Things to do in Hungary based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Central Market Hall, Hungary
Overview: Central Market Hall in Budapest is the city’s largest and most famous indoor market, offering traditional Hungarian food, souvenirs, and local produce in a historic setting.
History: Built in the late 19th century, the market was designed to modernize food trade and support Budapest’s growing population.
Since When: It has been operating since 1897 as a central hub for commerce.
Review: Visitors praise its lively atmosphere, authentic products, and architectural beauty, though it can be crowded.
When to Go: Early mornings on weekdays are best for fresh produce and fewer tourists.
How to Go: Easily reachable by metro, tram, bus, or on foot in central Budapest.
What to Do: Shop for paprika, taste Hungarian dishes, and explore local crafts.
Free or Paid: Free entry; purchases are paid.
Castle District, Hungary
Overview: The Castle District is a historic area of Budapest featuring medieval streets, royal buildings, and panoramic views of the Danube.
History: It developed around Buda Castle and served as the political and royal center of Hungary for centuries.
Since When: The district dates back to the 13th century.
Review: Visitors love its romantic atmosphere, historic charm, and scenic viewpoints.
When to Go: Spring and autumn afternoons are ideal for walking and sightseeing.
How to Go: Accessible by bus, funicular, taxi, or walking uphill from the riverbank.
What to Do: Explore historic streets, visit museums, and enjoy city views.
Free or Paid: Free to explore; museums and attractions may be paid.
Fisherman’s Bastion, Hungary
Overview: Fisherman’s Bastion is a decorative terrace in Budapest offering fairy-tale architecture and breathtaking views of the Parliament and Danube.
History: Built in the late 19th century, it commemorates medieval fishermen who defended this part of the city walls.
Since When: Open to the public since 1905.
Review: Visitors consistently rate it highly for photography and scenic beauty.
When to Go: Early morning or sunset for the best views and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Reachable by bus, taxi, or walking within the Castle District.
What to Do: Take photos, admire architecture, and enjoy panoramic views.
Free or Paid: Lower terraces are free; upper towers require a paid ticket.
Heroes’ Square, Hungary
Overview: Heroes’ Square is a grand public square in Budapest showcasing statues of Hungarian leaders and national monuments.
History: Created to commemorate Hungary’s 1,000th anniversary and honor its founding figures.
Since When: Completed in 1896.
Review: Visitors appreciate its monumental scale, historical importance, and open space.
When to Go: Daytime for monument viewing or evening for illuminated views.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro, bus, or tram.
What to Do: Learn about Hungarian history, take photos, and relax nearby.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
City Park, Hungary
Overview: City Park is a large urban green space in Budapest offering lakes, museums, baths, and recreational areas.
History: Established as one of Europe’s first public parks to serve city residents.
Since When: Opened to the public in the early 19th century.
Review: Visitors enjoy its variety of attractions, peaceful environment, and family-friendly vibe.
When to Go: Spring and summer are best for outdoor activities and picnics.
How to Go: Located behind Heroes’ Square and accessible by metro or bus.
What to Do: Walk, picnic, visit attractions, or relax by the lake.
Free or Paid: Park entry is free; attractions inside may be paid.
St. Stephen’s Basilica, Hungary
Overview: St. Stephen’s Basilica is Budapest’s largest church, renowned for its grand dome, neoclassical architecture, and panoramic city views from the cupola.
History: Construction began in the mid-19th century and the basilica was dedicated to Hungary’s first king, Saint Stephen.
Since When: Officially completed and opened in 1905.
Review: Visitors highly praise its majestic interior, acoustics, and breathtaking views from the dome.
When to Go: Late morning or early afternoon on weekdays to avoid crowds and services.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro, bus, tram, or walking in central Budapest.
What to Do: Admire the interior, climb or take the lift to the dome, and attend concerts.
Free or Paid: Entry to the church is free with a donation; dome access is paid.
Szimpla Kert, Hungary
Overview: Szimpla Kert is Budapest’s most famous ruin bar, known for its eclectic décor, lively atmosphere, and cultural events.
History: Opened in a repurposed abandoned building, it pioneered the ruin bar concept in Budapest.
Since When: Operating since 2002.
Review: Visitors enjoy its unique vibe, live music, and creative interior, though it can be busy at night.
When to Go: Evenings or weekends for nightlife, mornings for the Sunday farmers’ market.
How to Go: Reachable by metro, tram, bus, or walking in the Jewish Quarter.
What to Do: Enjoy drinks, attend events, explore décor, and socialize.
Free or Paid: Free entry; food and drinks are paid.
Buda Castle, Hungary
Overview: Buda Castle is a historic royal palace complex offering museums, courtyards, and sweeping views over Budapest.
History: Originally built in the 13th century, it has been rebuilt multiple times due to wars and reconstructions.
Since When: Serving as a royal residence since the medieval period.
Review: Visitors admire its historical importance, architecture, and scenic viewpoints.
When to Go: Late afternoon for sightseeing and sunset views.
