About
Budapest is actually two cities: Buda, built on the hills to the west of the Danube, and Pest, lying flat to the east. They united into one city in 1873, but their characters are still different. Buddha is quiet, green, historical; Pest is loud, flat, energetic. The Danube flows in between, and the bridges connecting the two banks of this river are the most photogenic points of the city.
One of Europe's oldest thermal spa cultures lives here. It started during the Roman period, the Ottomans developed it, and the Hungarians institutionalized it. Today, more than 120 thermal springs gush out from under the city. Retired Hungarian uncles sitting in the outdoor pool in winter and playing chess among clouds of steam - this scene alone is enough to bring you to Budapest.
Romkert (ruin bar) culture is Budapest's gift to the world. In the early 2000s, they turned abandoned buildings into bars — they made seats out of bathtubs, hung bicycles from the ceiling, covered the walls with graffiti. Szimpla Kert is the most famous of these, but there are dozens of romkerts in the Jewish Quarter. Nightlife is cheap, accessible and friendly. If you're used to Istanbul's bars, you might get teary-eyed when you see the prices — a beer costs 2-3 EUR, a cocktail costs 5-6 EUR.
Hungarian cuisine is based on paprika. Gulyás (soupy meat stew), pörkölt (thicker stew), lángos (sour cream and cheese on fried dough), kurtőskalács (chimney cake) and Dobos torta (caramelized layered cake) are what you should try. Hungarians are generous with spices in their meals — it is not unfamiliar to the Turkish palate. There is also Tokaji wine: a sweet, golden wine that is said to have been served on the tables of even the Ottoman sultans. If you get a chance, try 5 puttonyos and you'll understand the rest.
When to Go
Budapest is a city that experiences four seasons. Winters are cold and sometimes harsh, summers are hot.
| Period |
Weather (daytime) |
Density |
Otel Fiyatı |
Notes |
| January-February |
-2 / 4° |
Low |
Low |
It's cold but the hot springs are in full season. There are carnival events |
| March |
3 / 12° |
Low-Medium |
Low |
Spring is opening, parks are turning green |
| April |
8 / 18° |
Medium |
Medium |
Ideal start; Spring Festival |
| May |
12 / 22° |
Medium-High |
Medium-High |
The most beautiful month; long days, thermal pools in perfect condition |
| June |
16 / 26° |
High |
High |
Summer is starting; Danube shore bars are opening |
| July |
18 / 30° |
High |
High |
It may be hot; There are days with temperatures exceeding 35°C |
| August |
18 / 29° |
Very High |
Very High |
Sziget Festival; It becomes difficult to find a hotel |
| September |
13 / 22° |
Medium-High |
Medium |
Second best period; Wine Festival |
| October |
7 / 15° |
Medium |
Medium |
Autumn colors; Buddha hills golden |
| November |
3 / 8° |
Low-Medium |
Low-Medium |
Christmas markets open |
| December |
0 / 4° |
Medium-High |
Medium |
Christmas markets, spas, mulled wine |
Our general recommendation is April-June and September-October. But Budapest's winter spas are a special experience — warming up in clouds of steam in the outdoor pool when it's -5°C outside, a feeling unlike any other. In August, prices for the Sziget Festival period skyrocket and finding a hotel begins, so plan accordingly.
How to get there
Budapest's main airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), is 16 km southeast of the city centre.
Flights from Türkiye:
| Exit |
Duration |
Airline |
| Istanbul (IST) - BUD |
2 hours 15 min |
THY, Wizz Air (3-4 flights per day) |
| Istanbul (SAW) - BUD |
2 hours 20 min |
Pegasus, Wizz Air (2-3 flights per day) |
| Ankara (ESB) - BUD |
2 hours 30 min |
THY (3-4 flights per week) |
| Antalya (AYT) - BUD |
2 hours 40 min |
Wizz Air, Pegasus (seasonal) |
Wizz Air has frequent flights and if you buy early, tickets cost 30-50 EUR. If you want THY comfort, Wizz Air if you want budget.
From airport to city:
- 100E Bus: 35-40 min, Deák Ferenc tér (city centre), 2,200 HUF (~5.5 EUR). The most practical option.
- miniBUD Shuttle: 40-50 min, leaves at hotel door, 7,900 HUF (~20 EUR, single person).
- Taxi/Bolt: 25-35 min, 9,000-12,000 HUF (~22-30 EUR). Only Főtaxi is authorized at the airport.
