Hungary has to be the most charming and photographic destination in Europe. A piece of unmistakable grandeur on the Danube River, this country offers not only a strong Hungarian culture but a mix of past Turkish and Roman influences that’s left a meaningful mark. This landlocked country is packed with a rich history, evidenced by stupendous Roman ruins, medieval architecture, baroque churches, and neoclassical buildings. Adding to this Central European country’s vibrancy is colorful folk art, soothing thermal baths, and a wealth of natural beauty. If you want to experience Hungary for yourself then you must scroll down to see the things to do in Hungary.
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1. Take a walking tour of the stunning Buda Castle
Buda Castle is a historic castle where Hungarian kings once resided. The best way to get an intimate look at this marvelous signature landmark and the beautiful Buda Castle District is to take an informative guided tour by an expert. This walking tour takes participants down lovely cobblestone streets and shady promenades. This tour delves into the amazing history of the magnificent Buda Castle and the treasured items it holds. Inside the castle, there’s access to the Hungarian National Gallery that showcases stunning works of art from Gothic altars to beautiful sculptures.
2. Tour the striking 12th-century Castle of Diosgyor
Located in the northern Hungarian city of Miskolc - in the historic town of Diosgyor - lies the Castle of Diosgyor. This massive structure is a formidable medieval manor and museum that houses permanent exhibits showcasing the history of the castle and a prominent monastery. There are also fascinating weapons, waxworks, and interactive exhibits. Castle of Diosgyor’s highlight is a huge arena for thrilling jousting displays and other exciting reenactments. Guided tours are available and begin every one-half hour.
Castle of Diosgyor
Address: Miskolc, Vár u. 24, 3534 Hungary
Website: Castle of Diosgyor
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
3. Stroll along the fabulous Danube Promenade
Walking along the Danube Promenade allows tourists an opportunity to admire lovely panoramic views, study glorious architecture, enjoy people-watching, and sip robust coffee at a charming outdoor cafe. This popular walkway is both pleasant and sobering. One moment you pass the fanciful “Little Princess” statue sitting on one of the rails and the next minute you’re contemplating 60 pairs of iron shoes forming a row alongside the Danube River in memory of Jews murdered during World War II.
Danube Promenade
Address: Dunakorzó, Budapest Pest, City Center, District 5
4. Shop at the magnificent Great Market Hall
Located in an expansive and incredible-looking neogothic multi-floored building, Great Market Hall is one of the biggest and oldest indoor markets in Budapest. It is a great destination if you’re searching for souvenirs, fresh produce, charming cafes, and everything in between. This market is well known amongst locals and tourists. Stop by a random shop and purchase a finely crafted Hungarian chess set or buy some fresh seafood to prepare for dinner. Foodies and shopaholics would be hard-pressed to find a more perfect shopping locale.
Great Market Hall
Address: Budapest, Vámház krt. 1-3, 1093 Hungary
Website: Great Market Hall
Opening hours: Mon: 6am - 5pm; Tue - Fri: 6am - 6pm; Sat: 6am - 3pm (closed on Sun)
Hungary Tour Guide
Ildiko Varga
I have been a certified guide for more than two decades now. I love my work, love to show my beloved city and country to my guests! I am interested of course in travelling, architecture, arts, cooking and reading.
Tours by Ildiko
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5. Check out neo-Renaissance houses in Andrassy Avenue
Stretching 1.55 miles (2.5 kilometers), Andrassy Avenue is a historic boulevard in Budapest that’s been around since 1872. Bestowed with a UNESCO World Heritage Site honor, it is easy to get lost in the magnificence of the 19th-century neo-Renaissance manors and townhouses that line this marvelous boulevard. Stroll this tree-lined thoroughfare and you’ll come upon the dazzling State Opera House as well as high-end boutiques offering big-name designer labels. At the end of Andrassy Avenue is the lush green City Park adding a nice bonus to the completion of your walk.
Andrassy Avenue
Address: From Elizabeth Square to Heroes’ Square, Budapest, Hungary
Website: Andrassy Avenue
Price: Free
6. Fall in love with Esztergomi Bazilika's architectural beauty
Perched on Esztergom’s Castle Hill, Esztergomi Bazilika is a superb structure erected in the 1800s and boasts a beautiful neoclassical style with a wonderful domed roof. This basilica houses one of the largest paintings created on a single piece of canvas, a huge intriguing Egyptian-style crypt, and a lavish interior. Admire ornate carvings and detailed paintings exuding the best of old-world European architectural excellence. You can take a guided tour or conquer the church and grounds solo. Whichever route you choose, make sure you view the must-see Bell Tower exhibit.
