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The City
Budapest is a very central European and a global city at the same time. This apparent paradox is due to its lively history, its diverse population and the continuous, inspirational blend of cultures.
The city’s liberating atmosphere continually stimulates your senses. Budapest’s spice derives from its vitality and cultural effervescence, and we Hungarians use the city in a creative way. We are able to do “usual” things unusually well. Let us show you the majestic Buda castle hosting a wine festival, the Liberty bridge turning into a picnic spot above the Danube river, or the unique vibe of the ruin bars in the Jewish District.
It is almost impossible to list everything that is worth doing, seeing or tasting in Budapest, especially because a journey in and around the Hungarian capital will surely lead to personal discoveries as well for each visitor.
Do & See
Budapest offers plenty of entertainment all year round: from green parks and soothing thermal baths to architectural gems and museums, to be explored in city quarters all different in character.
Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Undoubtedly a signature landmark of Budapest, Lánchíd, which translates to chain bridge, was built in 1839 in a period characterised by economic boom in the city, by Scottish engineer Adam Clark. The construction was largely supported by István Széchenyi, one of the most important politicians of the time. The lions guarding the bridge are also connected to the first suicide that happened here, committed by their architect upon the realisation that he had forgotten about the tongues of the animals.
Adresse: Lánchíd
The Parliament
The Parliament is arguably the most prominent landmark of Hungary, also noted as the third largest parliament building in the world. It was designed in Gothic revival style by architect Imre Steindl. It is 96 metres tall, which refers to the year 1896, when extensive constructions were carried out to celebrate the country's Millenium.
Adresse: Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3
Telefon: +36 1 441 4415
Åpningstider: Mon to Sun: 8.00–18.00 (Apr thru Oct), 8.00–16.00 (Nov thru Mar)
Transport: Kossuth Lajos tér / Metro Line M2, Tram Line M2
Buda Castle District
The charming district of the Buda Castle entails the prominent Fisherman Bastion, Matthias Church, several museums, as well as some residential homes. You'll find the National Gallery here, and a wide range of other museums dedicated to music, military history, pharmacy (housed in the first pharmacy of Buda), and the life of Houdini. Take a romantic stroll under the blossoming trees of Tóth Árpád sétány, watch the change of the guard, and make your way back to the city centre by descending on the most scenic funicular in the world.
Adresse: Szent György tér 2
Baths of Budapest
If Hungary is a Land of Waters, then the same distinction applies to Budapest as a city. Even though the country is landlocked, the river Danube is a central element in Hungary's geography, as is Lake Balaton, a popular holiday spot for many Hungarians and so big it is known as the Hungarian Sea. Not to mention the multitude of springs and wells in Budapest that amaze spa-goers with their relaxing and healing properties.
Water plays a major role in the everyday life of the city, with a wealth of thermal and mineral water veins crisscrossing beneath the surface, feeding into the many baths and spas to be found throughout Budapest, each different from the other, and each worth visiting for a different reason.
Telefon: +36 1 452 4500
E-post: [email protected]
The Széchenyi Baths
Thanks to the geological features of the Carpathian Basin, Hungary is extremely rich in thermal springs. And the area of Budapest is no exception: the capital stretches across over 100 springs, many of them accessible to the public in beautiful historical buildings.
The Széchenyi Baths, built in 1913 in neo-Baroque style, is undoubtedly the most famous of all: Europe's largest medicinal bath is supplied by a spring of 76°C, and it houses 18 pools, 10 saunas, and various events to be enjoyed all year long.
Adresse: Állatkerti krt. 9-11, Budapest
Telefon: +36 1 363 3210
Åpningstider: It varies by season and events
St. Stephen's Basilica
St. Stephen's Basilica is the largest church in Budapest. It was built in Neo-classicist style and has a capacity of up to 8,500 people. Its most noted relic is the mummified right hand of Stephen I, Hungary's first king who among others converted Hungarians to Christianity. The adjacent square is home to several markets throughout the year, and is lined by terraces of trendy bars and cafés.
Adresse: Szent István tér 1
Telefon: +36 30 703 6599
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Sat: 09.00–19.00, Sun: 7.45–19.00
Heroes' Square
A highly photographable neighbourhood in Budapest, this quarter is home to several landmarks built for the millenial celebrations in 1896. The vast Heroes' Square is adorned by sculptures of the seven Magyar chieftains, surrounded by the most prominent rulers who followed them in Hungarian history. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Kunsthalle are adjacent to the square, while if you continue your way past the wall of sculptures, you'll reach City Park with Vajdahunyad castle.
Adresse: Hősök tere
E-post: [email protected]
The Great Synagogue
The distinct symbol of the Jewish quarter, the Great Synagogye is also noted as one of the largest in the world, the second only to the one in New York. The visit entails a guided tour with a walk in the building and its surrounding garden, where you'll also find sculptures of famous Hungarian writers and artists of Jewish origin. There is also a Jewish museum beside the synagogue, not to be confused with the Holocaust Memorial Centre further away in Páva Street.
Adresse: Dohány u. 2-8
Telefon: +36 70 533 5696
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Sun to Thu: 10.00–17.00, Fri: 10.00–13.30 (closing times vary by season), Sat: closed
Shoes on the Danube Bank
An ironwork memorial by Gyula Pauer consisting of sixty pairs of shoes, commemorating the thousands of Jewish victims who were shot into the Danube during the Arrow Cross movement in 1944-45. With over 800,000 people expelled or killed, the Hungarian Jewish community is regarded as one of the biggest victims in the dark era of Holocaust.
