Budapest is one of Europe’s most beautiful and affordable cities. It offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and fun. From thermal baths to river cruises, there’s something here for everyone.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Get ready to explore Budapest with confidence!
Overview of Budapest
Budapest is the capital and largest city of Hungary, often called the “Pearl of the Danube” for its picturesque setting and stunning architecture. The mighty Danube River runs through the heart of the city, gently curving between the historic Buda side and the lively Pest side.
On the western bank, Buda is hilly and green, crowned by a castle and lookout terraces. Across the water, Pest is flat and buzzing, home to broad avenues and ornate buildings. Together, they form a city rich in culture and history yet welcoming and modern in feel.
Budapest offers a little of everything: parks filled with statues and playgrounds, museums packed with treasures, relaxing thermal baths, and a sparkling nightlife that runs late into the night.
In fact, the city sits on around 80 natural hot springs, giving it numerous spa baths to enjoy (a reason it’s nicknamed the “City of Spas”!). The central area along the Danube – including the grand Parliament building and Buda Castle – is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Budapest’s vibe is a mix of old-world charm and youthful energy.
You’ll find busy food markets in century-old halls, classical concert halls next to trendy “ruin pub” bars, and friendly locals proud to share their city’s heritage. It’s an enchanting and approachable European capital that first-time visitors quickly fall in love with.
Top Must-See Sights
Budapest is full of impressive sights, but some stand out as absolute must-sees on your first visit. Begin in the Castle Hill area on the Buda side. Here you’ll find the Buda Castle (the historic royal palace) and the charming old-town streets around it.
Wander the cobbled paths up to Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church, a 13th-century church with a colorful tiled roof. Fisherman’s Bastion looks like a fairytale terrace with neo-Romanesque towers, and it offers spectacular views over the city and the Danube River.
It’s one of the best photo spots in Budapest – you can gaze out at the Parliament dome and all of Pest spread before you. Take the historic Castle Hill funicular or walk up the hill, and don’t forget to snap a picture with the bronze statue of St. Stephen on horseback in the Bastion’s courtyard as you enjoy the panorama.
On the flat Pest side, the Hungarian Parliament Building is Budapest’s most iconic landmark. This enormous neo-Gothic building sits right on the Danube bank and is especially stunning when lit up at night. Its spires and dome form the image most people picture when they think of Budapest.
You can admire it from across the river (the view from Buda Castle or a Danube cruise is fantastic) or take a guided tour inside on days it’s open to visitors.
Not far away, you can find the moving Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial – 60 pairs of iron shoes along the riverfront – honoring Jewish citizens tragically shot here in World War II. From Parliament, stroll down grand Andrássy Avenue (a historic boulevard) toward St. Stephen’s Basilica, the city’s largest church.
This Roman Catholic basilica boasts a beautiful interior and a large dome you can ascend for another great city view. In the same area, architecture lovers should peek into the opulent Hungarian State Opera House on Andrássy Avenue (if open, tours are offered).
Another unmissable spot is Heroes’ Square at the end of Andrássy Avenue, by the entrance to City Park. Heroes’ Square is a vast plaza dominated by the Millennium Monument, with statues of Hungary’s historical figures. It’s a favorite gathering place and makes a dramatic backdrop for photos.
Behind it, City Park offers even more attractions: the whimsical Vajdahunyad Castle (built for the 1896 Millennium celebrations, showcasing various architectural styles), the Széchenyi Thermal Baths (more on those later), the Budapest Zoo, and ample green space for a stroll or picnic.
Don’t leave Budapest without also walking across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the 19th-century suspension bridge that was the first to permanently link Buda and Pest. The Chain Bridge’s stone lions and wrought-iron design are best admired at dusk when the bridge and the city’s landmarks begin to light up.
Unique Experiences to Try
Beyond sightseeing, Budapest offers fun experiences that make your trip memorable. One of the top activities is relaxing in the famous thermal baths. Budapest’s thermal bath culture is a must-try for any visitor.
The most popular is Széchenyi Thermal Bath, a grand spa complex in City Park with outdoor pools of warm, mineral-rich water. Visitors enjoying the outdoor thermal pools at Széchenyi Bath on a summer day.
Imagine soaking in steaming turquoise pools surrounded by yellow Neo-Baroque buildings – it’s both relaxing and a bit surreal! There are whirlpools, chess-playing locals in the water, and indoors, you’ll find saunas and more pools of various temperatures.
