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Budapest is a city that rewards repeat visitors. It doesn’t matter how many times you visit, there is often something new to discover, and a different activity to experience in the summer vs winter.
After visiting Budapest four times over the last 10 years, across different seasons and for different reasons (family, friends and couples holiday), I always find something new to enjoy.
A lot of blogs cover the basics or the highlights, so I thought it was time for an ultimate list of the best things to do in Budapest that are not so easily found one in one place.
If you are looking for solid classic recommendations for your first trip ever, or new ideas for more nieche interests for repeat visits, this list of 45+ awesome things to do in Budapest will satisfy all budgets and interests.
Each activity comes with activity prices (or free).
Where to Stay in Budapest
Getting to the city from the airport is a breeze — buses are cheap and super convenient. The 100E bus, for example, drops you right in the heart of Budapest in about 35 minutes.
Buda or Pest?
One of the first decisions you’ll face: Buda or Pest?
- Buda is the hilly, quieter side of the city. Think old-town charm, the castle district, and leafy residential streets. It’s perfect if you’re after a more laid-back vibe (but nightlife options are limited).
- Pest, on the other hand, is where the energy is. Ruin bars, cool cafés, restaurants, shops, you name it. It’s flat, lively, and makes a great base for exploring.
My pick? Pest — especially the Jewish Quarter (District VII) — is a fantastic spot to stay. It’s central, well-connected, and packed with awesome bars and food. Just a heads-up: while the Jewish Quarter is awesome, some sections of Király utca near the famous ruin bars can get pretty loud at night. If you’re traveling with kids or want a good night’s sleep, look for places on quieter side streets nearby.
Do You Need a Car in Budapest?
Short answer — nope. Budapest is super walkable, and the public transport network is excellent. Between the metro, trams, and buses, you can get pretty much anywhere in the city without even thinking about a car.
If you’re planning to do a lot of day trips (like to Eger, Szentendre, or Lake Balaton), you could rent a car for a day or two, but for exploring the city itself, it’s more of a hassle than a help. Parking can be expensive and tricky to find in central areas, and traffic isn’t exactly fun during rush hour.
Stick with your two feet, a public transport pass, or a bike rental — you’ll save money, time, and stress.
How to Budget for Budapest (5 Days, Off Season)
Style | Accommodation (€ per night → 5 nights) | Food (€ per day → 5 days) | Activities (€ per day → 5 days) | Transport (flat) | 5‑Day Core Total | 5‑Day Total incl. Transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Budget | 30 → 150 | 30 → 150 | 30 → 150 | 15 | 450 | 464 |
Mid‑Range | 100 → 500 | 60 → 300 | 50 → 250 | 15 | 1,050 | 1,064 |
Accommodation
Off season you can still find solid places at 50 to 100 per night. For the table I used 30 per night for budget places like hostels and 100 per night for mid‑range to keep numbers clean.
Food
If you are sharing as a couple, plan 30 to 50 per day for a dinner and the rest is breakfast/snacks. I used 30 per person for budget and 60 for mid‑range.
Activities
Allow at least 30 per day for baths, museums and one paid highlight per day. Mid‑range at 50 per day feels realistic if you add a cruise or a tour.
Transport
Budapest is walkable. Use singles at about 1.10 each or grab the 15 day Budapest pass but it’s not valid on the 100E bus from the airport.
Budapest Budget Per Person
For a couple 5-day holiday weekend, with 2-3 experiences and things to do per day, a realistic per person trip budget is €715.
Our Booking Recommended Stay
Last time I was in Budapest, in spring of 2025, we booked an cute place in the Jewish Quarter, and it was spot-on: comfy, modern, and just a short walk to the best spots in town. The host was super helpful, too. The total came to $300 for 5 nights which is a steal for late spring.
Book your next stay in Budapest
The Map
You can find all the activities mentioned in this article in this map (color coded by category). You can also request to get a Google Maps copy to have on your phone.
