In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best areas and share top hotel recommendations to make your trip unforgettable.

Not all districts are ideal for visitors, so I’ve focused on those closest to the city centre, where you’ll find the best sights, dining, and things to do.

Best areas in Budapest

If you’re in a hurry or just want a quick rundown, here are the best areas to stay in Budapest:

• District V – Belváros – Lipótváros, best area to stay for most tourists
• District I – Várkerület/Budvar, a historic and peaceful district
• District VI – Terézváros, a shopping mecca full of art and culture
• District VII – Erzsébetváros – The Jewish Quarter best area for nightlife
• District XIII – Ujlipotváros, a family-friendly and quiet area

Click the link above to check out the best-rated hotels in the areas mentioned.

The guide on where to stay in Budapest continues below with in-depth information about each area.

Check out my video where I’m showing 3 of the best areas to stay in Budapest:

Let’s dive into the guide – where to stay in Budapest?

1. Belváros – Lipótváros – best area to stay for most tourists

Let’s start with District V, also called Belváros – Lipótváros. If it’s your first trip to Budapest, this is the spot to be.

Located on the Pest side of the Danube, it’s the city’s vibrant heart, packed with history, stunning architecture, and endless energy.

See the best hotels in the area here.

You’ll be surrounded by iconic landmarks and exciting things to do.

The Hungarian Parliament Building is just around the corner, and the views from St. Stephen’s Basilica are unbeatable.

Beyond sightseeing, District V has a fantastic food and drink scene.

From cosy bistros serving Hungarian favourites to bars with excellent local wines, there’s something for every palate.

Personally, I enjoy relaxing by the Danube, watching the boats go by.

This area blends convenience, history, and top attractions, making it a favourite for visitors. Váci Street offers everything from big-name shops to unique local boutiques if shopping’s on your list.

Plus, getting around is easy, with trams, buses, and the metro close by. And even with its central buzz, you’ll find peaceful parks and squares to take a break when you need one.

Hotel Erzsébet City Center – the best place to stay on a budget

This is a perfect hotel if you want to stay close to everything – see the hotel here.

Suppose you’re only on a short trip to Budapest. In that case, you won’t be able to see it all – but it gets easier if you stay here as you’ll be close to places such as:

• A metro station
• The large market hall
• Gellert’s Hot Baths
• The chain bridge
• Buda Castle

The hotel is a 3-star hotel and may have a different luxury than so many other places, but if you choose to stay here, it is not really because you have planned to spend your time in the hotel.

See more photos and book online here.

If you want to live in the centre and experience lots of luxury, the area also offers that. 

The next hotel is also located in the central area but has a lot more to offer – a good choice for those who want a luxury hotel in the city centre of Budapest.

Best place to stay for luxury in the city centre – The Kempinski Hotel Corvinus

The Kempinski Hotel is luxurious and elegant – there is even access to the swimming pool and spa department.

If you are not careful, you can easily forget that there is a fantastic city outside the hotel that you must also experience.

See more photos and book online.

Cheap hotel within walking distance of ‘everything’

H2 Hotel Budapest is an excellent choice for your stay if you’re seeking a hotel with a perfect location at an affordable price.

This hotel is within walking distance of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Danube River, the Hungarian Parliament building, and the Váci Street, known for its shopping and dining options.

It’s also right around the corner from the beautiful St Stephens Basilica.

By choosing H2 Hotel Budapest, you’re positioned perfectly to explore Budapest’s rich history and vibrant culture, all while enjoying the comforts of well-priced and well-located accommodations.

See more photos & book here.

By the way, I highly recommend the QUÍ Restaurant & Bar 2, minutes from the hotel – it’s a brilliant Asian restaurant I always go to in Budapest.

2. Várkerület/Budvar – a historical centre

Let’s talk about Várkerület, also known as District 1.

Situated on the Buda side of the river (the left side if you’re looking at a map), it’s the city’s oldest district and one of the most historic areas in Budapest.

With its cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured buildings and sweeping views of the Danube, it’s easy to see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

See the best hotels in District 1 here.

