Budapest, Hungary
Budapest has the hustle and bustle most people look for in a city. Weaving through historical architectural buildings, hopping on and off the public transportation, and discovering little coffee houses with live music, can give you all the feels. The vibe in Budapest is magical.
Know Before You Go
Clean Your Plate
Hungary is a meat and potatoes country so come hungry! You will also find amazing pastries and coffee to eat! Must eats include langosh, goulash, and chimney cakes. Don’t forget to wash it all down with mulled wine and palinka.
City in Ruins
Ruin bars are exactly what they sound like: bars that, instead being established in place of run-down, abandoned Soviet housing, have taken up residence in the ruins themselves. Head to the Jewish District to party on and see for yourself.
In the Streets
There are often street fairs in different parts of the city on any given weekend – that includes flea markets, holiday bazaars, open-air food centers, and so much more.
Water World
Visiting the thermal spas, and boating up and down the Danube River are activities you have to do when visiting Budapest.
Get Festive
Looking for the hottest festival of the year? Come to Sziget Festival for a day or get the week pass for live music, events, and more!
(Not) Lost in Translation
The official language of Budapest – Hungarian – is totally unrelated to any of its neighboring languages, and is the first language of about 99 percent of the local population. But don’t worry. English is also spoken pretty much everywhere within the city.
Can’t-Miss Neighborhoods
Deak Ferenc Square
District 5, aka Deak Ferenc Square, is the city center and the heart of Budapest. You can ride the Budapest Ferris wheel, shop the fashion district, or eat some of the city’s best food at the Grand Central Market.
The Jewish District
District 6, or the Jewish District, makes up a big portion of the history here in Hungary. So make sure you do a tour during the day. But at night, this area is the party center of Eastern Europe. From ruin bars to night clubs this area has the best nightlife for locals and tourists.
Castle Hill
District 1, Castle Hill, is a must-see when visiting Budapest. Wind through the pristine streets inside the castle walls. Sightseeing walks from the castle garden, all the way to Fisherman’s Bastion to see amazing panoramic views of the pest side including the legendary Parliament Building.
When to Go
This city is beautiful year-round. While winters are chilly, you don’t want to miss the Christmas markets, mulled wine, and chimney cakes. Oh, and don’t forget about getting that iconic shot of you dipping in a thermal spa in the winter. While everyone also loves visiting in the summer months, fall is the best bet all-around. The outdoor terraces are still open, but you’re not in the blistering heat and there are fewer tourists, so you can see the city with ease while the leaves change colors with every passing hour.
Featured Local: Starr Session Varga
I’m Starr, a freelance social media manager, blogger, mother, and wife based here in Budapest. My Hungarian husband and I moved here from Los Angeles in 2017. My time is dedicated to helping travelers and future expats of all kinds to navigate Hungary and enjoy it as much as we do. I invite you to discover Budapest with me.
Starr’s Must-Dos
Szimpla
Szimpla is a ruin bar in the heart of the jewish district. With its eclectic decor from old and used furniture found around Budapest, this place is a must visit location. While the night life is why most people are drawn to this place, its Sunday farmers markets give you a taste of the local flair. You can find local jams, organic produce, and even enjoy live music while you stroll the market.
Brody Studios
Stepping out for a night at Brody Studios is a night you won’t forget. The Studios house various events depending on the night. They host various cultural events, comedy nights, art exhibitions and so much more. You’ll enjoy great food and cocktails with Budapest’s finest. This place is for the artist within and inclusive to the looky-loos. You have various rooms to roam as you can sip a signature cocktail in the piano room or have a beer in the boogie room, or enjoy their amazing food off the menu in the courtyard. The choice is yours. Did I mention the decor is an entire vibe?
More of Budapest
Doblo Wine
In the heart of the Jewish district, you can slip into this beautiful wine bar and sip on various Hungarian wines. The brick walls and high ceilings make you feel like you’re in a cool wine cellar. This is a place where locals and tourists intertwine as this is one of the top wine bars in Budapest. They serve lunch, dinner, or appetizers. Tip: Get the hummus! The staff knows their stuff as they can offer up different types of wine tastings, or suggest any food and wine pairings your pallet may desire. But while you’re there don’t forget to try palinka! You’re in Hungary and they have a great selection to go right next to your wine flight!
Dracula’s Labyrinth
Hidden a few streets away from the crowds at Fisherman's Bastion, Dracula's Labyrinth is a combination of creepy and kitsch that should not be missed. This series of caves and tunnels once imprisoned Vlad Tepes aka Dracula. Mannequins in period clothing, dripping wet walls and piped in opera music heighten the experience as you grope through the dark of this underground prison.
Bartok Bela
Stroll up this gorgeous avenue and absorb the tranquility of a coveted corner of Budapest. Pop in and out of galleries and try-on clothes in tiny independent shops. Make sure to sit among the hipsters at Kelet Cafe for lunch and coffee. Cross the street to Trillazs Sutide Pastry shop to line your pockets with homemade treats that will keep you smiling as you explore.