Esztergomi Bazilika
Address: Esztergom, Szent István tér 1, 2500 Hungary
Website: Esztergomi Bazilika
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5pm; Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 1pm
7. Uncover past treasures at the Hungarian National Museum
Hungarian National Museum is a cut above on the European museum landscape. The structure itself is as astounding as the exhibits it holds. The exterior is a mix of Hungarian-style palace excess and formidable Roman temple boldness. The interior displays polished marble pillars and delicate paintings cover almost every space on every wall. This museum possesses an impressive array of ancient cultural artifacts, fine archaeological items, important documents, brilliant coins, and, of course, beautiful paintings.
Hungarian National Museum
Address: Budapest, Múzeum krt. 14-16, 1088 Hungary
Website: Hungarian National Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 9 USD
8. Appreciate nature at Hortobagy National Park
Boasting boundless wildlife, grasslands, and pretty vistas, Hortobagy National Park is 312m² (810km²) of a gorgeous national park as well as a fine wildlife preserve. Residing in this park are ample flocks of birds made up of 342 different species and plant life that are usually found only by the sea. You can also catch sight of Hungarian Grey cattle, water buffalo, and a tiny population of adorable and stocky Przewalski Horses. The largest section of protected terrain in Hungary, Hortobagy National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Hortobagy National Park
Website: Hortobagy National Park
9. Visit the historic Castle of Egri
A structure inspired by many Italian fortress designs, Castle of Egri boasts a brave and impressive past. This prominent citadel was used to defend the city against Turkish invasion in the 1500s during the Siege of Egri and, today, the structure houses a wonderful history museum. Turkish influences found throughout the fortress is evidence that the Turks eventually were victorious. Nevertheless, many native Hungarians revere the sight for the heroism of an outmanned small band of Hungarian soldiers who defeated a large Turkish army.
Castle of Egri
Address: Eger, Vár 1, 3300 Hungary
Website: Castle of Egri
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD
10. Catch a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House
Touted as one of the most exquisite neo-Renaissance buildings on the European continent, the Hungarian State Opera House is a real jewel. Situated in a choice section on Andrassy Avenue, this opera house features breathtaking frescoes on the ceilings as well as handsome statues of composers displayed throughout the venue. For opera and ballet fans, the Hungarian State Opera House is the ultimate destination offering world-class opera and ballet performances by the best of the best. For an unforgettable experience, take an interesting and informative guided tour during the day and enjoy a performance at night.
Hungarian State Opera House
Address: Budapest, Andrássy út 22, 1061 Hungary
Website: Hungarian State Opera House
11. Admire flora and fauna at Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden
One of the oldest zoos on the globe, Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden resides in an uncommon setting: Budapest’s City Park. What began as a marshy meadow has blossomed into a world-renowned zoo and botanical garden for all to enjoy. Spread over 45 acres (18.2 hectares) this zoo is home to over one thousand animal species. Visitors can view everything from meerkats and penguins to kangaroos and elephants and so much more. Two-thousand plant species accompanied by plenty of green patches and bushy groves make this a true refuge from the fuss of the city.
Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden
Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 6-12, 1146 Hungary
Website: Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5:30pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 6pm
Price: 8 - 11 USD
12. Marvel at flawless art at the Hungarian National Gallery
Offering established and temporary collections of Hungarian artwork from the 15th century to the present day, Hungarian National Gallery should be on the list of attractions for any art-loving tourist visiting Budapest. Opening its doors in 1957, this museum resides in a portion of the Buda Castle and provides an excellent and ample collection of Hungarian pieces that range from beguiling Renaissance and Gothic masterpieces to intriguing baroque and medieval displays. Hungarian National Gallery is the ideal gallery to uncover this country’s most celebrated artists and their amazing masterpieces.