Adresse: Id. Antall József rakpart
Gellért Thermal Baths
The Gellért Thermal Baths are housed just behind the imposing Art Nouveau Gellért Hotel near the Liberty Bridge in Budapest. There are a range of pools of different temperatures, both inside and out, including the iconic sliding-roofed main pool, the external wave pool, as well as several sauna and steam rooms.
Adresse: Szent Gellért tér 1
Telefon: +36 1 466 6166
Åpningstider: 6.00–20.00 daily
Hungarian State Opera
The Hungarian State Opera is a neo-Renaissance masterpiece, it has the third best acoustics in Europe after the Scala in Milan and the Opera Garnier in Paris. Designed by Miklós Ybl, who also planned St.Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika), the Hungarian State Opera opened in 1884. Lavish inside and out, a gorgeous fresco by Károly Lotz gleaming in a vast bronze chandelier in the Main Hall, the Opera is home to the Hungarian National Ballet founded the same year.
The Opera ranks high on many visitors’ bucket lists, both for the building’s stunning design and for the high-quality performances that are held amid its stately settings.
Adresse: Andrássy út 22.
Telefon: +36 1 814 7100
E-post: [email protected]
Margaret Island (Margitsziget)
The 2.5-km long Margaret Island between Buda and Pest makes for a perfect venue for a lazy day outside the bustling city centre. It is home to several flowery parks, bars, medieval ruins, a water tower, a running trail, and the beloved Musical Fountain, giving a spectacular show several times a day in the summer season.
Adresse: Margitsziget
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: fountain show from April until October
City Városliget
Stretching behind the imposing Heroes' Square, Városliget is one of the most popular recreational venues in the city. There are plenty of entertainment options in the neighbourhood, including the Széchenyi Baths, Budapest Zoo, Circus, the Vajdahunyad castle housing the Agricultural Museum and various fairs, and a pond that turns into a popular ice rink in the winter season.
Telefon: +36 1 273 4900
Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music
When Franz Liszt, Liszt Ferenc to Hungarians, established his Music Academy in 1875, it was at his home in Vörösmarty Street, now a memorial museum. Today’s Liszt Ferenc Zeneakadémia, on the square also named after the composer, is an Art Nouveau masterpiece created in 1907. Since its redevelopment in 2013, it has mainly arranged its own concerts, featuring stars such as Joshua Bell, Chick Corea and Steve Reich.
Adresse: Liszt Ferenc tér 8, 1061
Telefon: +36 1 462 4600
E-post: [email protected]
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum) is an ornate cultural landmark on Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere) partly reopening in October 2018. When fully operational by mid-2019 following renovation, the collection will feature Egyptian art, items from Classical antiquity and paintings by Old Masters. Already unveiled, the medieval-style Roman Hall is covered with elaborate murals.
Adresse: Dózsa György út 41, 1146
Telefon: +36 1 469 7100
E-post: [email protected]
Palace of Arts (Müpa Budapest)
Known locally by its acronym of Müpa, Palace of Arts (Művészetek Palotája) is a striking complex by the Danube created for the new millennium. It consists of the Bartók National Concert Hall, the Festival Theatre and the Ludwig Museum. The Bartók National Concert Hall is known for its outstanding acoustics created by Russell Johnson, who worked with some of the world’s most renowned architects. This is also the home of the prestigious Hungarian National Philharmonic, founded in 1923. The Ludwig Museum's exhibition space displays artwork by modern and contemporary artists, and it is open all year round.
Adresse: Komor Marcell u. 1, 1095
Telefon: +36 1 555 3000
E-post: [email protected]
Rudas Thermal Baths
Located by the foot of the scenic Gellért Hill, Rudas is another symbolic bath of Budapest, built in the 16th century under the Ottoman occupation. It features a dim central dome and octagonal baths, surrounded by four pools, each with a different temperature. Plan your visit in advance as there are selected days for male and female visitors.
Adresse: Döbrentei tér 9
Telefon: +36 1 356 1010
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 6.00–22.00, night bath on Fri and Sat until 4.00
Citadel
A fortress built under the Austrian empire and used also by fascist and communist forces, Citadel sits atop the 235-metre high Gellért Hill, together with the Liberty Statue, a bronze lady holding a palm leaf and guarding the city since 1947 (hence was originally intended to celebrate the Soviet liberation from the Nazi forces after WWII).
Adresse: Gellérthegy
Hungarian National Museum
Housed in a beautiful neoclassical building along what is called the small boulevard of Budapest, this museum houses various permanent and temporary exhibitions on the history of Hungary, starting from the Roman period, when the province of Pannonia stretched far beyond than the present borders of the country.
Adresse: Múzeum körút 14-16
Telefon: +36 1 327 7700
Åpningstider: Tue to Sun: 10.00–18.00
Tram Line 2
Regarded by the National Geographic among the most scenic tram routes in the world, these yellow trolleys will help you discover Budapest's most beautiful buildings for the price of a single tram ticket. Make sure you do it at night (as well), to see the splendid city lights illuminating the elegant Buda hillside.
Adresse: between Jászai Mari tér and Közvágóhíd
Erzsébet Lookout Tower
Only 20 minutes by bus, and you'll find yourself in the midst of unspoilt greenery without even setting foot out of the capital. Start your trip by taking the bus to the Normafa parks, and try the best strudel in the city with scenic views over the Buda hills. From here stretches a short hiking trail all the way up to the lookout tower with cafés, playgrounds, and a funicular where you can also get photographed during the ride. From the top of the lookout tower, you'll get breathtaking views that at clear times even encompass the peak of the High Tatras.
