Thinking about a trip to Hungary and looking for fun things to do in Budapest? Let’s make one thing clear: this cosmopolitan European capital is not just worth it- it’s unforgettable. Where else can you soak in steamy thermal baths from the 1500s and admire grand Habsburg architecture? This is a city where you can cruise the Danube past Parliament, listen to the sound of live violin in a café, and sip cocktails in World War II-era ruin bars by night. This travel guide gives you everything you need to make your trip meaningful, from must-see places to local food finds and smart travel tips. Whether you’re in for culture, nightlife, or just that wow-factor moment, you’re in the right place.
From towering castles and ancient synagogues to quirky cafés and food markets, Budapest ticks every box. The city is walkable, and many of its attractions are in the same areas.
FUN FACT:
Did you know that Buda and Pest were two different cities on opposite sides of the Danube River? In 1873, they joined together to form Budapest. This joining also included Óbuda. The merger happened on November 17, 1873.
Fun things to do in Budapest – Pest side
1. Stephen’s Basilica
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Budapest, put St. Stephen’s Basilica at the top of your list. Built between 1851 and 1906, St. Stephen’s Basilica, which has a Greek cross plan, is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture. The basilica is a symbol of national pride and a place of deep historical and spiritual meaning. It’s a major highlight within Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage Site Buffer Zone. It survived war and time, sheltering civilians during WWII and preserving key documents from Hungary’s National Archives. The St. Stephen Square in front of the basilica even set the scene for the movie Inferno(2016).
As you approach the basilica, the twin bell tower grabs attention. The southern tower houses Hungary’s largest bell, weighing over 9 tonnes. The façade, columns, and massive dome are equally impressive.
TOWERING BEAUTY:
Inside, intricate mosaics, gilded stucco, and over 50 different types of marble decorate the interior. Walking into this church feels like entering a royal hall, not just a place of worship. With space for over 8,000 people, it is the third-largest church in Hungary. It’s also the highest church in the city, standing at 96 metres.
FUN FACT:
According to Wikipedia, St Stephen’s Basilica matches the Hungarian Parliament Building in height. The reason? That height wasn’t random; it was chosen to symbolize the equal importance of religion and government in Hungarian life. For decades, no other structure was allowed to exceed this height.
HUNGARY’S HOLIEST RELIC:
The basilica was initially intended to be named after Saint Leopold, the patron saint of Austria. However, it was eventually named in honour of Stephen I, Hungary’s first king, who brought Christianity to the nation. Inside, you can find his mummified right hand, known as the Holy Right, displayed in a stunning reliquary.
DID YOU KNOW?
The basilica also hides a surprise. Climb 364 steps or take an elevator to the Panorama Terrace up in the cupola. It’s one of the best photo spots in Budapest where you can enjoy a 360-degree view over the city.
GOOD TO KNOW:
OPENING HOURS (as of June 2025): Church hall: Daily 9 AM – 5:45 PM (Sundays 1 PM-5:45 PM), Panorama Terrace & Treasury: 9 AM-7 PM, ticket desk open until 6:30 PM.
ENTRY FEE (as of May 2025):
- Adult: 2400 HUF (€6) to church, 4500 HUF (€11) to terrace & treasury, 6200 HUF (€15.40), all-in-one.
- Kids under 6 can visit St Stephen’s Basilica for free.
- Budapest Card: 20% discount
- Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 kids under 12): 6300 HUF (church), 3600 HUF (terrace & treasury), 18,500 HUF (all-in-one). Check their official website for more information.
TIP:
View St. Stephen’s Basilica from Lazar Street
2. Shoes on the Danube Bank
Not every monument needs to be tall to leave an impact.
On the banks of the Danube, near Hungary’s Parliament, sits one of the city’s most unforgettable tributes you’ll ever see. Shoes on the Danube Bank is one of the most powerful Holocaust tributes in Europe. Sixty pairs of iron shoes, men’s boots, women’s heels, and even children’s slippers line up at the water’s edge. They face the Danube River and represent the people who stood here in 1944-45, stripped of their dignity. Members of Hungary’s fascist Arrow Cross Party rounded up civilians, mostly Jews, and told them to remove their shoes. Then they executed them. The bodies were left to float away in the freezing water. Over 3.500 people, including 800 Hungarian Jews, were executed here. Their only crime? Their identity.
SIXTY PAIRS OF SILENCE:
Film director Can Togay and sculptor Gyula Pauer created this deeply emotional artwork in 2005. The shoes are cast in iron, based on real footwear worn during the 1940s.
