Buda Castle
Historic royal palace complex on Castle Hill with panoramic views
On this page
About Budapest
Budapest is a city of dramatic contrasts—the historic Buda Castle on one side, the bustling Pest on the other, connected by iconic bridges over the Danube. The city boasts UNESCO World Heritage sites, world-class thermal baths, vibrant nightlife in ruin pubs, and a thriving food scene. Budapest is consistently ranked among Europe's top city break destinations.
- Capital
- Budapest
- Largest city
- Budapest
- Population
- 1.7 million
- Languages
- Hungarian
- Currency
- Hungarian Forint
- Time zone
- Europe/Budapest (CET/CEST)
Explore Budapest by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Budapest
The 3 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Hungarian Parliament Building
Iconic neo-Gothic parliament on the Danube embankment
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Largest thermal bath complex in Budapest, set in City Park
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Budapest Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Budapest, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Budapest
- Days 1-2Budapest city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Budapest
- Days 1-3Budapest comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Budapest, departure
Where to stay in Budapest
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $50
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $120
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $350
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace
One of Budapest's most iconic hotels, the Four Seasons Gresham Palace is housed in a stunning 1906 Art Nouveau palace directly beside the Chain Bridge. The hotel features 179 rooms and suites, the acclaimed KOLLÁZS Brasserie & Bar, and a full spa. The building's ornate peacock gate, Zsolnay ceramic details, and mosaic floors make it one of the most beautiful hotels in Central Europe.
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest
A flagship luxury hotel in the heart of Pest, the Kempinski Corvinus opened in 1992 and remains one of Budapest's most prestigious addresses. The contemporary glass-and-marble building houses 365 rooms, multiple dining venues including the Nobu Budapest restaurant, and an extensive spa. Popular with business travelers and dignitaries.
Corinthia Hotel Budapest
A magnificent 5-star hotel set in the restored Royal Hotel building (1896) on the Grand Boulevard. The Corinthia features a breathtaking grand atrium lobby, the legendary New York Café-rivaling Brasserie, 414 rooms including stunning suites, and the award-winning Royal Spa. One of the largest luxury hotels in Budapest.
Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel
A spectacular neo-baroque palace hotel housing the world-famous New York Café, one of the most beautiful cafés in the world. The Anantara New York Palace offers 107 opulent rooms and suites decorated with antiques and original artworks, a world-class spa, and the prestigious Spago restaurant by Wolfgang Puck.
Where to eat in Budapest
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Onyx Restaurant
Budapest's most acclaimed fine dining restaurant with two Michelin stars. Onyx offers innovative Hungarian tasting menus that reimagine traditional Magyar flavors with contemporary techniques. The elegant dining room with its black-and-gold Art Deco interior is on Vörösmarty Square, and reservations are essential months in advance.
Costes Restaurant
The first Hungarian restaurant to receive a Michelin star (2010), Costes serves creative European cuisine with seasonal Hungarian ingredients. Elegant and understated, it offers tasting menus and à la carte options in a chic contemporary setting in the IX. district. Exceptional wine list focusing on Hungarian wines.
Stand Restaurant
A Michelin-starred contemporary Hungarian restaurant run by Chef Tamás Széll, winner of the Bocuse d'Or Europe competition. Stand focuses on premium Hungarian ingredients and modern culinary techniques, offering refined tasting menus in an elegant but welcoming atmosphere. One of Budapest's most creative dining experiences.
SALT Restaurant
An intimate and highly acclaimed fine dining restaurant in a charming townhouse setting, SALT offers creative tasting menus that change with the seasons. Known for exceptional attention to detail and a focus on local and seasonal produce. Michelin recommended with a warm, personal atmosphere.
Gerbeaud Café
Budapest's most legendary café, Gerbeaud has been serving guests since 1858. Located on Vörösmarty Square, it is famous for its elaborate pastries, ice creams, pralines, and chocolates. The elegant interior with marble tables, chandeliers, and oil paintings evokes imperial Budapest. A must-visit for the atmosphere alone, though prices reflect the prestige.
New York Café
Housed in the magnificent Anantara New York Palace Hotel, this is arguably the most beautiful café in the world. Opened in 1894, its neo-baroque interior with gilded columns, frescoes, marble tables, and crystal chandeliers is breathtaking. The breakfast here—served with 24-carat gold coffee and Valrhona chocolate—is an experience unlike any other. Evening menu features Hungarian classics.
Getting around Budapest
Budapest has one of the best public transport networks in Central Europe, operated by BKK (Budapesti Közlekedési Központ / Budapest Transport Centre). The integrated system includes 4 metro lines, an extensive tram network, buses, trolleybuses, a suburban railway (HÉV), and river boats. A single ticket is valid for one vehicle without transfer; travelcards offer unlimited rides.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in HUF, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15 | $60 | $200 |
| Food (per day) | $15 | $35 | $80 |
| Transportation | $5 | $10 | $30 |
| Activities | $15 | $15 | $40 |
| Daily total | $50 | $120 | $350 |
Best time to visit Budapest
Essential travel tips
- Buy a Budapest Card for unlimited transport and museum discounts
- Visit thermal baths early morning or late evening to avoid crowds
- Cross the Chain Bridge at sunset for amazing Danube views
Safety information
Watch for pickpockets in tourist areas and on trams 4 and 6
Use licensed taxis or ride apps (Bolt, Főtaxi)
Be aware of bar scams in nightlife areas
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Budapest?
EU/Schengen member. EU/EEA citizens enter freely. US/UK/Canadian citizens can stay up to 90 days without visa. Others should check Hungary's visa requirements. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Budapest?
The currency in Budapest is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Budapest?
The main language(s) spoken in Budapest: Hungarian. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.