Adresse: Erzsébet-kilátó
Restaurants
A gastronomic revolution has taken over Hungary in the past few years. New restaurants, bistros, and street food places have been opening on almost every corner of its capital city, but cuisine in the countryside is in bloom as well. Whether they want to have a multi-course meal while tasting the best wines of the country or prefer to grab a bite in a more casual place, visitors to Hungary will definitely find something for themselves in the large selection of venues for dining. From exquisite wine bars to unique and creative cooking courses and gastronomy festivals, the country offers an exciting spectrum to everyone who loves to eat.
Onyx Restaurant
A proud holder of two Michelin stars, Onyx offers a regal dining experience blending traditional flavours with quality and innovation. Lunch menus of 3, 4, and 6 courses are available, and specialties include rooster consommé, duck ravioli, and flódni, a poppy seed and walnut-filled rich dessert of Hungarian origin.
Adresse: Vörösmarty tér 7-8
Telefon: +36 30 508 0622
Åpningstider: Lunch: Thu to Sat from 12.00, dinner: Tue to Sat: 18.30–20.30
Costes Downtown
The second venue of the Costes team serving fine courses inspired by local and international cuisine, all made of unique ingredients from quail to mangalica. An elegant, bistro-style restaurant that was awarded with a Michelin-star shortly after its opening.
Adresse: Vigyázó Ferenc utca 5., Ráday u. 4
Telefon: +36 1 920 1015
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Breakfast: 6.30–10.30, lunch: 12.00–15.30, dinner: 18.30–23.00
Gundel Restaurant
Located in the vibrant scenery of the City Park, Gundel is a flagship restaurant dedicated to Hungarian cuisine. It started as a father-and-son establishment in the hands of Bavarian chef Károly Gundel in the late 19th century. Its menu features traditional Hungarian flavours with a modern and international twist, served through à la carte as well as tasting menus, including mangalica pork, goose liver, and the famous Gundel pancake.
Adresse: Gundel Károly út 4
Telefon: +36 1 889 8111
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Thu: 12.00–23.00, Fri and Sat: 12.00–0.00, Sun: brunch 11.30–15.00, 19.00–23.00
Déryné Bisztró
Déryné is Buda's symbolic restaurant, heavily frequented by locals living west of the Danube. It opened in the 1910s and served several well-known artists at the time, but it welcomes today's visitor with the same quality and hospitality, offering Hungarian and French-style dishes and home-made bakery products that are the subject of acclaim in the entire city.
Adresse: Krisztina tér 3
Telefon: +36 1 225 1407
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Thu: 7.30–0.00, Fri: 7.30–1.00, Sat: 9.00–1.00, Sun: 9.00–0.00
Menza
Menza is Hungarian for canteen, and indeed this restaurant serves the very staples of Hungarian cuisine, in an elegant but very friendly atmosphere. The menu includes goulash, garlic soup, trout, veal stew, and apple strudel, just to pick a few.
Adresse: Liszt Ferenc tér 2
Telefon: +36 30 145 4242
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 11.00–23.00
Fakanál
Housed in the busy Great Market Hall, Fakanál is a traditional restaurant serving Hungarian meals in an authentic setting accompanied by live gypsy music. A lively atmosphere is guaranteed here, either because of the events they host, or the pálinka shots that are always on high demand (and a must for every visitor).
Adresse: Vámház körút 1-3
Telefon: +36 1 217 7860
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon: 9.00–17.00, Tue to Fri: 9.00–18.00, Sat: 9.00–15.00, Sun: closed
Borkonyha
Borkonyha is a mix of a contemporary family restaurant and a French bistro, though the chef Ákos Sárközi often includes Spanish and Italian specialities on the menu. A huge part of their concept is their extensive wine list, which includes 200 different wines, most of them Hungarian. This was the third Hungarian restaurant to win a Michelin star, so quality is high.
Adresse: 1051 Budapest, Sas u. 3.
Telefon: +36 1 266 08 35
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Wed–Sun 10am–7pm
Transport: Metro 1,2 or 3 to Deák Ferenc tér, then cross Elisabeth Park and walk along Sas utca
Spinoza Café & Restaurant
Spinoza is one of the most noted restaurants of the Jewish quarter, serving a wide range of traditional meals, from roasted goose leg to lamb kebab and chestnut purée. The venue is also popular for its in-house theatre.
Adresse: Dob u. 15
Telefon: +36 1 413 7488
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 11.00–23.00 daily
Kék Rózsa
A traditional restaurant in the heart of the Jewish quarter with a simple design and rich Hungarian flavours, at highly affordable prices. Daily offers are also available.
Adresse: Wesselényi u. 9
Telefon: +36 1 342 8981
Åpningstider: 11.00–22.00 daily
Lecsó
A decent budget-friendly restaurant serving buffet lunch during the day, Lecsó is always busy with locals who are looking for something conventional, for here flavours and portions are just like at home. Stews, egg soup, Schnitzel, Hungarian ratatouille and meat-filled (hortobágyi) pancake: just a few of the things worth a try by one-time visitors as well.
Adresse: Szent István körút 10
Telefon: +36 1 349 3580
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Thu: 11.00–0.00, Fri and Sat: 11.00–2.00, Sun: 11.00–0.00
Retro Lángos
With its central location and vast topping selection, this little stall is probably the best place in Budapest to try Hungary's favourite street food. Lángos is a deep-fried flatbread that is best served with cheese and sour cream on top, but sausage-filled versions are also available (humbly called nuclear attack), only for the bravehearted.
Adresse: Podmaniczky Frigyes tér 4
Telefon: +36 20 345 3525
Åpningstider: 9.00–2.00 daily
Al Dente
An Italian restaurant so small you get to see as your lunch or dinner is being prepared by the friendly Italian crew. Calzone, pizza, tiramisu, daily soup and pasta menu, and real Italian coffee.
