18 Unmissable Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary

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Budapest is a European city like no other. It’s known for thermal baths, ruined bars, and world-class street food. It’s a city that captures the heart of anyone who goes here, and once you visit, you’ll understand why.

The city was once home to two cities – Buda and Pest. In the latest 19th century, the two cities merged to create Budapest. As you can imagine from two combined cities, there is a plethora of attractions in Budapest to keep you busy.

If you’re not sure what to do in Budapest, you don’t need to worry, because you’ll never be short of attractions. In fact, narrowing down the best things to do in Budapest is the hardest part!

Whether you’re visiting for a week or weekend, make sure that these top Budapest attractions are not missed!

1. Relax in A Thermal Bath

A trip to Budapest wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of its many relaxing thermal baths. There are seven thermal baths in the city, but the most popular and biggest thermal bath is the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.

It has 18 pools of differing temperatures, both inside and outside the building. It also has 10 saunas and steam rooms, as well as luxury spa treatments and massages.

Set in a grand Renaissance and Baroque-inspired building that is more than 100 years old, it’s the perfect activity in Budapest for couples looking for relaxation. Come early though as it gets very busy.

If you prefer a quieter crowd, you can visit the Gellert Thermal Bath or the Rudas Thermal Bath. They are smaller with fewer pools, which means they are less busy than Szechenyi.

Despite being smaller they are just as beautiful with stunning mosaics and Art Nouveau and Ottoman architecture. The Rudas Thermal Bath is the only Turkish Bath in the city and is most well known for its rooftop hot tub.

Visiting the thermal baths is definitely the most relaxing thing to do in Budapest for couples.

2. Check out the Jewish Quarter and Dohány Street Synagogue