But why shoes? Because during the war, shoes were valuable and easy to sell. Many people bring candles and flowers and leave them beside them. These little acts of remembrance turn this public space into something unforgettable. This isn’t just a tourist spot, it’s a human story carved in iron. It’s a moment to remember how cruelty can rise. It’s a quiet reminder: a place to stop, reflect, and feel.
3. See Budapest from the Danube River.
Want a break from walking but still want to see the best of the city? Hop on a Danube River sightseeing cruise-it’s one of the most relaxing and fun things to do in Budapest.
The Danube is the lifeline of the Hungarian capital. It splits the old-world charm of leafy Buda from the busy streets of Pest, giving you front-row views of both sides. As the second longest river in Europe, it has carried emperors, traders, and armies. This waterway has shaped the city for centuries. As you sail down the Danube, you’ll see world-famous landmarks from a new angle. Look right for buzzing cafés, stunning buildings lining the waterfront, and the grand Parliament building rising over the river. On the left side, you will see the Buda Castle, Matthias Church, Gellert Hill and the Liberty Statue. The Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, and Margaret Island glide into view, one by one.
These landmarks form part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and from the water, they look even more impressive. Many cruises offer audio guides, some welcome drinks, or live music. Go during the day for a clear view or at night for the full romantic glow.
GOOD TO KNOW:
If you have a Budapest Card, you can pick one cruise for free. Choose from Duna Bella Daytime cruises, BKV Riverboat service, or Danube River cruise.
4. Hungarian Parliament Building
Situated on the Pest side of the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament Building stands as a monument to national pride. Imre Steindl designed the building in a neo-Gothic style with a strong resemblance to London’s Palace of Westminster. He drew inspiration from Vienna’s City Hall and included Renaissance elements, such as the cupola, which is inspired by the Maria vom Siege church, also located in Vienna. The structure features a symmetrical façade, intricate details, and a central dome that reaches a height of 96 metres. It’s a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture and the largest building in Hungary since its completion in 1902.
The Hungarian Parliament Building stretches 268 m in length and 124 m in width. It features 691 rooms, 10 courtyards, 27 gates, and 29 staircases. According to the History Hit website, construction required 40 million bricks, half a million precious stones, and 40 kg of gold.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND HIGHLIGHTS:
The Parliament Building is one of the best things to see in Budapest because it symbolizes Hungary’s national identity and political evolution. Inaugurated during the country’s millennium celebrations in 1896, it commemorates 1,000 years since the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin. Today, it serves as the seat of the National Assembly, hosting legislative sessions and state ceremonies.
During the guided tours, you’ll see the opulent interiors, the Grand Stairway with red carpets and ornate frescoes. Other key attractions are the Dome Hall with the Hungarian Crown Jewels and the former Upper House Hall with gorgeous artwork.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Guided tours last around 45 minutes and are available in multiple languages. However, it’s essential to plan ahead and book a guided tour in advance. Why? As of May 2025, tours aren’t available on Mondays when Parliament is in session and during special events. Tickets sell out quickly and planning ahead is crucial.
- ADMISSION FEE: (As of June 2025): The entry ticket for adults to the Hungarian Parliament Building costs 6,500 HUF (16 euros) for EEA citizens and 13,000 HUF (32 euros) for non-EEA citizens. You can book them on their official website.
5. Central Market Hall
If you’re looking for an authentic experience, the Central Market Hall, also known as the Great Market Hall should be at the top of your list. You’ll find it on Fővám Square, at the Pest end of Liberty Bridge, right where the famous Váci utca pedestrian shopping street ends. It’s the largest and oldest of the city’s five historic indoor markets. The building itself is gorgeous, with beautiful neo-Gothic architecture, colourful roof tiles, and a soaring iron structure.
The market opened in 1897 after the city decided to improve food safety. In the late 19th century, the locals faced frequent illnesses caused by unsafe food. For that reason, five grand indoor markets were built to make sure food was clean, fresh, and well stored. Today, the market stretches over three levels and is a vibrant place filled with smells and flavours.
The ground floor is full of locals and tourists buying meats, cheeses, vegetables, and bright red paprika. You’ll also find handmade gifts, spices, and bottles of Tokaji wines and Palinka, Hungary’s fruit brandy. Head upstairs to try fresh-cooked local food like lángos (fried flatbread topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese), stuffed cabbage, and stews like gulyás (goulash).