Adresse: Krúdy Gyula u. 9
Åpningstider: Mon To Fri: 9.00–22.00, Sat: 10.00–22.00
Fecske Presszó
A book-walled, student-friendly place with a terrace, serving breakfast, lunch, and other munchies, all inspired by Hungarian and international cuisine. The sausage ratatouille and stuffed potato pies do taste as good as they sound.
Adresse: Baross u. 10
Telefon: +36 1 293 1980
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Fri: 10.00–0.00, Sat: 12.00–0.00, Sun: 14.00–0.00
Leves.
"Leves" is Hungarian for soup, and it will not be long before you realise how it is an integral part of Hungarian lunch rituals. This small takeaway place offers hearty cups of traditional as well as exotic flavours of a wide range, perfect for a quick lunch in the heart of the city. Be sure to check back every day for different flavours.
Adresse: Vámház körút 14
Telefon: +36 30 241 7760
Åpningstider: Mon–Fri 11am–4pm
Cafes
From opulent, fin de siècle cafes to new wave coffee houses, Budapest never fails to entice lovers of caffeine. Confectioneries too abound to offer you traditional Hungarian desserts--make sure to try a good strudel or kürtőskalács, a spit cake best had with a cinnamon coating (look in markets or Váci street). Winter favourites include walnut puree with whipped cream and flódni, a rich dessert layered with poppy seeds, walnut, and apple.
Gerbeaud
Once the venue where the aristocracy would meet during the times of the dual monarchy, Gerbeaud will take you back to a time of sumptuous delicacies in luxurious surroundings, preserved to this day. Gerbeaud is also the name of the signature dessert, a flavourful cake layered with walnut and apricot jam and covered thickly with chocolate.
Adresse: Vörösmarty tér 7
Telefon: +36 1 429 9000
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 9.00–21.00 daily
New York Café
Located in the Boscolo Hotel proudly towering above the Grand Boulevard, the "most beautiful café in the world" is Budapest's sparkling jewel still evoking bygone grandiose times. Whether a sumptuous feast or a slice of creamy cake, New York Café provides a majestic setting to indulge in traditional flavours.
Adresse: Erzsébet körút 9-11
Telefon: +36 1 886 6167
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 9.00–0.00 daily
Centrál Café
First opened in 1887, Central Café was one of the most important intellectual venues in the country, serving coffee to the most prominent scientists and writers of the time. Today, its mission is to evoke the atmosphere that prevailed at the turn of the century by serving traditional Hungarian treats in a restored Art Nouveau galleried interior.
Adresse: Károlyi u. 9
Telefon: +36 1 266 2110
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 8am–12am
Művész Kávéház
Művész (Hungarian for "artist") is one of those cafés where writers, philosophers and great minds would gather at the turn of the century. It serves a wide range of additive-free desserts that are a delight merely to the eye, and its outdoor seating makes for a prime people-watching spot in the busy shopping avenue.
Adresse: Andrássy út 29
Telefon: +36 70 333 2116
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Sat: 8.00–21.00, Sun: 9.00–21.00
Ruszwurm
Ruszwurm on the Buda side is what Gerbeaud is for Pest. Still run by the well-known confectionery dynasty, the place has reserved its "fin de siècle" feel, finely adorned with red velvet curtains, marble tables, and beautiful Biedermeier furniture. The famous cream pastry and strudel (rétes) are always on demand here, to be washed down with coffee, hot chocolate or cocoa.
Adresse: Szentháromság u. 7
Telefon: +36 1 375 5284
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 9.00–19.00 daily
Gerlóczy Café
Gerlóczy Kávéház is a charming Paris-style café at the intersection of Gerlóczy and Vitkovics streets in the busy centre. Food is served from breakfast through lunch and afternoon tea, to special dinners like Fish Friday. In front of the café stands the statue of Károly Kammermayer, the first mayor of Budapest from 1873, when Buda, Pest and Óbuda were unified.
Adresse: Gerlóczy u. 1
Telefon: +36 1 501 4000
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 8.00–23.00 daily
Callas Café
The Callas Café is located next to the Opera House in a neo-Renaissance building, constructed in 1880. It changed hands several times in the early 20th century, and also served as the headquarter of a British bank between the wars. Today, it provides an elegant setting to enjoy Hungarian flavours with live salon music, or simply a drink before an opera performance.
Adresse: Andrássy út 20
Telefon: +36 1 354 0954
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 10.00–0.00 daily
Szamos Gourmet House
Szamos is noted among the most prominent confectionery dynasties in Hungary, specialised in the production of marzipan treats. Today they offer an extensive selection of confectionery at several locations in the country (including a chocolate museum), and their flagship store below also serves breakfast and light snacks throughout the day.
Adresse: Deák Ferenc u. 5
Telefon: +36 30 570 5973
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 10.00–21.00 daily
Auguszt Confectionery
A family-run confectionery business with deep-rooted traditions and devotion to serving desserts of varied flavour and exceptional quality. The first Auguszt opened in 1870; now they have three locations in town.
Adresse: Kossuth L. u. 14-16, Sasadi út 190, Fény u. 8 (Buda)
Telefon: +36 1 337 6379
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Fri: 09.00–19.00, Sat: 11.00–18.00
Hadik Café
Once the gathering place of Hungary's most prominent writers, Hadik still enjoys a steady flow of visitors, choosing Buda's cosy flagship café for a creamy coffee, a light dinner, or a literary event — if poems scattered on the menu pages were not enough.
