Here is our comprehensive Budapest city guide, featuring everything we tried, loved, and would recommend in a heartbeat. Restaurants, cafes, bars, viewpoints, activities… All organized by category so you can pick and choose depending on your mood. It’s the ultimate summary of our trip, packed with actionable tips.
Where to eat in Budapest: our top 10 dining spots
A popular local canteen serving real, home-cooked Hungarian food. Check the chalkboard for the daily menu. Closed evenings and weekends. Prices are around ~2 000 HUF
A modern take on Hungarian classics with a cool retro decor and a lively terrace. The chicken paprikash is absolutely incredible. Prices run about ~4 000-6 000 HUF
Goulash takes center stage here, with 10 different varieties on offer. Unbeatable value for money. Prices are around ~2 500 HUF (lunch menu)
Soups & sandwiches. It’s a tiny spot and there is always a line, but trust me, it’s well worth the wait. Prices are around ~1 500-2 000 HUF
- Marché central (étage)
The go-to spot for Hungarian street food, from lángos and goulash to local sausages. Authentic and quick. Prices are around ~1 200-2 500 HUF
An open-air food court right next to Szimpla. Varied, fun, and lively—you’re sure to find something you love here! Prices are around ~2 000-3 500 HUF
Refined Hungarian dining, featuring beautiful foie gras and a modern take on goulash. Elegant and contemporary setting. A bit pricier than the others, but absolutely perfect for a date night. Prices are around ~5 000-7 000 HUF
Where to grab a drink in Budapest: My guide to the best bars, cafes & rooftops
Ruin bars
- Szimpla Kert
The original (2004). A labyrinth of rooms, wild decor, and a unique atmosphere. A must-see at least once. Kazinczy u. 14.
- Instant-Fogas
The biggest complex. Multiple rooms, DJs, and a club vibe. Akácfa u. 49-51.
- Élesztő
For craft beer lovers. 20+ beers on tap, relaxed vibe. Tűzoltó u. 22.
Rooftops & bars with a view
- 360 Bar
Rooftop with panoramic views over the basilica and the city rooftops. Andrássy út. Cocktails ~3 000-4 500 HUF. - High Note SkyBar
At the top of the Aria Hotel. Views over the basilica. Premium but absolutely gorgeous. - Pontoon
Floating bar on the Danube (summer only). Chill vibe, DJs, and views over Buda.
Specialty coffee shops
- Tamp & Pull
Third wave. Espresso, V60, Aeropress. Several locations. The best coffee in town. - Budapest Baristas
In-house roasting, single origin. Near the National Museum. A serious brewing vibe. - Madal Café
Ethical micro-roaster. Great gluten-free pastries. - New York Café
Go for the experience and the decor (not the coffee). Dubbed “the most beautiful café in the world”. Expect lines.
The Best Views in Budapest
- Fisherman’s Bastion
A classic view of the Parliament and Pest. Free before 9 am. - Gellért Hill
The most complete 360-degree view. Highly recommended for sunset. - St. Stephen’s Basilica Dome
A 360-degree view over the rooftops of Pest. ~2,500 HUF. - Liberty Bridge
Views of Gellért Hill and Buda Castle. Gorgeous at dusk. - Buda Riverbank (Batthyány tér)
THE spot for a view of the Parliament illuminated at night.
A few things to do & experiences to try in Budapest
- Széchenyi Baths
Europe’s largest. Lively, festive atmosphere. ~30-34€. District XIV. - Rudas Baths
Ottoman architecture, rooftop pool. More authentic. ~20€. Buda. - Night cruise
Budapest beautifully lit up from the Danube. ~12-20€. Legenda or River Ride. - Margaret Island
Strolling, cycling, and a musical fountain. Free. Half-day trip. - Szimpla Farmers Market
Sunday morning organic market INSIDE Szimpla Kert. Truly unique vibe. - Parliament Tour
45-minute guided tour. ~9-15€ depending on nationality. Book online.
Where to stay in Budapest: our favorite places to sleep
- Onefam Budapest
The #1 social hostel. District VII. ~12-16€/dorm. - Flow Spaces
A great hostel-hotel hybrid. Modern vibes, cool rooftop. ~14-20€/dorm. - MEININGER
A super reliable chain in a great location. ~12-16€/dorm. - Airbnb District VII
Entire apartment. ~35-60€/night.
The final word
This guide brings together all our absolute favorite spots in Budapest. The city moves fast, with new places popping up every month, but the classics are here to stay. Keep this guide handy on your phone, mix things up to suit your mood, and above all, let yourself be surprised by whatever you discover along the way.
Our interactive map
Find all our recommended spots, safety zones, and points of interest directly on our Google Maps.
Pro tip: If you’re not sure how to use our Maps, we’ve put together a handy guide to help you out!
Find all our addresses, safety zones, and points of interest directly on our Google Maps map.
Tip: If you’re not sure how to use our Maps maps, we’ve put together a dedicated article to help you out!
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Summaries