What makes Várkerület unique? It’s home to the iconic Buda Castle – a royal palace housing the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.

Nearby, you’ll find the enchanting Fisherman’s Bastion, its fairy-tale towers, and Matthias Church, known for its colourful tiled roof and intricate interior.

But there’s more to Várkerület than just its historical sites.

It’s a bustling neighbourhood with charming cafes, exquisite restaurants, and unique boutiques. The district is also known for its vibrant cultural scene with numerous galleries, theatres, and summer festivals.

Despite its central location, Várkerület retains a calm and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat after a day of sightseeing.

Its hilltop location offers stunning panoramic views across the river to Pest, especially magical at sunset.

Whether you’re a history buff or foodie or enjoy wandering picturesque streets, Várkerület is a fantastic base for your Budapest adventure.

Monastery Boutique – 4 star hotel at a reasonable price

Hotels in Budapest are reasonably priced and it’s easy to find a cheap place to stay. 

So I’m going to recommend a nice hotel, suitable for both families and those who travel alone and want a bit of luxury.

See more photos and book online here.

Stay right by the Buda Castle

If you want to stay near the Buda Castle complex, I’ve just the place for you.

Just a stone’s throw away from this historic site, the Hilton Budapest offers a luxurious retreat with stunning Danube and castle views.

The rooms are tastefully decorated, ensuring comfort and elegance.

You’ll enjoy top-notch amenities, including a fitness center for your daily workouts and exquisite dining options.

Staying at Hilton Budapest, you experience the perfect blend of luxury and a prime location.

See more photos & book here.

Stay by the river with a view of the Hungarian Parliament

Park Plaza Budapest is a stunning hotel near the iconic Buda Castle and the picturesque Danube River.

The hotel offers luxurious rooms, many of which provide breathtaking views of the Hungarian Parliament across the river.

Guests frequently praise the hotel’s exceptional service, comfortable rooms, and convenient location, perfect for exploring Budapest’s rich history.

See more photos & book here.

3. Terézváros – the best place to stay for shopping 

Let’s head to Terézváros, also known as District VI.

This district is a lively blend of history, culture, and modern city living – it has a little bit of everything and does it all in style.

Terézváros is home to the magnificent Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with stunning Neo-Renaissance mansions and townhouses.

See the best hotels in the area here.

You’ll find the Hungarian State Opera House along this grand boulevard, a must-visit for its exquisite architecture and world-class performances.

Culture vultures, you’re in for a treat here. Terézváros is dubbed the ‘Broadway of Budapest‘ thanks to its impressive collection of theatres and galleries.

And if you’re a fan of literature, the district’s many bookshops and literary cafes will make you feel right at home.

When it’s time to refuel, you have a smorgasbord of options, from upscale restaurants to quirky hole-in-the-wall eateries serving the best Hungarian cuisine.

And for those who enjoy a good night out, the district’s vibrant nightlife offers everything from laid-back pubs to buzzing clubs.

But it’s not all go, go, go – Terézváros also boasts beautiful parks and green spaces, perfect for a lazy afternoon stroll or picnic.

Plus, getting around is a breeze with the metro line 1 (the first subway line in continental Europe) and numerous bus and tram lines.

In essence, Terézváros offers a mix of cultural riches, bustling city life, and tranquil spots to unwind, making it a top-notch pick for your stay in Budapest.

Charming place to stay in Budapest – Callas House

If you would like to stay somewhere where the design fits in with the urban style and where the details are on point, then this is a great place to stay in Budapest.

Also, this hotel is next to the opera, and they will pick you up from the airport in Budapest when you arrive.

Book the hotel or see more photos here.

Luxury hotel in the perfect location

In this part of town, I think Hotel Oktogon Haggenmacher is a fantastic choice. Located right on Andrássy Avenue, it’s close to many attractions and public transport.

The hotel blends historic charm with modern design, offering comfortable rooms and a well-regarded breakfast.

