is closed to the public on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Guided tours of the synagogue can be booked online. For the most up-to-date opening hours and to book a guided tour, please visit the Dohány Street Synagogue website.

Matthias Church ♡

Perched atop Castle Hill, 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.

A fascinating story surrounds Matthias Church during the Ottoman occupation of Budapest in 1686, known as the Marian Miracle. When the Ottomans transformed the church into a mosque, they merely covered the Catholic religious decorations. However, when cannon fire led to the collapse of a wall within the mosque, a statue of the Virgin Mary was revealed to a group of Muslims gathered in the mosque for prayer spooking them. Remarkably, Ottoman control over the city ended on that very day.

Inside the church, visitors can admire beautifully painted stonework, stained glass windows, and an ornately carved pulpit, all contributing to its grandeur. The church is also a popular venue for classical concerts, and its location beside Fisherman’s Bastion makes it one of the best spots to watch the sunset over Budapest.

We highly recommend visiting Matthias Church for a classical concert as the acoustics and scenery are absolutely incredible. Concert tickets can be purchased online. For the most up-to-date opening hours, concert schedule, and more, please visit the Matthias Church website.

St. Michael's Church

Located in the heart of Belváros (District 5), St. Michael’s Church is a hidden gem of Budapest’s religious sites. This Baroque-style church, built in the 18th century, features an elegant interior adorned with ornate stucco decorations and frescoes. Unlike the city’s grander churches, St. Michael’s offers a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere, making it a lovely stop for those exploring central Budapest. The church frequently hosts classical music concerts, taking advantage of its excellent acoustics and historic organ. Concert tickets for upcoming performances can be purchased on the Budapest Opera Tickets website.

Church of St. Mary Magdalene & Buda Tower 

A poignant historical site on Castle Hill, the Church of St. Mary Magdalene dates back to the 13th century and once served as one of Buda’s most important medieval churches. Though heavily damaged during World War II and later demolished during the communist era, its striking bell tower, known as Buda Tower, was preserved and remains a historic landmark offering panoramic views of Budapest. Today, visitors can climb the tower to appreciate the city skyline while reflecting on the church’s storied past. Tickets to climb the 170 steps to the top of the tower can be purchased at the Military History Museum, just a few steps from the tower itself. 

Cave Church (Sziklatemplom)

Tucked into Gellért Hill, the Cave Church (Sziklatemplom) is one of Budapest’s most unique places of worship. Carved into the rock face, this underground chapel was inspired by the Lourdes Grotto in France and has served as a place of Christian worship since the early 20th century. The church’s simple yet atmospheric interior is adorned with religious statues, altars, and natural rock formations, creating a truly spiritual setting. After World War II, it was sealed off by the communist regime and remained closed for decades before reopening in the 1990s. Today, it is an active church where visitors can learn about its fascinating history and admire its cave-like beauty.

The Cave Church is closed to the public on Sundays. Tickets for the Cave Church can be purchased in the Pauline Visitor Center at the mouth of the cave. 

Budapest Travel Guide: Top Museums

While museums are not the primary attraction for tourists in Budapest, there are a number of museums that are well worth visiting if you have some free time. Before you plan your visit, make sure to check the most up-to-date opening hours, as public holidays may impact museum schedules. Without further ado, here is a guide to the top museums in Budapest.

For the art aficionado: 

• Hungarian National Gallery: Located within Buda Castle, the Hungarian National Gallery houses an impressive collection of Hungarian art spanning the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Visitors can admire masterpieces by renowned Hungarian painters, Gothic altarpieces, and striking works from the country’s rich artistic history. The museum also offers panoramic views over the Danube and Pest side of the city.
• Museum of Fine Arts Budapest: One of the most prestigious art museums in Central Europe, the Museum of Fine Arts Budapest boasts an extensive collection of European artwork, including pieces by Spanish masters rarely seen outside of Spain such as Velázquez, El Greco, Goya, and Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. The museum's Egyptian and Classical Antiquities collections are also highlights, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
  