Hungarian National Gallery
Address: Budapest, Szent György tér 2, 1014 Hungary
Website: Hungarian National Gallery
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 10 USD
13. Enjoy views from the iconic Chain Bridge
A popular and iconic feature on Budapest’s cityscape is the Chain Bridge. Comprised of sturdy stone and durable wrought iron, this 1,230-foot (375-meter) suspension bridge that crosses the Danube River was considered a contemporary engineering feat at the time of its construction in the 1800s. The Chain Bridge is a stop on every tourist’s agenda when visiting Budapest. If you want to enjoy the Chain Bridge from a different perspective, visit at night when the bridge is nicely illuminated.
Chain Bridge
Address: Budapest, Széchenyi Lánchíd, 1051 Hungary
Website: Chain Bridge
Price: Free
14. Tour the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building
Residing prominently on the banks of the Danube River is the majestic-looking Hungarian Parliament Building. A showcase of splendid Gothic Revival-style architecture, this structure is the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary and it is one of the oldest legislative buildings in Europe. Rooms are opulently decorated with carefully crafted statues and sculptures. You’ll also find pretty frescoes, paintings, and brilliant stained glass. With a bit of artistic lighting, the building’s exterior is even more eye-popping when the sun goes down. Tours run daily.
Hungarian Parliament Building
Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary
Website: Hungarian Parliament Building
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 4pm
Price: 13 - 25 USD
15. Be amazed by the beauty of Dohany Street Synagogue
With the ability to seat over 3,000 people, Dohany Street Synagogue is the biggest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world! Elegant domes top this immense and extravagant Moorish-style synagogue where visitors can explore an interesting museum and cemetery. A standout feature is located in the garden area where a moving Holocaust memorial is displayed: a weeping willow statue with leaves inscribed with the names of more than 400,000 who perished at the hands of the Nazis.
Dohany Street Synagogue
Address: Budapest, Dohány u. 2, 1074 Hungary
Website: Dohany Street Synagogue
Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 10am - 5pm; Tue - Wed: 10am - 8pm; Thu - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sat)
16. Feast your eyes on Festetics Palace's baroque-style design
Surrounded by a nature park containing shimmering ponds, colorful flowerbeds, tranquil fountains, and beautiful statues, Festetics Palace is a baroque-style palace and grounds that is the ideal spot to unwind. The acreage is not the only highlight of this historic attraction. Visitors can explore this palace that’s comprised of 18th and 19th-century refined rooms, an esteemed palace library, and even a huge selection of horse-drawn coaches and carriages. During summer, Festetics Palace hosts lively concerts on its well-manicured lawns.
Festetics Palace
Address: Keszthely, Kastély u. 1, 8360 Hungary
Website: Festetics Palace
17. Walk across the beautiful Liberty Bridge
At 1,094 feet (333.6 meters) in length and spanning the Danube River, the pretty green-hued Liberty Bridge is a lovely pedestrian-friendly bridge dating back to the 1890s. Though not as flashy as the Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge offers a subtle yet still noticeable allure with great eye-catching bronze sculptures of a Turul - a falcon-like bird favored in Hungarian mythology - perched on the masts of the bridge. Adding to this bridge’s appeal are vibrant public squares that can be found at both ends. If it’s a sunny day, it’s time to stroll this wonderful structure.
Liberty Bridge
Address: Budapest, Hungary
Website: Liberty Bridge
Price: Free
18. Admire the medieval compound of Pannonhalma Archabbey
Pannonhalma Archabbey is an amazing attraction that’s truly worth your time. This unparalleled Benedictine monastery was founded in 996 and has been thriving ever since. A place more than 50 monks call home, Pannonhalma Archabbey offers sights such as a beautiful Baroque communal dining area, a stately library, and a spectacular Gothic church. There’s no lack of gardening skills with an arboretum filled with 400 species of trees, many uncommon in the country. Guests are also impressed with the monks’ wine-making abilities: churning out flavorful merlots and Chardonnays like pros.
Pannonhalma Archabbey
Address: Pannonhalma, Vár 1, 9090 Hungary
Website: Pannonhalma Archabbey
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
19. Explore the stunning Vajdahunyad Castle
Located in Budapest’s City Park, Vajdahunyad Castle is a fabulous structure to stumble upon while enjoying an afternoon at this park. Considered to be an inspiration for the dwelling of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, it is easy to imagine while exploring this castle why the famed bloodsucker could inhabit this massive and foreboding mansion. Visitors can see interesting structures and statues, like those of Bela Lugosi, an actor who portrayed Count Dracula. Architectural fanatics will love the blend of Renaissance, baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque styles which Vajdahunyad Castle showcases.