Guests often praise the attentive staff and the hotel’s cleanliness. Some mention that standard rooms can be a bit snug, but the overall experience is highly rated.

See more photos & book here.

Cheap hotel suitable for couples

12 Revay Hotel is a charming and cosy 3-star hotel, perfect for budget-conscious travellers. It offers affordable accommodation without compromising comfort, making it especially popular with couples.

Located conveniently near the main city centre and the Jewish Quarter, it provides easy access to Budapest’s top attractions.

Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and the friendly, helpful staff. The hotel’s prime location means you are just a short walk from many restaurants, bars, and cultural sites.

Despite its affordability, 12 Revay Hotel is an excellent place for a pleasant and convenient stay in Budapest.

See more photos & book here.

4. Erzsébetváros, the Jewish Quarter – best place to stay for nightlife

Let’s jump right into Erzsébetváros, also known as District VII. If you’re a young traveller or a night owl on the hunt for an energetic buzz and vibrant nightlife, this district has your name written all over it.

Erzsébetváros is best known as the home of Budapest’s ‘ruin bars’.

These unique hangouts, set in abandoned buildings and decorated with eclectic furnishings, offer a nightlife experience.

See the best hotels in the area here.

The granddaddy of them all is Szimpla Kert, a massive multi-level bar institution in its own right.

But there’s more to Erzsébetváros than just its party scene.

The district is also the historic Jewish Quarter, and landmarks like the Dohány Street Synagogue (the second largest in the world) and the haunting Holocaust Memorial Centre are well worth a visit.

By day, you’ll find a host of trendy cafes, boutiques, and local markets to explore. The district’s street art scene is booming, so keep your eyes peeled for colourful murals as you wander the streets.

Despite its reputation for nightlife, Erzsébetváros also offers pockets of tranquillity. The serene Klauzál Square and lovely Erzsébet Square are perfect for a bit of downtime.

If you’re after a lively district with rich history, booming nightlife and trendy vibes, Erzsébetváros is your perfect match.

Continental Hotel – rooftop pool hotel in Budapest (my favourite hotel)

The Continental Hotel is my favourite hotel in Budapest. You can conveniently jump into the hotel’s indoor or outdoor pool if you need a refreshing dip to get rid of the worst hangover from Szimpla Kert.

I booked into this hotel during the Sziget Festival in Budapest in 2022 and was extremely satisfied.

Apart from the fantastic rooftop pool, overall, it is a good hotel with an excellent breakfast and plenty of space to relax in the sun on the hotel’s rooftop.

The hotel’s gym is also the best hotel gym I’ve seen, so you can also work up a sweat on your trip to Budapest

See more photos and get the best rate online here.

I went back to Budapest for Sziget Festival again in 2023 where I stayed at one of the most luxurious hotels in town: the Anantara New York Palace Budapest.

Staying at Anantara New York Palace Budapest was a nice experience, primarily because of the breakfast buffet.

The hotel itself is brilliant and I’ve got nothing to complain about, but it is “just” a normal 5-star hotel.

The highlight of my stay was, without a doubt, the breakfast at the renowned New York Café, often described as the most beautiful café in the world.

It’s located within the hotel, so you can just walk across the lobby and directly into the café.

The breakfast is excellent and the setting is just so incredibly stunning that I’d suggest staying at this hotel in Budapest just for the sake of the breakfast

See more photos & book here.

5. Ujlipotváros – best area to stay for families

Ujlipotváros is a top choice for families journeying to Budapest for numerous reasons.

The district is especially family-friendly due to its abundant offerings that cater to both adults and children.

Margit Sziget is next to Ujlipotváros on the Danube, a serene oasis amidst the urban landscape.

Children can engage in various outdoor activities while adults relish the tranquillity. It’s an ideal spot for a family day out, offering a chance to reconnect with nature in the city centre.

See the best hotels in the area here.

Dining options in the area are abundant, with a wide range of family-friendly restaurants and cafes. These eateries cater to diverse palates, ensuring that everyone from toddlers to grandparents can find something they like.

