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Night view of Budapest Parliament Building

Enchanted Journeys in Budapest, a tale of city tours and Secrets

1. Budapest

Set off on a Budapest tour and explore the magic of a city where history and modernity meet. From the majestic Buda Castle to the lively promenades along the Danube, we’ll take you through the enchanting streets and vibrant culture of Hungary’s beloved capital.

Table of Contents

2. Top 10 Budapest tour

  • Budapest, with its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of activities and sights that are a must for any visitor on a Budapest tour. Here are seven things you definitely should enjoy while in Budapest:
  • 1. Thermal Baths (Széchenyi Thermal Bath) :
    Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, a legacy of the Ottoman rule. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest in Europe, offers a unique experience with its outdoor and indoor pools, saunas, and spa treatments.
    Transportation : Easily accessible by metro (M1 line to Széchenyi fürdő station).
    Visiting Hours : Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : Entrance fees start around 6,500 HUF; reservations are recommended, especially for spa treatments.
  • 2. Buda Castle :
    This historic castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings in Budapest is a must-visit on any Budapest tour. Not only does it offer a panoramic view of the city from Castle Hill, but it also houses the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.
    Transportation : Reachable by bus (number 16/16A from Deák Ferenc tér) or the funicular from Clark Ádám tér.
    Visiting Hours : The grounds are open 24 hours, but museum hours vary; typically, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : No fee to wander the castle grounds. Museums and the palace require tickets (around 3,200 HUF); no reservation needed for general entry.
  • 3. Fisherman’s Bastion :
    Located in the Buda Castle district, this picturesque terrace offers some of the best panoramic views over the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament, and the rest of Budapest. The fairy-tale turrets and walkways make it a favorite spot for photographers and tourists alike. It’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
    Transportation : Easily accessible by bus (number 16/16A) from central Budapest to the Buda Castle district.
    Visiting Hours : Open 24/7. The upper towers have a small admission fee and are open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM in the summer, and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the winter.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : The lower terraces are free. The upper lookout towers charge around 1,000 HUF. No reservations are needed.
  • 4. Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom) :
    This iconic church is situated right next to Fisherman’s Bastion. It is one of Budapest’s most famous historical religious edifices, notable for its stunning Gothic architecture. It has a rich history, serving as the coronation church of Hungarian kings. The church is well-known for its elaborate roof tiles and the Matthias Bell, one of the largest in Hungary.
    Transportation : Easily accessible by bus (number 16/16A) from central Budapest to the Buda Castle district.
    Visiting Hours : Typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays, and only open for worship services on Sundays.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : There is a fee to enter the church, about 1,500 HUF for adults with discounts available for students and seniors. Tickets can often be purchased on the spot, but groups might want to book in advance, especially during the tourist season.
  • 5. Hungarian Parliament Building :
    A stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture, this iconic building is an essential stop on any Budapest tour. Not only is it a sight to behold from the outside, but it also offers guided tours where you can explore its sumptuous interior, including the Holy Crown of Hungary.
    Transportation : Accessible by tram (line 2) or metro (M2 line to Kossuth Lajos tér station).
    Visiting Hours : Guided tours available from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed on public holidays.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : Entrance fee is approximately 3,500 HUF for EU citizens and 6,700 HUF for non-EU citizens. Advance booking is highly recommended.
  • 6. St. Stephen’s Basilica :
    This is the largest church in Budapest and it’s named after Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen. Its grand architecture and the majestic dome, which you can climb up to for a small fee, offers another splendid view of the city. The basilica also houses the Holy Right Hand, which is the mummified right hand of St. Stephen.
    Transportation : Located in the city center, easily reachable by metro (M1 or M3 to Deák Ferenc tér) or by several bus and tram lines.
    Visiting Hours : Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays, and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sundays. Holidays might affect these hours, so it’s good to check ahead.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : Entry to the church is free, but a donation of 200 HUF is suggested. Climbing the dome costs around 600 HUF. No reservations are required for entry, but groups might want to book in advance.
  • 7. Central Market Hall :
    Visit the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest on your Budapest tour, where you can sample a variety of Hungarian foods and spices, buy traditional crafts, and immerse yourself in the bustling local culture.
    Transportation : Near the Fővám tér station on the M4 metro line.
    Visiting Hours : Monday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Tuesday-Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Closed on Sundays.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : Free entry; no reservations needed.
  • 8. The Danube Promenade :
    Stroll along the Danube, particularly between the Chain Bridge and the Elizabeth Bridge. The walk offers beautiful views of the river and is lined with several cafes and restaurants where you can stop for a bite or a drink.
    Transportation : Easily reached by tram (line 2).
    Visiting Hours : Open 24/7.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : Free and open to the public; no reservations required.
  • 9. Ruin Pubs (Szimpla Kert) :
    Budapest is known for its ruined pubs, quirky bars that have taken over abandoned buildings or lots. Szimpla Kert, the original ruin pub, is particularly famous and offers a unique atmosphere with eclectic decor and a lively vibe.
    Transportation : Accessible by tram (lines 4 or 6 to Blaha Lujza tér).
    Visiting Hours : Typically open from late afternoon until early morning.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : No entrance fee; no reservations required, but it can get crowded during peak hours.
  • 10. Margaret Island :
    A peaceful getaway from the urban rush, Margaret Island is a large green park located in the middle of the Danube, accessible via a bridge. It’s perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, and picnicking. The island features medieval ruins, a small zoo, musical fountains, and swimming pools, making it a popular recreational area for both locals and tourists.
    Transportation : Accessible by tram (lines 4 and 6) or by bus (number 26 from Nyugati train station).
    Visiting Hours : Open 24/7. Specific attractions on the island like the Palatinus Bath have separate hours.
    Entrance Fee and Reservations : No entrance fee to the island itself. Facilities such as the swimming pools and sports equipment rentals have their own fees. Most do not require reservations, but booking in advance for sports facilities can be beneficial during peak times.