• Hungarian House of Photography (Mai Manó House): This hidden gem in Budapest is dedicated to the art of photography, featuring rotating exhibitions from Hungarian and international photographers. Housed in an ornate 19th-century building that once belonged to royal court photographer, Mai Manó, the museum is a haven for photography enthusiasts and anyone interested in visual storytelling.
• Ludwig Museum: Budapest’s contemporary art hub, the Ludwig Museum showcases modern and contemporary works from Hungarian and international artists, with a strong focus on Central and Eastern European art and an impressive Pop Art collection. Located in the Palace of Arts, the museum’s collection includes works by Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, offering visitors a fascinating insight into modern artistic movements.
• Miksa Róth Memorial House: A tribute to one of Hungary’s most famous stained glass and mosaic artists, this small but charming museum showcases the dazzling work of Miksa Róth. Visitors can admire stunning stained-glass windows, intricate mosaics, and learn about the craft that has adorned many of Budapest’s historic buildings.

For the history lover: 

• House of Terror: A sobering yet important museum, the House of Terror explores Hungary’s dark history under Nazi and Communist rule. Housed in the former headquarters of the secret police, the museum’s immersive exhibits include prison cells, propaganda materials, and testimonies from victims, offering a powerful reflection on the country’s past.
• Hungarian National Museum: The Hungarian National Museum provides an in-depth look at the nation’s history, from prehistoric artifacts to Hungary’s role in the Austro-Hungarian Empire and beyond. The museum’s grand Neoclassical building is an attraction in itself.
• Budapest History Museum: Located within Buda Castle, the Budapest History Museum delves into the city’s rich and turbulent past. Its exhibits cover everything from medieval Budapest to Ottoman rule and the modern era, allowing visitors to explore ancient ruins, reconstructed palace rooms, and archaeological finds.
• Budapest Castle Museum: A subset of the larger Budapest History Museum, the Budapest Castle Museum provides insight into the history of Buda Castle and Hungarian royal life. St. Stephen's Hall, located inside of the Castle Museum, and one of the most magnificent rooms within the castle complex, can only be visited on a guided tour. Guided tours are available, regularly, in English. For more information and to book a tour, please visit the St. Stephen's Hall website. 
• Memento Park: An open-air museum, Memento Park is home to the colossal statues and monuments that once glorified Hungary’s Communist regime. Visitors can walk among towering Lenin and Stalin statues, gaining insight into the country’s socialist past while reflecting on the power of political propaganda.
• Holocaust Memorial Center (Holokauszt Emlékközpont): This deeply moving museum and memorial educates visitors about the Holocaust in Hungary, focusing on the tragic fate of Budapest’s Jewish population. The center includes a museum, a beautifully restored synagogue, and two poignant outdoor memorials (Memorial Wall of Victims and the Tower of Lost Communities), making it an essential visit for those seeking to understand and learn more about this painful chapter of history.

Budapest Travel Guide: Good Eats

The food in Budapest is a vibrant reflection of Hungary’s cultural heritage. Whether you are indulging in savory goulash, paprika chicken, or crispy lángos from a street vendor, Budapest’s food scene offers something for everyone. The city is also home to charming cafés serving delicate pastries like dobos torte, as well as market halls where you can sample local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce.

While you are in Budapest, do not miss the opportunity to try some fantastic Hungarian wines, the most popular being a sweet white wine called Tokaji Aszú. For those who prefer beer over wine, rest assured, Budapest has you covered on that front, too. The city offers an abundance of beer options, with Dreher and Borsodi being two of the most popular lagers available on tap throughout the city. 

Central Market Hall (Great Market Hall): 

The Central Market Hall (also called Great Market Hall) is Budapest’s largest and most famous market, housed in a beautiful Neo-Gothic building not too far from the Danube River. The ground floor is packed with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and traditional Hungarian ingredients like paprika, salami, and Hungarian wine. You will find stalls overflowing with colorful peppers, fragrant spices, and an array of cured meats, perfect for sampling. The upper floor is dedicated to street food, making it a great place to taste classic Hungarian dishes. The upper floor also boasts a large number of vendors selling traditional Hungarian souvenirs. 