Another aspect that makes Ujlipotváros a fitting choice for families is the presence of the Westend shopping centre.

With over 400 shops, this one-stop destination takes the stress out of shopping. You can find everything from children’s clothing to toys, making it an easy solution for any family’s retail needs.

In essence, the appeal of Ujlipotváros for families lies in its ability to balance recreation, dining, and shopping in one vibrant neighbourhood.

This blend of convenience and variety makes it an ideal base for families exploring Budapest.

Danubius Hotel Helia – a 4-star child-friendly hotel

When the children need a break from the city, sightseeing and long walks, it’s great that they can also enjoy themselves indoors.

At this lovely hotel, there are 4 heated swimming pools. There is plenty of space in the rooms, some with bathtubs and double sinks, which makes it easier when an entire family have to get out the door in the morning.

See more photos and book online here.

Cheap hotel near the Parliament Building

If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Budapest that’s close to everything but not too expensive, NH Budapest City ticks many boxes.

It’s in the Ujlipotváros district, close to the Parliament Building and the Danube, so it’s easy to get to key sights.

The rooms are modern and spacious, with super comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi. People often talk about the friendly service and the impressive breakfast buffet.

There’s also a fitness centre and sauna if you need a break from exploring. It’s a reliable choice for comfort and convenience.

See more photos & book here.

Budapest offers plenty of great places to stay, and now you have a solid overview of the most popular areas to help you choose.

If you know of other great spots or hotels in the city or have any questions about exploring Hungary’s capital, feel free to share them in the comments.

FAQ:

The post Where to stay in Budapest? 5 Best Areas & Places to Stay (+ Avoid!) appeared first on Destination Well Known.

In this article, I have collected some of the best sights and things to do in Budapest. There is something for everyone, whether you are travelling with your partner or the whole family.

Budapest is the perfect destination for an extended weekend trip, with lots of fun things to do. And the city’s many sights, make it very easy to make a terrific schedule for a weekend trip.

The list also include several culinary experiences for those who want to taste the real Budapest and don’t just want to go to the same restaurant chains you also find in many other big cities.

Budapest offers many unique dining experiences you must take advantage of if you want a different experience than just another burger restaurant.

Save money on transport with the Budapest Card

If you want to easily get around the city when you are in Budapest, it is a good idea to get the Budapest Card. The card can be easily and quickly bought online, giving you a wide range of advantages when you go to Budapest.

With a Budapest Card, you can ride public transport throughout Budapest for free. This makes it incredibly easy to get around, and you don’t have to spend money on bus tickets, taxi rides or anything else to get around from one attraction to another.

In addition, you also get many other benefits. Among other things, the card gives you free access to 19 museums around the city and free luggage storage in a central location in the capital if you need it.

It also works as a discount card, which gives you up to a 50% discount on, among other things, thermal baths, restaurants, bars and boat trips.

You can buy the Budapest Card online here.

Read more: how to get from Budapest Airport to city centre

1. Buda Castle

The first attraction in Budapest that I have chosen to include here on the list is Buda Castle, located right on the Danube river – of course, on the Buda side of the city.

The castle was first built in the 13th century but has since undergone rebuilding and renovations. Most of the building today dates from the mid-18th century.

The castle hides several different experiences. Here you will find, among other things, the country’s most extensive library, the Historical Museum in Budapest and the National Gallery of Hungary, which will be described in more detail in a separate section.

It is, of course, most interesting to visit the castle during the day. You can also easily enjoy it from a distance in the evening when it lights up in a great light.

Especially if you stand on the opposite side of the bank and enjoy the view of, e.g. the castle. Buda Castle will be a perfect place to start your trip in Budapest.

Read more about the castle on the official website.

I’m also showing the whole Castle District in my Budapest video:

2. The Hungarian Parliament Building

Another incredibly fantastic building, which, like the castle, also lies right down to the Danube river, is the Hungarian Parliament Building.

The Parliament of Hungary has met in the building since 1902.

Today, they only use a small part of the building for this purpose, while the rest functions as a tourist attraction, among other things.