- Train: With the M3 metro line closed or with the transfer Kőbánya-Kispest — but the 100E is much simpler.
Our recommendation is the 100E bus — cheap, direct and reliable. Buy your ticket in advance from the BKK application, they do not accept cash on the bus.
Train option: Vienna 2.5 hours (Railjet), Prague 6.5 hours, Bratislava 2.5 hours. The Vienna-Budapest train is very popular and comfortable.
Urban Transportation
Budapest's public transportation is common and cheap. It is operated by BKK (Budapest Közlekedési Központ).
Metro: 4 lines (M1-M4). M1 Europe's second oldest metro (1896), passes under Andrássy Street. M2 Buda-Pest connection, M3 north-south, M4 the newest and most modern line. It works between 04:30 - 23:30.
Tram (Villamos): More than 30 lines. Tram number 2 follows the banks of the Danube on the Pest side — Parliament, Chain Bridge, Big Market Market route. One of the most beautiful tram lines in the world, like a free city tour.
Bus: Covers points not reached by metro and tram. Buses 16 and 16A go to Buda Castle.
Ticket system: Single ticket 450 HUF (~1.1 EUR), block of 10 4,000 HUF (~10 EUR), 24 hours 2,500 HUF (~6 EUR), 72 hours 5,500 HUF (~14 EUR), 7 days 6,950 HUF (~17 EUR). If you are going to stay for 3 days or more, get a 72-hour or 7-day pass. Tickets are valid on metro, tram, bus and trolley.
Budapest Card: There are 24/48/72 hour versions; public transportation + museum and spa discounts. ~60 EUR for 72 hours. If you're planning a lot of museums and spas, do the math.
MOL Bubi (Bicycle): Bicycle sharing system. 500 HUF (~1.2 EUR) for the first 30 minutes. The bottom side is flat, ideal for cycling. Buddha side is crested, attention.
Taxi/Bolt: The Bolt app works and is reliable. 2,000-4,000 HUF (~5-10 EUR) in the city. Hailing a taxi on the street — always call from the app and see fixed prices.
Accommodation Regions
Budapest is a compact city; If you choose your location well, you can easily reach anywhere.
- Belváros (V. kerület): Parliament, Basilica, Váci utca, Danube bank — central centre. It's the most expensive area but everything is within walking distance. Ideal for short holidays and couples.
- Erzsébetváros (VII. kerület — Jewish Quarter): Romkers, bars, restaurants are here. The heart of nightlife. For young travelers and solo travelers. If you are sensitive to noise, ask for a room overlooking the inner courtyard.
- Terézváros (VI. kerület): Andrássy Street and Opera area. Elegant but affordable compared to V. kerulet. For travelers focused on culture and food.
- Buda — Víziváros (kerület I-II): Foothills of the castle hill, quiet streets, hotels with Danube views. Suitable for romantic getaways or families. For nightlife, you should go to Pest.
- Újlipótváros (XIII. kerület): The pulse of local life. The neighborhood has its own cafes, bakeries and markets. 10 minutes by tram to the center. For long stays and budget conscious travelers.
What we do not recommend: VIII. the interior of Kerület (Józsefváros) is quiet at night and some areas are neglected; X. kerület (Kőbánya) is far from the center and not touristy.
Budget Plan
Budapest is seriously cheap compared to Western Europe. It's halfway between Vienna and Prague, but noticeably more affordable than Vienna.
| Budget Style |
Accommodation |
Food |
Activity/Transportation |
Total (2 people/3 days) |
| Economic (hostel/2* hotel, lángos + 1 restaurant) |
150 EUR |
100 EUR |
50 EUR |
~300 EUR |
| Moderate (3-4* hotel Erzsébetváros, mixed) |
350 EUR |
180 EUR |
90 EUR |
~620 EUR |
| Comfort (4-5* boutique hotel, gastronomy) |
700 EUR |
300 EUR |
130 EUR |
~1.130 EUR |
| Luxury (Four Seasons, Ritz, fine dining) |
1,800 EUR+ |
600 EUR+ |
200 EUR |
~2,600 EUR+ |
Practical items: Espresso 600-800 HUF (~1.5-2 EUR), lángos 1,200-2,000 HUF (~3-5 EUR), gulyás 3,000-5,000 HUF (~7-12 EUR), spa entrance 7,000-8,000 HUF (~17-20 EUR), metro single ticket 450 HUF (~1.1 EUR), beer (söntés — draft) 800-1,200 HUF (~2-3 EUR), fröccs (wine and soda) 600-1,000 HUF (~1.5-2.5 EUR), kurtőskalács 1,000-1,500 HUF (~2.5-4 EUR).
