Budapest is one of those cities that’s packed with impressive sights, beautiful architecture, plenty of different restaurants and it’s surprisingly easy to explore.
Before my first visit in 2024, I already knew Budapest was quite a popular European destination to go to, but I didn’t expect to have this much variety packed into just one city.
From exploring amazing architecture and wandering around the most iconic sights, to trying new dishes at local restaurants during long summer nights (we visited twice during summer), this city truly has it all.
In this article, I’ll share with you what I loved, what surprised me, my favorite neighborhood to stay in, who I think the city is best suited for and whether I’d recommend adding Budapest to your Europe itinerary.
A little spoiler before we get into it: Budapest definitely lives up to the hype and is certainly worth adding to your EU trip!
Is Budapest Worth Visiting? My Quick Answer
A city trip to this beautiful place in central Europe, where the Danube River divides the city into Buda and Pest, is worth every minute if you’d ask me!
After visiting Budapest twice already, I’d highly recommend booking at least 2 days in Budapest to see the highlights of the city.
Choose an accommodation in the city center, whether it’s a spacious apartment so you can cook yourself, or a little more luxurious stay at a hotel, Budapest has a lot of different accommodations to offer.
Short on Time? Check Out My Favorite Budapest Hotel Stays
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There’s loads of things to see and to do in Budapest. Visit one of the many thermal baths, go see the sunrise at dreamy Fisherman’s Bastion, wander around the streets in different neighborhoods, try local cuisine, if you’d take your time, you can easily spend a couple of weeks here slowly exploring the city.
What I Really Liked About Budapest
Walkable City
You absolutely don’t need to rent a car, unless you’re road tripping Europe of course, but seriously, Budapest is such a walkable city which is a huuuge pro, just like Prague.
I loved to walk around everywhere, especially in the morning, when most of the city was still asleep, just wandering around the cozy streets.
I’d recommend waking up early to go see the sunrise at Fisherman’s Bastion, this is something you have to do while visiting the city, as you’ll be rewarded for leaving your bed early with the most unreal view of the city.
Beautiful historic and artistic buildings
Budapest is filled with historical buildings, and if you look at the stunning artwork of the Parliament Building, for example, you’ll be even more impressed by it.
I really liked that you come across many historical buildings, like grand churches, old bridges and elegant streets in different areas of the city.
Good Cafés and Restaurants
Not to mention the number of great cafés and restaurants. Budapest is literally full of cozy spots to sit down and order something to drink or to eat.
I loved to start my morning routine with a walk to one of the many cute cafés to grab an (iced) latte, followed by a little stroll around the neighborhood we were staying to get some steps in.
Food-wise, you name it and there are tons of restaurants with plenty of options on their menu. You can go try some Hungarian dishes, go for something Western, or pick one from the international restaurant options the city offers. Budapest pretty much has something for every taste.
Cheap Taxis
As someone who is used to short taxi rides for an insane amount of money in their home country, Budapest really has a well-organized taxi system in my opinion.
Getting around Budapest by taxi is pretty straightforward, especially when you’re someone who gets overwhelmed by busy public transport (ha, that’s me!).
Licensed taxis use regulated fares, and rides are easy to arrange through official taxi companies or apps like Uber. I must say that prices are super affordable, even for just a short ride from Buda to Pest, without any hassle.
Affordable Public Transport
Budapest’s public transport is another big plus. The city has an extensive network of metros, buses and trams, which makes traveling to both sides of the city very convenient.
It’s also very affordable too. For tourists, they also offer a 24-Hour Budapest Travel Card, which cost 2,750 HUF, while a 72-Hour pass costs 5,750 HUF. Both allow you unlimited travels on almost all public transport within Budapest.
Quick note: keep in mind that the regular travelcards do not include the 100E Airport Express.
What I Didn’t Like About Budapest
Heat in Summer Months
Okay, Budapest itself can’t really do anything about the time of year I chose to visit, but if I had to complain about one thing, it would definitely be the heat during summer.
Walking around a city center for hours without a beach nearby to cool off can get pretty intense during the European summer.
The only possibility to take a break from the heat is to book a slot for a thermal bath, like Széchenyi, but unfortunately during summer, you’re definitely not the only person with this idea…
It didn’t ruin our trip at all, but I’d definitely keep it in mind if you’re planning to visit in July or August.
Busy during European holidays
Both of my visits were during summertime, which is obviously one of the busiest periods of the year, as so many people in Europe are on holiday.
That means popular sights, thermal baths, restaurants, and even central streets can feel noticeably more crowded.
