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Budapest, the capital of Hungary that is often referred to as the Pearl of the Danube offers a blend of historic grandeur, culture and scenic beauty. The city is home to magnificent architectural landmarks and iconic bridges providing incredible photo opportunities, as well as Art Nouveau structures that add a unique aesthetic to the cityscape, and fine museums that allow you to dive into the city’s heritage.
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, with Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Baths being among the most popular. Relax in the natural hot springs, enjoying the therapeutic benefits and beautiful surroundings. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with Budapest ruin bars that are unique to the city, set in abandoned buildings and decorated with eclectic elements. Take advantage of our top holiday deals to Budapest and get ready to explore this splendid city with Brightsun Travel.
Budapest, Nagy Ignác u. 21, 1055 Hungary
Savour traditional Hungarian dishes when in Budapest:
Gulyás (Goulash)
A hearty soup made with beef, potatoes, carrots, and seasoned with paprika
Halászlé (Fisherman's Soup)
A spicy soup made with river fish, often carp, and a generous amount of paprika.
Lángos
A deep-fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese.
Töltött Káposzta
Cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, cooked in a paprika-infused sauce.
Kürtoskalács (Chimney Cake)
A sweet, cylindrical pastry coated in sugar and often with cinnamon or nuts.
Dobos Torte
A sponge cake layered with chocolate buttercream and topped with caramel.
Rétes (Strudel)
Pastry filled with fruits like apple or cherry, or sweet cheese.
Budapest's culinary scene also includes a wide range of international cuisines.
Budapest Spring Festival
This major cultural event features concerts, opera, dance performances, and art exhibitions from artists across the globe.
Sziget Festival
This is one of Europe's largest music and cultural festivals, held every August on Óbuda Island. It features an eclectic mix of music genres with international headliners, art installations, cultural programmes, and a party atmosphere.
Budapest Christmas Market
Held in Vörösmarty Square during the festive season, this is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, with light displays and festive stalls selling handicrafts, gifts, mulled wine, and traditional Hungarian food,
Budapest has an efficient network of buses, trams, and metro lines. Public transport boats are part of the city's transportation network and are a pleasant way to travel, especially during warmer months, and you can also take a Danube River cruise on a riverboat. Budapest also has a historic funicular railway that connects the Buda side of the city from the Chain Bridge (Clark Ádám Square) to Buda Castle, offering a scenic ride up Castle Hill.
Taxis are widely available, but it’s advisable to use reputable companies or apps to avoid overcharging. All official taxis are yellow and have a fixed fare system. The city is increasingly becoming bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and paths. Many of Budapest’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city centre. Walking is a great way to explore the historic streets and architecture.
Budapest is a relatively safe city; however, tourists have been known to be targeted for petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching, both of which are more likely on crowded public transport, at train stations, and in the city’s markets. Keep a close eye on your belongings.
Buda Castle
A historic castle and palace complex perched on Castle Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the Danube River. It houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.
Hungarian Parliament Building
One of Budapest's most iconic landmarks, this stunning neo-Gothic building on the Danube’s banks is the seat of the Hungarian National Assembly. Guided tours are available.
Fisherman’s Bastion
Located in the Castle District, this fairy-tale-like structure provides some of the best views of Budapest, especially at sunrise or sunset.
St. Stephen's Basilica
Named after Hungary’s first king, this grand church features impressive architecture, beautiful mosaics, and the chance to climb to the top of the dome for an impressive view of the city.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
One of the largest and most famous thermal baths in Europe, Széchenyi offers a unique and relaxing experience with its large outdoor pools and thermal baths.
Heroes' Square
A major square in Budapest with impressive statues and monuments, including the Millennium Monument, which commemorates Hungary’s 1,000 years of history.
Andrassy Avenue
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this grand boulevard is lined with elegant buildings, boutiques, and cafes. It leads to the City Park and is home to the Hungarian State Opera House.
Great Market Hall
A bustling market where you can find local produce, Hungarian specialties, and souvenirs. The building itself is a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture.
Gellért Hill
Offering one of the best panoramic views of Budapest, Gellért Hill is also home to the Citadel, a historic fortress, and the Liberty Statue.
House of Terror Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of the Nazi and Communist regimes in Hungary. It’s located in a building that was once used by the secret police.
Margaret Island
A tranquil island on the Danube, perfect for leisurely walks, biking, and enjoying the parks, gardens, and the musical fountain.
Jewish Quarter
Explore the historic Jewish Quarter, which includes the Dohany Street Synagogue (the largest in Europe) and various monuments and historical sites related to Jewish history in Budapest.
Budapest experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons:
Spring in Budapest can be chilly, averaging 5-13°C in March and it gradually warms up, with May averaging 12-23°C. Rain showers are common, so it's a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Summers are warm to hot, with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures above 30°C. Rainfall is moderate, often in the form of short thunderstorms. Light clothing, sunglasses, hats, suncream, and comfortable sandals or walking shoes are recommended.
Autumn starts warm in September with averages of 14-24°C but cools down significantly by November, averaging 3-9°C. It's a relatively dry season with crisp, clear days, especially in October. Layers and sturdy shoes or boots are recommended.
Winters are cold, with occasional snowfall. January is typically the coldest month with averages of -3-3°C. Overcast skies are common, and daylight hours are shorter. Warm clothing such as heavy coats, gloves, hats, and scarves are essential. Waterproof boots might be a good idea too, especially if snow is forecasted.
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