The Classic Things to Do in Budapest
1. Walk Across the Bridges
The Chain Bridge is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, linking the Buda and Pest sides of the city over the Danube. It’s the city’s oldest bridge and still the most famous — but there are several others worth spotting too, like Liberty Bridge, Margaret Bridge, and Elizabeth Bridge, each with its own style. The walk across is a must-do whether it’s your first visit or your fifth. The views are gorgeous in both directions, and if you cross at night, you’ll get that magical city-lights-over-the-water vibe. Bonus: it’s free, so you can wander back and forth as much as you like.
Price: Free
2. Climb Up to Buda Castle
Buda Castle sits on top of the hill overlooking the Danube, and getting up there is part of the fun. You’ll see a funicular at the base, but honestly, it’s overpriced for the very short ride you get. Instead, take the climb on foot — it’s not too steep, and you’ll pass some great viewpoints along the way. There are so many different ways to go up, I would say give yourself time and go exploring. Once you reach the top, you can wander the castle grounds for free, check out the museums if you’re keen, and enjoy the sweeping views over Pest. From here, it’s a short, scenic walk over to Fisherman’s Bastion.
Price: Free to walk around the grounds
Buda Castle Underground Cave Tour: Buy tickets here
Buda Castle Walk with Saint Stephen’s Hall Tour: Buy tickets here
3. Take in the Views at Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is hands-down one of Budapest’s most photogenic spots. With its fairytale turrets, sweeping staircases, and panoramic views of Parliament across the river, it’s an Instagram dream. Which will become obvious when you see the people lining up for photos. Most of it is free to explore, but there’s a small fee to go up to the highest terraces (worth it if the weather’s clear). Go early in the morning or around sunset for fewer crowds and the best light. I’m lucky I got visit multiple times years ago when the area just under the steps was not a restaurant, so we could access it for free.
Price: Free to walk around the grounds
Budapest: Evening Castle Hill Tour with Fishermen’s Bastion: Buy guided tour here
4. Relax at the Thermal Baths
Budapest is basically the spa capital of Europe, and I’ve been slowly working my way through them all. So far, I’ve been to Rudas and Széchenyi, and honestly, both are fantastic for different reasons.
Rudas is one of the city’s oldest bathhouses, with a mix of Ottoman architecture and modern touches. The rooftop pool is the star here — you can soak while looking out over the Danube, which is especially magical in winter when the air is crisp and the water is steaming. If you go, make sure to pick a coed day so you can enter the hammam area — the domed ceiling, stone archways, and steaming pools are absolutely stunning (and yes, some are incredibly hot).
Széchenyi is the iconic one you’ve probably seen in photos — big yellow buildings, outdoor pools, and steam rising in winter. It’s perfectly great, with a huge outdoor area that’s especially nice in colder weather. It can get busy (and touristy), so going early or later in the afternoon is best. They also host night-time “sparties” with DJs and lights if that’s your thing.
Rudas Thermal Spa Entry + Dinner: Buy ticket here
Széchenyi Spa Full Day with Optional Tasting: Buy entry here
5. Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building
Even if you don’t set foot inside, the Parliament Building is a showstopper. The neo-Gothic spires, the intricate details — honestly, it’s one of the prettiest buildings in Europe. You can book a guided tour to see the inside (and the Hungarian Crown Jewels), but if you’re short on time, just admire it from across the river. Sunset is magic here — the whole building glows gold and looks like something out of a postcard.
6. Climb St. Stephen’s Basilica
From the outside, St. Stephen’s Basilica is already one of the most beautiful buildings in the city — but the real magic is heading up to the dome. You can climb the stairs if you’re feeling ambitious or take the elevator if you’d rather save your legs. The 360° view over Budapest is worth every step (or button press). Inside, expect gold, marble, and intricate frescoes — plus a slightly unusual relic: the mummified right hand of St. Stephen himself.