Another beautiful bath is Gellért Thermal Bath, attached to Hotel Gellért, known for its Art Nouveau decor and mosaic walls. Visiting a bath is especially enjoyable after a long day of walking (or on a chilly winter evening when the hot water feels incredible).
Do bring a swimsuit, and note that at some pools you’ll need a swim cap if you want to use the lap lanes. Budapest is famous for these thermal springs – some have been in use since the Turkish era – so joining locals for a soak is both relaxing and culturally authentic.
For nightlife or just a dose of local quirkiness, you have to experience a ruin pub. These are eclectic bars set up in abandoned old buildings in the former Jewish Quarter, decorated with an artsy, mismatched flair.
The most famous ruin pub is Szimpla Kert, but there are many others tucked in the neighborhood. Inside a typical ruin pub, quirky furniture and a laid-back crowd create a fun, bohemian vibe. Budapest’s ruin pubs are often described as ramshackle and cavern-like bars filled with a jumble of thrift-shop furniture and lots of locals and travelers having a great time.
Don’t be put off by the crumbling facade at the entrance – once you wander in, you’ll find courtyards and rooms alive with music, murals, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s an edgy side of Budapest’s evenings that’s still very welcoming to all ages (earlier in the evening, they’re quite casual and mellow; late at night, they become lively party spots).
Even if you’re not big on drinking, it’s worth popping into a ruin pub to see the funky décor – you might find old bicycles hanging from the ceiling, bathtub sofas, or a Trabant car turned into a table.
Grab a local beer or a fröccs (wine spritzer), and soak up the bohemian atmosphere. It’s a uniquely Budapest experience you won’t find elsewhere.
Another fantastic experience is a Danube River cruise. Seeing Budapest from the water gives you a whole new perspective. Many companies offer boat tours, from one-hour sightseeing rides to dinner cruises with live music. Gliding along the Danube, you’ll pass under the city’s bridges and get unobstructed views of landmarks like the Parliament, Buda Castle, and Gellért Hill.
A night cruise is especially magical – few sights are more beautiful than Budapest’s riverfront at night, with the Parliament and bridges all illuminated in golden light. If a cruise isn’t your thing, simply walking the Danube Promenade on the Pest side is free and enjoyable.
In fact, Tram Number 2 runs along the river on the Pest embankment and is often cited as one of the world’s most scenic tram rides. For the price of a transit ticket, you can ride this tram and enjoy an impromptu tour of the riverside views.
Whether by boat, by tram, or on foot, make sure you experience the Danube – it’s the thread that ties the city together. Other rewarding experiences include catching a performance (Budapest has affordable opera, ballet, and classical music concerts), browsing local markets (the Great Market Hall is a feast for the senses with vendors selling fruits, meats, and paprika), or even taking a short hike up Gellért Hill to the Citadella for a panoramic lookout.
Food and Drink Tips
Hungarian cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and an attraction of its own. In Budapest, you’ll have plenty of chances to try authentic local dishes and treats. One absolute must-try is goulash (gulyás), Hungary’s most famous dish.
Despite being famous worldwide, you should taste it here in its homeland. Hungarian goulash is not a thick stew elsewhere but rather a rich beef soup/stew loaded with tender beef cubes, potatoes, carrots, and spiced generously with paprika. It’s warm and comforting – perfect for a chilly day. Many traditional restaurants and even market stalls serve goulash; a steaming bowl with fresh bread will give you a true taste of Hungary.
Another favorite is chicken paprikash (paprikás csirke), which is chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with nokedli (little dumpling noodles). If you have a sweet tooth, try Hungarian pancakes called palacsinta – thin crepes that come with various fillings (apricot jam and sweet cottage cheese are popular).
For something truly indulgent, seek out chimney cake (kürtőskalács) from a street vendor or at a festival. It’s a cylindrical pastry roasted over coals, coated in sugar, cinnamon, or nuts – you’ll smell its heavenly aroma before you see it!
A hearty bowl of Hungarian goulash, a must-try dish packed with tender beef and paprika-rich broth. When you’re out and about, grab a lángos for a quick bite. Lángos is a beloved street food: a big flat disc of dough fried until crispy outside and soft inside, traditionally topped with garlic, sour cream, and grated cheese (though you can add things like bacon, sausage, or even sweet toppings).