GOOD TO KNOW:
The best time to visit is Saturday morning when the market is buzzing with locals buying local groceries and tourists browsing for souvenirs. The Central Market Hall is open every day, except on Sundays. If you’d like to learn more about Hungarian food, consider joining a guided food tour. Many tours include tastings, local insights, and history, all while you explore the vibrant stalls.
6. Catch a performance at Budapest’s Opera House.
Start your evening on Andrássy Avenue, step through heavy doors, and enter a place of rich sound and royal beauty. The Opera House opened in 1884 after support from the city and Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary. What they created is magnificent: it shows a mix of neo-Renaissance and Baroque styles, decorated by Hungary’s top artist of the time. Inside, you’ll see painted ceilings, gold accents, marble columns, and soft lights. Though the hall holds just 1,261 guests, its sound quality is legendary, making every note ring clearly. After major renovations, the opera house reopened in 2022, looking just as it did more than a century ago. You can see a live opera, ballet, or classic concert, or book a behind-the-scene guided English-language tour. Alternatively, just admire it from the outside.
Every detail, from the marble staircases to the sparkling chandeliers, takes breath away.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- Guided tours at the Opera House: A 60-minute English tour of the Opera House is available daily at 1.30 PM, 3 PM, and 4:30 PM. For tours in Italian, Spanish, German, and Greek, contact the Opera Tour team. As of June 2025, price for a guided tours is 5,800 HUF in Hungarian language or 10,500 (€26) in other language. All tours include a brief concert featuring the opera’s soloists at the end of the tour.
7. Heroes’ Square
Built in 1896 to mark 1000 years since the Hungarian tribes arrived in the Carpathian Basin, Heroes’ Square was part of a bigger project that brought changes to the city. This great project also included expanding Andrassy Avenue and creating the city’s first metro line, which became the oldest metro line in continental Europe. These changes gave the city a more modern and elegant look while honouring its ancient past.
On both sides of the square, semi-circular colonnades feature statues of kings and heroes from Hungary’s past. At the centre stands the Millenium Monument, with an impressive column with Archangel Gabriel at the top. Below, the seven tribal leaders who founded the nation stand proud. Art lovers will enjoy the Museum of Fine Arts and Mucsarnok (exhibitions of contemporary art), located next to the plaza.
TIP:
We suggest visiting in the morning to enjoy fewer crowds and better light for photos. Afterwards, walk to the nearby City Park, with its wide lawns and charming spots. The city’s most popular public park is home to the zoo, the Széchenyi thermal bath, and Vajdahunyad Castle.
8. Vajdahunyad Castle
If there is one more castle you should visit when exploring this city, it’s Vajdahunyad Castle. Located in the heart of City Park, Vajdahunyad Castle is a remarkable fusion of Hungary’s architectural heritage. Originally constructed in 1896 for the Millennial Exhibition celebrating Hungary’s 1000th anniversary, architect Ignac Alpar designed the castle using wood and cardboard. Its overwhelming popularity led to a permanent reconstruction between 1904 and 1908 using stone and brick.
The castle’s architecture is a harmonious blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. It draws inspiration from 21 historic buildings across Hungary, including a replica of the Hunyad Castle in Romania. This unique design aimed to celebrate the long history of the Magyars through its most iconic structures across the former Kingdom of Hungary. Currently, Vajdahunyad Castle houses the Museum of Hungarian Architecture, the largest agricultural museum in Europe. Exhibits cover topics from traditional farming techniques to hunting, forestry, and fishing.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with adult tickets priced at HUF 2,500 (€6.18) as of June 2025. Students and senior tickets to the museum at Vajdahunyad Castle cost HUF 1,200 (€3). An additional HUF 400 (€1) grants access to the Gate Tower.
9. Budapest thermal spas
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Budapest, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the city’s thermal bath culture.
Have you ever wondered why Budapest is often nicknamed the ‘City of Spas?’ Beneath the city lies a network of 123 natural thermal springs. They are part of a larger network of over 1,300 thermal springs across the country, making Hungary a premier spa destination. This unique abundance of mineral-rich waters has made it a haven for spa enthusiasts for over two millennia.
FUN FACT:
According to the Budapest info website, natural springs in Budapest bring approximately 70 million litres of thermal water to the surface daily.