7. Ride the Budapest Eye Ferris Wheel
Right in the middle of Erzsébet Square, the Budapest Eye is exactly what it sounds like — a giant Ferris wheel in the city center. It’s about €9–€10 per person and takes you high enough to get a completely different view of both Buda and Pest. I like it at night when the city lights up, but daytime rides are great too if you want to spot landmarks from above. It’s touristy but iconic and makes for a fun little activity with little one’s.
8. Wander Heroes’ Square
Heroes’ Square is one of those spots that’s impressive even if you only swing by for a few minutes. The statues and monuments here tell a lot about Hungary’s history, and the sheer size of the square makes it feel grand. It’s also a good jumping-off point to explore City Park, which is right behind it. If you’re here in spring or summer, grab an ice cream from a nearby stand and just people-watch for a while.
Price: free
9. Take a Danube River Cruise
Seeing Budapest from the water is one of the best ways to appreciate how beautiful it really is. It’s also one of the best and most well known things to do in Budapest. It appeals to romance lovers, friends and history or cutlure lovers. All you have to do is sit back with a glass of bubbly and take in the sights while listening to the tour (or not).
I love an evening cruise when the city lights come on — Parliament, the bridges, and Buda Castle all lit up is something else. There are fancy dinner cruises if you want the full experience, but you can also just do a simple sightseeing one for much less. Either way, bring a jacket if you’re sitting outside — the breeze off the Danube can get chilly.
Price: tours start from $15 but can go up to $50+ with dinner
10. Visit the House of Terror Museum
The name alone gives you an idea of what you’re in for — the House of Terror is not a lighthearted museum. It’s a sobering, intense look at Hungary’s history under both Nazi and Soviet rule, all housed in the former headquarters of the secret police. Even after visiting three times, I would say it bears repeating everytime someone visits the city.
The exhibits are powerful, sometimes disturbing, and definitely thought-provoking. Even if history isn’t normally your thing, this one hits differently — the way they’ve designed the space makes you feel the weight of what happened here. Plan to spend at least 1–2 hours and maybe grab a coffee afterward to process it all.
Price: $12 for entry ticket with no audio guide (recommended)
There is no online purchase of tickets. More information here.
11. Tour the Jewish Neighborhood and Synagogue
The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest in Europe, and visiting it is an experience that combines history, architecture, and reflection. The interior is grand, but the real emotional weight comes from the Holocaust Memorial and museum. Give yourself time to wander the surrounding streets too — there’s so much culture packed into this area.
Price: $14 for entry ticket with no guide.
Guided Tour with Entry Ticket: Buy here
12. Walk Along Dob Utca
Dob Utca runs through the Jewish Quarter and is one of my favourite streets for just wandering. It’s lined with cafés, shops, bars, and street art, and it has that lived-in, slightly gritty charm that makes Budapest feel real. Take your time — you’ll probably stumble across little galleries, vintage stores, and local bakeries along the way.
Price: free
13. Experience the Ruin Bars
Budapest’s ruin bars are exactly what they sound like — bars built in abandoned buildings or courtyards, filled with mismatched furniture, graffiti, and random objects that look like they were rescued from a flea market. Szimpla Kert is the original and most famous, but smaller bars scattered through the Jewish Quarter have their own charm. They’re a Budapest must, even if you’re not a big drinker.
Price: depends on what you buy. Drink prices are very affordable.
14. Do a Free Walking Tour
Budapest has some excellent free walking tours — you just tip your guide what you think it’s worth. They’re a great way to get the lay of the land, hear local stories, and see spots you might otherwise miss. I like doing these on my first or second day to get my bearings (and a long list of places to come back to).
Price: free to book but a tip of $10-$30 per person expected. Book here.
Things to Do in Budapest For Foodies
Budapest is one of those cities where you can eat really well without spending a fortune — and yes, there’s more to Hungarian food than goulash (although, please eat the goulash).
