Not only known for being the economic, historic, and cultural capital of Hungary, Budapest is also famous for being one of the most romantic destinations for couples visiting Central and Eastern Europe. Its romanticism has always been associated with the Danube River that divides the city into two main parts - the historical Buda area that is known for housing the Buda Castle and the Buda Hills, and the modern Pest District covering the east of the Danube. Here’s what I recommend for couples to do in Budapest to enjoy a romantic time with your special one.
1. Take a boat tour on the Danube River
While there are many romantic restaurants beside the Danube River where you can dine out whilst getting a stunning view of Budapest, I highly recommend taking a dinner cruise down the river to see Budapest at night. Night tours are often more expensive than day tours, which usually costs around 15 - 20 USD for adults. From party boats, romantic boats, and musical ships to budget boat tours, cruise operators in Budapest have a wide variety of services to offer based on your preference and budget. A free audio guide and one drink is often included in the price, so make sure you get the best offer!
2. Enjoy a thermal bath together
Another great treat for the perfect getaway holiday in Budapest is to go to several thermal baths and spas. Known as the City of Spas since 1934, Budapest has more thermal and medicinal water springs than any other of the capital cities in Europe. You have 15 public thermal baths, and several other privates ones in luxurious hotels to choose from. From bathing to sunbathing and saunas, there are plenty of ways to relax in this busy city. Some of the famous names to check out are the Szechenyi Baths, the Gellert Baths, and the Lukacs Baths. These places are often full of tourists and big parties during peak travel seasons. Some areas of the bath may be closed during autumn or spring for maintenance. Thus, make sure you know which outdoor and indoor areas are possible to access, before paying the entrance price.
3. Take romantic walks along the Danube River
Budapest is such a small city that the most famous attractions are convenient to discover on foot. Thus, put on your more comfortable pairs of shoes and walk along Danube to discover the most romantic walks of Budapest. It is best to start walking from the Pest side of Budapest: starting at the Hungarian Parliament along the Danube River you’ll pass the famous monument called Shoes on the Danube, then head through the iconic 1800s stone suspension bridge, Chain Bridge, to arrive on the Buda side. From the Buda Castle and on top of the Castle Hill, you will get a splendid view of the city. And if your feet hurt after a long walk, take tram 2 that runs along the Danube to continue enjoying the restless beauty of this old city.
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4. Pledge your love with a love lock
In order to commute between the Buda and Pest areas, you will need to cross any one of the bridges. The famous one among them is the iconic 1800s stone suspension bridge referred to as the Szechenyi lanchid or Chain Bridge. Many couples come to this famous bridge to leave their love locks. But this is not the only place to declare and secure your love! The city also offers love trees surrounded with metal frames and love locks.
5. Discover the most romantic sights
While spending your sweet couple-time together, don’t forget to explore the city as travelers with genuine interest in the city’s history, art, and culture. Include on your list the most famous attractions in Budapest: the Hungarian Parliament, the Matthias Church, the Fisherman’s Bastion, the Buda Castle on top of the Castle Hill, the Citadel, the Liberty Statue, and the Gellert Hill. These places are the best for getting panoramic views and adoring the romantic well-preserved architecture of the city.
6. Take pleasure in a picnic at Károlyi Garden
Without a doubt, one of the simplest yet sweetest ways to celebrate love is through a delightful picnic in the park. Pack some delicious treats and have a great day out together at Károlyi-kert, also known as the Károlyi Garden. The oldest park in Budapest, it used to belong to the aristocrat Károlyi family. It has beautiful flowers all around and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s less crowded compared to other major parks, which means you can enjoy whispering sweet nothings to your loved one. After the picnic, you can also head over to nearby bar Csendes for a drink.
7. Go on a sweet escape to an island
Disappear into the heart of the beautiful Margaret Island with your loved ones. Located in the middle of the Danube River, it serves as a tranquil getaway within the city. With medieval ruins and lush gardens, it’s a haven for romantic and relaxing strolls. During summertime couples can also take delight in pop-up bars and restaurants, as well as orchestras, ballet and open-air cinema. Margaret Island is also a hotspot for marriage proposals, so you should definitely consider this place if you’re planning to pop the question while in Budapest.
Tons of other romantic activities!
Furthermore, there are hundreds of events happening annually in this capital city, including concerts ranging from jazz, indie rock, and classical. One of the best times of the year to come to Budapest is around the 20th of August, which is a national holiday in Hungary when they celebrate the birthday of the Magyar State with colourful fireworks shot above the Danube. If you are in search of a more luxurious romantic vacation, book your stay at the more amorous hotels in Budapest, and also visit the most exotic restaurants in the city.