12 fun things to do in Budapest for a one-of-a-kind trip

Whether you’re visiting Budapest for the first time or returning, the Pearl of the Danube offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.

From admiring the stunning architecture of the Hungarian Parliament building to soaking up the atmosphere of the Great Market Hall, there’s something for every taste.

You can wander through the historic Buda Castle district, take a Danube River cruise, or simply relax in one of the city’s famous thermal baths — there’s so much to soak up. To help you get started, here are 12 of the most fun things to do in Budapest.

Top fun things to do in Budapest at a glance

Fun things to do as a couple: Ride the Castle Hill Funicular, stroll through Buda Castle, or cruise the Danube.
Fun activities in Budapest for kids and families: Explore City Park, the Cat Museum or the Pinball Museum.
Fun things to do on your own: Tour the Parliament building, relax at a ruin bar or the Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
Fun food experiences: Join a cooking class or street food tour, or head to the Central Market Hall.

Fun things to do in Budapest as a couple

1. Take a romantic ride on the Budapest Castle Funicular

One of the many unique things to do in Budapest, the Budapest Castle Funicular is an uphill railway that connects the Chain Bridge to the Buda Castle. It offers stunning city and Danube views and is a great way to get to the top of the hill with your partner.

Highlights

The funicular is one of the oldest in the world, and the tunnel and machines are still the originals that have been in service since 1870.

Address and opening hours

Clark Adam Square, District I, 1013. Open daily, 8:00 AM-10:00 PM.

2. Stroll through Buda Castle at sunset

Walk hand in hand with your special someone through Buda Castle while watching the sun set over Budapest. The castle offers an impressive panoramic view of the city, and several cafes and restaurants are nearby for a delicious post-stroll dinner.

Highlight

The castle now houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum for an extra culture hit.

Address and opening hours

Budapest, Szent György tér. Open 24/7.

3. Sail down the Danube River together

With the beautiful Parliament building on one side and Buda Castle on the other, a boat tour on the River Danube offers stunning views and romance aplenty. Some tours include drinks so you can enjoy the impressive skyline while sharing a toast with your partner.

Best time to go

Book a boat ride at sunset or night to see the city’s lights at their twinkling best.

Fun things to do in Budapest with kids

4. Spend the day in City Park

No matter the season you’re visiting, City Park is still a must-visit. Within its 100 hectares, you can explore Vajdahunyad Castle, take a boat ride on the lake, or even practice your skating.

Highlight

Vajdahunyad Castle, located in the middle of the park, regularly hosts events and concerts, so you may be lucky enough to catch one.

Address and opening hours

Városliget, Budapest 1146.

5. Make some feline friends at the Cat Museum

One of the most unique things to do in Budapest has to be visiting the Cat Museum. Home to a variety of breeds, a visit here allows you to pet and play with the stars of the show as well as admire the cat-themed artwork.

Insider tip

Pay attention as you make your way around the museum — there’s a quiz at the end. Get all the answers right and you can go home with a free souvenir.

Address and opening hours

1054 Budapest, Vadász u. 26 a. Open Monday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-6:30 PM.

6. Take little gamers to the Pinball Museum

Introduce your children to pinball and other vintage console games at the Pinball Museum, one of Budapest’s top family-friendly activities. There’s something for everyone, from new gamers to nostalgic parents, and the atmosphere is relaxed and fun.

Highlight

The museum hosts regular pinball competitions. If you’re lucky, you might witness one during your visit.

Address and opening hours

Radnóti Miklós u. 18, 1137. Open Wednesday-Friday, 4:00 PM-midnight; Saturday, 1:00 PM-midnight; Sunday, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM.

Fun things to do in Budapest on your own

7. Go for a night out at Szimpla Kert

If you want to make new friends or enjoy a night out alone, Szimpla Kert is the ruin bar to visit. It’s one of Budapest’s oldest and most popular bars, known for its friendly atmosphere and free live concerts.

Highlight

The bar is located in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter and is a great place to pop in after a guided tour of the area.

Address and opening hours

Kazinczy u. 14, 1075. Open daily, 3:00 PM-4:00 AM.

8. Unwind at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Not much can beat sitting in the naturally warm waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. Budapest’s largest bath complex, it’s fed by natural hot springs and offers a variety of pools and saunas.

Highlight

The thermal springs feeding the baths are rich in minerals and believed to have therapeutic benefits for all sorts of ailments, perfect for soothing tired feet after a Budapest walking tour

Address and opening hours

Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146. Open daily, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM.

9. Learn more about the city’s history on a Parliament tour

To dive deeper into Budapest’s history, the Hungarian Parliament building is an architectural masterpiece that offers guided tours. Admire the stained-glass windows inside before enjoying the impressive views of the Danube River from the top.

Insider Tip

For an unforgettable experience, book a tour that includes a glimpse of the Holy Crown of Saint Stephen.

Address and opening hours

Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055. Open Monday-Sunday, 8:00 AM-6:00 PM during the summer months and 8:00 AM-4:00 PM during the winter.

Fun things to do in Budapest as a food lover

10. Discover local flavors at the Central Market Hall

One of Budapest’s biggest markets, the Central Market Hall is the best place to find fresh meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. Street food fans shouldn’t leave without trying lángos, a Hungarian fried bread dish usually topped with cheese and sour cream.

Insider tip

The hustle and bustle of the market spreads to the second floor — make sure you don’t miss upstairs.

Address and opening hours

Budapest, 1093 Hungary, Open Monday-Saturday, 6:00 AM-6:00 PM.

11. Make your very own chimney cake

Discover the art of cooking and seasoning kürtőskalács, the famous traditional chimney cake you can find everywhere in Budapest. At a Budapest cooking class, you’ll learn how to make the beloved dessert and the story and traditions behind it.

Highlight

Not only will you be able to enjoy your cake on the day, you’ll have the recipe to take home.

12. Discover the best street food on a city tour

Budapest has a growing street food scene — from its Central Market Hall to the food trucks you’ll find throughout the Jewish Quarter. To discover the best place to find its chimney cakes, lángos and hearty goulash, join a Budapest street food tour.

Insider tip

Traditional Hungarian food is all about meat, so flag to your tour guide before you get started if you’d like more vegetarian-friendly stops.

FAQs:

Is Budapest expensive?

Budapest is generally considered affordable, especially compared to other European capitals. You can budget as little as $50 per day, per person for accommodation, food, transport, and activities.

What is the best way to get around Budapest?

The metro in Budapest is efficient and affordable, with tickets costing 450 HUF (just over $1). The city center is pedestrian-friendly and beautiful, if you can, see as much as possible on foot.

Are there any free fun activities in Budapest?

The best free activity in Budapest is admiring the city itself. If you like architecture, there are countless old buildings and impressive structures to admire. You can easily spend days wandering around admiring the many sights.

What is the best month to go to Budapest?

Budapest is beautiful all year round. If you’re not a fan of crowds though, the best time to visit Budapest is in late spring (May and June) or early autumn (September and October). The weather will still be on the warmer side then, too.

How many days are enough to visit Budapest?

You can explore much of Budapest on foot in a weekend but if you want to uncover its secrets, three to four days is a nice amount of time to immerse yourself in the city. Plus, you’ll want some time to relax in its soothing thermal pools.