The therapeutic use of these waters dates back over 2,000 years, beginning with the Romans who established the settlement of Aquincum (now part of Óbuda) to harness the healing properties of the springs. During the Turkish occupation in the 16th century, bathhouses like Rudas and Lukács were constructed for bathing and medical purposes. According to the Budapest info website, the city’s reputation was cemented when it was officially designated as the ‘City of Spas’ in 1934.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Among the many baths, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath stands out as one of the largest spa complexes in Europe. Located in City Park, it boasts 18 pools, including 15 indoor and 3 grand outdoor pools. Their temperature ranges from 18°C to 40°C. Its stunning neo-Baroque architecture makes it one of the best places to visit in Budapest for both relaxation and architectural appreciation.
Rudas Baths
Rudas Baths, situated at the foot of Gellért Hill, offers a unique blend of history and wellness experience. Established in 1571, this Ottoman-era bathhouse is famous for its central octagonal pool beneath a 10 m dome supported by eight pillars. The thermal waters here are rich in minerals and offer therapeutic benefits for joint and bone ailments.
Lukács Baths
For a more peaceful experience, visit the Lukács Baths, dating back to the 12th century. Originally used by the Knights Hospitallers, the baths have developed gradually over the centuries. Today, they offer wellness services, including thermal pools, saunas, and a health clinic.
10. Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge, connecting Buda and Pest over the Danube River, was the first permanent bridge in Hungary. When opened in 1849, it was a marvel of modern engineering at the time. The bridge’s 202 m (663 ft) central span was groundbreaking, making it one of the largest in the world. Its cast-iron details and the stone lions, added in 1852, make it one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
The bridge suffered destruction during World War II but the locals rebuilt it in 1949, exactly 100 years after its original inauguration. Today, the Chain Bridge offers stunning views of landmarks like Buda Castle, Matthias Church, the Parliament Building, and the Fisherman’s Bastion.
Fun Things to do in Budapest – Buda site
11. Budapest Castle Hill funicular
If you’re exploring fun things to do in Budapest that combine history with unforgettable views, a ride on the Castle Hill Funicular is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
The Castle Hill Funicular, known locally as Budavári Sikló, offers a quick and scenic route from the Danube’s edge to the historic heights of Buda Castle. Opened in 1870, it was the second oldest funicular in Europe, following Lyon’s example. Covering a 95 m track and 50 m elevation, the Castle Hill funicular provides stunning views of the Danube and Pest side. The funicular connects Adam Clark Square, near the Chain Bridge, to Castle Hill, and culminates between the Royal Palace and Sándor Palace.
Though destroyed during World War II, it reopened in 1986, maintaining its historical design. Today, it operates from 7:30 AM to 10 PM, and it runs every 10 minutes. You can purchase tickets at the lower station, offering both single and return options.
TIP:
A scenic and peaceful walkway up the hill provides an alternative route to the castle hill.
12. Fisherman’s Bastion
If you’re looking for something truly magical, make sure Fisherman’s Bastion is on your list of fun things to do in Budapest. Sitting high on Castle Hill in the Buda Castle District, this dreamy white terrace offers some of the best views in the city. It sits just behind the Matthias Church and overlooks the Danube River and Pest site.
SHORT HISTORY:
Fisherman’s Bastion might look like a fantasy castle, but it has a history that most tourists have never heard about. Architect Frigyes Schulek built it between 1895 and 1902 as part of the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian State. He chose the Neo-Romanesque style to reflect medieval roots while creating something entirely new (a peaceful lookout point rather than a fortress). But the story of this place begins much earlier.
THE NAME:
According to the Fisherman’s Bastion website, the name comes from a guild of brave fishermen who defended this part of the medieval castle walls. The legend says they lived below the walls in a neighbourhood called Watertown or Fishtown. Not only did they catch and sell fish at the market near Matthias Church, but they also guarded this area when enemies attacked. That’s how Fisherman’s Bastion got its name.
DESIGN:
Schulek turned a once military zone into a peaceful promenade where locals and tourists could enjoy fresh air and unmatched views. His design complements the nearby Matthias Church and serves as a symbolic representation of Hungary’s medieval past. According to the official website, the structure’s seven towers represent the seven Hungarian chieftains who led their tribes to present-day Hungary in the 9th century. The towers and terraces offer breathtaking views of the Parliament, the Danube River, and the rooftops of Pest. You can even see Margaret Island and Gellert Hill. It’s one of the best photo spots in the city.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Entry to the lower terraces is free, and they are open every day of the year. If you want to visit the upper towers for the best views, there is a small entrance fee. As of June 2025, you’ll need a ticket which costs 1,500 HUF (around €3.70) for an adult, or 750 HUF (€1.86). However, you can go up for free before 9 AM or after 7 PM (October-May) or after 9 PM (June-September). This makes it perfect early in the morning or later in the evening, especially during summer.