If you wish, you can have a guided tour of the parliament. That way, you can see what is officially Hungary’s most prominent building with your own eyes from the inside.

In addition to being the largest building in Hungary, it is also the third-largest parliament building in the entire world.

You can book your ticket for the tour around the parliament from home. The tour lasts 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to take in the neo-Gothic building.

Book a guided tour of the parliament here.

By the way – have you found a place to stay in Budapest? If not – check out my guide on the best areas and where to stay in Budapest.

3. Fisherman’s Bastion

On your trip to Budapest, don’t miss out on a visit to the Fisherman’s Bastion, which is probably one of the city’s most well-known sights and trademarks.

From the Fisherman’s Bastion, you have a fantastic view of the city, where you can take some terrific pictures.

The Bastion should therefore be considered both from the outside and especially from the inside as well, if you have the time and opportunity to do so.

There is an entrance fee to enter, but it is one of the things to do in Budapest that you get a discount on if you have a Budapest Card. Here you get 10% off an adult ticket.

Around the building, you will find, among other things, many cafes where you can have a cup of coffee or a light lunch at the end of your trip to the Bastion.

4. Heroes’ Square

If you love history, you should stop by Heroes’ square. The Heroes’ Square also serves as the main entrance to City Park, the city’s extensive public park.

The main attraction on the square is undoubtedly the Millennium Monument, which was erected back in the late 1800s for Hungary to celebrate its first 1000 years here.

Construction started in the 1890s, but the monument was not completed until 1929.

In addition to the possibility of combining a trip to the Heroes’ Square with a trip to the park right next to it, you should also consider combining it with a trip to either The Museum of Fine Art or The Budapest Hall of Art, which is located on the right and left side of the monuments and which help to frame the hero’s square.

The square itself doesn’t have much to offer besides its monuments, but if you have time and still want to visit some other things to do nearby, I recommend a trip.

5. Matthias Church

One of the absolute most beautiful things you can see in Budapest is the Matthias Church. It is right next to the Fisherman’s Bastion and the Buda Castle.

Therefore you can advantageously explore that city area on the same day.

The church is magnificent from the outside, but if you want to have a complete experience of the church, you should also take a look inside.

If you come at the right time, you may even be lucky to experience a church service.

There is an entrance fee to enter the church, but if you have chosen to get a Budapest Card Plus, an upgrade to the regular Budapest Card, you get free entry.

There are also several events in the church that you can experience. Among other things, you can go to classical music concerts in the church if you want to.

6. Walking tour in Budapest

If you want to avoid planning your trip by yourself and just want the easy solution, you can also book a guided tour around the city.

With a guide, you also get a little deeper, as you are also told about every place you pass.

It’s the perfect option for you who want to see the most critical places in the city but don’t want to spend a whole day wandering around, getting lost and exhausted.

These tours usually last a few hours, but then you have also seen all the most essential elements of the city. Then you have the rest of the day to relax, enjoy the food or taste the local beer.

Book a guided tour around Budapest here.

7. St. Stephen’s Basilica

Another attraction in Budapest that also exudes grandeur and history is Saint Stephen’s Basilica.

It is the third largest church building in the country and, among other things, very well known for its promotion of classical music in particular. You also have the opportunity to hear a classical concert in the basilica.

During the summer, there is a concert every Sunday in the building, which is also named after Hungary’s first king, Stefan 1.

The basilica also houses the Basilica Choir, which, in addition to frequently performing in the basilica, also tours around and gives concerts during the rest of Europe.

If you want to pop in and see this magnificent building, you can skip the line by getting a ticket online.

8. Géllert Hill – best view of Budapest

If you are up for a longer hike, you can take a trip up Géllert Hill, the large hill on the Buda side of the city. From here, you get the absolute best overview of the town. And if you can also combine it with a sunrise or sunset, it’s really fantastic.

On Géllert Hill, you will find, among other things, the over 150-year-old Citadel and an extension of this former military building.

A Statue of Liberty is also erected in honour of the Soviets and Hungarians who lost their lives in the fight to free Hungary from the Nazis.

