Top Things to Do in Budapest

Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Baths

A visit to Szechenyi Thermal Baths is an absolute must. These famous outdoor thermal pools are perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

• Entry is affordable (around €12–€20 depending on the season)
• Access to indoor and outdoor pools
• Sun loungers, cafés, and bars available
• Open into the evening for a magical atmosphere

It’s easily one of the best ways to experience Budapest’s spa culture.

Visit Fisherman’s Bastion & Castle Hill

Fisherman’s Bastion looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Perched above the city, it offers some of the best panoramic views of Budapest.

Walk up from the metro or take the funicular down from Buda Castle if you’re feeling tired.

Admire the Hungarian Parliament Building

The iconic Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most stunning examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Europe. It’s particularly beautiful at night when lit up along the Danube.

Step Inside St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is Hungary’s third-largest church and an absolute showstopper inside. Inside you can find gold detailing and ornate interiors, and a peaceful escape from the busy streets. If you’ve got time, climb the dome for city views.

Reflect at the Shoes on the Danube Bank

The Shoes on the Danube Bank is one of the most moving memorials in the city. The message behind this memorial is incredibly sad. The shoes represent the 3,500 people who were killed by fascists in the Arrow Cross party. These people were ordered to take off their shoes, and were shot close to the edge of the water so their bodies would fall into the river and be carried away.

Visitors are often struck by the simplicity – and the powerful message – behind the iron shoes lining the riverbank.

Visit the German Occupation Memorial

The German Occupation Memorial offers insight into Hungary’s complex wartime history. It was emotional reading texts and tributes to the deceased, and interesting to read the texts about the “truth” behind the memorial.

Where to Eat in Budapest

Budapest has an interesting food scene. Hungarian food is typically quite stodgy and heavy – many of these dishes are accompanied by potatoes or dumplings, and meat is extremely popular. While traditional restaurants can be limited for vegetarians, Budapest’s international food scene makes up for it.

Here are some tried-and-tested favourites:

Brunch & Cafés

• Cirkusz Café – A fantastic brunch spot. Try the Turkish eggs or a traditional Hungarian breakfast. Good coffee and helpful staff who spoke good English (and didn’t judge us for not knowing any Hungarian!).
• Regős Vendéglő – We had a lovely typical Hungarian dinner here and it was excellent value. Chicken paprika with dumplings and salad, two portions of goulash soup, pork knuckle with potatoes and a bottle of wine only came to £17. Cheap, filling, tasty and authentic!

• Pola Pola. If you like meat, this is the place for you! The menu offers shish, chicken or sausages, served in filling bread rolls with hot paprika and other sides.

• Karavan – This is a great area to eat and drink, with a variety of street food stalls. We had traditional beef goulash and langos (fried dough served with a range of toppings, most traditionally with sour cream and grated cheese). They also had burgers, tacos, pizzas and lots more. Plus bars for alcoholic and soft drinks, and benches to sit on.
• Meat and sauce. Good for an on-the-go snack. They have freshly-made cream cheese bagels and big tasty sandwiches.
• Ruszwurm Cukrászda is a lovely café by Fisherman’s Bastion. Try their strudels! There is a table charge so we got our cakes to take away and ate them by the Bastion.

Exploring Budapest: Street Art & Hidden Gems

As you may know, I love street photography and discovering cool street art when I’m in a new city. Budapest didn’t disappoint! The city is full of colourful street art, hidden courtyards, and quirky details, especially in the Jewish Quarter.

Where to Stay in Budapest

Budapest is divided by the Danube River into two sides:

• Buda – quieter, more residential, historic
• Pest – lively, full of restaurants, bars, and nightlife

For first-time visitors, staying in Pest is the best choice. We stayed in the Erzsébetváros (District VII) area and loved it:

• Walking distance to major attractions
• Great nightlife and food scene
• Surprisingly quiet apartments tucked away from the street

Extra Tips for Visiting Budapest

• Spend time at Városliget (City Park) for a relaxing break
• Head to the Danube River at sunset with a drink – it’s one of the best moments in the city
• Budapest is compact, so you can explore most places on foot

If you have any more Budapest recommendations, feel free to add them to the comments!

Ciao for now

Izzie, the Curious Sparrow