Budapest is the capital city of Hungary in central Europe. The city is divided in two by the River Danube with many of Budapest’s historic buildings and monuments located on the river banks. The city offers a blend of historic thermal baths, impressive architecture, and lively nightlife. Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Parliament Building.
Official tourism website: https://www.budapestinfo.hu/en
Google map of the city of Budapest.
The Best Things to Do in Budapest
#1 Hungarian Parliament
Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház), an iconic Gothic Revival building on the banks of the Danube, is the seat of Hungary’s National Assembly. Completed in 1904, it is the third-largest parliament building globally and features striking architecture, ornate interiors, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the historic halls, admire the opulent decoration, and learn about Hungary’s parliamentary history, making it a must-visit attraction in Budapest.
Official website:
https://www.parlament.hu/en/
Google map 4.8/5
#2 St. Stephen’s Basilica
St Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika), a prominent Roman Catholic church in Budapest, is dedicated to Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen. This 19th-century Neo-Classical masterpiece features a 96-meter-high dome, intricate frescoes, and St. Stephen’s mummified right hand, a revered national relic. Visitors can attend masses, explore the stunning interiors, and ascend the dome’s observation deck for panoramic views of the city, making it a significant religious and cultural site.
Official website:
https://bazilikabudapest.hu/en/
Google map 4.7/5
#3 Buda Castle
Buda Castle, a historic castle complex perched on Castle Hill in Budapest, once served as the residence of Hungarian royalty. Established in the 13th century and extensively renovated over the centuries, the castle now houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Visitors can explore the grand courtyards, admire panoramic city views, and delve into Hungary’s rich history and art through the museum collections, making Buda Castle a must-visit attraction.
Google map (4.7/5)
#4 Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion (Halászbástya), located on Castle Hill, is a fairy-tale-like terrace offering panoramic views of the Danube and Pest side of Budapest. Built in the early 20th century, this Neo-Romanesque structure features seven towers, representing the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary. Visitors can stroll along the ramparts, admire the striking architecture, and capture memorable photos of the cityscape, making it an essential stop on any Budapest itinerary.
Official website:
Google map 4.8/5
#5 Danube River Cruise
A Danube River Cruise is an ideal way to experience the beauty of Budapest, as the city straddles both banks of this iconic European waterway. Cruises offer stunning views of landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. Visitors can choose from various cruise options, including sightseeing, dinner, and evening cruises, providing a unique and picturesque perspective of Budapest’s architectural splendor and charm.
#6 Matthias Church
Matthias Church (Mátyás Templom), a historic Roman Catholic church on Castle Hill, boasts a distinctive diamond-patterned roof and an eclectic mix of architectural styles. Founded in the 11th century and extensively renovated over the centuries, the church features stunning stained-glass windows, frescoes, and an ornate altarpiece. Visitors can explore the church’s rich history, attend masses, or enjoy classical concerts, making it a captivating attraction in Budapest.
Official website:
Google map 4.8/5
#7 Margaret Island
Margaret Island (Margit-sziget), a tranquil oasis in the heart of Budapest, spans 2.5 kilometers on the Danube River. The island offers lush green spaces, historical ruins, a Japanese garden, and a musical fountain, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can stroll along the shaded pathways, rent bicycles, or relax in the thermal baths, experiencing a unique blend of nature and relaxation in the Hungarian capital.
Google map 4.7/5
#8 Heroes’ Square
Heroe’s Square (Hősök tere) is a grand public square in Budapest, commemorating Hungarian national history and featuring the iconic Millennium Monument. Completed in 1900, the square is flanked by the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art, making it a significant cultural hub. Visitors can explore the monument, visit the neighboring museums, and attend various events held in the square, including open-air concerts and festivals.
Google map 4.7/5
#9 Chain Bridge
Chain Bridge is also known as Széchenyi Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) is a historic suspension bridge spanning the Danube River in Budapest, connecting the Buda and Pest districts. Completed in 1849, the bridge features majestic stone lions and striking architecture, becoming a symbol of the city’s unification. Visitors can walk or drive across the bridge, enjoy picturesque views of the river, and capture memorable photos of Budapest’s iconic landmarks, making it an essential city attraction.
Google map 4.7/5
#10 Hungarian National Gallery
The Hungarian National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria), located within the historic Buda Castle complex, is a prestigious institution dedicated to showcasing Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Established in 1957, the gallery’s extensive collection spans various artistic styles and periods, featuring works by renowned artists such as Mihály Munkácsy and László Pál. Visitors can explore the diverse exhibits, admire the masterpieces, and gain insight into Hungary’s rich artistic heritage at this essential cultural attraction.
Official website: https://en.mng.hu
Google map 4.6/5
#11 Hungarian National Museum
The Hungarian National Museum (Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum), founded in 1802, is a prestigious institution showcasing Hungary’s cultural, historical, and archaeological heritage. Housed in a neoclassical building, the museum’s extensive collection includes artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era. Visitors can explore exhibits on Hungarian history, art, and ethnography, while discovering the rich and diverse heritage of this Central European nation, making it a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts.
Official website: https://mnm.hu/
Google map 4.5/5
#12 Hungarian State Opera
The Hungarian State Opera (Magyar Állami Operaház), an opulent Neo-Renaissance building in Budapest, is renowned for its world-class performances of opera and ballet. Opened in 1884, the opera house features a sumptuous interior, including a magnificent auditorium, frescoes, and a grand staircase. Visitors can attend captivating performances, take guided tours of the historic building, or enjoy the annual Budapest Opera Ball, immersing themselves in the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Official website:
Google map 4.5/5
#13 Shoes on the Danube Bank
The Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial (Cipők a Duna-parton) is a poignant tribute to the Hungarian Jews who were executed along the riverbank during World War II. The memorial, created by sculptor Gyula Pauer and film director Can Togay, features 60 pairs of iron shoes symbolizing the victims’ discarded footwear. Visitors can reflect on this somber chapter of history, pay their respects, and gain a deeper understanding of Budapest’s complex past.
Official website:
Google map 4.6/5
#14 Gellert Hotel and Baths
The Gellert Hotel and Thermal Baths (Gellért Gyógyfürdő és Uszoda), located in the Art Nouveau Gellért Hotel, is a historic spa complex offering a luxurious thermal bath experience. Established in 1918, the baths feature thermal pools, saunas, and massage services, utilizing natural spring water renowned for its therapeutic properties. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the elegant setting, admire the intricate mosaic decorations, and indulge in a quintessential Budapest spa experience.
Official website:
Google map 4.3/5
#15 Great Synagogue
The Great Synagogue, also known as the Dohány Street Synagogue (Dohány utcai Zsinagóga), is the largest synagogue in Europe and a significant religious and cultural site in Budapest. Built in the Moorish Revival style in 1859, the synagogue features a striking façade, ornate interiors, and a Holocaust memorial. Visitors can attend services, take guided tours, and explore the Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives, learning about the rich history and heritage of the Jewish community in Hungary.
Official website:
Google map 4.4/5
#16 House of Terror
House of Terror Museum (Terror Háza), a museum located in a former secret police headquarters, is dedicated to the victims of Hungary’s fascist and communist regimes. The museum offers a haunting insight into the dark chapters of Hungary’s 20th-century history, with exhibits detailing political oppression, interrogations, and torture. Visitors can explore the museum’s chilling displays, contemplate the impact of totalitarianism, and honor the memory of those who suffered under these regimes.
Official website:
https://www.terrorhaza.hu/en
Google map 4.1/5