15. Eat at For Sale Pub
Right near Central Market Hall, For Sale Pub is unlike anywhere else I’ve eaten. Downstairs it’s a pub, upstairs it’s a totally unique dining spot. The walls, ceilings, and basically every surface are covered in scribbled notes from past visitors, and the floor is scattered with straw. The portions are huge and the snack basket of peanuts is insane. We thought it was some kind of table decoration at first — we were so clueless. But no, they keep them coming the entire time you’re there. We had two mains between us, which meant we had enough leftovers for lunch the next day.
Price: You can have drinks or dinner as well. Expect to pay around $40-90 for two people.
16. Have Brunch at Twentysix Budapest
There are a lot of trendy brunch spots popping up around Budapest, and this is one of the standouts. The space feels like a massive greenhouse filled with plants and natural light. It’s also popular, so expect a wait of 10–20 minutes (sometimes up to an hour) unless you book ahead. I managed to get the shakshuka and one of their fresh juices — both excellent.
Price: For coffee and brunch per person expect to pay $25-$35.
17. Sample Local Food at Central Market Hall
If you want to try a bit of everything, this is the place. Downstairs is full of fresh produce, paprika stands, and cured meats. Upstairs, you’ll find the food stalls — grab a lángos (deep-fried dough with sour cream and cheese), a bowl of goulash, or stuffed cabbage. Just don’t come here already full — the smell alone will make you hungry.
Price: Free to walk around.
18. Take a Chimney Cake Cooking Class
Cooking classes are one of those mini adventures we love to do when traveling, and this one was no exception. Kürtőskalács, aka chimney cakes, are everywhere in Budapest — but making them yourself is a bonding experience you won’t forget. This is the exact class we did earlier this year, and it was so much fun. Rolling the dough, coating it in cinnamon sugar, watching it caramelize — and then eating it fresh out of the oven? Perfection.
Price: Various providers available.
The one we booked and recommend is $50 per person. Book here.
19. Grab Fresh Bread at Vaj Bakery
Vaj is a bakery that’s fairly central but still far enough from the main tourist hub to feel local. When my mum lived in Budapest, this was her go-to spot. The bread is incredible — perfect for snacks or brunch — and they do great pastries too. If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, grab a loaf and make your own Hungarian-style breakfast.
Price: Coffee and brunch $10-$25 per person.
20. Try Lángos
Lángos is Hungary’s ultimate street food: deep-fried dough, usually topped with sour cream and grated cheese (but you can get creative with garlic, ham, or even sweet toppings). You can find it at Central Market Hall, street food stalls, and even small bakeries. It’s cheap, filling, and perfect after a day of walking around the city.
Price: Price ranges based on where you buy but is usually between $4-$10.
21. Try Hungarian Wines in a Local Bar
Tokaji dessert wines get a lot of love, but don’t miss out on Hungary’s reds. Bull’s Blood (Egri Bikavér) is the famous one, and you’ll find plenty of cozy wine bars in the city to try it in. If you’re not sure where to start, ask the bartender to put together a mini tasting — it’s a fun way to learn about the regions without committing to a whole bottle.
Price: Depends on what you buy.
22. Taste Real Hungarian Goulash
You can’t come to Budapest and not try goulash. It’s hearty, paprika-rich, and somehow tastes even better when you’ve been walking around in the cold. The classic version is a soup (not a stew, despite what a lot of tourist menus abroad will have you believe) with tender beef, vegetables, and just the right kick of spice.
You’ll find it everywhere from hole-in-the-wall eateries to upscale restaurants, but for a proper local experience, head to a traditional Hungarian kitchen — somewhere that serves it in a big steaming bowl with fresh bread on the side.
Price: Goulash in the center can range from $15-$35+ per serving.
23. Check Out à table!
à table is a local brunch chain you’ll spot all over Budapest. It’s nothing wildly unusual, but it’s one of those places that just feels very Budapest — reliable coffee, pastries, and breakfast plates in a cozy setting. Perfect for a quick morning bite when you don’t want to overthink where to go.
Price: $15-$35+ per person including food and coffee.