Adresse: Bartók Béla út 36
Telefon: +36 20 502 2597
Åpningstider: 12.00–1.00 daily
Lumen Café
With both locations in a buzzing university neighbourhood, Lumen serves great espresso to fuel you up for hours of work or a pleasant walk in the historical district, but you are also welcomes to settle with a good book or enjoy one of the events they organise.
Adresse: Horánszky u. 5, Mikszáth tér 2
Telefon: +36 20 530 0850
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 10am–12am
Fekete
A quaint espresso bar with a small terrace in the heart of what is noted as the capital's oasis for second-hand books. Ham, quiche, and pancake breakfasts, and a quality coffee selection that ranks among the best in town.
Adresse: Múzeum körút 5
Telefon: +36 1 787 7503
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Fri: 8.00–19.00, Sat: 8.30–19.00, Sun: 9.00–17.00
Artigiana Gelati
A tranquil walk in Buda's residential area will give you a completely different picture of the otherwise vibrant capital. This Italian artisanal ice cream shop is located conveniently next to Városmajor, Buda's green oasis, and has an ample selection of fine ice cream flavours, arguably among the best in town. The Sacher torte flavour will surely make you come back for more!
Adresse: Csaba u. 8
Telefon: +36 1 212 2439
Åpningstider: Mon: closed, Tue to Sun: 11.00–19.30, Fri: 11.00–19.00
Cafe Frei
Cafe Frei is a popular franchise founded by traveller-journalist Tamás Frei, featuring over 70 coffee specialties from five continents, bringing you genuine flavours from as far as Brazil and the Himalayas. With several locations in town, usually directly linked to a book shop of the Hungarian chain Libri.
Adresse: Váci u. 74
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 10am–5pm
Cserpes Tejivó
A traditional milk bar chain serving sandwiches and pastries, and a large variety of hot beverages, made with their popular own brand dairy products. With four locations in town, to make sure you won't miss locals' favourite breakfast spot.
Adresse: 1052 Budapest, Sütő u. 2
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Fri 7:30am–7pm
Fruska Bisztró
If you feel like basking in the sun and great views of the Danube, you should visit the Fruska Bisztró on the Kopaszi dam. It has a cool terrace offering coffees, beers, wines and picnic snacks as well.
Adresse: 1117 Budapest, Kopaszi-gát 13.
Telefon: +36 70 433 2338
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Tue–Fri 12pm–12am, Sat–Sun 10am–12am
Transport: tram 47 from Deák Ferenc tér to Újbuda-központ, then change to bus 153 to Magyar tudósok körútja, then a 15-minute walk
Cat Café
A small friendly café near the Opera House, welcoming visitors with cakes and paninis, cosy, cushioned seats, cat-themed art and souvenirs, and most importantly, 15 permanent feline residents to keep you purrfect company.
Adresse: Révay u. 3
Telefon: +36 20 617 3301
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 10.00–21.00 daily
Bars & Nightlife
Ruin pubs in Budapest are having their heyday, as old abandoned buildings are given a second chance by being creatively transformed into quirky eclectic bars, having earned the city the nickname Party Capital of Europe.
Head to Deák Ferenc tér or get off the tram anywhere along the Grand Boulevard, and take to the streets of the fifth and seventh districts, the city's most vibrant neighbourhoods where parties and shots of pálinka never seem to come to an end.
Szimpla Kert
Get a taste of Budapest's famous eclectic ruin pubs at the city's number-one venue of this kind: Szimpla has become a flagship bar in the city, with two floors furnished with mismatched second hand items, serving not only as a watering hole of young internationals, but also a hangout place with events and markets where you are welcome to bring your family as well.
Adresse: Kazinczy u. 14
Telefon: +36 20 261 8669
Åpningstider: 12.00–4.00 daily
Instant-Fogas
With 7 dance floors and 15 bars including an open garden, recently renovated Fogas is an unmissable party haven of the nightlife district, hosting various music events and throwing some of the longest parties in town—and equipped with a map of the venue, in the likely case you get lost inside.
Adresse: Akácfa u. 49-51
Telefon: +36 1 311 0704
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 6pm–6am
Gozsdu Courtyard
Arguably Budapest's busiest pedestrian street, Gozsdu is filled with trendy bars, eateries and nightclubs, welcoming visitors from the afternoon until late in the night. The stylish decors and murals are worth even a simple stroll through this covered courtyard, which turns into a flea market every weekend.
Adresse: Király u. 13
E-post: [email protected]
Kisüzem
If Szimpla Kert is too international for you, head to Kisüzem: this small but busy pub gets filled with locals every day of the week, enjoying the moderately priced, vast drink selection and relaxed atmosphere in Budapest's crazy party neighbourhood. One of the bartenders is artist Győző Horváth, who occasionally likes to take secret shots of his customers.
Adresse: Kis Diófa u. 2
Telefon: +36 1 781 6705
Åpningstider: Sun to Wed: 12.00–2.00, Thu to Sat: 12.00–3.00
PONTOON
Located at the foot of the symbolic bridge Lánchíd, PONTOON is probably the most scenic outdoor bar in the city, a perfect place for a drink to end a romantic stroll along the Danube river. Grab a chair, listen to the live music, and admire the sparkling night lights of Buda.
Adresse: Antall József rakpart 10
Telefon: +36 30 652 2732
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 12.00–4.00 daily
Morrison's 2
A multi-storey building with multiple dance rooms featuring karaoke and all genres of music from techno to the '80s, Morrison's 2 is one of the most renowned nightclubs of Budapest, popular with locals and visitors alike. Drink offers are available regularly.