13. Matthias Church
Bright orange frescoes, golden arches, a colourful roof, and stained glass that dances with sunlight. Matthias Church on Buda Castle Hill takes your breath away before you even understand its fascinating story.
Founded in 1015 by Saint Stephen, Hungary’s first king, the church has witnessed numerous transformations. The original church was small and Romanesque, but little left from that time. The church didn’t survive the Mongol invasion in the 13th century. What followed was a rebuild in the late 13th century: this time, in stunning Gothic style. By the 14th century, it became the second-biggest church in medieval Buda and the 7th largest in medieval Hungary. The 15th century saw King Matthias Corvinus expand the church, adding the famous bell tower. The tower gave the church its current name.
MARIAN MIRACLE:
The history of Matthias Church took a dramatic turn when the Ottoman armies took over Buda. They converted it into a mosque, covering the walls, and destroying the Christian paintings. They even bricked up a statue of the Virgin Mary and for over 150 years no one saw it. But in the 17th century, something strange happened. According to the Big Bus Tours website, during the battle, a cannon blast broke that very wall. The statue of the Virgin Mary suddenly appeared right in front of the praying Muslims. The Ottoman soldiers lost their spirits and on the same day, Christian forces retook Buda. After this, the church changed hands again. The Jesuits and Franciscans gave it Baroque appearance.
In the 19th century, architect Schulek led a restoration and gave this Catholic church its coloured roof tiles and fixed ruined parts.
ROYAL SIGNIFICANCE:
According to Wikipedia, Matthias Church has been the site of two royal coronations, of Franz Joseph I and Charles IV, the last Habsburg king. That’s why many people call it ‘the Coronation Church of Buda’. These events make Matthias Church one of the best things for history lovers to see in Budapest.
GOOD TO KNOW:
ADMISSION FEE (As of June 2025):
- Church entry: Adults pay 3,100 HUF (around €7.70), students and seniors pay 2,500 HUF (€6.20), and children under 6 can visit for free. Audioguide: 1,600 HUF (€4)
- Tower access: Adults pay 3700 HUF (€9), students and seniors give 3,100 HUF (€7.70).
OPENING TIMES (As of June 2025): Daily from 9 AM – 5 PM, Sundays from 1.15 PM.
DON’T MISS:
Right between the Bastion and Matthias Church stands a bronze statue of King Stephen I, who ruled in the 11th century. The statue shows Stephen on horseback, surrounded by stone panels telling scenes from his life.
14. Buda Castle 
Buda Castle, once known as the Royal Palace, was first built as a fortress in 1265 for Hungarian kings. In 1526, after the Battle of Mohacs, the Ottoman Turks took over the area and let the castle fall apart. They used it for stables, storage, and even as a a gunpowder store. During the 1686 siege, a cannonball caused a massive explosion, killing 1,500 soldiers. The Habsburgs later took back the city and rebuilt the palace.
The building you see today mostly comes from a Baroque reconstruction in the 18th century. It suffered heavy damage during World War II when it became the last Nazi stronghold in the city. After the war, the communist government rebuilt it in a simpler, neoclassical style. Today, Buda Castle is no longer home to royalty. It houses:
- Hungarian National Gallery – art from medieval times to the 20th century.
- Budapest History Museum where you can learn more about the city’s rich history, from Roman ruins to Gothic chapels, and WWII stories.
- National Széchenyi Library – The country’s largest library, filled with rare books and historic manuscripts.
- Stephen’s Hall.
- Castle district views: Wander outside, explore cobbled streets, and enjoy breathtaking views.
GOOD TO KNOW:
As of June 2025, Buda Castle is open daily from 10 AM until 6 PM. Buda Castle grounds are free to visit; you can explore its courtyards, gardens and surrounding areas. However, entry to the Hungarian National Gallery, St. Stephen’s Hall and Budapest History Museum requires separate tickets.
15. Stephen’s Hall
Did you know that, in 2023, TIME magazine named St. Stephen’s Hall one of the world’s greatest places? When you step in, you’ll understand why.