How to Go: Accessible by bus, funicular, taxi, or walking from the Danube.
What to Do: Explore courtyards, visit museums, and enjoy panoramic views.
Free or Paid: Grounds are free; museums and exhibitions are paid.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Hungary
Overview: Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of Europe’s largest spa complexes, famous for its outdoor thermal pools and Neo-Baroque architecture.
History: Built as part of Budapest’s spa culture using natural thermal waters.
Since When: Open to the public since 1913.
Review: Visitors love the relaxing experience, warm pools, and social atmosphere.
When to Go: Early morning or late evening to avoid peak crowds.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro, bus, or tram near City Park.
What to Do: Soak in thermal pools, enjoy saunas, and relax in spa facilities.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Hungary
Overview: Széchenyi Chain Bridge is Budapest’s iconic suspension bridge connecting Buda and Pest across the Danube.
History: Built as the first permanent bridge between the two sides of the city.
Since When: Opened in 1849.
Review: Visitors appreciate its historic significance, architecture, and stunning views day and night.
When to Go: Evening or nighttime for illuminated city views.
How to Go: Accessible on foot, by tram, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Walk across, take photos, and enjoy river views.
Free or Paid: Free to cross.
Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden, Hungary
Overview: Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the world’s oldest zoos, combining wildlife exhibits with landscaped botanical areas in City Park.
History: Founded to promote zoological science and public education, it has evolved through major renovations over time.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1866.
Review: Visitors appreciate its historic buildings, diverse animal collection, and family-friendly layout.
When to Go: Spring and early autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and active animals.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro, tram, or bus near Heroes’ Square.
What to Do: Observe animals, explore botanical sections, and visit themed exhibits.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Hungarian Parliament Building, Hungary
Overview: The Hungarian Parliament Building is an iconic Neo-Gothic landmark on the Danube, symbolizing Hungary’s national identity.
History: Built to celebrate Hungary’s millennium and serve as the seat of government.
Since When: Completed and inaugurated in 1904.
Review: Visitors praise its stunning architecture, grand interiors, and informative guided tours.
When to Go: Morning visits are best for guided tours and photography.
How to Go: Accessible by metro, tram, bus, or walking along the Danube promenade.
What to Do: Join guided tours, view the Crown Jewels, and photograph the exterior.
Free or Paid: Exterior viewing is free; interior tours are paid.
Gellért-hegy, Hungary
Overview: Gellért Hill is a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Budapest, the Danube, and surrounding landmarks.
History: Named after Saint Gellért, the hill has long held religious and strategic significance.
Since When: Recognized as a landmark since medieval times.
Review: Visitors love the sweeping views, peaceful paths, and photo opportunities.
When to Go: Sunset or early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Reachable by bus, taxi, or hiking trails from the city.
What to Do: Hike, take photos, and visit nearby monuments.
Free or Paid: Free access.
Széchenyi Baths and Pool, Hungary
Overview: Széchenyi Baths and Pool is a renowned thermal spa complex featuring indoor and outdoor pools fed by natural hot springs.
History: Developed as part of Budapest’s long-standing spa and wellness tradition.
Since When: Opened in 1913.
Review: Visitors consistently rate it highly for relaxation, atmosphere, and unique outdoor bathing experience.
When to Go: Early mornings or late evenings to avoid peak crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by metro and public transport near City Park.
What to Do: Soak in thermal waters, relax in saunas, and enjoy wellness treatments.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Tropicarium-Oceanarium Kft., Hungary
Overview: Tropicarium-Oceanarium is an indoor tropical aquarium featuring sharks, exotic fish, reptiles, and rainforest environments.
History: Created to provide an immersive educational experience about tropical ecosystems.
Since When: Opened in 2000.
Review: Visitors enjoy its shark tunnel, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions.
When to Go: Weekdays or mornings for a quieter visit.
How to Go: Accessible by car or bus, located near Campona Shopping Center.
What to Do: Walk through the aquarium tunnel, observe wildlife, and learn about ecosystems.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Dohány Street Synagogue, Hungary
Overview: Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe, renowned for its Moorish Revival architecture and deep historical significance in Budapest.
History: Built in the 19th century, it became a central place of worship for Hungary’s Jewish community and a symbol of Jewish heritage.
Since When: Opened in 1859.
Review: Visitors admire its architectural beauty, moving memorials, and well-curated museum spaces.
When to Go: Weekday mornings are best to avoid crowds and scheduled services.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro, tram, bus, or walking in central Budapest.
What to Do: Explore the synagogue, visit the Jewish Museum, and see the Holocaust memorial garden.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Ferris Wheel of Budapest, Hungary
Overview: The Ferris Wheel of Budapest offers panoramic views of the city skyline from Erzsébet Square in the heart of the city.
History: Installed as a modern attraction to enhance Budapest’s city-center entertainment offerings.
Since When: Operating since 2017.
Review: Visitors enjoy the smooth ride and excellent city views, especially at night.
