Updated 04/11/2024
Nestled along the banks of the majestic Danube River, Budapest is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant culture. From its iconic landmarks to its charming neighbourhoods, a journey to Budapest promises an adventure filled with discovery and wonder.
Where To Stay:
Booking a holiday to Budapest doesn’t get much easier with TUI & OnTheBeach package deals!
Holidays to Budapest, OnTheBeach
Marmara Design Hotel: Located in the heart of Budapest, Marmara Design Hotel offers a stylish stay with a unique Eastern-inspired design. The hotel combines modern comforts with an exotic atmosphere, featuring cosy rooms, vibrant decor and excellent service. It’s perfect for travelers looking for something a bit different, with easy access to the city’s top attractions. Marmara Design Hotel, OnTheBeach
Mercure Budapest Nemzeti: This elegant hotel, housed in a historic building, blends classic charm with contemporary amenities. Mercure Budapest Nemzeti boasts beautifully designed rooms, a chic restaurant and a prime location close to Budapest’s cultural and shopping districts. Mercure Budapest Nemzeti, OnTheBeach
About Budapest:
One of the most iconic features of Budapest is its stunning architecture, which reflects its history and diverse influences. The city is home to an array of architectural marvels, from the Hungarian Parliament Building to the majestic beauty of Buda Castle. Crossing the Danube River, visitors are greeted by the panoramic vistas of the Chain Bridge, a symbol of Budapest’s unity and resilience. See Budapest from a whole new angle! Hop in a vintage Russian jeep and explore the city’s top sights with a fun twist. History, adventure and iconic views—all in one unique tour. Private City Tour With Russian Jeep on Viator
Exploring the historic district of Castle Hill, visitors can wander through cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings and charming cafes. Buda Castle, perched atop the hill, offering views of the city and houses the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. Using the Funicular is a great way to see the views on the way up to Buda Castle! Fisherman’s Bastion is also a must to visit offering panoramic views of the city. There is a cafe offering great views inside which is very reasonably priced!
Venturing across the river to the Pest side of the city, visitors can stroll along Andrassy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with elegant mansions and designer boutiques. The avenue leads to Heroes’ Square, a vast plaza adorned with statues of Hungary’s most revered leaders and warriors, including the iconic Millennium Monument.
No trip to Budapest is complete without a visit to its famous thermal baths, which have been soothing locals and visitors alike for centuries. The city is renowned for its abundance of natural hot springs, and there are numerous bathhouses scattered throughout Budapest offering a variety of spa treatments and relaxation. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, located in City Park, is one of the largest and most popular thermal baths in Europe, featuring stunning architecture and a range of indoor and outdoor pools. Szechenyi Thermal Baths on Viator
Budapest is a paradise for food lovers, with a thriving culinary scene that showcases the best of Hungarian cuisine alongside international dishes. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as goulash, lángos (fried dough), and chimney cake at local markets and street food stalls or dine in style at one of the city’s many Michelin-starred restaurants. Chimney cakes can vary massively in price, so be careful where you go!
As night falls, Budapest comes alive with a bustling nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From trendy ruin pubs housed in abandoned buildings to chic rooftop bars offering panoramic views of the city, there’s no shortage of entertainment options after dark. Visitors can enjoy live music performances and cultural events throughout the city, immersing themselves in Budapest’s vibrant nightlife culture.
Don’t miss seeing the sites of Budapest at night, especially St Stephens Basilica all lit up. I would highly recommend doing a moonlight river cruise along the Danube. This hosts spectacular views of the city at night and a chance to see all of the points of interest lit up! Night River Cruise on Viator
Fancy getting out of the city to discover the hidden beauty of Lake Balaton? Explore charming villages, vineyards and serene lakeside view, perfect for a relaxed escape from the city. Lake Balaton Tour on Viator
Why not do a 2 in 1, and take a quick jaunt to Bratislava! This guided day trip from Budapest shows you Slovakia’s charming capital, from medieval streets to hilltop views. Great for adding a bit more adventure to your Budapest stay. One day private trip to Bratislava on Viator
Top tips:
Airport transfer- A cheaper alternative to a taxi is to book a shared airport transfer, this is maximum of 6 people in each transfer. The desk is very easy to locate once you have landed in the airport and the transfers run regularly, around £10 per person, or book a private transfer in advance. Budapest One Way Private Transfer on Viator
Transport- Walking is the best way to see all of Budapest has to offer, however there is a wide range of transport options available, including trams, buses and metros. Ensure to buy a ticket before getting on any transport, they are available at the ticket machines at the stops, although they are not the easiest to understand! I would recommend getting a travel card or transport pass to make it easier!
Thermal Baths- Due to the high demand of visitors wanting to experience this, as well as locals who visit regularly, Széchenyi Thermal Bath can become overcrowded and difficult to book in to. Gellert Thermal baths is a great alternative. Gellert Thermal Spa on Viator. If you do not have room to pack an extra towel for the thermal bath, good quality ones can be bought in supermarkets around the city for as little at £2 and you will need shoes suitable to take into the baths. Avoid buying swimming caps/shoes etc from inside the thermal baths, these are overpriced and can be found cheaper in the city if needed!
With its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere, Budapest offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience that will leave them longing to return again and again. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, indulging in its culinary delights, or soaking in its thermal baths, Budapest has something to offer every type of traveller, making it a true jewel of the Danube.