Vajdahunyad Castle
Address: Budapest, Vajdahunyad stny., 1146 Hungary
Website: Vajdahunyad Castle
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD
20. Go fishing at tranquil Lake Balaton
A serene and very popular freshwater lake that’s the biggest in Central Europe, Lake Balaton is the ideal spot to spend a leisurely day of fishing. If you’re in need of a boat, Lake Balaton offers lots of places to rent tiny, efficient vessels at an affordable price. Though Lake Balaton lacks very deep water it doesn’t hinder the variety of fish you can potentially catch: catfish, carp, pike, and eel. Other fun summer activities include swimming and sailing. During winter months when the lake freezes, people gather to go ice fishing or skating.
Lake Balaton
Website: Lake Balaton
21. Spend a day on the enchanting Margaret Island
Margaret Island is an absolute fitting getaway if you want to escape the bustle of the city for a few hours. A one-of-a-kind destination. Margaret Island is a stretch of land in the Danube River, that offers visitors manicured pedestrian walkways, lush parklands, a small zoo, and a very popular landmark: the dazzling art nouveau water tower. So much to enjoy is packed into this small island, from a Japanese garden to the ruins of a 13th-century Franciscan church. This green oasis offers limitless diversions that can easily keep you entertained for days.
Margaret Island
Address: Budapest, 1138 Hungary
22. Have a leisurely time at Gödöllő Palace
Oozing opulence in every direction, Gödöllő Palace is an expansive baroque palace constructed in the 1800s for an aristocratic Hungarian family. When the last member of the family died it was bought by royals Franz Joseph I - the ruler of Austro-Hungary - and his wife and the couple used it as their summer-hideaway home. Today, it’s a popular attraction affording visitors glimpses at lavish period furnishings and historical displays. Concerts and other fun events also occur on the massive grounds.
Gödöllő Palace
Address: Gödöllő, Grassalkovich-kastély 5852, 2100 Hungary
Website: Gödöllő Palace
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 4pm; Fri - Sun: 10am - 5pm
Price: 9 USD
23. Cruise the scenic Danube River
Experience a captivating time aboard a vessel that takes you on a cruise down the mighty Danube River. Get an eyeful of some of Budapest’s most marvelous historic structures along the river such as the Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge. Participants are treated to refreshing Hungarian sparkling wine and, to set the mood, live music by the Hungarian Folk Orchestra. An option to dine on classic Hungarian fare is also available. Enjoy an unforgettable event, with Budapest’s lovely cityscape as a fantastic backdrop.
24. Take a relaxing soak in Szechenyi Thermal Bath
When you need a break from non-stop tourist action, the only place to go is Budapest’s biggest public bath Szechenyi Thermal Bath. Housed in a stunning neo-Baroque-style building, Szechenyi Thermal Bath is replete with no less than 18 sparkling indoor and outdoor pools. Also on the premises is a collection of soothing steam rooms, relaxing saunas, and pampering springs-fed baths. This luxurious attraction is certain to reduce your stress level to nonexistent. Guests have access to comfy, private changing quarters and are welcome to spend the entire day.
Book Tours : Széchenyi Thermal Spa Full-Day Tickets
25. See bygone Communist sculptures at Memento Park
Memento Park is a unique place that shines a light on a dark period in Hungarian history when it was ruled by Communist leaders during the Cold War. Established in 1993, Memento Park presents actual sculpted statues and plaques of leaders from the Communist era, which were displayed around the city at that time. Don’t miss the chance to check out a replica of Stalin’s Boots - the boots were a pronounced symbol of the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 when a statue of Stalin was knocked down and only the boots remained.
Memento Park
Address: Budapest, Balatoni út - Szabadkai utca sarok, 1223 Hungary
Website: Memento Park
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
26. Visit the breathtaking St. Stephen's Basilica
Without a doubt, some of the most Instagram-worthy shots in Hungary can be taken at St. Stephen’s Basilica. Its grandness will make your heart skip a beat. Beautiful, elegant, and one of the tallest buildings in Budapest, this Roman Catholic basilica features a lovely Greek-cross ground layout and divine neoclassical architecture that boasts two magnificent bell towers. This basilica is also very large, holding up to 8,500 people. This makes it the biggest church in Budapest. Get ready to snap photos endlessly once you enter the doors.