Adresse: Szent István körút 11
Telefon: +36 1 374 3329
Åpningstider: 17.00–6.00 daily
A38
A38 is a floating venue for night-long entertainment, unmissable near Petőfi bridge on the Buda side. A party boat equipped with several bars, a restaurant, a concert hall that hosts hip artists several days a week and throws some of the most popular dance parties in the capital, A38 has something for everyone.
Adresse: Petőfi híd budai hídfő
Telefon: +36 1 464 3940
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 11.00–23.00 daily
Macska
Macska is a small bar with a warm and eclectic interior, offering a unique beer selection and great vegetarian food, to be had on a cosy gallery stuffed with pillows and beanbags.
Adresse: Bérkocsis u. 23
Telefon: +36 1 786 8370
Åpningstider: Mon to Wed: 16.00–0.00, Thu: 16.00–1.00, Fri: 16.00–2.00, Sat and Sun: closed
Grandio Bar
Housed in one of Budapest's most popular party hostels serving booze around the clock, Grandio Bar is a place where you can hang out with other visitors and have some pre-drinks for an extended pub crawl in the party neighbourhood.
Adresse: Nagy Diófa u. 8
Telefon: +36 20 497 1558
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 11.00–3.00 daily
4es6os Wesselényi
You'll probably not leave Budapest without hopping on the trams 4 and 6 several times as you make your way through the Grand Boulevard of the city. This popular and affordable chain has several easily recognisable venues along what is also the busiest tram line in the world. Sport broadcasts, table football, and a vibrating atmosphere every day of the week.
Adresse: Erzsébet krt. 28
Telefon: +36 20 200 1000
E-post: [email protected]
Shopping
Upscale shopping streets, unique antique shops, and a vast selection of western brands at convenient eastern European prices have made Budapest a popular shopping destination. The city is also abundant in world-famous treasures of Hungarian origin, as porcelain manufacturers Herend and Zsolnay both have a factory shop here.
Váci Street
Budapest's primary, 1.2-km long pedestrian street dotted with worldwide-known international brands, tiny souvenir shops selling everything from crafts to wine, and elegant restaurants and bars serving high-quality Hungarian and international food.
Adresse: Váci utca
Great Market Hall
This impressive neo-Gothic building was built in 1894 to replace the expansive outdoor markets at the location. The largest market hall in Budapest is a buzzing scene of everyday life in the city, with several floors to explore: the basement area houses several fish stalls and a supermarket, the ground floor is the main area mainly occupied by grocers, and the upper floor is home to souvenir stands and street food stalls; make sure you try lángos, a deep-fried dough, traditionally topped with cheese and sour cream.
Adresse: Vámház krt 1-3
Telefon: +36 1 366 3300
Åpningstider: Mon: 6.00–17.00,Tue to Fri: 6.00–18.00, Sat: 6.00–15.00, Sun: closed
Andrássy Avenue
A spectacular, tree-lined avenue connecting the city centre (Erzsébet Square) with the Heroes' Square. It was built for the millenial celebrations of 1896, and is known for the metro line that runs alongside, noted as the first continental underground line in Europe. The avenue is home to the imposing buildings of the Opera and the House of Terror as well as several embassies, and is dotted with trendy bars and elegant shops of a wide range of luxury products, from watches to porcelain.
Adresse: Andrássy utca
Fashion Street
The concept behind this downtown street is to provide a classy atmosphere for shopping and leasure time with friends. Its charming surroundings and central location have attracted many famous and high quality brands of footwear, apparel, accessories, beauty products, and restaurants. You can find these all in one place, surrounded by elegant bars and the Danube just a couple of minutes away.
Adresse: Deák Ferenc u. 15
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Sat: 10.00–20.00, Sun: 10.00–17.00
Bálna
Opened in 2013, Bálna is Budapest's contemporary answer to the adjacent Great Market Hall: it is a modern glass building resembling a whale in shape (hence the name), filled with shops, a contemporary art gallery, and several chic bars with splendid views on the riverside.
Adresse: Fővám tér 11-12
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Thu: 10.00–20.00, Fri to Sun: 10.00–22.00
Retrock
A trendy, spacious vintage shop with carefully selected men's, women's wear, and accessories. Their collection includes second-hand items as well as the fresh works of talented designers from all over the world, from the far East and West to Hungary.
Adresse: Anker köz 2-4
Telefon: +36 30 472 3636
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Sat: 11.00–21.00, Sun: 11.00–20.00
WestEnd
Budapest's largest, multi-storey shopping mall spreading across 50,000 square meters, featuring a wide range of international stores from the moderately priced to the luxurious, as well as eateries, services, a cinema, and further extras such as a spectacular in-door fountain.
Adresse: Váci u. 1-3
Telefon: +36 1 238 7777
Åpningstider: Mon to Sat: 10.00–20.00, Sun: 10.00–18.00
Downtown Market in Hold Street
A two-floor food market (piac in Hungarian) a stone's throw from the Parliament, whose origins date back to 1891. Market vendors sell fresh fruit, vegetables, and local products such as grey cattle and mangalica pork, while its eateries deliver some of the best flavours of Hungarian cuisine. The latter are often led by renowned chefs such as Tamás Széll, who is the winner of the European Championship of Bocuse d'Or in 2016.
Adresse: Hold u. 13
Telefon: +36 1 353 1110
E-post: [email protected]
Ecseri Flea Market
No visit to Budapest is complete without some hunt for the treasures of bygone times. Although you'll easily find an antique shop in any district of the city centre, the Ecseri piac is well worth a short day trip, for it is noted among the biggest flea markets in the country, with its name being synonymous with flea markets among Hungarians.
