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Top 20 FREE things to do in Budapest

Budapest has always held a special place in my heart. It’s one of those cities that manages to blow you away every single time, no matter how many visits you rack up. From its jaw-dropping architecture to its quirky ruin bars, this city feels like an adventure waiting to happen. Whether you’re strolling across the Chain Bridge at sunset or diving into a steaming thermal bath, Budapest has a vibe that’s hard to beat—and trust me, I’ve been around the block! So, let me take you through the Top 20 Things to Do in Budapest (and 15 more, because I just couldn’t stop), a city that’s as affordable as it is unforgettable. So Check out why Budapest is a top holiday location and a certain alternative to Paris, Krakow, Lisbon or Milan.

If you are jetting off soon chances are you already have a pretty good idea of things to do in Budapest, whether you’re interrailing or taking a winter vacation in Budapest. However, with several trips to this wonderful city behind us, we’re going to spill the beans on the top 5 things to do in Budapest.

1. Architecture: Visit the Hungarian Parliament building

Number 1 on the ‘things to do in Budapest’ list is the Parliament Building. Budapest is full of character with every single street home to a quirky piece of architecture. Arguably the finest architecture in Budapest is to be found at the Hungarian Parliament building; it’s actually the third largest Parliament building in the world and it dates back to the late 18th century. There are tours of Parliament you can take through your holiday vendor or by booking in Budapest through a third party.

2. Antiques and art: Falk Miksa Street

Just a street away from the Hungarian Parliament Building you will find the delightful street of Falk Miksa utca. Here you can discover a range of antique stalls and boutique stores. Also located nearby are a range of wonderful art galleries including the Kieselbach Gallery and the Judit Gallery. If your loved ones back home appreciate a good souvenir, you are sure to find it at Falk Miksa Street.

3. Explore: Óbuda is the oldest part of Budapest

A lesser known part of Budapest, Óbuda is home to some wonderful sightseeing and adventures. In Flórian tér you can discover the ruins of a well preserved Roman military camp, and in Nagyszombat utca you can admire the well preserved Roman amphitheatre.

4. Food and dining: Bock Bistro

Bock Bistro is a wonderful restaurant with an award winning chef. It offers terrific value for money and there is simply no better way to discover traditional Hungarian cuisine with a twist than at Bock Bistro. If Spanish Tapas is your thing, you’re in safe hands, as Bock Bistro do that too.

5. Night life: Szimpla Kert and Ötkert

My favorite part! Budapest is a party at night time. When the sun falls, the city transforms in to a bass pumping socialites heaven. Visit Szimpla Kert for relaxed beers and wine, mixing it with professionals and artists. Or visit Ötkert for some good old messy nights perfect for a stag do. There is no designated strip for clubbing or partying in Budapest. But wherever you turn, there will always be a bar welcoming you in.

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Budapest is one of the finest cities in Central Europe. The capital city of Hungary, Budapest, is full of local delights and national traditions, with the city home to over 1.7 million inhabitants according to the 2011 census. With stunning views, the famous Chain Bridge, architecture to marvel at, and mouthwatering local cuisine, there are so many things to do in Budapest. And you can do them for CHEAP! Check out why Budapest is a top holiday location and a brilliant alternative to Paris, Krakow, Lisbon, or Milan.

6. Cross the Chain Bridge at Sunset

The Chain Bridge is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Crossing it at sunset offers a magical view of the Danube River, with the city lights reflecting on the water.

7. Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

The largest church in Budapest, St. Stephen’s Basilica, is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. Climb to the dome for a panoramic view of the city.

8. Take a Dip in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths

No visit to Budapest is complete without relaxing at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, the largest medicinal bath in Europe. It’s an iconic Budapest experience!

9. Go Underground at the Labyrinth of Buda Castle

Explore the mysterious Labyrinth of Buda Castle, a series of underground caves and tunnels used as a hideout in the past.

10. Ride the Buda Castle Funicular

The Buda Castle Funicular offers a fun and scenic way to get to Buda Castle. It’s a historical ride that dates back to the 19th century.

11. Explore Margaret Island

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a stroll through Margaret Island, a peaceful park in the middle of the Danube.

12. Climb Gellért Hill for Panoramic Views

For the best views in Budapest, climb Gellért Hill and visit the Citadella. The effort is worth it!

13. Discover the Shoes on the Danube Bank

This moving memorial honors the victims of World War II. The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a must-visit for history buffs.

14. Stroll Along Váci Street

A popular shopping and dining street, Váci utca is perfect for souvenirs, local shops, and street performances.

15. Tour the Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall is a foodie paradise where you can sample Hungarian paprika, local wines, and fresh pastries.

16. Visit the Dohany Street Synagogue

The largest synagogue in Europe, Dohany Street Synagogue, is an architectural and historical marvel.

17. Enjoy a Cruise on the Danube River

Take a Danube River cruise to see Budapest from a new perspective, with landmarks like Parliament and Buda Castle beautifully lit at night.

18. Explore the House of Terror Museum

Dive into Hungary’s turbulent history at the House of Terror Museum, a sobering yet fascinating experience.

19. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buda Castle

Catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buda Castle for a touch of tradition.

20. Relax at the Gellért Spa

End your trip in style with a soak at the stunning Gellért Spa, a true gem of Budapest’s thermal bath culture.

Why you should visit Budapest!

So, is Budapest worth visiting? That’s a rhetorical question—it’s a massive hell yes! From the epic Parliament Building to a soak in the Széchenyi Baths, from the moving history at the Shoes on the Danube to wild nights at Szimpla Kert, Budapest somehow manages to balance culture, history, and flat-out fun like nowhere else. And did I mention it’s insanely affordable? I’ve been to over 200 countries, but Budapest is one of those rare places I’d come back to again and again. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a trip you’ll be talking about for years to come. You won’t regret it.