Practical Tips
Currency: Hungary is a member of the EU but does not use the Euro, its currency is Forint (HUF). There are places in touristic places that accept Euros, but the exchange rate is disadvantageous - use Forint. Payment by card is common, cards are accepted everywhere except small markets and kiosks. If they offer "conversion" when withdrawing money from ATMs, reject it and use your own bank's exchange rate.
Water: Budapest's tap water is drinkable. You don't need to buy bottled water.
Scam alert: Váci utca and its surroundings have the classic "beautiful girls invite you to the bar" — if you go, you'll face astronomical charges. Don't go with a bar recommendation from someone you don't know. Also, exchange offices around Keleti station give bad exchange rates — choose reliable offices at the airport or city center.
Hot spring culture: Swimsuit is a must, Széchenyi and Gellért have the option of lockers or cabins (cabins are a little more expensive but worth it if you want privacy). You can rent slippers and towels, but it is more hygienic to bring your own towel. Be quiet at the spas, don't dive in the pool or splash around like a child — Hungarians take this seriously.
Sundays: The Grand Bazaar Market and many shops are closed on Sundays. Szimpla Kert has a farmer's market on Sunday morning, but shopping stores are generally open Sunday (unlike Vienna).
Transportation control: BKK controllers frequently check tickets, especially in the subway. 16,000 HUF (~40 EUR) fine if you get caught without a ticket. Don't forget to press your ticket into the validation machine.
Tram number 2: This line, which follows the Danube bank on the Pest side, is a free city tour. Follow the route of Parliament, Chain Bridge and Grand Bazaar Market from the tram. The view of the line illuminated at night is legendary for photography.
Travel Guide with Children
Budapest is a pleasant stop in Central Europe for families with children. Children can spend days without getting bored with hot springs, parks and interactive museums.
Recommendations by Age Group
0-3 years: Városliget (City Park) is wide and flat, easy for a stroller. Metro M1 line is small and nostalgic, kids love the feeling of riding the train. There are baby pools in the hot springs, but children under the age of 3 are not allowed in the hot pools. Margit Island is green and safe.
4-7 years: Budapest Zoo (in Városliget) is the favorite of this age group. Vajdahunyad Castle looks like a fairytale castle from the outside. Duna Korzó (walk along the Danube) is ideal for feeding ducks and seagulls. Széchenyi Hot Spring's wavy pool is a place kids love.
8-12 years: Hospitals Under the Rock Museum (Sziklakórház) World War II hospital — a little scary but very impressive. Labirintus (Buda Castle underground labyrinth) is full of adventure. The inside tour of the Parliament introduces children to history. The city tour with tram number 2 is fun.
Ages 13+: The House of Terror Museum is a powerful experience for those interested in dark history. The daytime face of Romkerts (like Szimpla Sunday morning) is interesting. Escape rooms are very common and high quality in Budapest — young people love them. Climbing Gellért Hill is a combination of physical activity and scenery.
Top 5 Kid-Friendly Activities
Széchenyi Hot Spring — Outdoor pools can be enjoyed together as a family. The wavy pool is fun for kids. Steam clouds in winter are a different adventure.
Budapest Zoo + Tropical House — Inside Városliget, at the metro M1 Széchenyi fürdő stop. Even the Art Nouveau buildings are worth seeing. The elephant house and tropical greenhouse will keep kids busy for hours.
Margit Island — Bicycle rental, musical fountain, playgrounds, outdoor swimming pool in summer. A safe environment away from cars and traffic.
Vajdahunyad Castle — Like a medieval castle from the outside, inside is the Hungarian Agricultural Museum. The pond around the castle turns into an ice rink in winter.
Tram Tour No. 2 — From Parliament to Market Market along the Pest coast. You have a sort of city tour while the children watch the Danube and the bridges from the window. The ticket cost is about the same as a subway ticket.
Practical Information
Baby stroller: The pad side is flat, no problem. Buda side with hills, pavement — choose a light and folding car. Metro M4 is fully accessible, other lines vary by station.
Children's menu: Children's portions are common in Hungarian restaurants. Palacsinta (pancakes), lángos and rántott sajt (breaded cheese) are options that children love. Portions are generally large, and dividing adult portions is also an option.