Locals do some of their grocery shopping in Central Market Hall, making it extremely busy to visit in the mornings. For a less crowded experience, we recommend visiting in the early afternoon. More information about Central Market Hall can be found on the Central Market Hall website. 

Speciality Foods:

Travelers visiting Budapest should indulge in a variety of iconic dishes and treats that capture the essence of the city's culinary heritage. Some must-try specialties include:

• Goulash (Gulyás): Hungary’s most famous dish, this hearty paprika-spiced beef soup is cooked with potatoes, carrots, and onions, offering a rich and comforting taste of traditional Hungarian cuisine.
• Paprika Chicken: Also called chicken paprikash, paprika chicken is a beloved Hungarian classic. This paprika-infused chicken stew is typically served with nokedli (Hungarian dumplings) and a dollop of sour cream.
• Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács): A sweet, spiral-shaped pastry, baked over an open flame and coated with sugar, cinnamon, chocolate, or nuts, making it a favorite street food treat.
• Lángos – A popular street food, this deep-fried dough is topped with garlic, sour cream, and grated cheese, though modern variations include ham, vegetables, or even Nutella.
• Hortobágyi Pancakes (Hortobágyi Palacsinta) – A savory crêpe filled with spiced minced meat, then baked in a rich paprika sauce, making it a flavorful and satisfying dish.
• Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Töltött káposzta) – Cabbage leaves filled with ground pork and rice, then slow-cooked in tomato and sauerkraut broth, often served with sour cream.
• Fisherman’s Soup (Halászlé) – A spicy, paprika-heavy fish soup, traditionally made with carp.
• Dobos Torte (Dobosh) – Dobos torte is a layered sponge cake with rich chocolate buttercream, topped with a crunchy caramel glaze.

Popular Restaurants:

The number of outstanding dining options in Budapest could easily fill an entire webpage on its own! Some of our favorite eateries, along with other popular restaurants that we are eager to try our next visit, are listed below. When visiting Budapest we recommend making advance reservations for popular restaurants, especially for dinner. 

• Kismező (Nagymező u. 19): A hidden gem in the Theater District, Kismező offers a cozy, yet trendy bistro experience with traditional Hungarian cuisine. 
• Kiskovász Pékség (Nagymező u. 36): This charming artisanal bakery was a favorite of our's on our first trip to Budapest in 2023 and was where we ate breakfast every morning. The bakery offers a fantastic selection of artisanal bread and pastries, complemented by a cozy atmosphere, whether you choose to eat-in or take your selections to go. 
• ÉS Bisztró (Deák Ferenc u. 12): Located inside the Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest, ÉS Bisztró blends Austrian and Hungarian cuisines in a modern brasserie setting. 
• New York Café (Erzsébet krt. 9-11): Frequently described as the most beautiful café in the world, New York Café is an opulent coffeehouse with grand chandeliers, frescoed ceilings, and gilded décor. Here, you can enjoy decadent desserts, Hungarian coffee, and classic dishes while enjoying the grandeur of Budapest's café culture. Reservations are only available after 6:00 PM, otherwise be prepared for a lengthy wait. 
• Borkonyha Winekitchen (Sas u. 3): Borkonyha Winekitchen is a Michelin-starred restaurant that blends Hungarian flavors with modern European cuisine. Its extensive selection of Hungarian wines perfectly complements dishes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients.  
• Mazel Tov (Akácfa u. 47): Mazel Tov is a Mediterranean-Middle Eastern fusion restaurant located in the Jewish Quarter. Despite having an Israeli-influenced menu, it is important to note that Mazel Tov is not a kosher eatery. 
• Felix Kitchen & Bar (Ybl Miklós tér 9): Overlooking the Danube River near Buda Castle, Felix Kitchen & Bar is a high-end dining experience.
• Babel Budapest (Piarista köz 2): Babel Budapest is a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant serving traditional Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist and a menu that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients.

Looking for additional restaurant recommendations for your trip to Budapest? Check out the links below. 