24. Step Inside New York Budapest Café
This place feels like royalty. The ornate ceilings, chandeliers, and rich décor make it feel like you’ve just stepped into a palace for coffee and cake. It’s more expensive than your average café, but for the setting alone, it’s worth coming here at least once.
Price: $15-$35+ per person for cake and coffee. If you want to grab dinner and food, expect $50+ per plate.
Make a reservation here.
24. Have a Drink at a Rooftop Bar
Budapest has a growing rooftop bar scene, and it’s such a good way to see the city from a new angle. Places like 360 Bar give you panoramic views, cocktails, and a nice breeze in summer. In winter, some of them put up heated igloos so you can still enjoy the view without freezing.
25. Grab Ice Cream at Gelarto Rosa
Right near St. Stephen’s Basilica, Gelarto Rosa serves up Instagram-famous ice cream shaped like roses. The flavours are delicious (I love the pistachio), and yes, the photo is mandatory. Perfect for a quick treat before or after climbing the basilica dome.
26. Have the Most Insane Hot Chocolates at Rengeteg RomKafé
This place is pure whimsy. Tucked away from the main tourist streets, Rengeteg RomKafé feels like stepping into someone’s quirky living room — stuffed animals, vintage knick-knacks, and shelves full of curiosities everywhere you look. But the real reason to come is the hot chocolate. We’re talking thick, rich, and piled with so many toppings it’s basically dessert in a mug. If you’re here in winter, it’s the coziest stop you can make.
Things to Do in Budapest For the Adventurous
If you like your city breaks with a bit more action, Budapest’s got plenty to keep you busy beyond the museums and cafés.
27. Go Caving Beneath Budapest
Budapest sits on a network of caves and thermal springs, so you can literally go spelunking under the city. The Pálvölgyi and Szemlőhegyi caves are the most accessible for visitors, with guided tours you can book in advance. It’s cool (literally), a bit muddy, and a completely different way to see the city. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty — this is not a white-trainers activity.
28. Visit a Shooting Range
Budapest has a lot of gun ranges, and after checking a few out we decided to go with Capital Shooting. We went with a package that had 8 different weapons to try, and it was such a thrill. The safety standards were top notch, and the instructors were incredibly knowledgeable. Even as a total non–gun enthusiast, I valued the opportunity to see what it’s all about and try something so different.
The Movie Star package at Capital Shooting was $200 for two people. Book here.
29. Rent a Bike for Margaret Island
If you like to move around, biking is hands-down the best way to see Budapest. There are city bikes for rent (the green ones), but honestly, renting a proper city or mountain bike is worth it — your legs will thank you.
For a quick and easy ride, head to Margaret Island. This incredible green space in the middle of the Danube is awesome in winter, summer, or spring — there’s always something going on, from musical fountains to pop-up food stalls.
Every time I’ve booked a bike in Budapest it has been through this provider. The prices are good and the bikes are new. You can book it for 2 days and go to Margaret Island on Day 1, and head out to St. Andrew’s Village the next one.
30. Cycle to St. Andrew’s Village (Szentendre)
This one left us absolutely wrecked — in the best way. It took us a full day of cycling, and we were so sore after, but it was completely worth it. Szentendre is a colourful little riverside town with galleries, coffee shops, and plenty of spots to just sit and recover before heading back. If you’re done cycling after the ride there, you can always take the train or boat back to Budapest. For the full information, you should read the guide to biking to Szentendre.
Price: Depends on whether you bike, take the bus or join a guided walking tour.
Read more about: How to Bike from Budapest to Szentendre
31. Take a Day Trip to Kékes
Kékes is Hungary’s highest peak at 1,014 meters and a refreshing break from the city. In winter, it’s a ski spot; in summer, it’s great for hiking and cooler mountain air. I’m planning a full follow-up post on exactly how to do this trip — so watch this space.
Price: The cheapest way is to grab the bus ($8 each way).
You can also get a coach with a guided hiking tour for about $100 per person.