It’s cheap, filling, and delicious – you can find lángos at markets like the Great Market Hall or at food stalls around the city. For meat lovers, Hungary’s sausages (kolbász) and cured meats are excellent; try a sausage platter or a lángos burger at a local pub for a rustic treat.
Don’t forget to sample some local desserts as well. In addition to palacsinta, look for Dobos torte (a chocolate sponge cake with caramel top) or Rékóczi túrós (a sweet cottage cheese tart) at one of Budapest’s many pastry shops.
The city has a long café tradition, so consider visiting a classic coffee house like New York Café or Gerbeaud – even if just to admire the lavish interiors and enjoy a coffee and cake.
When it comes to drinks, Hungary has a few specialties. Try a glass of Tokaji aszú wine – a golden sweet wine famous as the “Wine of Kings” – or the local red Bull’s Blood (Egri Bikavér). Wine lovers will find plenty of wine bars offering tastings of Hungarian varietals.
For something stronger, there’s pálinka, a traditional fruit brandy. It comes in flavors like plum, pear, or apricot and is often enjoyed as a celebratory shot (beware, it’s potent!). Beer is also popular and affordable; you’ll encounter Hungarian brands like Dreher, Soproni, or Borsodi.
In the ruin pubs you can order fröccs, which is a wine spritzer – very refreshing in summer. Non-alcoholic local favorites include fruit syrups mixed with soda water and strong espresso coffee (the coffee culture is robust here).
Water is safe to drink from the tap in Budapest, and you’ll also see many street vendors selling hot mulled wine or hot chocolate in winter, and cold drinks like lemonade (often flavored with elderflower or other fruits) in summer.
For dining, Budapest offers everything from inexpensive self-service eateries to Michelin-star restaurants. To eat like a local, you might visit a market hall or a traditional étkezde (a no-frills lunch canteen) for home-style dishes at low prices.
Popular market halls, such as the Central Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok), have food stalls upstairs where you can get an authentic meal (like goulash or stuffed cabbage) in a casual setting. Street food stands are great for lángos or sausages.
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, fear not – while traditional Hungarian cuisine leans heavily on meat, the city has many modern eateries and international options to cater to all diets. In recent years Budapest has also developed a craft beer scene and trendy bistros.
Tipping in restaurants is customary; around 10% for good service is typical, but check your bill because sometimes a service charge is already included.
And one more tip: try to carry some cash in forints for smaller vendors. While most places in Budapest accept credit cards, at markets or smaller shops it’s handy to have cash (Hungary’s currency is the Forint (HUF) – not the Euro – and using the local currency will usually get you a better deal).
Getting Around Easily
Budapest is a large city, but it’s very easy to get around thanks to its efficient public transportation and walkable center. Many of the major sights in the downtown areas are within walking distance of each other, especially in Pest around the river.
You can stroll from the Basilica to Parliament to the Chain Bridge within half an hour. That said, don’t underestimate distances – for example, going from City Park (Heroes’ Square) back to the Parliament area is a few kilometers. Luckily, the city’s public transport system is excellent and affordable. The metro (subway) has four lines (marked M1 to M4) that cover most key areas.
The M1 line (yellow line) is actually the second-oldest metro line in the world (after London’s) – it opened in 1896 and is a UNESCO World Heritage site on its own! Riding this line, with its small vintage stations, is like taking a trip back in time.
It runs under Andrássy Avenue from the city center to City Park, so it’s perfect for reaching Heroes’ Square and Széchenyi Baths. The newer metro lines (M2 red, M3 blue, M4 green) are modern and efficient, connecting areas like the train stations, Buda’s residential areas, and more.
Trains usually come every few minutes. When using the metro or any public transport, make sure to validate your ticket (or use a travel pass) before boarding – there are inspectors who do random checks.
Beyond the metro, trams and buses are abundant. Tram 2, as mentioned, goes along the river on the Pest side and is great for sightseeing. Trams 4 and 6 run on the busy ring road (Grand Boulevard) and operate 24/7, which is very useful at night.
There are also trolleybuses (electric buses) in some districts. All public transportation is integrated under the city’s BKK transit system, and you can buy single tickets or various passes (24-hour, 72-hour, weekly).
If you plan on a lot of hopping on and off, a 24-hour or 72-hour travel pass can be very convenient and saves the hassle of buying single tickets each time.