Budapest's Ruin Bars & Nightlife Spots:

Budapest’s ruin bars are a defining feature of the city's nightlife, offering a unique mix of history, creativity, and vibrant social energy. These bars emerged in the early 2000s, transforming abandoned buildings in the old Jewish Quarter into eclectic, art-filled spaces with mismatched furniture, graffiti-covered walls, and a lively, bohemian atmosphere. The most famous is Szimpla Kert (Kazinczy u. 14), a sprawling multi-room venue with quirky decor, live music, and an open-air courtyard. Some other ruin bars and nightlife spots worth visiting in Budapest, include: 

• Instant/Fogas (Akácfa u. 51)
• Boutiq'Bar (Paulay Ede u. 5)
• Múzsa (Four Season Hotel Gresham Palace, Széchenyi István tér 5-6)
• High Note SkyBar (Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection, Hercegprímás u. 5)
• 360 Bar (Andrássy út 39)

The 10 Best Bars in Budapest Right Now >

Budapest Shopping Guide

While Budapest is known as the "Paris of the East," its shopping scene is not nearly as grand as Paris. However, you are certainly not without options! Some popular shopping areas in Budapest include:

• Luxury Shopping on Andrássy Avenue: For designer brands and upscale boutiques, head to Andrássy Avenue, Budapest’s answer to the Champs-Élysées. Lined with elegant neo-Renaissance buildings, this grand boulevard is home to Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and other international luxury brands.
• Local Souvenirs & Handcrafted Goods: If you are looking for traditional Hungarian souvenirs, visit the Central Market Hall, where you will find embroidered textiles, Hungarian paprika, jars of locally sourced honey, and more. Another great spot is Váci Street, a lively pedestrian shopping area in the city center filled with souvenir shops, Hungarian craft stores, and international brands.
• Quirky & Artisan Finds: The Jewish Quarter and District 5 are home to independent boutiques and design shops featuring Hungarian-made fashion, jewelry, and home décor. However, shops selling artisanal goods are available all over the city. Look for Printa, a concept store with sustainable fashion, or NUBU Studio, showcasing contemporary Hungarian designers.
• Vintage & Antiques: For those who love vintage finds and antiques, Falk Miksa Street is Budapest’s go-to for antique shopping, while Nagykőrösi Flea Market (also known as Ecseri Flea Market) is perfect for treasure hunters looking for old books, furniture, and retro memorabilia.

Popular Souvenirs from Budapest

• Hungarian Paprika: A staple of Hungarian cuisine, sweet or spicy paprika is a must-buy. Look for high-quality versions at the Central Market Hall, beautifully packaged in decorative tins or cloth bags. If you are looking for a cheaper option or do not have time to visit Central Market Hall, pretty much every grocery store in the city also sells Hungarian paprika. 
• Tokaji Wine & Pálinka: Hungary’s famous Tokaji Aszú, a sweet dessert wine, makes for an elegant gift, while pálinka, a strong fruit brandy, is a favorite for those who enjoy spirits. We found that the cheapest place to buy Hungarian wine is at a grocery store. Grocery stores are plentiful in Budapest, with major chains like SPAR and Lidl conveniently located throughout the city.
• Herend & Zsolnay Porcelain: For fine Hungarian craftsmanship, Herend and Zsolnay porcelain are world-renowned. These hand-painted pieces range from delicate teacups to intricate figurines, however, they do not come cheap!
• Hungarian Embroidery: Beautifully embroidered tablecloths, pillowcases, and blouses from regions like Matyó and Kalocsa showcase traditional Hungarian folk art and make great souvenirs from your trip to Budapest.
  
• Rubik's Cube: Did you know the Rubik's Cube was invented by a Hungarian? Invented by Hungarian architect Ernő Rubik, the Rubik's Cube is a fun and iconic souvenir from your trip to Budapest. Rubik's Cubes are sold in souvenir shops across the city.
• Hungarian Chocolates & Sweets: Treat yourself or your loved ones to Szamos marzipan, Gerbeaud chocolates, or Tibi bars - all beloved Hungarian confections.
• Thermal Bath Products: Many of the thermal baths in Budapest, like Széchenyi and Gellért, sell soaps, bath salts, and skincare products infused with their mineral-rich waters, letting you bring a piece of the spa experience home.