These are the most charming islands on the Danube, close to Budapest

When foreigners think of islands on the Danube, most of them conjure up images of the Hajógyári Island, which hosts the famous Sziget Festival. However, there are many other stunning islands on Hungary’s longest river.

As Utazási Élmények wrote there are several striking islands along the Hungarian stretch of the Danube. However, their exact number may change from time to time due to natural processes or human invention. According to the freshest data, there are about 76 islands on the Hungarian stretch of the Danube River. Some may be uninhabited, while others are used as residential and holiday resorts. Visiting these island, you’ll find a wealth of history and culture as well as pristine natural diversity. Many of them have water transport. Besides, they are great for recreational purposes as well; for picnics, cycling or outdoor sports.

Szigetköz

After the Danube passes the Dévényi Dam, its flow slows down and deposits sediment. It then splits into many small branches, resulting in the emergence of several tiny islets. Szigetköz is located on the north-western corner of the country, where the Danube crosses the border between Hungary and Slovakia. This location offers one of Hungary’s most scenic landscapes, with its rich flora and fauna, winding cycle paths and unique aquatic life. A true paradise on earth. It covers an area of 375 square kilometres, and it’s a joy for water sports enthusiasts who can canoe and kayak along the branches of the Danube.

Prímás Island

Prímás Island is one of the most beautiful locations in Esztergom. It is the perfect spot for those who seek sports and quality time by the waterfront. The island is 2.7 kilometres long. There are cruise, hydrofoil and excursion boat services at the island’s boat station. From here, it is only a few minutes walk to the water park and the Maria Valeria Bridge. The bridge takes you across the Danube to Štúrovo (Párkány) in Slovakia. You get a great a breathtaking view of the Buda Castle Hill.

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Csepel Island

Csepel Island is situated in the southern part of Budapest. It’s one of the largest islands on the Danube. It serves an important industrial and residential role with its rich natural ecosystem. Its iconic buildings include the athletics stadium on the northern part of the island, with several sports fields, and the 314-metre-high Lakihegy radio tower. This tower is the tallest structure in the country, built for medium-wave radio broadcasting. However, now it is an industrial monument.

Szentendre Island

Many consider Szentendre Island to be one of the most beautiful parts of the Danube Bend. It has retained its rural serenity despite the popularity of the area. Szentendre Island covers an area of 56 square kilometres and is 31 km long and roughly 2.3-3.5 km wide. It is an ideal hiking and cycling destination.

Margaret Island

Margaret Island, or Rabbit Island, as used to be called in the middle ages was a royal hunting reserve. The island was named after King Béla’s daughter, Margaret, who was sent to this island during the Mongol invasion. Margaret Island is located in the heart of Budapest and boasts a stunning park. If you want to relax and unwind in the great outdoors or play some sports, this is your place.

Népsziget

Népsziget is located in Districts IV. and XIII. of Budapest. It is about 2 kilometres long. It used to be an island on the Danube, but since then it formed into a peninsula.

Hajógyári Island

Surely everyone has heard of this island located in the northern part of Budapest. Hajógyári Island hosts the famous Sziget Festival, making it a very desirable destination in August.

Petőfi Island

This island is located further away from Budapest, in Baja. Petőfi Island is connected to the centre of Baja by a bridge over the Sugovica Lagoon. There are plenty of hostels, guesthouses, camping, restaurants, tennis courts, and pools in this area. Thus, this is a real sports and leisure paradise. The island also offers kayak and canoe rentals, as well as fishing opportunities. It makes a wonderful weekend getaway spot if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the Hungarian capital. If you decide to venture out to Baja to discover the Hungarian countryside, make sure to try their famous fish soup!