When to Go: Evening or nighttime for illuminated city scenery.
How to Go: Accessible by metro, tram, bus, or walking from Deák Ferenc Square.
What to Do: Ride the wheel, take photos, and enjoy views over central Budapest.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Castle of Eger, Hungary
Overview: The Castle of Eger is a historic fortress overlooking the town of Eger, famous for its role in Hungarian history.
History: It gained prominence during the 1552 siege when Hungarian defenders repelled Ottoman forces.
Since When: Originally built in the 13th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate its museums, views, and engaging historical exhibits.
When to Go: Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor exploration and events.
How to Go: Reachable by train or car from Budapest, then a short walk uphill.
What to Do: Explore fortress walls, visit museums, and enjoy panoramic views.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Shoes on the Danube Bank, Hungary
Overview: Shoes on the Danube Bank is a poignant memorial honoring Jewish victims executed during World War II in Budapest.
History: Created by artists Gyula Pauer and Can Togay to commemorate lives lost during the Holocaust.
Since When: Unveiled in 2005.
Review: Visitors find it deeply moving, reflective, and historically powerful.
When to Go: Early morning or sunset for a quiet, respectful visit.
How to Go: Accessible by tram, bus, or walking along the Danube promenade.
What to Do: Reflect, photograph respectfully, and learn about the memorial’s history.
Free or Paid: Free access.
The Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle, Hungary
Overview: Also known as Matthias Church, this iconic Gothic church stands in the Castle District and is known for its colorful roof and ornate interior.
History: Originally founded in the 13th century, it has been rebuilt and restored several times across different eras.
Since When: Serving as a church since 1255.
Review: Visitors praise its intricate design, historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere.
When to Go: Morning hours are best to avoid crowds and services.
How to Go: Accessible by bus, taxi, or walking within the Castle District.
What to Do: Tour the interior, attend concerts, and admire architectural details.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for sightseeing; worship services are free.
Vajdahunyad Castle, Hungary
Overview: Vajdahunyad Castle is a picturesque architectural complex in Budapest’s City Park showcasing replicas of Hungary’s most famous historic buildings.
History: Built for the 1896 Millennium Exhibition, it was designed to celebrate a thousand years of Hungarian history.
Since When: Permanently reconstructed in stone and opened in 1908.
Review: Visitors enjoy its fairytale appearance, scenic surroundings, and museum interiors.
When to Go: Spring and autumn are ideal for walking and photography.
How to Go: Easily reachable by metro, tram, or bus via Heroes’ Square.
What to Do: Walk around the castle, visit the Agricultural Museum, and take photos.
Free or Paid: Grounds are free; museums inside are paid.
House of Terror Museum, Hungary
Overview: The House of Terror Museum is a powerful historical museum documenting Hungary’s fascist and communist regimes.
History: The building once housed secret police headquarters during oppressive political eras.
Since When: Opened as a museum in 2002.
Review: Visitors describe it as emotional, informative, and deeply impactful.
When to Go: Weekday mornings for a quieter, more reflective experience.
How to Go: Accessible by metro, tram, or bus along Andrássy Avenue.
What to Do: Explore exhibitions, watch documentaries, and learn about 20th-century history.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika), Hungary
Overview: St. Stephen’s Basilica is a monumental Catholic church in Budapest, famed for its grand dome and sacred relics.
History: Built to honor Hungary’s first king and Christian founder, Saint Stephen.
Since When: Completed and opened in 1905 after decades of construction.
Review: Visitors admire its majestic interior, acoustics, and panoramic views from the dome.
When to Go: Late morning or early afternoon on weekdays to avoid services.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro, bus, tram, or walking in central Budapest.
What to Do: Tour the basilica, visit the dome, and attend organ concerts.
Free or Paid: Church entry is free with donation; dome access is paid.
Hungarian State Opera, Hungary
Overview: The Hungarian State Opera is a world-renowned Neo-Renaissance opera house celebrated for its acoustics and ornate design.
History: Built during the Austro-Hungarian Empire to showcase Hungary’s cultural prestige.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1884.
Review: Visitors highly praise performances, guided tours, and the lavish interior.
When to Go: Evenings for performances or daytime for guided tours.
How to Go: Accessible by metro, tram, or bus on Andrássy Avenue.
What to Do: Attend an opera or ballet, take a guided tour, and admire architecture.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for performances and tours.
Basilica of Esztergom, Hungary
Overview: The Basilica of Esztergom is Hungary’s largest church, dominating the skyline with its massive dome and riverside setting.
History: Built as the seat of the Hungarian Catholic Church on a historically sacred site.
Since When: Completed and consecrated in 1856.
Review: Visitors are impressed by its monumental scale, interior art, and panoramic views.
When to Go: Late morning or early afternoon for clear views and comfortable touring.
How to Go: Reachable by train or car from Budapest, then walking to the hilltop.
What to Do: Explore the basilica, climb to the dome, and visit the treasury.
Free or Paid: Entry to the church is free; dome and treasury access are paid.