The cost is reasonable (public transport in Budapest is known for being affordable). Maps and signs are in Hungarian but usually easy to figure out, and many ticket machines have an English option.
Taxis are another option for getting around, especially late at night after the metro stops (around midnight). It’s best to use reputable taxi companies or apps rather than hailing random cars. The official taxis are yellow and should have a taximeter – ensure the driver uses it.
You can also use ride-hailing apps like Bolt in Budapest for convenience. Generally, taxis are not too expensive for cross-town trips, but using public transit is so easy, you might not need them often. If you prefer to be active, the city also has a bike-sharing system called MOL Bubi.
You’ll see these bright green bikes at docking stations around town; with a quick registration, you can hop on a bike and pedal to your destination. Cycling is a nice way to explore the Danube banks or Margaret Island (a leafy island park in the middle of the river).
Budapest’s main roads can be busy, but there are bike lanes on many routes now. Walking is of course, one of the best ways to soak in the city – wander the quaint streets of Buda Castle District or the trendy Jewish Quarter on foot to discover hidden cafés, street art, and local shops.
Just remember to carry a map or have an offline map on your phone, and you’ll be set.
Seasonal Travel Tips (Summer vs. Winter)
Budapest is enjoyable year-round, but the experience can vary quite a bit between summer and winter.
Here’s what to expect in each season and some tips to make the most of it.
Summer (June–August)
This is high season in Budapest. The weather is hot and sunny, often in the high 20s °C (80s °F) or even hotter during heat waves. The days are long, with daylight lasting until 9 pm in June. Summer in Budapest means lots of outdoor events and a lively atmosphere.
Outdoor cafes and rooftop bars are buzzing, locals spend time along the Danube banks, and tourists are everywhere. In August, the city celebrates St. Stephen’s Day (August 20) with fireworks, and the famous Sziget Music Festival (one of Europe’s largest festivals) takes place, drawing huge crowds.
The advantages of visiting in summer: almost everything is open and running at full steam – all attractions, boat tours, outdoor pools, etc. – and the city is “shiny and bright under the summer sun,” making it easy to roam freely and take in the sights. You can enjoy things like open-air concerts, night parties at the baths (yes, Széchenyi Baths host summer sparties), and dining on outdoor terraces.
However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices. Popular spots like Fisherman’s Bastion or the thermal baths will be crowded with fellow travelers. It’s a good idea to book accommodation well in advance and buy tickets online for things like Parliament tours to secure a spot. Also, summer can bring some heat and humidity. Stay hydrated (carry a water bottle – there are public drinking fountains in many places) and wear sunscreen and a hat when walking around midday.
The city has some nice shady parks (Margaret Island is lovely for a picnic or to cool off under trees). If it gets too hot, you can always dip into a museum or church during the afternoon. Public transport and many indoor places do have air conditioning, but not all, so a handheld fan could help on a stuffy tram.
Despite the heat and tourist rush, summer is an exciting time to be in Budapest, especially if you enjoy a lively social scene and maybe want to catch a festival or two. Just bring comfortable, breathable clothing and perhaps a light sweater for the occasional cool evening or heavily air-conditioned venue.
Winter (December–February)
Budapest’s winters are cold, temperatures often around 0°C (32°F) or below, with wind chill making it feel colder. It can snow, though usually not heavily; you might see a pretty dusting of snow on the rooftops a few times. The days are short (dark by 4 pm in December).
This is the low season for tourism (except for the Christmas/New Year period), so you will find fewer crowds and likely better deals on hotels. Winter has its own charm in Budapest. In December, the city center sparkles with Christmas markets and lights.
Vorosmarty Square and the square by St. Stephen’s Basilica turn into festive markets with stalls selling mulled wine, crafts, and holiday foods like roasted chestnuts and chimney cakes. It’s a wonderful time to visit if you enjoy holiday cheer. After New Year’s, things quiet down.
The advantage of Winter is that there are far fewer tourists (you might have that thermal bath almost to yourself on a weekday!), and the cozy side of Budapest comes alive – think cafes with hot drinks, hearty meals to warm you up, and maybe even snowy scenery at Fisherman’s Bastion.
Also, prices for flights and accommodation tend to be lower outside the holiday season. You can also appreciate museums and indoor attractions without any lines. And yes, thermal baths are open year-round – it’s quite an experience to sit in an outdoor 38°C (100°F) thermal pool at Széchenyi while the air around you is freezing and maybe snow is falling!