St. Stephen’s Hall inside the southern wing of Buda Castle is one of the most stunning attractions in the city. Two famous Hungarian architects, Miklós Ybl and Alajos Hauszmann, designed it as part of the grand expansion of the castle in the 19th century. The room reflected Hungary’s royal pride and artistic skill. This grand representative space hosted royal audiences, working lunches, and even as a card room during royal balls. In 1916, something special happened here: The Holy Crown of Hungary started its journey from this room to Matthias Church for the coronation of King Charles IV.
Sadly, St. Stephen’s Hall was destroyed during WW II and used as a storage space for many years. In the 2010s, experts decided to rebuild it using original plans and sketches. They studied the old designs and used the same materials. It took six years and the work of more than 20 craftsmen to bring every detail back to life. The hall reopened to the public in August 2021 and is one of the best attractions in Budapest.
ROOM LIKE NO OTHER:
Everything inside St. Stephen’s Hall was made with purpose and care.
The entire space shines with Romanesque style and strong Hungarian character. The main material is wood. Hungarian craftsmen used three types of wood (oak, mahogany, and walnut) to create the floor. They cut and shaped each piece by hand, and every detail shows off the skills of 19th-century artisans.
Look closely and you will realise that the walls don’t cover traditional paintings. Instead, they feature portraits made from ceramic tiles. Artists painted each tile one layer at a time and burned them in fire after every layer. This process gave them vibrant colour, and shiny, lasting finish. The portraits show Hungarian kings and saints, bringing the country’s rich history to life. Above the door, you’ll see scenes showing St. Stephen’s life. One side shows his coronation, and the other depicts him bringing Christianity to Hungary.
A FIREPLACE WITH A SECRET:
One of the most fascinating pieces in the hall is the grand nearely one-and-a-half-ton fireplace. According to Pest Buda website, it’s 2.8 m wide and 4.7 m tall, made from over 600 ceramic tiles, each crafted in the famous Zsolnay factory in Pécs. Each tile was burned five times, with the final layer containing liquid gold to create its strong colours and shine. At the centre, there is a bust of St. Stephen.
The fireplace never had a fire inside. It served only as a decoration because the castle already had modern heating technology. According to our tour guide, during the communist era, after WWII destroyed the room, the architect brought his little daughter to the worksite. She found an original fireplace tile and kept it for years. When she grew older, she returned it to the museum. That tile is now back in the fireplace where it belongs.
GOOD TO KNOW:
St. Stephen’s Hall is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. As of June 2025, the entry fees (with a tablet) to St. Stephen’s Hall are HUF 3,900 and HUF 1,950 for children and seniors with tablets. Combined tickets with the History Museum–Castle Museum for adults cost HUF 4,500 and HUF 2,250 for children, students, and seniors.
Other fun things to do in Budapest
16. Budapest Ruin Bars
Looking for fun things to do in Budapest that you won’t find anywhere else? Explore the city’s legendary ruin bars. These aren’t your typical pubs; they are unusual bars inside old buildings once left crumbling after WWII. Ruin bars began in the early 2000s when locals took over abandoned buildings in the Jewish Quarter and turned them into creative, chaotic, and unforgettable places to party. Locals brought these spaces back with a wild mix of art and creativity.
The trend started around 1999, but everything changed in 2002 when Szimpla Kert opened. This bar is a mind-blowing space with themed rooms filled with quirky mismatched furniture, neon signs, and old bathtubs turned into lounge seats. There is even an old Trabant car in the bar. Budapest ruin bars are more than just bars; they’re cultural spaces with live music, pop-up events, and even a farmers market on Sunday morning with live jazz.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Want to go? There is no entrance fee to ruin bars, but expect crowds. Doors open at 3 PM on weekdays, Saturday from noon, and 9 AM on Sundays (as of June 2025).
17. Karavan
If you made it this far, you earned yourselves a bonus character – visit Karavan. Tucked next to Szimpla Kert on Kazinczy Street, Karavan is Budapest’s original street food court. This bustling street food alley is bursting with flavours. It isn’t just a place to eat – it’s one of the coolest fun things to do in Budapest.
Here, food trucks serve up local favourites like crispy lángos covered in garlic, sour cream, and cheese. They also sell gourmet burgers from Zing, and global eats from Las Vegan’s, Vespa Rossa, and MexKitchen. Grab your food, take a seat and enjoy the casual courtyard vibe that’s perfect for any time of day.
GOOD TO KNOW:
As of June 2025, Karavan opens from March to early January (daily from 11:30 AM to midnight). Come hungry and leave with your tastebuds dancing. It’s a perfect mix of flavour, fun, and atmosphere you won’t forget.
Now you know what the fun things to do in Budapest are!
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