Budapest city breaks

‘The Queen of the Danube’ has magnificent sights lining both sides of the mighty river. Huge squares and grand buildings tell detailed stories about Budapest’s impressive history. Thermal baths, decadent cafés and arty pubs also highlight how this hip Hungarian capital offers up incredible original experiences.

Riverside views

Walk to the top of Gellért Hill and get the best view of the city and its grand architecture. At the very top is the Citadella, a fortress-like building with views up and down the Danube. On your way, stop at the caves and be dazzled by the white crystals that cover the interior walls.

Enjoy a bit of pampering

Take your pick from the 15 thermal baths that are open to the public. Head to the 16th century baths, which regularly host the famous spa parties – ‘sparties ’ – on Fridays and Saturdays. Children will go mad for the chutes and wave machine at the Palatinus Bath on Margaret Island.

Chilled nights

As the sun goes down, you’ll find the trendiest joints for after-dark tipples. From the bar top to your champagne flute, Icebar keeps things cool, so don the thermal capes and get acquainted with this wintery wonderland. If edgy haunts – all rustic and neon – are more your thing, don’t miss the ruin bars.

No.17 – TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Destinations

From thermal baths to ruin bars, Budapest has struck gold – this historic Hungarian hotspot has bagged number 17 in TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Destinations in Europe.

Continental Hotel Budapest

Budapest City, Budapest

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Our rating

Based on 4630 reviews

Great for exploring
40m from the nearest bus stop
1.2km from Vaci Street
Modern and luxurious
Close to ruin pubs

Hilton Budapest

Budapest City, Budapest

Our rating

Based on 4504 reviews

Great views of the city
180m from the nearest bus stop
1km from Buda Castle
Restored historical cloister within the hotel
On the Buda side

Hotel Erzsebet City Centre

Budapest City, Budapest

Our rating

Based on 2576 reviews

Great for shopping
150m from the nearest bus stop
500m from Vaci Street
800m from Vorosmarty Square
Excellent steak restaurant on-site

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Buda Castle

Budapest

Sprawling over a hill above the city, Buda Castle's Versailles-like appearance suggests it's all plush, opulent luxury inside, too. But World War II's looting left the castle an empty shell. Today it hosts...

Central Market Hall

Budapest

Head to Budapest's biggest market in the Central Market Hall to buy Hungarian sausages, salamis, wines and fruit brandies. It's also a great place for sampling traditional Hungarian fare at the long buffet...

Chain Bridge

Budapest

The Chain Bridge does more than just span a river. After its opening in 1849, it was seen to connect east and west. Now, this awe-inspiring suspension bridge is known for its beauty. Visit after dark and you'll...

Language

Hungarian

Currency

Forint

Time difference

+1hr

Cost of a beer

£2 / 700 Ft

48-hour travel card

£10 / 3,495 Ft

Three course meal

£25 / 8,737 Ft

Sightseeing

Stand in awe outside Parliament Building, a structure of incredibly striking spires and domes. Cross over the unmissable suspension bridge of Budapest, the Chain Bridge, and you’ll reach the staggering castle grounds. Buda Castle’s a wowing UNESCO World Heritage site. Be there on the dot for the Changing of the Guard.

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Eating and drinking

When dusk draws in, the city ignites. As well as trying the local fruit brandy, pálinka, make a stop at Budapest’s famously ornate coffee shops. Delicacies are liberally spiced with paprika – such as the classic stew, goulash. Wander along the Danube and you’ll see loads of restaurant boats to sample traditional cuisine by the waterfront.

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Shopping

For unique souvenirs, Hungarian folk art shops sell traditional embroidery, delicate dolls and local pottery. The really grand, glamorous shopping starts on Váci Street – the main medieval thoroughfare in Pest. Andrássy Avenue is also lined with boutiques and architectural marvels, but if you want to bag a bargain, hit the Great Market Hall.

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Getting around

Travelling around Budapest is a beautiful, unique experience, all thanks to the Millennium Underground Railway. The oldest system in mainland Europe, its stations have a classic style that harks back to the late 19th century when they were built. Many areas of the city are pedestrianised too, including Heroes’ Square, plus there's an overground system to utilise.

May 2018 – Budai Gourmet Festival

Wineries, restaurants and artisan foodies of all sorts, showcase the best of their produce at this 3-day gastro festival. Held at Millenáris Park, the event includes tastings, classes and stacks of stalls.

June 2018 – Buda Castle Beer Festival

One of Budapest’s top festivals is not just for beer buffs. In the gorgeous castle courtyards, you’ll find food stalls, comedy sets and, of course, beer!

27-29 July 2018 – Hungarian Grand Prix

20km north of the stunning city, the Hungaroring comes to life with F1. Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes – cheer on your team as you admire this buzzing circuit.

08-15 August 2018 – Sziget Festival

Dance around the Danube and catch hundreds of acts as they take over Budapest’s pretty-as-a-picture Óbuda Island for a week-long music extravaganza.

08-11 September 2018 – Budapest Wine Festival

This sophisticated soiree at Buda Castle not only gives you the chance to sample some of the best Hungarian wines around, but you can also admire some great works of art at the same time.

12-18 October 2018 – Restaurant Week

A range of Budapest’s best restaurants show off their culinary skills with a week of special deals. Many even offer a fixed-price 3-course menu for as little as £10.

5 – 21 October 2018 – CAFé Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival

Back for its 27th year, CAFé Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival is ideal for creative types. Get set for over a fortnight of modern classical music, theatre performances, visual art and much more at this exciting inspirational event.

November 2018 – January 2019 – Christmas Markets

Vörösmarty tér, is the place to head to see the city's largest Fair. Magic by day, and even more magical at night when the square is illuminated with twinkling fairy lights.

10-12 February 2019 – Mangalica Festival

Paying homage to the heritage breed Mangalica pig, this event celebrates all things pork with a showcase of tasty produce like smoked hams, salami and sausages.

19-22 April 2019 – Buda Castle Easter Market

With a wine terrace, food stalls, handicrafts and live folk music, this three-day event brings to life Hungarian traditions. You’ve got to paint some eggs, too.

Please note, the event dates above are just a guide and could be subject to change.

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*Flight guide dates subject to change.

Budapest

Budapest city breaks

Riverside views

Enjoy a bit of pampering