Is Budapest Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons Why I Love It

Budapest, the beautiful capital of Hungary, is a city full of history, culture, and amazing architecture. Located along the Danube River, this lively city has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, love good food, or just want to enjoy the views, Budapest will impress you. If you are still asking yourself the question Is Budapest worth visiting, here are seven reasons why I love Budapest and why you should go.

I have been to Budapest a couple of times, but I was really impressed by my last trip a couple of weeks ago. I hope that this post will convince you to give this city a try. Keep in mind that Budapest is pretty affordable compared to other European cities.

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

7 REASONS WHY BUDAPEST IS WORTH VISITING

1. Rich History and Stunning Architecture

Budapest is rich in history and has amazing architecture. The city is split into two parts: Buda and Pest, joined by the famous Chain Bridge. Each part has its own charm.

Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion

When I first visited Buda Castle, I was amazed by its size and history. This castle has been home to Hungarian kings for centuries. I walked through its courtyards and enjoyed the views of the city from the top. To reach Buda Castle, you can take the funicular from Clark Ádám Square.

Close by, Fisherman’s Bastion looks like a fairytale with its unique towers. These seven towers symbolize the seven Hungarian groups that followed the leader from long ago to settle in this location. Fisherman’s Bastion is only one of the main attractions in the Castle District. While you are up there don’t forget to check Matthias Church.

For food nearby, try Pest-Buda Bistro, known for its traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash.

Parliament Building

On the Pest side, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a must-see. It’s one of the largest parliamentary buildings in the world and has a beautiful Gothic Revival style. I was really impressed by its detailed design. Inside, the Parliament is filled with stunning stained glass windows, decorative ceilings, and lavish furnishings that showcase Hungary’s rich history and culture. The Hungarian Crown Jewels, including the Holy Crown of Hungary, are housed here and hold great historical significance. You can take a guided tour to learn about its history.

For a meal nearby, visit Kollázs Brasserie & Bar, where you can enjoy a mix of Hungarian and international cuisine.

2. Thermal Baths and Spas

Hungary is famous for its thermal baths, and Budapest has some of the best. These thermal springs have been used for relaxation and health since Roman times.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Széchenyi Thermal Bath, in City Park, is one of the largest thermal baths in Europe. The building’s grand style and numerous pools, saunas, and steam rooms make it a great place to relax. I loved soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters after sightseeing. You can get there easily by taking the M1 metro line to Széchenyi Fürdő station. After your bath, head to Robinson Restaurant nearby for a delicious meal by the lake.

Gellért Thermal Bath

For a more luxurious experience, visit Gellért Thermal Bath. Located in the Gellért Hotel, this bathhouse is famous for its beautiful mosaics and stained glass. Locals say that the waters here heal and rejuvenate. After a few hours here, I felt completely relaxed. It’s close to the Liberty Bridge, making it a nice walk from the city center. And believe me, this is a place that you can not miss while in Budapest. Just make sure to book a ticket ahead.

3. Vibrant Food Scene

Budapest’s food scene is a mix of traditional Hungarian and modern flavors. You can find everything from street food to fancy restaurants.

Traditional Hungarian Cuisine

You can’t visit Budapest without trying traditional Hungarian food. I loved eating at Menza and Kiosk, some retro-style restaurants where I tried goulash and chicken paprikash. The rich flavors and hearty portions were unforgettable. For a quick snack, I recommend trying lángos. A specialty made of fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese, often sold at street stalls. For more traditional dishes, visit Hungarikum Bisztró where you can enjoy a homey atmosphere and classic recipes.

Ruin Bars

For a unique dining experience, go to one of Budapest’s famous ruin bars. These bars are set in old, abandoned buildings and decorated with quirky furniture. Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and a must-visit. I enjoyed a drink and some bar snacks while soaking in the cool, artistic vibe. It’s a fun place to meet people and enjoy the local nightlife. You can find Szimpla Kert easily by walking from Deák Ferenc Square.

