There are so many things to do in Budapest, from long walks on Andrassy Avenue (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to tours of the city’s grand Parliament building. But if you want to really get to know this beautiful and unique capital, there are plenty of less-obvious options. Here are a few of our favorites!
1) Visit the Gellert Baths. Although the Szechenyi Baths are more famous, the Gellert has a more intimate feel, and it’s a lot cheaper to enter. Plus, it’s home to the Liberty Statue, a stunning new monument that’s become a symbol of Budapest.
2) Ride the Children’s Railway and the Libego chairlift: Both of these activities give you breathtaking panoramic views over the city. But the Children’s Railway is especially fun and is a popular activity for families with kids. You can catch the train from Huvosvolgy or Janoshegy, which are both easy to reach by public transport.
3) Explore the spooky tunnels beneath Buda Castle: If you’re into the paranormal and/or horror, then make sure to visit the network of tunnels under Buda Castle. It was here that Vlad Tepes, or Count Dracula, was imprisoned back in the 15th century. You can explore the tunnels on your own, or join a tour led by a guide to learn about the history of this mysterious spot.
4) Take in the city’s eye-catching architecture: From consistent revival architecture from the turn of the 20th century to Hungary’s pioneering style of Art Nouveau, there’s so much to see and admire in Budapest’s unique architectural scene. Take a walking tour of the city’s historic district to see some of the most interesting examples of this style, or hop aboard one of our bus tours for a more extensive look at the city’s most important buildings and landmarks.
5 ) Visit the Fiumei Road Cemetery: This vast cemetery near the city center hides a gorgeous garden and some impressive tombstones of Hungary’s most notable statesmen and artists (or Communist heroes, depending on your perspective).
6 ) Stroll down the Danube promenade in Ferencvaros: This gorgeous green space is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves to explore a city from its parks and green spaces. The park’s eye-catching Museum of Ethnography and House of Music, designed by Japanese star architect Sou Fujimoto, as well as the Millennium haza and Balna are all must-sees.
7 ) Visit the City Park: As you stroll along this huge park in downtown Budapest, you’ll have to stop and admire the stunning new museum buildings that have recently been built within its boundaries. From the whale-shaped contemporary Balna to the spooky Panoptikum and Labirintus tunnels, you’ll find that there’s more to discover here than you might think!
8 ) Explore the Jewish Quarter’s nightlife: Until recently, the formerly derelict streets of the Jewish Quarter were neglected and depressing. But now, thanks to an influx of young people and an increasing number of trendy bars and restaurants, the neighborhood is a lively destination with a thriving culture. things to do in Budapest