Rising along the banks of the Danube, Budapest is a city unlike any other. With its eclectic mix of ancient Roman ruins, Turkish baths, Art Nouveau architecture, and trendy bars, it’s a place where the past and present converge, taking you on a journey through time.
The Hungarian capital is often overshadowed by more well-known cities such as Paris, Barcelona, or Amsterdam, but Budapest has a beauty all its own, one that reveals itself the moment you stroll its riverside paths or cross the Chain Bridge at sunset. I. It is also the perfect introduction to Central Europe, which is why My Bella Vita Travel starts here as part of our Hungary, Slovakia, Poland: Slow Travel. No Shortcuts. Small Group Tour!
We’ve created this travel guide to Budapest to help you get to know the city and everything it has to offer. If you have any questions about our tours, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Budapest’s story began long before it became the lively capital we know today. The area was first settled by the Celts and later became part of the Roman Empire as Aquincum, a thriving center of trade and military life. You can visit the remains of this ancient city at the Aquincum Museum and Archeological Park, walking among centuries-old ruins and artifacts that whisper stories of the past..
After the Romans came waves of invasions, from the Mongols to the Ottomans, before Hungary eventually became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In 1873, the cities of Buda, Obuda, and Pest united to form Budapest, the capital of Hungary. With World War I came the fall of the empire, and during World War II, the city was plunged into hardship. Decades of communist rule followed, but in 1989, Hungary embraced democracy and began a new chapter..
Today, Budapest is a vibrant and welcoming city, divided by the Danube into two distinct sides: Buda, with its hills and history, and Pest, the energetic heart of modern life.
Budapest invites you to explore at a gentle pace, taking time to admire its architectural grandeur and rich history. Many of the city’s landmarks have been lovingly preserved, offering visitors a true sense of its heritage and charm..
Perched high on Castle Hill, Buda Castle dominates the skyline and offers sweeping views of the Danube and the Pest side. Once the home of Hungarian kings, this vast complex now houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, both worth a visit for art and history lovers. Be sure to step inside the elegant St. Stephen’s Hall, where intricate craftsmanship showcases the skill and beauty of Hungarian design..
Named after Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen’s Basilica is a neoclassical masterpiece. The towering marble interiors are impressive, and you can climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views stretching all the way to Buda Castle and Gellert Hill. Notably, St. Stephen’s Basilica houses the mummified right hand of St. Stephen preserved in a reliquary!
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.. Not only is it the tallest building in Budapest, it’s the largest building in Hungary! This beautiful example of Neo-Gothic style is adorned with spires and sculptures that reflect Hungary’s history. Visitors can tour the interior to see the Holy Crown of Hungary and the ornate chambers where government sessions take place.
The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe, seating up to 3,000 people. While it is a place of worship, it is also home to the informative Hungarian Jewish Museum. In the courtyard of the synagogue, you’ll find the poignant Emmanuel tree memorial, dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust.
A short walk from the castle leads you to Matthias Church, one of Budapest’s most treasured landmarks. It’s a masterpiece of Gothic Revival design, featuring intricate spires, a colorful ceramic-tiled roof, and patterned frescoes. You certainly won’t find anything like it in Western Europe!
Next to it, the Fisherman’s Bastion offers one of the city’s best panoramic views. Its fairytale-like towers and arches frame the Danube and the Hungarian Parliament, creating a scene that feels like it was made for photographs and quiet moments alike..
While Budapest’s iconic attractions give you a glimpse of its history and culture, the city is best experienced firsthand. From cruises along the Danube to soaking in thermal baths or enjoying lively bar crawls, there is something for every kind of traveler.
Thanks to its abundant thermal springs and baths, Budapest has earned the nickname “Spa Capital of the World.” People have been indulging in these warm waters for centuries. At Rudas Baths, you can soak in the mineral-rich waters of the central Turkish bath, built in the 16th century. It also features a rooftop bath, where you can take in views of the Danube while sipping a cocktail.
Széchenyi Baths, one of the largest in Europe, offers outdoor pools surrounded by elegant neo-baroque architecture. For a unique experience, try a beer bath, where you soak in warm, vitamin-rich beer extracts said to rejuvenate the skin — and perhaps even your spirit!
A Danube River cruise is the perfect way to appreciate Budapest’s landmarks from a fresh perspective. Daytime cruises let you admire the city’s architectural details, while evening cruises reveal its glowing beauty, as the Parliament Building, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle light up after dark. Many cruises include dinner and live music, creating a romantic experience on the water. Raise a glass of champagne to your trip and keep your camera ready for unforgettable views.
Budapest is full of fascinating museums, covering everything from art and history to local spirits . The innovative House of Music Hungary is a must-see, both for its futuristic architecture and its interactive exhibits on sound and music. The Museum of Fine Arts displays masterpieces by Titian, Goya, and Bruegel, while the Hungarian National Museum explores the nation’s rich and complex history. For a taste of local flavor, the Zwack Unicum Museum reveals the secrets behind one of Hungary’s most famous liqueurs.
Budapest’s ruin bars are at the heart of the city’s nightlife. These formerly abandoned buildings have been reborn as eclectic bars decorated with mismatched furniture, art, and quirky décor.. The most famous, Szimpla Kert, started the trend and remains a hub for live music, film screenings, and markets. These bars are a great place to sample Hungary’s distinct drinks, including Unicum and Palinka.
For a touch of elegance, catch a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House. Its opulent interiors are as striking as the performances, enhanced by world-class acoustics. During our Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland Tour, we take a tour of the opera house and are treated to a special concert featuring soloists!
Budapest’s culinary scene reflects a mix of influences, but Hungarian cuisine takes center stage.. Hearty, meaty, and spiced with paprika, Hungary’s food will leave you both deeply satisfied and craving more.
Goulash, Hungary’s national dish, is a comforting stew of beef, paprika, and potatoes that warms you from the inside out. Chicken paprikash, with its creamy sauce and dumplings, is a melt-in-your-mouth favorite. If you’re looking for street food, try lángos, deep-fried flatbread topped with cheese and sour cream. It’s simply irresistible.
Vegetarians will love lecsó, a pepper and tomato stew that’s a summer staple, while those with a sweet tooth can’t miss chimney cakes, which are baked around a cylinder and coated in sugar or cinnamon. Pair your meal with a glass of Tokaji, a golden dessert wine known as “the wine of kings”, or try the bold “Bull’s Blood” red wine from the Eger region, which we visit as part of our tour to Hungary.
Budapest is a year-round destination, with each season offering a different perspective on the city. Spring, from April to June, is ideal for sightseeing, with cherry blossoms in bloom, mild temperatures, and numerous festivals. Summer, July through August, brings long days and lively events, but expect more crowds and higher prices for the peak tourist season.
By fall, from September to October, the crowds have thinned, making it a perfect time to join our My Bella Vita Travel small group tour! Winter, November through February, transforms Budapest into a magical wonderland with twinkling lights and festive Christmas markets. And the thermal baths are especially inviting on chilly days!
Budapest is a city of contrasts, creativity, and character. Whether you’re soaking in a historic thermal bath, savoring a steaming bowl of goulash, or exploring the lively ruin bars, every experience here is full of energy and charm. To immerse yourself not only in this city’s rhythm but more of Central Europe, join My Bella Vita Travel’s Hungary, Slovakia & Poland Tour. This journey embraces the art of slow travel, giving you the time to truly appreciate each destination. If you have questions about our tours or would like to discuss a personalized itinerary, please feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help!