Later, I will also go into more detail about the Géllert bath at the foot of the high hill.

Géllert Hill rises a good 235 meters into the air, so it takes a pair of good legs to get to the top. But once you get up there and see the view, you won’t regret it.

9. The Great Synagogue

The last attraction in Budapest I would recommend before we jump on to the more active experiences is The Great Synagogue.

It is the largest synagogue in all of Europe and the second-largest synagogue in the world and can accommodate over 3,000 seated guests.

The synagogue played a significant role during World War II when the synagogue and the surrounding buildings were used to imprison and detain Jews.

On this occasion, memorials have also been set up for the fallen who died in and around the synagogue during this period, including the Emmanuel memorial tree.

Get Skip the Line Tickets here.

The area around the Synagogue is one of the best areas of Budapest for nightlife and restaurants.

I’ve been to the Bakelit Café (just down the road from the Synagogue) a few times now, and I’m continually shocked at how cheap it is for a guy from Copenhagen like me

10. Széchenyi Thermal Bath

One of the things that Budapest is very well known for, among other things, is its thermal baths.

One of the most popular baths is undoubtedly the Széchenyi Bath, which consists of 3 indoor and 15 outdoor pools.

If you are going on a city break in Budapest, it is a must to get into one of the thermal baths you will find in the city. The Széchenyi Bath is just one of them, but it is probably also the most famous thermal bath in the world.

You can skip the queue by getting a ticket for the bath here.

11. The Gellért Spa

Where the Széchenyi Baths are located on the Pest side of the city, you’ll find the Géllert Baths on the Buda side.

As previously mentioned, the bath is at the foot of Géllert Hill, so you may want to consider jumping into the water after you’ve been up and enjoying the view from the top of the hill.

With a ticket to the Géllert bath, you can access several indoor and outdoor pools, many saunas and a steam bath.

I recommend you visit only one of these thermal baths in the city, as the experience is pretty much the same regardless of which bath you choose.

You can also buy a ticket for the Géllert bath online, so you skip the queue.

12. The Great Market Hall

If you love to go to the market abroad, you must not cheat yourself on a trip to The Great Market Hall or Nagyvásárcsarnok as it goes by in Hungarian.

If you want to experience the market hall, I would recommend also enjoying a walk up and down Váci Utca, which is probably the main street in Budapest, where you will find a lot of restaurants and shops, which are also worth spending time on if you have a shopping heart.

At the end of the street, you will find the market hall.

You can find everything from small cosy food stalls to the traditional tourist stalls with t-shirts, caps and other copy products, which you can find at all other markets in probably the whole world.

If it’s quality you’re looking for, you should look more in the direction of the food stalls than the tourist stalls, and then it certainly can’t hurt to haggle over the price in a place like this.

13. Budapest Chocolate Museum

If you have a sweet tooth, consider inviting the whole family to the chocolate museum in Budapest.

Few people probably know that Hungary has a long and old tradition of making chocolate. Still, you can experience that by visiting this tasty museum.

During your tour, you will have the opportunity to taste the product, but you can also make your own chocolate.

You will also be offered cookies, tea and hot cocoa, so you don’t have to be afraid that you won’t be able to satisfy your sweet tooth during this trip.

Read a review of the chocolate museum here. Then you might find out whether this experience in Budapest is something for you.

14. The Hungarian State Opera

If you love opera or just want a grand experience, even if opera might not be your home turf, you can take a trip past the Hungarian State Opera.

Shortly after the city was merged into a unified Budapest in the mid-1800s, plans were made to create a majestic opera house.

And that plan was completed with the Hungarian State Opera, which, even if you don’t have to experience a performance, is also worth the trip just for the magnificent view from the outside.

But entering the building is, of course, the most fun. Buying tickets for the performances is easy, as you just have to go to Opera.hu, where you will find the program and the option to buy a ticket for the performance you want to see.

You will find musicals, ballets, operettas and much more on the poster. Undoubtedly an exceptional experience in the Hungarian capital.

