Top reasons to visit Budapest
- Stunning Architecture: Budapest boasts a blend of historical and modern architecture, with iconic landmarks like the Parliament Building and Buda Castle.
- Relaxing Thermal Baths: Experience rejuvenation at Budapest's famous thermal baths, renowned for their healing properties and unique atmosphere.
- Culinary Delights: Enjoy a food tour to savour traditional Hungarian cuisine, from goulash to chimney cake.
- Scenic Danube Views: Take in breathtaking views along the Danube River, especially at sunset.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Wander through vibrant neighbourhoods like the Jewish Quarter, filled with history and culture.
Find great hotels in Budapest
Discover an array of accommodation options in Budapest, ranging from charming hotels to budget-friendly hostels perfect for backpackers. Whether you're travelling with family, on a business trip, or seeking pet-friendly lodgings, Budapest offers a variety of choices to suit your needs. Explore the top hotels in the city, ensuring a delightful stay while immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of Hungary's vibrant capital.
- Continental Hotel Budapest: This 4.5-star boutique hotel boasts a distinctive Art Deco design, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Budapest. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, it offers a luxurious experience ideal for travellers seeking a pet-friendly environment. The hotel features uniquely designed decor and artworks, enhancing its charm. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a pet policy accommodating dogs and cats, ensuring that your furry companions are welcomed. The property is well-suited for those wanting a blend of elegance and comfort during their stay.
- NH Collection Budapest City Center: This eco-certified 4-star hotel is perfect for business travellers and eco-conscious guests alike. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, the NH Collection Budapest City Center offers modern amenities in a convenient location. Its pet-friendly policy allows for dogs and cats, making it an excellent choice for those travelling with pets. Guests can benefit from various eco-friendly practices, including energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials, ensuring a responsible and comfortable stay in the heart of Budapest.
- Corinthia Budapest: A luxurious 5-star establishment, Corinthia Budapest features a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, making it a sought-after choice for families and spa enthusiasts. The hotel offers a comprehensive array of family-friendly services, including supervised childcare and amenities tailored for children. Its expansive spa and pool services provide guests with a serene retreat, featuring an indoor pool, steam room, and a variety of massage treatments. The Corinthia promises a sophisticated experience where relaxation and family time can be harmoniously enjoyed.
Where to stay in Budapest
Budapest, a vibrant metropolis, offers an array of experiences for every traveller. Explore the heart of the city, where historical architecture meets modern charm. Wander through its friendly neighbourhoods, and enjoy romantic views along the Danube River. Just outside Budapest, charming towns like Szentendre and Visegrád provide a glimpse into Hungary's rich culture and history. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or budget-friendly adventures, Budapest and its surroundings promise an unforgettable holiday.
- Budapest City Centre: The vibrant Budapest City Centre is the heart of the city, offering a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. This neighbourhood is characterised by its bustling atmosphere, where visitors can explore public markets, indulge in body treatments, and shop at a variety of stores. The area is renowned for its historic sites and monuments, making it a perfect destination for culture-themed experiences. Peak tourist season runs from July to September, attracting families and city enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in the local culture.
- Inner City Budapest: Inner City Budapest, a dynamic neighbourhood close to the Danube River, serves as a cultural hub for visitors. Here, you’ll find an array of shopping areas and public markets, as well as opportunities for relaxation through body treatments. The streets echo with history, featuring numerous historic places and monuments that tell the story of Budapest's rich past. Much like the City Centre, this area sees a surge of tourists from July to September, appealing to families and culture seekers alike.
- Erzsebetvaros: Erzsebetvaros is a lively district that showcases Budapest's eclectic spirit. Known for its seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers, this area peaks in February, July, and October, drawing in families and culture enthusiasts. The district boasts a vibrant arena entertainment facility, shopping areas, and theatres, providing a plethora of activities for visitors. With historic buildings and stadiums nearby, Erzsebetvaros offers a unique glimpse into both the contemporary and historical sides of Budapest.
