Top Destinations to Visit in Budapest

1. Buda Castle
Buda Castle, perched on Castle Hill, is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. This royal palace has been a significant part of Hungary’s history, serving as the home to Hungarian kings over the centuries. The castle complex houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Visitors can explore its cobblestone courtyards, gardens, and walkways while enjoying spectacular views of Pest and the Danube River below. The castle’s architecture blends Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

2. Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of Europe’s most impressive legislative buildings, known for its grand neo-Gothic design and its location along the banks of the Danube. It is the largest building in Hungary and the third-largest parliament building in the world. Visitors can take guided tours inside to see its stunning interiors, including the Hungarian Crown Jewels and the Main Hall, with its intricate stained glass windows and marble floors. The parliament is especially captivating when illuminated at night, casting a dramatic reflection on the Danube.

3. Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is an ornate structure offering some of the best panoramic views of Budapest. Located in the Castle District, the bastion’s seven towers symbolize the seven Hungarian tribes that settled the Carpathian Basin. The view from the terrace overlooks the Parliament Building, the Chain Bridge, and the Danube River, offering a postcard-perfect sight. The bastion itself features white stone architecture, and its fairy-tale-like design is a popular spot for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.

4. Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge is not just a functional bridge—it’s one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest, significantly impacting the city’s development. The bridge’s massive stone lions, located at both ends, are among its most recognizable features. Visitors can take a walk across the bridge to enjoy beautiful views of the Danube River and the city, including the Parliament Building and Buda Castle. It’s particularly stunning in the evening when lit up against the dark sky.

5. St. Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of the largest and most important churches in Budapest. The neoclassical structure is named after Hungary's first king, St. Stephen, and its massive dome is visible from almost every corner of the city. Inside, visitors can admire stunning frescoes, mosaics, and the Holy Right Hand of St. Stephen, a revered relic. Climbing to the observation deck atop the basilica offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Budapest, making it a great spot for photography.

6. Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Széchenyi Thermal Baths, located in City Park, is one of the largest and most famous thermal bath complexes in Europe. The baths are supplied by natural hot springs, which are rich in minerals and have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. The complex features a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms. The outdoor pool, with its steamy waters, is particularly popular in the colder months. The baths also offer massages and spa treatments, making it an ideal place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

7. Heroes’ Square
Heroes’ Square, located at the end of Andrássy Avenue, is one of Budapest’s largest and most important public squares. The square is dominated by the Millennium Monument, which honors Hungary's national leaders and historical figures. At the center of the monument stands a statue of the Archangel Gabriel, holding the Holy Crown and the apostolic cross. Surrounding the square are the Museum of Fine Arts and the Kunsthalle (Hall of Art), both of which are great places to explore after visiting the square.

8. Great Market Hall
The Great Market Hall (Nagy Vásárcsarnok) is the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest, offering a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can shop for fresh produce, Hungarian delicacies, and traditional souvenirs. Located at the end of Váci Street, the market’s striking iron-and-glass architecture is an attraction in itself. Inside, you'll find stalls selling everything from spices, meats, and cheeses to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Be sure to try Hungarian goulash, chimney cake, and Hungarian paprika at the food stalls.

9. Gellért Hill and Citadel
Gellért Hill provides one of the best panoramic views of Budapest. The hill is located on the Buda side of the city and is home to the Citadel, a fortress built in the 19th century by the Habsburgs. Visitors can hike up to the summit to enjoy sweeping views of the city, including Buda Castle, the Parliament Building, and the Chain Bridge. At the top, there is also the Statue of Liberty, which commemorates the Soviet liberation of Hungary during World War II. The Gellért Hotel, known for its luxurious Art Nouveau style, is located nearby and features a famous thermal bath.

10. Andrássy Avenue
Andrássy Avenue is a historic boulevard in Budapest that is often referred to as the “Champs-Élysées” of the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site is lined with beautiful neo-Renaissance buildings, designer boutiques, cafes, and theaters. At the southern end of Andrássy Avenue is Heroes’ Square, while at the northern end is Városliget (City Park). The avenue is also home to the Hungarian State Opera House, a stunning building known for its world-class performances. A leisurely walk down the avenue is a great way to take in the city’s elegance.

11. Ruin Bars
Budapest’s ruin bars are a unique feature of the city’s nightlife scene. These bars are located in abandoned buildings, factories, and courtyards in the Jewish Quarter, and have become a symbol of the city’s creative, laid-back vibe. One of the most famous ruin bars is Szimpla Kert, which features an eclectic mix of vintage furniture, street art, and quirky decorations. The lively atmosphere, with its live music, cheap drinks, and communal seating, makes these bars a popular hangout for both locals and tourists.

12. Danube River Cruise
A Danube River cruise is one of the best ways to see Budapest’s landmarks from a different perspective. There are various options, from daytime cruises offering panoramic views of the city to evening cruises that highlight the city’s illuminated beauty. The Danube Promenade is also a great place for a walk along the riverbank, where visitors can enjoy views of the Buda Castle, Chain Bridge, and the Parliament Building.

13. House of Terror Museum
Located in an imposing building on Andrássy Avenue, the House of Terror Museum is a sobering and powerful museum dedicated to the oppressive regimes of the 20th century. The museum was once the headquarters of both the Nazi and Communist secret police, and visitors can explore its exhibits on the atrocities committed by these regimes. The museum’s emotional and educational displays provide a deep understanding of Hungary’s turbulent history during World War II and the Soviet occupation.

14. Margaret Island
Margaret Island is a peaceful green oasis located in the middle of the Danube River. A perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, the island offers beautiful gardens, walking paths, and recreational activities. Visitors can rent bikes, pedal carts, or even take a boat ride around the island. The island is also home to several attractions, including the Japanese Garden, Medieval Ruins, and a musical fountain that performs nightly.