15. House of Terror

If you want an insight into some of Hungary’s bloody history, you can take a trip by The House of Terror, a newer museum in Budapest.

The museum was established in 2002, and it hides some of the gruesome truths and realities that the Hungarian citizens had to go through in the dawn of time when the country was under the leadership of both fascist and communist fronts.

If you intend to visit the museum, it is a good idea to get an audio guide so that you have the opportunity to have the information read out in English.

Many of the texts in the museum only appear in Hungarian, so if it is not your strong suit, you will get the best experience with an audio guide.

16. Boat tour on the Danube River

Since the Danube River runs directly through the city, it is also a must to take a trip out to sail on it. Fortunately, there is plenty of opportunity for that, as there are many sightseeing boats on the river.

On the trip, you have ample opportunity to study up close some of the historic and iconic buildings from the city, which lie right down to the river.

You can book a day, evening or night trip on the river. It is easiest to plan a trip in the middle of the day. Still, it is also a unique experience when the light startlingly bathes the beautiful buildings in attention.

You can easily book tickets for boat tours on the Danube River here.

17. Budapest Zoo and Botanical Gardens

In the heart of Budapest is also located Budapest Zoological and Botanical Garden. Here you can greet the many animals, or you can go exploring in the magnificent botanical garden.

All in all, there are over 1000 species of animals here, so there is plenty waiting for you if you decide to take a trip to the Hungarian Zoo.

It costs 3300 HUF to enter for adults, but if you have a Budapest Card, you can save 25% on the entrance. Once again, getting the Budapest Card can be a wise decision.

And at the same time, transport to the zoo is also covered with the card.

The garden is divided into several sections, including Australia Zone, Savannah Zone and America Tropicana.

The perfect place to take the kids if they are tired of walking and looking at churches and parliament buildings.

18. National Gallery of Hungary

As mentioned in the section on Buda Castle, you will find it at the castle National Gallery of Hungary. The building is enormous, so unless you have plenty of time, you’ll probably have to accept that you won’t be able to study all the work closely.

Here you will find almost all historical works from Hungary. The origins of the pieces span all the way back from the Middle Ages up to the present day.

The museum recommends setting aside 1.5-3 hours for a visit to get the full experience. With the Budapest Card, there is the option of free entry.

I hope you can use this travel guide for experiences and the best things to do in Budapest and that you will have a great trip to Hungary.

Check out all our Budapest travel guides.

FAQ:

The post 18 Best Things To Do in Budapest + Hidden Gems 🇭🇺 appeared first on Destination Well Known.

Budapest is a stunningly beautiful European city that makes a perfect travel destination. The city is gorgeous and cheap so you can get a little extra for your money when you’re coming to Hungary‘s capital.

How to get from Budapest Airport to City Centre? I want to start with a quick introduction to the airport in Budapest.

Budapest Airport is also called Ferenc Liszt International Airport

When you’re flying to Budapest, you will be landing at Ferenc Liszt International Airport, also called Budapest Airport, as there is only one commercial airport in and around Budapest. The airport was previously called Budapest Ferihegy just to add to the confusion

• The airport code is simply BUD, and the official website is Bud.hu.

Budapest Airport is just under 20 kilometres from the city centre, so you can exit the arrival hall and enter your hotel in Budapest in about 30 minutes.

When I was in Budapest for the Sziget Festival a couple of months ago, the ride took 31 minutes from the airport to my hotel in the Jewish Quarter (I was staying at the Continental Hotel, which I highly recommend).

If you haven’t booked your hotel, I recommend you check out my guide on where to stay in Budapest and watch my video:

And once you’ve got the airport transfer and accommodation sorted, check out my guide to the best things to do in Budapest.

Slight warning about airport transport in Budapest

However, I have to make a small warning: the transport from the airport to the centre of Budapest can be challenging when you arrive, and not everyone speaks fluent English.