3. Top 5 places to enjoy the best night views of Budapest

  • Budapest is famous for its beautiful night views and is one of the most picturesque cities in Europe after dark. On your Budapest tour, be sure to visit these places where you can best see Budapest’s night view.
  • 1. Fisherman’s Bastion :
    Offering sweeping views of the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament, and much of the city, Fisherman’s Bastion is particularly magical at night when these iconic landmarks are lit up.
    Location : Buda Castle District.
  • 2. Gellért Hill :
    Climb or drive to the top of Gellért Hill for a panoramic view of Budapest. The hill features the Liberty Statue and provides a stunning vista across the Danube, capturing both Buda and Pest sides in all their illuminated glory.
    Location : District XI.
  • 3. Margaret Bridge :
    This is one of the best spots to view the city skyline after dark. The bridge itself is beautifully lit and offers a unique perspective of the Parliament and other riverside attractions.
    Location : Connecting Buda and Pest across Margaret Island.
  • 4. The top of St. Stephen’s Basilica :
    Visitors can climb to the observation deck of the Basilica for a close-up view of Pest’s cityscape, including the eye-catching sight of the lit-up Andrássy Avenue leading to Heroes’ Square.
    Location : Pest, near Deák Ferenc Square.
  • 5. A Danube River Cruise :
    Perhaps one of the most enchanting ways to see Budapest at night is from the water. A river cruise offers a moving panorama of the city’s illuminated bridges, the Parliament, and the Buda Castle among others, all from the tranquil setting of the Danube.
    Location : Various departure points along the Danube.
Budapest City and cruise ship seen from Széchenyi Bridge

4. Must-Try foods

One of the things you cannot miss on a Budapest tour is a food tour. The following is a list of foods to try in Budapest.

