Top 5 Things To Do In Budapest

Budapest is a city of contrast. From the gentle sloping hills of ancient Buda to the flat terrain of Pest. With a history of Celtic, Roman and Ottoman occupation, and pivotal during both of the World Wars, Budapest has something for everyone. Here are the top 5 things to do in budapest when you visit…

Things to do in budapest

1. Take in The Architecture Of The Parliament Building

The outstanding Gothic building on the banks of the Danube is one of the largest buildings in Hungary. Still a fully functional parliamentary office, stunning from virtually every angle, forming part of the UNESCO site as a central element in the Danube panorama.

Tickets are available daily to tour certain parts of the building, and can be purchased via the official website.

2. Soothe Your Aching Bones at a World Class Thermal Bath

Budapest has one of the most unrivalled thermal spring networks in the world, with 125 connected pools, and a number of world class pools and spas to appreciate them at. The healing waters of these mineral rich hot springs have been celebrated for centuries. 

Bring your swimsuit and pick one of Gellert, Széchenyi, Lukacs, Rudas, Kiraly or Veli Bej baths. Each of the baths has their own charm and quirks and all completely different.

3. Try the local cuisine of Goulash and Chimney Cake

The hearty meat stew of Goulash is a traditional dish originating from Hungary and eaten across many central European countries since medieval times. With a mixture of beef, vegetables, paprika and other spices, this warming dish is served pretty much anywhere and is absolutely delicious.

v is a type of spit cake native to Hungary. Layers of dough are wrapped about a wooden log or spit and then ‘baked’ on a rotisserie. Covered in sugar, cinnamon or Nutella, it’s difficult to describe, almost like a sweet Yorkshire pudding, definitely a local treat.

4. Drink Palinka in the Jewish Ruin Bars

The Jewish Quarter of Budapest is home to a number of pop-up bars and pubs, that have grown from the abandoned properties in the area. This hipster nightlife is a bohemian mecca, full of a buzzing and creative young crowd, bringing life and rebirth to the area. 

Szimpla Kert has the proud honour of being the first ruin bar. With indoor courtyards, artistic graffiti and ‘shabby chic’, it is a must when visiting Budapest. Palinka is the local liquor, a clear fruit brandy native to Hungary. Egeszsegere! (Cheers!)

5. Discover Ancient Buda

The hilly west of Budapest is the ancient capital to the Kingdom of Hungary. Buda is home to a vast array of historical buildings and monuments, including Buda Castle, Citadel, Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church.

Walking up from Gellert’s Hill to the Citadel gives you gorgeous panoramic views over Budapest, before heading towards the Castle. You can take the Funicular Cable Car back down to the river, which has been meticulously restored after it was destroyed during the second world war.

For a relatively small capital city, there is so much to do and enjoy in Budapest

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