Budapest travel guide
Budapest straddles the Danube: hilly Buda with its castle district, and flat Pest with the Parliament, grand boulevards and ruin bars. Thermal baths fed by natural springs are a highlight of any visit.
Best time to visit Budapest
April to June and September to October have pleasant weather for walking and river views.
Summer is hot and busy; winter is cold, which makes the outdoor thermal pools especially popular, and December brings Christmas markets.
Getting to Budapest
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is about 16 km from the centre, linked by the 100E airport express bus and taxis. Most flights from the US connect through a European hub.
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found recently. Tap a route to see that trip and today's price on Aviasales.
Getting around
Metro, trams and buses
Four metro lines, including the historic M1, and trams such as lines 2, 4 and 6 cover the city. You can tap a contactless card on many routes or use the BudapestGO app.
On foot
Central Pest and the Castle District are walkable; cross the Chain Bridge or Margaret Bridge for river views.
Top things to do in Budapest
1. Thermal baths
Soak in the neo-baroque Széchenyi Baths in City Park or the art nouveau Gellért Baths.
See tours & prices ›2. Hungarian Parliament Building
The Gothic Revival parliament on the Danube can be visited on guided tours that include the Holy Crown.
See tours & prices ›3. Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion
The castle hill with Matthias Church and the white terraces of Fisherman's Bastion overlooking the river.
See tours & prices ›4. Danube evening cruise
See the Parliament, bridges and castle lit up from the river.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- Pay in forint; decline offers to charge your card in dollars or euros, which usually come at a worse rate.
- Bring flip-flops and a towel to the baths, or rent them there.
- Use ride-hailing apps or official taxi companies to avoid overcharging.
Budapest travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Budapest?
Three days covers both sides of the river, a bath and a Danube cruise. Add a day for Szentendre or the Danube Bend.
What currency is used in Budapest?
The Hungarian forint (HUF). Cards are widely accepted.
Which thermal bath should you visit?
Széchenyi is the largest, with big outdoor pools; Gellért is known for its art nouveau interiors.