The baths provide a warm respite from the cold and are very popular with locals in winter too. Be aware that in the cold months, some attractions may run on shorter hours or undergo renovations.
For instance, certain boat tours on the Danube reduce frequency, and outdoor attractions like Margaret Island are less appealing when it’s chilly. Some smaller museums or tours take a winter break. Still, the major sites (Castle, Parliament, etc.) remain open.
Pack appropriate winter clothing: a warm coat, gloves, a hat, and boots with good traction (in case of ice). Layering is key because while it’s freezing outside, indoor heating is strong – you’ll peel off layers in restaurants or on the metro.
As one traveler aptly put it, winter in Budapest is wonderful in its own way. The early sunsets just mean you can enjoy the city’s night illuminations longer each evening, and there’s something very cozy about ducking into a traditional restaurant for a bowl of hot goulash when it’s cold outside.
Cultural life continues year-round, so you can go to opera, theater, or concerts (winter is actually peak season for the opera and symphony).
If you visit in January or February, don’t miss the farsangi season treats (Carnival doughnuts) and perhaps catch the Mangalica Festival (a winter festival celebrating Hungarian mangalica pork) if it aligns with your timing.
Spring and Autumn
It’s worth noting that spring (April–May) and autumn (Sept–Oct) are often the best times to visit Budapest. The weather is mild and pleasant, trees are blooming in spring or colorfully changing in fall, and the tourist numbers are moderate.
Many locals will tell you May and September are their favorite months – comfortable temperatures and lots of cultural events. In these shoulder seasons, you get the benefit of longer days (especially in spring) without the peak summer crowds.
If you have flexibility, consider these months. But regardless of when you go, Budapest has something special to offer. Just pack accordingly, and you’ll have a great time.
Safety, Etiquette, and Helpful Local Tips
Safety
Budapest is generally a safe city for travelers, and you’re unlikely to encounter serious problems if you use common sense. Violent crime is very low.
That said, as in any big city, you should watch out for petty crime like pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas or on packed public transportation. Busy metro cars, trams, and popular spots like the Christmas market can attract pickpockets, so keep your wallet and phone secure (a money belt or an inside zip pocket is a good idea).
Don’t flash large amounts of cash, and be mindful of your bags in areas like train stations or buses. If you carry a backpack, consider wearing it on your front in crowded situations.
Also, be cautious of any overly “helpful” strangers offering unsolicited help with money exchange or taxi rides – politely decline and handle it yourself or seek official services.
While rare, there have been tourist scams in Budapest to be aware of. One involves certain restaurants or clubs (especially in the past, some strip clubs) that do not list prices and then hit customers with outrageously high bills – if you refuse to pay, they may intimidate you into paying.
To avoid this, only patronize places that show prices clearly (most places in Budapest do). It’s a good rule to avoid invites from strangers to an unknown bar or any place that seems sketchy.
Also, use official taxis or ride-share apps; unmarked taxis or freelancers at the airport have been known to overcharge. Better yet, at the airport, go to the official taxi booth or use the Airport Shuttle bus service.
The city introduced standardized taxi fares, so if the meter is running, you should get a fair price (starting fee plus per-kilometer rate). Just ensure the driver starts the meter; if not, insist or find another cab.
Etiquette
When it comes to etiquette, Hungarians are generally polite and somewhat formal at first. A few local customs: when you greet someone, a simple handshake or a polite “jó napot” (good day) works well.
Younger folks will usually just say “hi” (in Hungarian “szia” works for both hi and bye). It’s nice to learn a couple of basic Hungarian phrases – even though Budapest is quite cosmopolitan and many people (especially under 40 and in tourist areas) speak English, using a few Hungarian words can put a smile on people’s faces. “Köszönöm” (kuh-seh-nuhm) means “thank you,” and “kérem” (kay-rem) means please/you’re welcome.
They are tough words, but locals appreciate the effort. Another quirky etiquette note: Traditionally, Hungarians did not clink beer glasses for a long time (due to a historical legend), but this is fading with the younger generation – still, you might notice older locals toasting without clinking for beer.
It’s not a big deal either way, but if you want to be extra culturally aware, you could avoid clinking beer mugs. For wine or other drinks, it’s fine to clink and say “Egészségedre!” (eh-gash-sheg-eh-dreh), meaning “to your health” (or simply “Cheers”).