Read more about: Hiking Hungary’s Highest Peak
Day Trips from Budapest
If you’ve got an extra day or two to spare, there’s plenty just outside Budapest worth exploring. Most of these are easy to reach by train, bus, or boat, and give you a taste of Hungary beyond the capital.
32. Eger
Eger is a beautiful little town best known for its fortress, Ottoman-era minaret, and the famous Bull’s Blood wine (Egri Bikavér). It’s compact enough to explore on foot, with cobblestone streets, cafés, and wine cellars everywhere. You can also hit the thermal baths if you want to make a full day of it.
Price: The cheapest way is to grab the bus ($8 each way).
You can also get a coach with a guided hiking tour for about $100 per person.
33. Lake Balaton
In summer, this is Hungary’s beach escape. Lake Balaton is massive, with cute lakeside towns, bike paths, and swimming spots. On the north shore, you’ll find vineyards and charming villages; on the south shore, there’s more of a resort vibe. Even if you’re not visiting in peak season, it’s still nice for a scenic walk and a long lunch by the water.
34. Visegrád
Visegrád is a postcard-perfect town on the Danube Bend, famous for its medieval citadel and royal palace. The views from the top are insane — you get a sweeping curve of the Danube with rolling hills on either side. If you’re into history, the reconstructed palace rooms are fascinating, but even just walking around the ruins is worth the trip.
35. Esztergom
Right near the Slovakian border, Esztergom is home to Hungary’s largest basilica. It’s perched on a hill with views over the river and the Maria Valeria Bridge, which connects Hungary to Slovakia. You can climb up inside the dome for even better views, and the interior is as grand as you’d expect from the outside.
36. Gödöllő Palace
Just a short train ride from Budapest, Gödöllő Palace was a favourite summer retreat of Queen Sisi (Empress Elisabeth of Austria). The palace is beautifully restored, with ornate rooms, sprawling gardens, and exhibitions about Sisi’s life. It’s an easy half-day trip if you don’t want to spend all day out of the city.
Also worth mentioning:
- Szentendre and Kékes are both great day trips too — you can check out more on those in the Adventurous section above.
Unique Things to Do in Budapest
These are the activities that don’t fit neatly into the “classics” or “food” categories but make Budapest way more interesting. Perfect if you’ve done the big sights already or just want to mix things up.
37. Visit the Art Museums at Heroes’ Square
Heroes’ Square isn’t just a pretty photo stop — it’s flanked by two major museums: the Museum of Fine Arts and Kunsthalle (Hall of Art). The Museum of Fine Arts is more classic, with paintings, sculptures, and rotating exhibitions. Kunsthalle leans contemporary, so you might walk in and find yourself staring at an entire room of neon lights or experimental installations. I like going in the afternoon after wandering City Park — it’s a nice culture fix without being overwhelming.
38. Get Your Steps in at Pixity
Pixity is a family-friendly arcade game spot that’s way more active than it sounds. The best game? The one where you have to step on blocks to remove them — but dodge the moving “error” blocks at the same time. It turns into a full-body workout without you even realising it, and it’s such a fun bonding experience for friends or family.
Prices vary based on weekend/weekday and number of people
Buy tickets here
39. Climb Gellért Hill for the Liberty Statue
The climb up Gellért Hill is no joke, but the views from the top make it worth every step. The Liberty Statue (erected in 1947) stands tall over the city, and you get one of the best panoramic views of the Danube, Buda, and Pest all in one shot. Go at sunset for a golden glow over the city — just be ready for a breezy walk back down.
Price: free
40. Order a Custom Down Pillow or Duvet from Elfenbein
If you want the most luxurious (and unusual) souvenir, head to Elfenbein for a custom down feather pillow or duvet. They make pieces fit for queens and princesses — literally. Just make sure to call ahead to arrange your visit rather than barging in like we did. The quality is next level, and they’ll last you for years.
41. Visit the Holocaust Memorial Center
Separate from the synagogue, the Holocaust Memorial Center is a dedicated museum and memorial that dives deep into Hungary’s role in the Holocaust. It’s heavy, yes, but very thoughtfully done, and it’s worth visiting if you want a fuller understanding of the city’s history.
