I had an opportunity to visit this beautiful city as it was where I began my week long Viking River Cruise. Prior to my river cruise, I hadn’t heard much about this beautiful city but it’s quickly becoming a popular travel destination!

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Budapest is the capital of Hungary and was formed when three cities decided to merge – Buda, Pest and Obuda in 1873. The city is located on both sides of the Danube river and is connected by the famous Szechenyi (Chain) Bridge.

For more information on my river cruise, check out my post My Viking Delling River Cruise Experience.

What To Do in Budapest

1. Take a Ride on the Budapest Eye

Want to get a birds eye view of the city? Take a ride on the Budapest Eye. The Eye is located in city center and runs into the night. A ride will cost you about 10 euros per person and take about 10 minutes. I took a trip at night time and the view of the city all lit up was beautiful!

2. Visit the Central Market Hall

This two-story market offers tons of different souvenirs and items to bring back home. I found Christmas ornaments, Hungarian paprika, and so much more. If you are staying at an Airbnb and have a kitchen, come here for food for your trip. The many vendors located here sell everything from fruits, vegetables, meat and other fresh food products.

3. Relax at a Small Café

You will find at least one café on just about every street in the city. Find your spot, and enjoy a coffee and a pastry. I happen to love Budavar Ruszwurm Cukraszda. The ruszwurm kremes (cream pastry) is to die for but you really can’t go wrong with any of the many desserts and pastries at this cute shop!

Click here for more information on this cute café.

4. Visit a Ruin Bar

After WWII, the old Jewish Quarter of the city was left in ruins (thus the name). Now these old homes, stores and lots have been revitalized into a thriving bar scene.

Whether you are looking to enjoy a beer and listen to live music or enjoy the late night party scene, Budapest’s District VII has what you are looking for.

5. Enjoy Traditional Hungarian Food

Gulyas (goulash), porkolt (meat stew), kurtoskalaks (chimney cakes), toltott kaposzta (stuffed cabbage), and retes (strudel) are some of my favorites. Whether you are wanting a sit down meal or enjoying street food on a park bench, eat as many Hungarian specialties that you can!

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Luckily, I visited Budapest during the Christmas Market Season so there were even more markets throughout the city at this time!

Christmas market season in Eastern Europe is magical and I highly suggest a trip during the season to experience this. Grab yourself a glass of mulled wine and weave your way through all the fun vendors that make these markets so perfect!

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Although not traditional Hungarian cuisine, I have to mention restaurant Comme Chez Soi located near the Budapest Marriott Hotel. I had a fantastic meal at this restaurant and the service was amazing. Champagne, caprese salad, lasagna, lemon sorbet, and more. Everything was delicious and I will definitely be making my way back to this restaurant on my next visit to Budapest.

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6. Visit a Thermal Spa

With all of the simmering thermal water lying beneath the city, Budapest has nine medicinal baths and 123 hot springs. Although they are meant for healing and relaxation, you may have a hard time relaxing with the amount of people that visit these spas. Either way, go for the experience!

If you want to keep the party going, visit one of the famous thermal spas for one of their summer Bath Parties. On most Saturdays throughout the year, the famous Szechenyi Spa & Baths turns into a nightclub from 10:30pm to 3am.

7. Talk a Walk Across the Famous Szechenyi (Chain) Bridge

This architectural beauty connects Buda and Pest. There is a pedestrian pathway on the bridge. The walk is short and you will get some great photography spots while crossing.

8. Explore Buda Castle

Castle Hill (known to locals as Varhegy) is home to the stunning Buda Castle. This castle was first completed for the Hungarian King of Budapest in 1265 but expanded to what it is today in 1769. These days the Buda Castle houses The Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.

Fun Fact – Katy Perry’s music video for her song Firework was filmed in Budapest in the courtyard of Buda Castle!

9. Heroes’ Square

Visit the most photographed statue in Budapest. The Corinthian column in the center is topped with archangel Gabriel. The equestrian statutes at the base of the column represent the chiefs of the seven Hungarian tribes (the seven Chieftains of the Magyars). In front of this statue lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

This statue is encircled on one side with columns and statues of Hungarian heroes and kings.

10. Take a Stroll Along the Danube

Watch the ships come and go and revel in the hustle and bustle of this beautiful city. Budapest, known as the Queen of the Danube, is a truly beautiful city. History, architecture, food and so much more!

Where To Stay in Budapest

Budapest Marriott Hotel

You can’t get a better view than staying right on the Danube river at the Budapest Marriott Hotel. The hotel is in the heart of the city and is just walking distance to shopping, restaurants and sightseeing.

My room had a stunning view of Buda Castle.

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I hope these ideas help you discover what to do in Budapest!