Things to do in and around Budapest
Shopping
Visit the WestEnd City Center for a variety of international brands and Hungarian boutiques. For a more traditional experience, head to the Great Market Hall, where you can discover local crafts, foods, and unique souvenirs, offering a taste of Hungarian culture.
Recreation
Experience the thermal baths at Széchenyi Spa, where you can soak in warm mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning neo-Baroque architecture. For relaxation, try a rejuvenating massage or unwind in the saunas, enjoying the serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens.
Visit Gellért Spa for its Art Nouveau elegance, offering thermal pools and a unique wave pool. Enjoy a revitalising treatment or simply relax on a sun lounger, taking in the impressive surroundings and the soothing ambiance of the historic spa.
Join a yoga class at one of the wellness studios in Budapest, where you can engage in mindfulness and relaxation. Afterward, explore the city's scenic parks for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, immersing yourself in the local environment.
Indulge in a wellness day at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, featuring a spa with a wide range of treatments. Enjoy the opulent setting and unwind in the pool or steam room, taking a moment for yourself amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motorsport at Hungaroring, located 17.7km from Budapest, where the adrenaline of racing meets the excitement of the track. For a more relaxed adventure, enjoy breathtaking views on the Libego cable car and Zugligeti Libego Chair Lift, both offering stunning outdoor scenery in the city.
Nightlife
Experience Budapest's vibrant nightlife at Szimpla Kert, a lively ruin pub with eclectic decor. For a more upscale vibe, enjoy cocktails at the High Note SkyBar, offering stunning views of the city. Don't miss the energetic atmosphere of the Akvárium Club, known for its diverse music events.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Budapest
To save money during your visit to Budapest, plan your trip between January and March when prices are lower. Enjoy free attractions like St. Stephen's Basilica and Heroes' Square, while utilising public transport or biking to explore the city affordably. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, ideally on a Tuesday for the best rates, and consider last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Additionally, use price filters to find the most budget-friendly options and consider bundling hotel, flights, and activities for further savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Budapest are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Budapest about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Budapest is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Budapest is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Budapest with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Budapest
Budapest is an ideal destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike, offering a rich blend of city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore vibrant piazzas, urban parks, and diverse museums, catering to those seeking cultural, urban, and outdoor adventures. Don't miss the chance to visit the Hungarian capital and the impressive Budapest Stadium, both of which add to the city's charm and allure for an unforgettable holiday.
- Parliament Building: This stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can admire its intricate details and take guided tours to learn about Hungary's political history. The building’s grand façade and picturesque location by the Danube River create a striking atmosphere, particularly at night when it's beautifully illuminated.
- Margaret Island: A tranquil oasis in the heart of Budapest, Margaret Island offers lush gardens, walking paths, and recreational facilities. Ideal for families, the island features playgrounds, a small zoo, and cycling paths, making it a perfect spot for picnics and outdoor activities away from the city's hustle and bustle.
- Buda Castle: This historic castle complex provides not only a glimpse into Hungary’s royal past but also stunning views of the city. Wander through its beautiful courtyards and museums, or enjoy a romantic stroll along the castle walls, making it a captivating experience for history lovers and couples alike.
Best time to go to Budapest
The best time to visit Budapest can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Budapest falls in July and August. August has slightly high visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Budapest falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Budapest
Flying into BUDapest is most convenient via Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), located 17.7km from the city centre. Nearby, you have excellent hotel options such as Airport Hotel Budapest, a 4.5-star establishment just 1.6km away, and Budapest Airport Hotel Stáció Wellness & Conference, also a 4.5-star hotel situated 3.2km from the airport. Transportation services from these hotels to BUD include shuttle options, which may vary in fee and availability. Alternatively, you can consider flying into Bratislava (BTS), which is 157.7km away, with notable accommodations like Marrol's Boutique Hotel and Sheraton Bratislava Hotel, both 6.4km from BTS.