10 Tips for Your First Visit to Budapest

Budapest is one of those destinations that gets more and more interesting with each subsequent visit. With a perfect mix of grit and beauty, it’s a city that has so much to offer for many different travellers.

History buffs, architecture junkies, bathing aficionados, outdoor enthusiasts, backpackers, honeymooners, retirees, foodies, and river cruisers alike can all find fulfilling ways to pass time in Budapest. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find it in Hungary’s bustling capital.

On my fourth visit to the city, I spent six days immersing myself in everything that Budapest has to offer. Here are 10 tips to help you plan a visit to Budapest, including what I’ve come to appreciate most about the city over the years.

1. Spend Time by the River

The Danube flows through Budapest, and is an iconic symbol of the city. Not only does it bisect hilly Buda and flatter Pest, but many visitors arrive to the city on one of the many river cruises that dock along its banks.

Any visit to the city will surely involve the Danube in some way, shape, or form. That might mean a casual stroll during some sightseeing, a view from above, or a journey on the river by boat.

The bridges that connect the two sides of the city are just as iconic as the river itself. In the heart of Budapest, you’ll find Széchenyi Lánchíd (the Chain Bridge), Margit híd (Margaret Bridge), Szabadság híd (Liberty Bridge), and Erzsébet híd (Elizabeth Bridge).

Many of the city’s sights lie close to the river. If you’re keen to explore Budapest by foot, walk across one bridge, explore, and then walk back along a different one.

For a great perspective of Budapest, head half way across the Margaret Bridge and exit onto Margaret’s Island. From the middle of the Danube, you’ll enjoy views of Buda and Pest. 

Margaret Island has a roughly 5km running track that follows its edge. If you’re looking to work up a sweat, you’ll enjoy sweeping city and river views as you burn some calories.

Just north of Margaret Island on the Buda side is Római Part, a stretch of eateries and beverage shops that runs along the riverfront. Spend an afternoon here enjoying hot food and cold drinks with friends on a casual…