Child ticket discounts: Public transportation free for children under 6, half price for children 6-14. In most museums, children under the age of 6 are free, and those aged 6-18 are discounted.
Toilet: Available in cafes and museums. Paid toilets on the streets cost 200-300 HUF. There is a toilet in the Big Market Market Hall.
Warnings
- There are age and temperature rules for children in the spas, get information at the entrance.
- There are sections along the Danube without railings — be careful with small children.
- Big Market Market is closed on Sundays, make alternative plans.
- The night side of Romkerts is not suitable for children — go during the day.
- Climbing Gellért Hill can be tiring with small children, use a carrier.
Local Label and Culture Notes
Hungarians may seem a little sullen at first encounter — this is not rudeness, but a cultural stance. Once you establish a relationship, they are very warm and generous people. There is an interesting balance of distance and closeness to the Turks; The Ottoman period lasted 150 years, this history still has a place in social memory, but today's relations are very positive.
Greeting: Handshake is standard. The order of the names is surname-first name as in Türkiye (Kovács János, i.e. János Kovács). This is their official tradition.
Restaurant rules: In Hungarian restaurants, cutlery is kept ready on the table. Instead of sitting down before the waiter arrives, wait at the door and they will direct you to your table. It's rude to reach for someone's plate at the table. Clinking beer glasses when toasting — this tradition still bothers some Hungarians because it is rumored that Austrians celebrated with beer after the 1848 revolution. Wine or other spirits are okay.
Tip: 10% of the bill is standard in restaurants. When paying the bill, tell the waiter directly (such as "I'm leaving 5,000 instead of 4,500"). It is more common to give money in person instead of leaving money on the table. 10% is also expected in spas and hairdressers.
Hungarian: One of the most difficult languages in the world — from the Finno-Ugric family, it is unlike any other language around it. “Köszönöm” (thanks), “Szia” (hello, singular), “Egészségedre” (cheers) will do. English is widespread among the younger generation and limited among the older generation. German sometimes works better than English.
Spa etiquette: It is mandatory to take a shower before entering the spa. Do not make noise, dive or run in the pool. Hungarians see a spa as meditation — relax, enjoy.
Fröccs culture: The Hungarian white wine + soda mixture is called "fröccs" and has at least 10 different ratios. The most common is "nagyfröccs" (2 dl of wine + 1 dl of soda). Everyone has this on summer evenings. Try it, it's addictive.
FAQ
How many days to visit Budapest?
Three days is enough to see the main points, but five days is ideal. You can fit the Buda Castle, the hot spring, the Parliament, the romkert and the Danube shore in three days. You can add museums, Margit Island, Óbuda and a day tour to Szentendre in five days. If you come one week during Sziget or during the wine festival, it will fit perfectly.
Should I use Forint or Euro?
Definitely Forint. There are places in touristic places that accept Euros, but they convert them at their own exchange rate, which will be harmful. Card payment is accepted everywhere — except small market stalls and kiosks. Reject the "conversion" offer when withdrawing from an ATM.
Which thermal bath should you go to?
Széchenyi is big, energetic, social — famous for its outdoor pools. Gellért is more elegant, quiet, aesthetic with Art Nouveau architecture. Rudas authentic Ottoman — thermal water under the 500-year-old dome. If you are coming for the first time, start with Széchenyi and try Rudas as a second spa.
Is Budapest safe?
In general, yes, it is safe by European standards. Be careful of pickpockets in tourist areas (Váci utca, metro). At night the Buda side is quiet and safe, and Pest's main streets are trouble-free. VIII. The interior of Kerület is not very inviting at night. Use the Bolt app for taxis, don't stop and get in on the street.
Where to go on a day trip from Budapest?
Szentendre (40 min by HÉV commuter train, artists' town), Visegrád (medieval castle on the banks of the Danube, 1.5 hours), Eger (baroque city + Bikavér wines, 2 hours), Esztergom (Hungary's largest basilica, 1.5 hours). Szentendre is the easiest and closest.
I'm planning to go to Sziget Festival, what should I know?
In mid-August, on Óbuda Island. Tickets go on sale months in advance, a full festival ticket costs around 300-400 EUR. There is a camping area on the island, but don't expect comfort. It is also an option to rent a hotel in the city and go back and forth to the island every day - it continues until 4-5 at night. During the festival period, Budapest hotels increase by 50-100%, early booking is a must.