On my first trip to Budapest many years ago, I took a regular taxi where the driver didn’t speak English and tried to scam me…

Therefore, I will present the different ways you can get from Ferenc Liszt International Airport to Budapest. And I will focus on the safest, so you can travel with peace of mind.

There are many different transport options, each with its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s up to you to choose.

We’re starting with the easiest and an option that’s relatively cheap – like most things in Budapest. This is the service I’ve used on my two latest trips from Budapest Airport to the city centre.

Best way to get from Airport to City: pre-book a private transfer

You can book a private driver through WelcomePickups. You order the transport online, so there is a car and driver ready to transport you when you land in Budapest.

Go to WelcomePickups for Budapest Airport here.

The transport is paid in advance with a private driver, and you know your driver will be waiting when you land. The chance of being cheated is eliminated, and you will be transported directly to your destination in the centre of Budapest.

I have observed that the prices for transportation with WelcomePickups are in the same price range as the regular taxis you find outside the airport.

However, you avoid the trouble of finding a driver, discussing the price of the journey and the risk of being scammed.

Price: 28 euros for a private transfer to the Jewish Quarter

The price for a private transfer from Budapest Airport to the city centre depends on where in Budapest your hotel is, but for instance, the cost from the airport to the Jewish Quarter is 28 euros.

I’ve used WelcomePickups from Budapest Airport to the city centre numerous times, and it just works.

The driver was incredibly friendly the last time, and we all got a complimentary bottle of water in the car.

There are plenty of options for private transport from the airport to the city; look at Get Your Guide, where the cheapest option is a shared airport shuttle from 12 euros per person.

I’m simply recommending WelcomePickups as I’ve used their service and found it very convenient.

Cheapest: the airport shuttle bus 100E

Airport shuttle bus 100E operates between Liszt Ferenc International Airport and Deák Ferenc tér, one of Budapest’s major transport hubs, also stopping at Kálvin tér which is a convenient stop if you’re staying in the Jewish Quarter.

The bus service operates around the clock, seven days a week: every 7-10 minutes daily during the day; and every 30-40 minutes at night, between midnight and about 3:30 in the morning.

Once you arrive in the city centre at Kálvin tér or Deák Ferenc tér, you can easily reach your hotel by public transport or even just walking if you’re staying in the city centre.

The ticket cost 1500 HUF, around 3,8 euros or 4,13 USD. This is one of the cheapest airport transport options in Europe.

Get more info about the airport shuttle bus at bkk.hu.

I recommend downloading the BudapestGO app to your smartphone and buying the ticket in the app. You can use the app for all public transport in Budapest, so it’s a great app to have on your phone during your time in Hungary.

Train to city centre (requires a bus from the airport)

The short journey from the airport to Budapest can also be made by train, but you must take a shuttle bus from Terminal 2 – bus number 200E, which runs many times an hour during the day.

In a short time, you will then get to Ferihegy station and can take a train directly to Nyugati Station in the centre of Budapest.

Or you can stay on the bus and get off at the next stop, Kőbánya-Kispest metro station, where you can get on the metro network.

Key stops of bus line 200E – see more at Bud.hu:

• Ferihegy vasútállomás (railway station): transfers available to the network of MÁV-Start Hungarian State Railways, to reach Nyugati pályaudvar (Western railway terminal) in the city centre, or the cities of Szolnok, Debrecen, Nyíregyháza and Szeged in the eastern part of Hungary.
• Kőbánya-Kispest M: transfers to MÁV-Start trains and to buses serving East and South Pest.
• Határ út M: transfers to several daytime and night buses to South Pest.

The journey takes about 25 minutes and costs a few hundred Hungarian Forints, which is very cheap.

Free public transport in Budapest for EU citizens over 65

If you are an EU citizen and have reached the age of 65, public transport has notable advantages. It gives you free public transport around the whole of Budapest.

Remember to have official documentation, such as a passport or driver’s license.

I hope you can use this airport transport guide and that you’re ready for your trip to Budapest.

If you’ve got any questions please comment below and I’ll be happy to help.

Read all Budapest travel guides.

FAQ about Budapest airport transport:

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