Price: $10 Books tickets here
42. Explore the Hospital in the Rock
Hidden beneath Buda Castle, the Hospital in the Rock is part museum, part time capsule. It was used as an emergency hospital during WWII and later adapted into a nuclear bunker during the Cold War. Walking through the narrow corridors lined with old equipment, wax figures, and original furnishings feels like stepping straight into history. Tours are guided and take about an hour — they’re detailed, sometimes chilling, but incredibly fascinating.
Price: $27 – Books tickets here
43. Join a Nighttime Vampires and Myths Tour
If you like a bit of spooky storytelling, Budapest does a solid job of it after dark. The Vampires and Myths tours mix historical facts with eerie legends, and walking through dimly lit streets really sets the mood. It’s cheesy in the best way.
44. Test Out Your Axe Throwing Skills
Axe throwing isn’t just for the lumberjack set — it’s surprisingly addictive and way more satisfying than you expect. There are a couple of spots in Budapest where you can give it a go, and they’ll teach you how to throw like a pro without injuring yourself (or your friends).
45. Go to the Cat Museum
Yes, there’s an actual cat museum in Budapest. It’s part art gallery, part feline hangout spot, with cat-themed everything. If you’re a cat person, it’s a fun, quirky hour; if you’re not… well, maybe skip this one.
46. Have a Sparty
The Széchenyi thermal baths turn into full-on parties on certain nights — complete with DJs, lights, and drinks. It’s chaotic, sweaty, and not at all relaxing, but it’s one of those “only in Budapest” things to try once if you’re into nightlife.
47. Spot your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds
Budapest has its own Madame Tussauds, and if you’re into celebrity wax figures, it’s a good laugh. The bonus is you can get some ridiculously fun (and sometimes convincingly real) photos for your travel album.
48. Explore the Buda Castle Labyrinth
This one’s a little bit weird and a little bit wonderful. Beneath Buda Castle, there’s a network of caves and tunnels that have been used for everything from wine storage to military shelters — and now it’s a museum you can actually wander through. The lighting is dim, the air is cool, and there’s an eerie, almost theatrical vibe in some sections (there’s even a Dracula connection).
It’s not for everyone — if you’re claustrophobic, maybe skip it — but if you like history with a side of mystery, it’s an unforgettable experience.
Price: $15 – tickets are purchased on site but best to pop by and reserve. More information here
49. Have a Photo Session at Ikono
Ikono is basically a giant interactive photo playground — think colourful sets, props, and immersive rooms built for the ‘Gram. It’s over the top, silly, and a lot of fun if you want some travel photos that aren’t just cityscapes.
50. Splash Paint at Frocksolo
Unleash your inner artist (or just make a glorious mess) at Frocksolo. You get a canvas, paint, and protective gear, then go wild. You can throw, drip, or splatter however you like. Bonus: you get to take your creation home as a very personal Budapest souvenir.
51. Ride the Yellow Tram Along the Danube
It’s not just public transport — it’s basically a sightseeing tour for the price of a single ticket. Tram 2 runs along the Pest side of the Danube, giving you postcard views of the Parliament, Buda Castle, and all the bridges. It’s one of the prettiest tram routes in Europe, and you’ll probably want your camera out the whole time.
Pro tip: go around sunset for that golden light over the river, and try to snag a window seat.
52. Have a Splash Day at Aquaworld
If you’re visiting Budapest with kids (or you just love a good waterslide yourself), Aquaworld is a full-on indoor water park that’s perfect year-round. It’s got massive slides, a wave pool, lazy rivers, and even a separate kids’ play area so little ones can splash safely. Since it’s indoors, it’s just as fun in winter as it is in summer, and there’s plenty of space to spread out for a whole day of swimming and relaxing.
Pro tip: book your tickets in advance on busy weekends or during school holidays, because it can fill up fast.
Price: Adult Entry Ticket $33
Book tickets here
