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In 2019, more than 62,000 travelers voted Budapest the best destination in Europe, leaving London, Paris, and even Barcelona in the dust.
The European Best Destinations (EBD) contest is a reflection of the magic of Budapest in the Old Continent.
Audio guides is an excellent tool to learn about the history and culture of beautiful Budapest.
🎒 Travel Tip: With your Budapest Card, you qualify for a discounted entry. Please verify the discount’s validity at the time of card purchase to ensure it remains valid.
According to scientific studies, water has a positive impact on mental well-being and the river Danube does it for me. Combine a dinner cruise and music, and I’m happy. However, there’s MUCH more to Budapest than the Danube.
The square honors the seven founding figures of the country, as well as a few other noteworthy national leaders.
Impressive, right? But here’s the real magic — head up to the observation deck. It’s 65 meters high and gives you breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest. You can take the elevator or climb the stairs if you’re up for a bit of exercise.
Inside, it’s just as captivating. To the right of the main altar, tucked in a chapel, you’ll find something extraordinary — the mummified right hand of St. Stephen. Yes, really! It’s displayed in a glass case, quietly telling centuries of history.
Love music? Then you’re in for a treat. The basilica houses a giant pipe organ built by József Angster. It has over 6,500 pipes and ranks among the largest in Europe. When it plays, the sound fills the space with goosebump-worthy echoes.
Look up. You’ll see frescoes, stained glass, and polished marble everywhere. The main altar is a showstopper, featuring a stunning painting of St. Stephen.
And don’t forget the bells! They’re Hungary’s heaviest, ringing every hour from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. — adding a majestic soundtrack to your visit.
This basilica isn’t just a church. It’s a living piece of history. Big names like Franz Liszt and Pope John Paul II have graced its halls.
Visit the building of the central office of AVO, the Communist secret police. Find out about the shocking atrocities carried out by the secret police. Duration: 1.5 hours
↓↓↓↓ Zoom in for the full text—each tile is a mini travel brief you won’t want to skip.
Budapest truly shines in summer. June through August is peak season — full of open-air concerts, river cruises, and thermal bath dips under the sun. Yes, it’s busier then, but the city wears it well. Budapest’s sights are nicely spread out, so it never feels overwhelmingly packed.
That said, for the perfect balance of great weather and smaller crowds, aim for late May or early September. The baths are still dreamy, the vibe is festive, and you can explore without constantly dodging tour groups.
October is already cool with temperatures dropping below 20 degrees Celsius. Dress in layers to stay warm outside, but be able to dress down inside, where the temperature is controlled.
While Budapest does get snow in winter, it’s not a ski town. The city is mostly flat, so don’t pack your skis. But if you’re craving a snowy day trip, head to Siarena Eplény in Veszprém County. It’s one of Hungary’s small ski resorts — ideal for families and beginners. Think gentle slopes and hot cocoa, not alpine adrenaline.
You can fill a long weekend easily with Budapest’s must-sees. But if you really want to relax in the thermal baths, wander through museums, and enjoy the buzzing nightlife at your own pace, go for a week-long stay.
That way, you can dip into the Szechenyi Baths at sunrise, linger over goulash lunches, and still have time for an evening river cruise or ruin bar adventure.
Budapest’s public transport is easy, affordable, and kind of historic. Fun fact: the Millennium Underground (M1) is the second-oldest subway line in the world, right after London’s!
Just remember — you’ll need to buy your ticket before boarding. Pick one up at metro stations, newsstands, or ticket machines. A heads-up though: the standard single ticket doesn’t allow transfers between lines. So, if your route needs a line change, ask for a transfer ticket or go for a 24-hour or travelcard option. It’ll save you time and confusion.
From its breathtaking architecture to its thermal baths and vibrant ruin bars. What was your most memorable experience in Budapest, or if you haven’t visited yet, what’s the first thing you’d love to explore?
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Be there at least 45 minutes before the event. Although you’ve booked a ticket, the seating is self-seating. So to get the best seat in your block, get there early. The tickets usually require arrival 30 minutes before the concert.
I’ve never been to Budapest. Now I have itchy feet!!