Adresse: Nagykőrösi út 156
Telefon: +36 1 348 3200
E-post: [email protected]
Spas and Thermal Baths
Thanks to the geological features of the Carpathian Basin, Hungary is extremely rich in thermal springs, and the area of Budapest is no exception: the capital stretches across over 100 springs, many of them accessible to the public in beautiful historical buildings, abundant in the City of Baths.
Dandár Baths
In Ferencváros, district IX of Budapest, near Müpa and the National Theater, there is a small bath that is lesser-known to the general visitor. Dandár bathhouse is housed in a nice art deco building, and has several thermal facilities as well as a sauna section.
The architectural plan was prepared by Ferenc K. Császár. The bath was commissioned in 1930, and later transformed in 1936. Originally, the bath operated as a sanitary bath, but it has been operating as a thermal bath since 1978.
Adresse: Dandár u. 3
Telefon: +36 1 215 7084
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Monday-Friday: 6.00 am-8.00 pm, Saturday-Sunday: 8.00 am-8.00 pm
The Széchenyi Baths
Thanks to the geological features of the Carpathian Basin, Hungary is extremely rich in thermal springs, and the area of Budapest is no exception: the capital stretches across over 100 springs, many of them accessible to the public in beautiful historical buildings. The Széchenyi Baths, built in 1913 in neo-Baroque style, is undoubtedly the most famous of all: Europe's largest medicinal bath is supplied by a spring of 76°C, and it houses 18 pools, 10 saunas, and various events to be enjoyed all year long.
Adresse: Állatkerti körút 11
Telefon: +36 1 363 3210
Åpningstider: 6.00-10.00, varies by season and events
Király Thermal Bath
Arslan, the Turkish Pasha of Buda, began constructing this bath in 1565 and it was completed shortly afterwards by his heir Sokoli Mustafa. The Király Medicinal Bath has never had a direct source of thermal water — it was built far from the springs to ensure the Turks had somewhere to bathe within the city walls in times of siege. The water is supplied by pipes from near today's Lukács Bath.
Király Thermal Bath has four pools with hot spring water with calcium, magnesium, hydrogen-carbonate and sulphate, also containing sodium and with a substantial content of fluoride ions. Steam baths, sauna, underwater water jet massage and many other services are also available.
Adresse: Fő utca 84
Telefon: +36 1 202 3688
Åpningstider: Mon to Sun: 9.00–21.00
Palatinus
This open-air bath in the nature conservation area of Margaret Island was opened as a beach in 1919. With the construction of the large pool, it was transformed into an open-air bath in 1921. Owing to its high popularity it had to be expanded, therefore an architectural project tender was launched in 1937, as a result of which the plans composed by István Janáky were accepted.
It was modernised in 2002, by adding water filtering and revolving devices. The swimming pool was shaped into three sections: swimming pool, fancy pool and beach pool. Of these, the fancy pool is expecting visitors with neck shower, effervescence generator, and whirling corridor.
Adresse: Margitsziget
Telefon: +36 1 340 4500
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: From 17 June to 20 August: 9.00–20.00, from 21 August to 7 September: 9.00–21.00
Csillaghegyi Baths
The open-air bath Csillaghegy is the oldest bath in the capital. It was opened as early as the second half of the 19th century, and has been operating in its present form since 2000. It is open even in winter, under a canvas tent roof.
The open-air bath is built into the hillside in a terraced manner; the swimming and beach pools can be found on the first level, while the children's pool and the sun-bathing area are located uphill. The site has been converted into a park of over 90,000 square metres. In 2000, the leisure pool and the children's pool were equipped with up-to-date water-filtering and circulation systems.
Adresse: Pusztakúti út 2-6
Telefon: +36 1 242 0754
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 7.00–19.00 daily
Paskál Thermal and Open-air Bath
This is the youngest open-air bath of Budapest. The establishment of an open-air bath at this site was made available by the well-borings in 1965, to a depth of 1,735 m, from which water of a temperature of 70°C and with a yield of 1,000 litre/min spouted up at that time.
The bath itself was built in 1989. The up-to-date pools, equipped with water filtering and revolving devices, located in cultured surroundings converted into a park offer high-level opportunities for recreation.
Adresse: Egressy út 178/F
Telefon: +36 1 252 6944
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 9.00–20.00 daily
Pünkösdfürdői Open-air Baths
The open-air bath was established in 1935 on the bank of the Danube river, by the plans of Alfred Hajós. The three pools situated among rose bowers ensure bathing, tanning and pleasant recreation facilities for all age groups. Its green area covered by spreading trees provides leisure and refreshment for its guests.
Adresse: Királyok ú. 272
Telefon: +36 1 388 6665
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 9.00–21.00 daily
Gellért Thermal Baths
The Gellért Thermal Baths are housed just behind the imposing Art Nouveau Gellért Hotel near the Liberty Bridge in Budapest. There are a range of pools of different temperatures, both inside and out, including the iconic sliding-roofed main pool, the external wave pool, as well as several sauna and steam rooms.
Adresse: Szent Gellért tér 1
Telefon: +36 1 466 6166
Åpningstider: 6.00–20.00 daily
Római Bath
The area has been a well-known water supplying site since the Roman ages. The district around the springs was honoured as a holy site and archaeologists have even found the base walls of the sanctuary in its territory.
In 2000, three pools of the open-air bath were modernised: the pools were equipped with filtering water whirling devices. The open-air pool was transformed into a fancy pool with chute, neck shower and effervescing facility, and the children's basin now truly a playground paradise.