St. Stephen's Basilica
Address: Budapest, Szent István tér 1, 1051 Hungary
Website: St. Stephen’s Basilica
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5pm; Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 1pm
Price: Free
27. Sample local wines at the vineyards of Eger Wine Region
Located in northeastern Hungary, the Eger Wine Region is a delightful spot to visit for anyone who loves good wine. Though this country is more famed for its sweet dessert wines from the Tokaj area, the grapes grown in the Eger Wine Region should not be overlooked. A must-taste is Hungary’s popular red wine known as Bull’s Blood - a complex blend of many dark-skinned grapes that was first created in the late 19th century. In a move to encourage tourists to the region, several establishments showcase special wine-tasting nights where guests can enjoy yummy traditional foods and lively dancing, along with ventures into the exciting cask cellars!
Eger Wine Region
Website: Eger Wine Region
28. Explore the wonderful Mosque of Pasha Qasim
An expert display of Turkish architecture in Hungary, Mosque of Pasha Qasim was originally a Muslim place of worship when the Ottomans ruled. Constructed in the late 16th century, this mosque later became a Catholic church that features gorgeous frescoes and an original domed roof. Although the Mosque of Pasha Qasim is home to the Christian faith today, visitors to this church can still detect inscriptions from the Muslim’s holy book, the Koran, in certain sections of the building. Be aware that you may not enter while services are being conducted.
Mosque of Pasha Qasim
Address: Pécs, Hunyadi út 4, 7621 Hungary
Website: Mosque of Pasha Qasim
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5pm; Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 5pm, 7:30pm - 10pm
Price: 7 USD
29. Visit the animals at Nyireghyaza Zoo
The Nyireghyaza Zoo is a contemporary zoo and expert educational center featuring thrilling live shows and over 500 different types of animals from around the globe. This zoo is splendidly laid out with animal exhibits separated by continents. Wander in the African area and observe lions and wildebeest. Head over to the Indonesia section and spy comical orangutans. Nyireghyaza Zoo not only offers the largest animal collections in Hungary but guests can unwind at a sparkling pool, soothing spa, or a sandy beach! There’s even a comfy accommodation if you want to do an overnight stay.
Nyireghyaza Zoo
Address: Nyíregyháza, Sóstói út, 4431 Hungary
Website: Nyireghyaza Zoo
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 9 -13 USD
30. Admire awesome views at Fisherman's Bastion
Found in the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion is replete with a fantastic ornate design and is one of the most in-demand tourist attractions in Hungary. Everyone sighs when they view the awesome panoramic views of Budapest and the Danube River from astonishing neo-Romanesque lookout balconies. This fabulous 19th-century fortress also offers no less than seven towering spires to further relish these incomparable views. For refreshments, there’s a tasty cafe on the terrace level. If you want a bit of time for quiet reflection, there’s a chapel located in the interior.
Fisherman's Bastion
Address: Budapest, Szentháromság tér, 1014 Hungary
Website: Fisherman’s Bastion
Opening hours: 9am - 11pm (daily)
Price: 4 USD
31. Admire the massive Kőröshegy Viaduct
Contributed by Tour Guide, Ildiko Varga
The Kőröshegy Viaduct runs in Somogy County, parallel to the southern shore of Lake Balaton and between Zamárdi and Balatonszárszó. It is part of the M7 motorway and was opened to traffic in August 2007. The viaduct collects rainwater and diverts the water to a purpose-built reservoir. The collected and cleaned rainwater runs through the Séd brook of Kőröshegy into the Balaton. It is 1,872 metres long, and its highest point above ground level is 88 metres high. It is over 23 metres wide. Its pillars have a length of 13 metres on the outside, while their width is 5.5 metres with hollow insides.
Two of the pillars also have an elevator each, indispensable for regular inspections.
Explore this outstanding country
Awash with captivating historic landmarks, charming cities, a variety of cultural traditions, and fun outdoor experiences, Hungary is a true winner that has emerged from its gloomy Communist past. Today it possesses a passion for life that many locals want to share with travelers. Don’t hesitate to explore this outstanding country when looking for your next European adventure!
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