Tipping
In restaurants, tipping is customary at around 10%, as mentioned, unlessa service charge is included. Unlike in some countries, you generally do not leave the tip on the table in cash afterward.
Instead, you tell the waiter how much to charge, including tip, before you finalize the payment, or you round up the cash as you pay.
For example, if your bill is 9,500 forints and you hand over 10,000, tell them to keep the change (or say thank you when handing it over, implying they need not give change).
If paying by card, the server might bring the card reader and ask how much you want to add for a tip before you swipe/insert the card. It’s a little different system, so don’t be caught off guard. In bars or casual spots, rounding up is fine.
Local customs and tips
Budapest locals are generally friendly, though not in an overbearing way. You might find customer service in shops or restaurants a bit more reserved or brisk than you’re used to – this isn’t rudeness, it’s just a cultural difference (service staff don’t constantly check on you as in some countries; they’ll usually leave you to enjoy your meal unless you call them).
A smile and patience go a long way if there’s a language gap. When visiting churches (like St. Stephen’s or Matthias Church), dress modestly (covering shoulders, no very short shorts) out of respect. Photography is usually allowed, but without flash in churches and museums.
In the thermal baths, observe the posted rules: in most mixed baths, swimsuits are required (no nudity except in specific segregated areas or days). Some baths provide swim caps for certain pools where they are mandatory (like lap pools).
Also, note that some thermal baths have odd weekday schedules (e.g., Rudas bath has certain men-only or women-only days for some sections). It’s good to check the bath’s website or ask at your hotel to be sure.
Money tips
As mentioned, Hungary uses the forint (HUF). Many places in touristy parts of Budapest do accept euros (and some even USD or GBP), but the exchange rate they give will not be in your favor.
It’s best to pay in forints. You can easily withdraw forints from ATMs (avoid the “gray” private ATMs with high fees; stick to bank ATMs like OTP, Erste, etc.). Exchange bureaus in the city usually have decent rates (avoid exchanging at the airport, which is worse).
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops, and even ticket machines for transit. Just have a bit of cash for small market vendors, tips, or public toilets (some charge 200 HUF – have a coin handy).
On that note, many public restrooms (like at transport hubs or even some museum bathrooms) have an attendant who charges a small fee (100-300 HUF).
Keep some change for this. Restrooms in cafes or restaurants are usually free for customers.
Connectivity
Budapest has good Wi-Fi availability. Many cafes, bars, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi, and it’s generally fast. You can also buy a local SIM at the airport or mobile shops if you need data on the go. EU roaming rules apply if you’re coming from Europe.
Emergency numbers
The general emergency number is 112 (like the European 911). Hopefully you’ll never need it, but it’s good to know. English-speaking operators are available. Budapest has a tourist police unit in central areas to help tourists. But again, serious incidents are uncommon.
Budapest Card
The city offers a tourist card that includes free public transport and entry to certain museums and baths, plus discounts. It can be worth it if you plan to visit a lot of paid attractions.
However, do the math, because many attractions in Budapest are actually inexpensive or free to see from outside (e.g., you might not go inside the Parliament, or you might skip some museums).
If you are mostly enjoying the city by walking and only doing a couple of paid entries, the Budapest Card might not pay off. But the convenience of free transport could be a plus. There’s also a 72-hour travelcard (just for transport) that many find useful.
Enjoy The City
Above all, enjoy the city respectfully. Hungarians are proud of their culture, so showing interest (maybe visiting the Hungarian National Museum or the House of Terror museum for historical context) can enrich your experience.
Try not to be a loud tourist on public transit late at night, as locals value calm and order, especially after hours.
When riding escalators in the metro, stand on the right side (people in a hurry will pass on the left). Smoking is banned indoors in public places (bars, restaurants) in Hungary, so smokers will need to step outside.
Budapest is a city where you can feel safe walking around in most areas, even at night in the center, but of course, stick to well-lit main streets if you’re alone late at night.
The typical advice applies: avoid being overly intoxicated in unfamiliar places, keep an eye on your belongings, and you’ll be just fine. Many tourists come and have zero issues.
If you do encounter any difficulties, your hotel or hostel staff can be very helpful – they’re used to assisting visitors.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to explore Budapest with confidence.
Enjoy every moment in Hungary’s vibrant capital – or as the locals say, Jó utat! (Have a good trip!). Safe travels!