Adresse: Rozgonyi Piroska u. 2
Telefon: +36 1 388 9740
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 9.00–20.00 daily
Aquaworld
One of the biggest indoor water theme parks in Europe offers unforgettable entertainment to visitors of every age throughout the year. In the indoor adventure pool, 11 slides of a total length of almost 1 km guarantee adventure and entertainment throughout the year.
Adresse: Íves út 16
Telefon: +36 1 231 3600
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 7.00–22.00 daily
Veli bej Bath
The history of the Veli bej Bath goes back to the Ottoman times. The building was reopened for the public in 2012. The bath provides five various Turkish pools, saunas, steam-cell, hidroxeur and tangentor bath, Kneipp-basin, pool and wellness facilities.
Adresse: Árpád fejedelem ú. 7
Telefon: +36 1 438 8641
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 06.00–12.00, 15.00–21.00
Corinthia Hotel Royal Spa
With its classical interiors preserved, the Royal Spa has been recently redesigned to provide over 1,000 square metres of wellness, tranquillity, and vitality. This unique spa offers a wide range of facilities, including a 15-metre swimming pool, several relaxation areas, saunas, steam bath, jacuzzis, a fitness room, and six treatment rooms.
Adresse: Erzsébet körút 43-49
Telefon: +36 1 479 4650
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 6.30–22.00 daily
Mandala Day Spa
As the first day spa of Hungary, Mandala Day Spa was opened in 2003 in the heart of Budapest, and represents the oasis of tranquillity for spa enthusiasts. They provide more than 50 types of body treatments, massages, Turkish hammam, couple rituals, and beauty services in a unique and luxury environment.
Adresse: 1Ipoly u. 8
Telefon: +36 1 491 0078
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 10.00–20.00 daily
Magnolia Day Spa
"The Magnolia is a wondrous flower with beautiful blossoms and a powerful citrus fragrance. One of the most ancient of all plants, it is a symbol of eternity and permanence that transcends times of trouble and can enchant you over and over again. At magnolia spa our purpose is just the same. Every time you enter the spa we ensure that your experience will leave you reinvigorated and better able to cope with the pressures and frustrations of daily life. Immerse yourself into the world of Magnolia Day Spa and experience the ultimate in relaxation."
Adresse: Zoltán u. 3
Telefon: +36 1 269 0610
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon to Sun: 9.00–21.00
Rudas Thermal Baths
Located by the foot of the scenic Gellért Hill, Rudas is another symbolic bath of Budapest, built in the 16th century under the Ottoman occupation. It features a dim central dome and octagonal baths, surrounded by four pools, each with a different temperature. Plan your visit in advance as there are selected days for male and female visitors.
Adresse: Döbrentei tér 9
Telefon: +36 1 356 1010
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: 6.00-22.00, night bath on Fri and Sat until 4.00
Tourist Information
Best Time to Visit
Hungary has a mild continental climate with considerable differences in temperature between the summer and winter seasons. The warmest months are June to August with averages above 25°C, while they tend to drop below zero around December and January. Rainfall is to be expected all year round, but especially in May, June, and in the autumn season from September to November.
There is a plethora of activities to do in and around Budapest all year round. The Christmas market in Vörösmarty square is noted among the most beautiful in Europe, while the Sziget Fesztivál held every August features a lineup that attracts visitors from all over the world year by year.
Passport / Visa
Hungary can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend that you contact the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) lies 16 km southeast of the city, and there are various means of transport linking it with the city centre. You can either take Metro 3 towards Kőbánya-Kispest and change to bus 200E using your standard pass or ticket, or take the direct bus 100E right from the city centre, in which case a special fare applies.
Adresse: 1185 Budapest
Telefon: +36 1 296 9696
Public Transport
Public transportation in Budapest is provided by BKK. Tickets and passes can be purchased from purple ticket machines near the stops, or on board at an elevated price. A single ticket is only valid for a single journey excluding any changes (except within the same metro station), so it is worth buying a pass valid for a selected number of days.
Budapest has a very well-connected public transportation system, but apart from a few sights, it is easy to explore on foot. The four metro lines as well as trams 2, 4, and 6 can be used to the major sights of the city.
Budapest is served by four railway stations for regional transport: Keleti, Déli, Nyugati, and Kelenföld, whereas the national bus terminal is found at Népliget.
Adresse: BKK Centre: Rumbach Sebestyén u. 19–21., Széll Kálmán tér (metro 2)
Telefon: +36 1 3 255 255
E-post: [email protected]
Taxi
Contact any of the operators below:
Budapest Taxi
+36 1 777 7777
[email protected]
www.budapesttaxi.hu
Fő Taxi
www.fotaxi.hu/?lang=en
+36 1 222 2222
6x6 Taxi
+36 1 6 666 6666
www.new.6x6taxi.hu
Post
Postal services in Hungary are provided by Magyar Posta Zrt., and post offices in Budapest are open from 7.00 or 8.00 until around 19.00. Nyugati railway station has extended opening hours until 20.00, among a few others.
Adresse: Teréz körút 51
Telefon: +36 1 767 8282
E-post: [email protected]
Telephone
Country code: +36
Area code: 1
Electricity
230 volts, 50 Hz
Type F plug
Pharmacy
Several pharmacies have 24-hour service numbers you can phone at any time.
Mária Gyógyszertár
1139, Béke tér 11
+36 1 320 8006
Royal Gyógyszertár
1073, Erzsébet krt. 58
+36 1 235 0137
Uránia Gyógyszertár
1088, Rákóczi út 23
+36 1 338 4036
Széna-tér Patika-Fitotéka-Homeopátia
1015, Széna tér 1
+36 1 225 7830
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