For me, that takes away a little from the experience when you constantly have to wait and book ahead, for example, timeslots for thermal baths quickly sell out during these periods.
The Best Things to Do in Budapest
Besides the things I’ll tell you in this article that are great to do and see in the city, there’s a ton of other things to do in Budapest.
From historical buildings to the Central Market Hall to visiting one of the many thermal baths, you literally won’t get bored easily in this lively city. I’ll name some of the most popular ones you absolutely cannot miss!
Visit Fisherman’s Bastion
One of the most recognizable spots in Budapest you must visit. It’s an amazing place to get a wide view over the city. It’s a nice spot for an impressive scenery where you can spend as long as you need.
Wander around Buda Castle
Buda Castle is a beautiful area to explore on foot, with plenty of viewpoints along the way and historical surroundings. Even if you’re not a big fan of museums, the castle grounds are still worth it to walk around and take in the spectacular views.
Go see Hungarian Parliament Building
Being one of the city’s most impressive landmarks, the Parliament Building is impossible to miss along the Danube. Its scale and architecture are worth a visit even only from the outside, during the day but also highly recommended at night.
Visit a thermal bath
Thermal baths are part of the Budapest experience and a perfect way to relax after a full day of sightseeing.
Whether you choose the most popular named Széchenyi or a lesser known one, it’s an activity (or better say relaxation moment) you have to add to your itinerary!
Views from Danube River
Along the Danube, there are countless great spots to get some of the best city views, especially around sunset or at night.
Just simply get something to eat for take-away and enjoy a beautiful night alongside this kilometers-long river.
FAQ on Is Budapest Worth Visiting?
Is Budapest Worth Visiting?
Absolutely a hard yes. It’s one of those European cities I instantly fell in love with and would keep returning to, even for a couple of days and hopefully for a longer period in the future!
Is Budapest an Expensive City to Visit?
Keeping Dutch prices in mind (I am a Dutchie after all), the city is fairly cheap. Public transport is super affordable, you could have a lunch or dinner for a decent price, and I’d say accommodation is slightly cheaper compared to other European cities like Barcelona or Lisbon.
What is the Best Month to Visit Budapest?
I can tell you that in peak summer, July and August (when we visited), it’s bloody hot in Budapest, so if you can, I’d avoid those months.
I’d say visit during Spring or right after peak European summer, like September or October with milder temperatures, or if you love spending time around Christmas in another country, go visit the city in december.
What is There to Do in Budapest?
From visiting Fisherman’s Bastion to the Hungarian Parliament Building or a river cruise across the Danube River, there’s honestly so much to do in Budapest. For some sights you have to pay entrance fee, but there are also many things to do for free in the city.
How Many Days in Budapest Do You Need?
I’d say spend at least 2 days in Budapest. If you have more time, 3-4 days in the city would be perfect. You’re able to explore the main sights, relax at one of the thermal baths and enjoy strolling around the city at your own pace.
Budapest or Prague: Which City Would You Choose?
Oof, that’s a tough question. I’ve never visited Prague in summer, so I can only tell you about how AMAZING it is to visit Prague during winter. But so is Budapest, as I may believe some of my friends.
Personally, if we talk about the overall vibe, I’d choose Budapest over Prague, as the variety of things you can do is more aligned with my likings. I absolutely love thermal spas, and the Hungarian cuisine is absolutely unreal.
Final Thoughts on Is Budapest Worth Visiting?
As I mentioned multiple times in the article already, Budapest is absolutely worth visiting from my point of view.
Whether it’s for a day trip, a short city break, a weekend getaway or to stay as a digital nomad, on all options I’d encourage you to go visit the capital of Hungary.
I’d avoid going during European summer though, as the temperatures are WILD and it’s super crowded in July and August.
Although it’s a walkable city, you cannot convince me that it’s a pleasure sweating you’re a$$ off while wandering around with those crazy temperatures.
The cultural sights Budapest offers are so worth it that if you’d like, you can see the main highlights during a 2-day visit, or if you want a bit more relaxation, visit one of the many thermal spas.
Finally, Budapest is a perfect place to go to whether it’s a city trip, weekend getaway or as a highlight of a European road trip. Enjoy your stay in Budapest!
Check My Other Budapest Blogs
The Best Things to Do in Budapest: My Favorite Activities & Sights to See
2 Days in Budapest Itinerary: How to Spend Two Days in the City
Where to Stay in Budapest: Discover the Best Areas & Stays
Check My Other Europe Blogs
The Best Cities to Visit in Europe in December: My Favorite Cities to Visit