4. Cultural and Artistic Vibes

Budapest is full of culture and art. There are always museums, galleries, and live performances to check out.

Museum of Fine Arts and Hungarian National Gallery

Art lovers should visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which has a great collection of European art, including works by Raphael and El Greco. I spent hours there, fascinated by the beautiful paintings and sculptures. For Hungarian art, the Hungarian National Gallery in Buda Castle is perfect, showcasing artworks from medieval times to today. Near the museum, you can eat at Varosliget Café, which offers a pleasant setting and tasty snacks.

Opera House

For something special, see a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House. This beautiful building hosts operas, ballets, and concerts. Even if opera isn’t your thing, the stunning architecture and great acoustics are worth it. I booked my tickets online ahead of time to get a good seat. For a pre-show dinner, try Callas Café & Restaurant next door, offering fine dining in an elegant setting.

5. Picturesque Riverfront and Bridges

The Danube River runs through the middle of Budapest, offering beautiful views and fun activities along its banks.

Danube Promenade

I took a walk along the Danube Promenade on the Pest side. This lovely walkway offers amazing views of Buda Castle, the Chain Bridge, and Gellért Hill. Along the way, I found the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, which is a moving tribute to the Jews killed during World War II.

Cruises on the Danube

For a different view of the city, take a river cruise. There are many companies offering daytime and evening cruises. I took an evening cruise and loved seeing the city all lit up. It was magical to see the Parliament Building and other landmarks from the water. I booked a dinner cruise, which included traditional Hungarian dishes and live music. It was an unforgettable experience.

6. Festive Markets and Events

Budapest is a city that loves to celebrate, with lots of festivals and events throughout the year.

Christmas Markets

If you visit Budapest during the holiday season, the Christmas markets are a must-see. The biggest one is in Vörösmarty Square, where you can buy handmade crafts, enjoy traditional Hungarian foods, and warm up with a cup of mulled wine. Another market to visit is in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica, with a festive atmosphere and ice skating rink. The lights and decorations make it a magical experience.

Sziget Festival

In the summer, the Sziget Festival is a huge draw for music lovers. Held on Óbuda Island in the Danube, this week-long festival features international artists, art installations, and workshops. I went a few years ago and I was amazed by the energy and creativity. It’s easy to get there by taking the HÉV suburban railway from Batthyány Square. For food at the festival, there are many stalls offering a wide range of international and Hungarian dishes, so you’ll never go hungry.

7. Friendly Locals and Vibrant Nightlife

Hungarians are known for their friendliness, and Budapest’s locals are no exception. You’ll find people are happy to help and share their love for their city.

Local Markets

One of the best ways to experience local culture is by visiting the markets. The Great Market Hall, also known as Central Market Hall, is a busy place where you can buy fresh produce, meats, spices, and souvenirs. It’s also a great spot to try Hungarian street food. I spent a morning here, tasting chimney cake and sausage, and chatting with vendors. For lunch, I recommend the food stalls on the upper floor, which offer a variety of traditional dishes.

Nightlife

Budapest’s nightlife is lively and diverse, with something for everyone. From stylish rooftop bars like 360 Bar to underground clubs like Instant, there are plenty of places to have a good time. The ruin bars, mentioned earlier, also come alive at night with live music and DJ sets. I had some of my best nights out in these unique venues, dancing until early morning and meeting people from around the world.

Some Quick Tips for Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
• Currency: Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.
• Language: Hungarian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Getting Around: Budapest has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro. Consider purchasing a Budapest Card for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.

Don’t forget to read more about Budapest on my blog.

Conclusion

Budapest is a city that will capture your heart. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, relaxing thermal baths, delicious food, vibrant culture, scenic riverfront, festive markets, and friendly locals, it’s a destination worth visiting. Whether you’re exploring its historical streets, soaking in a thermal bath, or enjoying a night out in a ruin bar, Budapest offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Pack your bags and experience the magic of Budapest!