  • Goulash (Gulyás) :
    Perhaps the most famous Hungarian dish, this hearty soup is made with beef, potatoes, vegetables, and plenty of paprika. It’s both a traditional meal and a symbol of Hungarian cuisine.
  • Halászlé (Fisherman’s Soup) :
    This spicy fish soup is a Hungarian favorite, particularly popular among the communities around the River Danube and Tisza. It’s made with river fish, loads of paprika, and other spices, offering a fiery yet comforting flavor.
  • Chicken Paprikash (Paprikás Csirke):
    This creamy dish features chicken cooked in a rich, paprika-laden sauce, typically served with dumplings (nokedli) or a simple scoop of sour cream.
  • Pörkölt:
    Similar to goulash but thicker, Pörkölt is a stew made with meat (often beef or pork), onions, and a generous amount of Hungarian paprika. It’s typically served with dumplings or Hungarian noodles known as tarhonya.
  • Lángos :
    A beloved street food, lángos is deep-fried flatbread usually topped with garlic butter, sour cream, and grated cheese, sometimes also with ham or sausage.
  • Kürtőskalács :
    Also known as chimney cake, this sweet, spiral-shaped pastry is baked on a rotating spit over an open flame, then coated with sugar, and often topped with cinnamon or nuts.
  • Szekely Gulyas :
    A unique twist on traditional goulash, Szekely Gulyas combines pork stew with sauerkraut and sour cream, blending tart and creamy flavors for a hearty and satisfying meal.
  • Töltött Káposzta :
    Hungarian stuffed cabbage rolls are filled with ground pork, rice, and herbs, then simmered in a tangy tomato and sauerkraut sauce, a warming dish especially popular in the colder months.
  • Jókai Bean Soup (Jókai Bableves) :
    Named after the famous Hungarian writer Mór Jókai, this rich and smoky soup is made with beans, smoked sausage, and often bits of pancetta or ham, seasoned liberally with paprika.
  • Somlói Galuska :
    A trifle-like dessert made with layers of sponge cake, chocolate sauce, rum-soaked raisins, walnuts, and whipped cream, crowned with more chocolate sauce for a decadent finish.

5. Top 5 Popular Drinks

  • Tokaji Aszú :
    Often referred to as the “king of wines and the wine of kings,” Tokaji Aszú is a sweet dessert wine from the Tokaj region of Hungary. Its rich flavors are produced from grapes affected by noble rot, creating a concentrated and distinctively flavorful wine.
  • Pálinka :
    Pálinka is a traditional Hungarian fruit brandy, distilled from a variety of fruits. Common flavors include plum, apricot, apple, pear, and cherry. It’s strong, usually enjoyed neat, and is deeply embedded in Hungarian culture.
  • Unicum :
    This is a famous Hungarian herbal liqueur, usually served as a digestif. Unicum is made from a secret blend of more than forty different herbs and spices. It’s known for its distinctive bitter taste and dark color.
  • Egri Bikavér :
    Also known as Bull’s Blood of Eger, this robust red wine is produced in the Eger region. It’s a blend of three or more grape varieties, resulting in a complex, full-bodied wine that pairs excellently with hearty Hungarian dishes.
  • Frigyes Bott Frizzante :
    Representing the modern Hungarian winemaking, this sparkling wine is made using traditional methods but with a contemporary twist. It’s refreshing, slightly fizzy, and made from organic grapes, perfect for a light drink on a warm day.

6. Recommended day trip near Budapest

  • When visiting Budapest, you can easily extend your Budapest tour to explore several fascinating nearby destinations that offer unique experiences. Here are recommended travel spots accessible from Budapest:
  • 1. Lake Balaton :
    Known as the ‘Hungarian Sea,’ Lake Balaton is Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake, popular for its recreational activities, including sailing, swimming, and hiking in the surrounding hills.
    Distance from Budapest : Approximately 130 km southwest of Budapest.
    Location : The region around Lake Balaton, including towns like Balatonfüred and Tihany.
  • 2. Nagy-Szénás Mountain :
    Ideal for a moderate trek, this route leads to the summit offering expansive views of the Pilis Mountains and the surrounding areas.
    Distance from Budapest : Approximately 25 km northeast.
    Location : Part of the Pilis Mountains, accessible via Pilisszentiván or Pilisszentkereszt.
  • 3. Rám-szakadék :
    This adventurous trek features a narrow gorge with ladders and rocky paths, perfect for those looking for a challenge amidst natural beauty.
    Distance from Budapest : About 40 km north.
    Location : Near Dömös in the Danube-Ipoly National Park.
  • 4. Vienna, Austria :
    Rich in imperial history and culture, Vienna offers visitors a blend of classical music heritage, magnificent architecture, and world-class museums.
    Distance from Budapest : About 240 km west.
    Location : Easily accessible by car, bus, or train for a fuller day trip.
  • 5. Esztergom :
    This city is notable for housing Hungary’s largest church, the imposing Esztergom Basilica, and offers a historical exploration with stunning views across the Danube.
    Distance from Budapest : About 50 km northwest.
    Location : On the Danube River near the Slovak border.

7. Best time to visit

Budapest experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. The spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) months feature mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 11°C to 25°C (52°F to 77°F), making these periods ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities due to the comfortable weather and fewer tourists. Summers can be quite warm, with temperatures occasionally reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while winters are cold and snowy, often dipping below freezing, making spring and fall the best times to visit for favorable weather conditions.