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What is there to do in Budapest? More than enough! Explore the hip city of Budapest with its rich culture and history. Relax in one of the famous bath houses, stroll through the bustling Great Market Hall and enjoy nature in the Városliget city park. We share our personal highlights after a week in this surprising city. These are the best activities to do in Budapest.
Relax for a day at one of the bath houses
If there is one thing you must do in Budapest, it is visit a bathhouse. Bathhouses are among the most popular sights in Budapest. By far the most famous bathhouse in Budapest is the spa with the Széchenyi Baths. We've heard good stories about these, but because this bath is very big, we chose to visit other bathhouses that are a little smaller in scale. We visited the Gellért bathhouse and Ensana Thermal Margaret Island. Other popular baths include the Rudas bathhouse and Lukács bathhouse.
The Gellért bathhouse
Of the two baths we visited, the Gellért bathhouse was definitely the most beautiful. It was built in the early 20th century, in Art Nouveau style. As you unwind in one of the thermal baths, you gaze at beautiful stained-glass windows and richly decorated walls and floors with colorful mosaics. In both summer and winter, it is very nice to stay here. In fact, there is a large terrace by the outdoor pools where you can relax on a bed. In winter, you will have a great time at the indoor pools.
Check out the website of the Gellért bathhouse for the current opening hours and ticket prices.
Ensana Thermal Margaret Island
The Ensana Thermal Margaret Island bathhouse is located in the luxurious Thermal Margaret Island Health Spa Hotel on Margaret Island. Unlike the Géllert bathhouse, this is not located in a historic building. However, it is one of the best bath houses with healing water and medical facilities. It is not necessary to stay at the hotel to visit the Ensana Thermal bathhouse. In fact, you can buy a day ticket to the spa.
Check out the website of Ensana Thermal Margaret Island for the current opening hours and ticket prices.
Visit the Great Market Hall
Visiting the Great Market Hall in Budapest is a must-do. Discover countless stalls selling fresh vegetables, fruits, delicacies and souvenirs in this historic covered market. The magnificent building dates from 1894-1897 and still has the original metal roof with beautiful Zsolnay tiles. With 180 stalls, the hall offers various Hungarian specialties, such as Tokaji wine and paprika. Enjoy the market atmosphere and taste typical Hungarian dishes.
Find nature at Városliget Park
Still want to get out into nature in Budapest? You can do that in Városliget where you can find a vast city park. Városliget is best known for the Széchenyi baths, but you will find many more attractions. The park is also the place where you can board the hot air balloon. For about €23.00 you can already take a short flight with BalloonFly.
Want to explore the park at your leisure? Then it is wise to set aside a half to full day for the Városliget City Park.
Also read: The most beautiful sights in Budapest
Városliget is one of the sights we tip in Budapest, especially because of the Vajdahunyad Castle. But after spending a week in Budapest, we've collected many more recommended Budapest attractions for you.
Stop for a nice drink at a ruin bar
Hotspot tip in Budapest: the ruin bars! These are trendy bars in dilapidated buildings and ruins. You can find dozens of them in Budapest and the most famous one is Szimpla Kert. It might be a place that's a bit overhyped, but it's definitely fun to go there and have a drink.
Also read: The best hotspots in Budapest
From fine (and cheap!) coffee shops to trendy bars and typical Hungarian restaurants: Budapest is bursting with fun hotspots. Discover them using our personal tips.
Stroll around Margaret Island
Did you know that Budapest has its own island? In the middle of the Danube is Margaret Island. It is called the green pearl of Budapest. It is almost 3 kilometers long and 500 meters wide at its widest part. It is a place where you can escape for a while from the hustle and bustle of the city. We found it a nice area to walk around and just plop down in the grass, but you will also find a number of attractions, such as the Music Fountain, thermal baths, several tasty restaurants and bars and a small zoo.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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