The best things to do in Budapest if you do not have much time

Budapest is an attractive destination for many reasons. Our capital is a unique blend of history, culture and entertainment, offering visitors a wide range of activities. You can visit the city’s architectural sights and spas, and enjoy the nightlife, culinary specialities and outdoor activities such as city walks and outdoor escape rooms.

Sightseeing in Budapest

Életforma writes that the easiest choice for a great programme is exploring the city. Budapest offers a great variety of historical and cultural sights and attractions. It is definitely worth visiting one of the most iconic parts of the city, the Buda Castle District, where you can see the Matthias Church, the Fisherman’s Bastion, the Buda Castle or the Várkert (Castle Garden) Bazaar, among many other sights.

On the Pest side, you should visit the neo-Gothic Parliament building. After that, you can have a walk along the banks of the Danube and enjoy the sights of the Buda side. Spend a day in the Városliget (City Park), where you can explore the House of Hungarian Music, have a picnic in the park, visit the iconic Heroes’ Square, the Museum of Fine Arts or the Budapest Zoo.

If you like water activities, you can also have a boat trip on the Danube and explore the city from a unique viewpoint. Nature lovers should not miss out on the beautiful Margaret Island. The main attractions of the island include the Water Tower, the Art Walk, and the Japanese Garden.

If you like historical monuments, you can also visit the ruins of St Michael’s Chapel or the Dominican Monastery. If you would like to discover other islands on the Danube, you should read our recommendations HERE. Hungary is known for its thermal water and astonishing spas. You can discover and relax at great spas in Budapest, such as the Széchenyi Spa or the Gellért Bath.

City walks

Another great way to explore the Hungarian capital is by attending a thematic, organised city walk. There are many themes that you can choose from; exploring a certain district, getting to know the life of a famous historical figure and the list goes on. The tour guides always provide useful and interesting information, but there are tours with headsets only too.

Outdoor escape rooms

Outdoor escape rooms in Budapest combine the experience of city walks with treasure hunting and adventure play. All you need is a smartphone. How simple is that? Based on the information you get on your phone, you have to solve various puzzles and riddles while walking around the city. The programme is mainly recommended for groups of friends or family. This is a pleasant way to spend your afternoon.

Gastro tour

Lovers of gastronomy will love the Hungarian capital! You can try traditional Hungarian dishes in a lot of places around the city. In addition, you can find specialities from almost every country here. You can also go on city walks that are gastronomy-themed. Gastronomy should not be only about eating out at restaurants. Go out and discover the local markets and special gastronomical shops.

Cultural programmes

Budapest is a great place for visiting museums, theatres or enjoying live music. There is a wide range of museums, including the Hungarian National Museum, the Hungarian National Gallery, the Museum of Applied Arts, the Holocaust Memorial Centre, and the House of Terror. For an unforgettable theatre experience, visit the National Theatre, the Erkel Theatre, the Opera House, or the Operetta Theatre. Lovers of music can enjoy concerts and musical performances at the Papp László Sport Arena, the Müpa, or the A38 boat.

Relaxing after the programmes

You must be exhausted after a long day of walking and discovering the city. In the evening, you should pay a visit to one of the bohemian ruin bars of Budapest. These pubs have vintage decorations and good music. If you are looking for pub recommendations, you should read our article HERE.