1 day trips from budapest

Day Trips From Budapest: 15 Amazing (and Easy!) Trips!

Two reasons. Firstly, Hungary is a diverse country, full of surprises and wonders which you simply won’t see if you stay put in urban Budapest. Want to see a valley famous for its wine and women, an inland sea, or a great plain which has eagles wheeling across it? You’ll need to head out there, using Hungary’s efficient public transport. But secondly, Budapest is also an international crossroad on the wider transport network, making a jaunt into neighbouring countries an absolute breeze. 

So let’s check out the best day trips from Budapest: not just to other locations in Hungary, but exploring how you can travel from Budapest to Vienna, Bratislava, Zagreb, and beyond!

Planning a trip to Budapest? Check out these awesome resources on spending 3 days in Budapest , the very best in Budapest food , and where to find perfect Budapest souvenirs!

The best day trips from Budapest!

In our first section looking at Budapest day trips, we’re going to check out trips within Hungary. Then we’re going to hit the road, and check out visiting other countries from Budapest! For the latter, remember that Hungary is in the Schengen Area – this means that if you’re visiting fellow Schengen countries, you won’t face any passport checks. If your preferred destination isn’t on this list , you’ll need to take it along for inspection – yes, even if you’re on the train!

Day trips from Budapest within Hungary

You may not know a great deal about Hungary before you arrive there – but trust me, you’ll soon love it!

Hungary is a country of different landscapes, from wild hills to grassy plains, from huge lakes to cities with an almost Mediterranean feel. The good news is that it’s pretty easy to experience all of them! Whilst a number of them are easily reachable by public transport, there’s a few that are worth booking a place on a tour – namely, because the tours like to take you to multiple places on this list on the same day, meaning that you get more bang for your buck! I’ll let you know which ones you should definitely consider seeing on a tour as we come to them.

Let’s check them out!

Eger is a stunningly beautiful city in the north of Hungary, and is famous for three things. Firstly, the minaret in the town center. Secondly, for being in a valley renowned for its beautiful women. Thirdly – wine. Lots and lots of lovely wine!

If the first two interest you more, head into the city center. The minaret was built in the 17th century, back when this part of the world was under the control of the Turkish Ottoman Empire, and was originally used to call the faithful to prayer at an adjoining mosque. The mosque was converted into a Catholic church (and eventually pulled down entirely) when the Austrians retook Eger in 1687, and the minaret was slated to follow. However, the locals tried to pull it down using 400 oxen and couldn’t shift it, so it was decided to keep it in place and has become a symbol of friendship between Hungary and Turkey instead. Which is rather lovely, if you ask me!

However, most people visit Eger for the wine! Quite literally – check out the number plates of cars anywhere in town, and you’ll see a huge number of them are from neighboring European countries, because the wine is just that good . A short 20 minute walk out of town is the Valley of the Beautiful Women (yup, that’s its actual name) where you find wine cellars carved into the surrounding cliff faces, providing you with cool, atmospheric cellars in which to sample the local produce. The most common is Egri Bikavér, also known as “Bull’s Blood”, which is the area’s specialty, but you’re absolutely bound to find a wine you’ll love.

If you’re looking at taking just a single Budapest day trip, this is the one to do. You can reach Eger by train, but it’s a slow journey – it’s a much better idea to go on a tour, as they’ll take you to all the best wine cellars, and not judge you if you come back laden with wine bottles. And trust me, you will – my boyfriend came away with three bottles, despite telling me on the way there that he didn’t like wine. It’s that good!

Less than one hour from Budapest by train, the small town of Szentendre is a must-see!  

This place may be small in size, but it’s certainly big in history and character. It feels completely different to Budapest, or many of the towns surrounding it, thanks to the almost-Mediterranean architecture – a leftover of the town being a refuge for Serbian and Croatian settlers during a war against Turkey. This splash of character, and its quiet streets, led to it becoming popular with artists seeking to get out of the bustle of Budapest, and it’s stayed that way ever since!

Szentendre sees plenty of tourists, and it accordingly has plenty of souvenir shops at your disposal. But these are a something a little different: you’ll find plenty of places offering traditional Hungarian dress (which you can easily fit pieces of into everyday outfits, in case you don’t want to go the whole hog), and loads of artisan crafts, clothes, and pottery. Szentendre is also the home of Skanzen , an ethnographic park highlighting traditional Hungarian buildings and lifestyle.

Although the town is simple to reach by train, you might still wander to consider doing a “Danube Bend” day tour. That way, you’ll also get to see Visegrad and Esztergom in the same day – from personal experience, it’s well worth doing! But if you’ve already seen the other sites, simply get a train from Batthyány tér in Budapest; the price of the ticket is negligible. 

Like your history? Sweet; you’ll be fancying a trip to Visegrád! And the good news is that again, it’s less than an hour from Budapest by train!

Although the town itself is pretty darn small these days, Visegrád was once the capital of Hungary, thanks to the fortress which was built on a very high hill above it. You can spot it as you approach by train, perched right up on the top of a steep, almost sheer hill, with the Danube winding below it. It’s basically one of the most ridiculously defensible spots in Europe, and King Charles I was all “yup, I’m having some of that ” back in 1325.

Although it didn’t stay the capital very long, Visegrád is still a hugely important place in Hungary’s history, and the upper and lower castles are both open to the public. The upper castle is the more interesting of the two, with a real “castle feel” and historical re-enactments (not to mention some stunning views), while the lower castle is largely ruined, or hosting exhibitions about the history of the area.

I highly recommend that you visit Visegrád as part of a Danube Bend one day private tour. As interesting as the castle is, there’s not huge amounts of things to do, meaning that you may be a little bit disappointed if you make the trip just to see Visegrád alone.  However, it’s a perfect stop when combined with Szentendre and Esztergom on a day tour – especially as you’ll often be taken to a local restaurant, Nagyvillam , which serves up both delicious food and fantastic views of the castle!

The last of our Danube Bend day trips is Esztergom, situated right on the border with Slovakia – and home to some seriously impressive views!

If you enjoyed all that lovely Hungarian history in Visegrád, the city of Esztergom is going to be right up your alley. It’s actually one of the oldest habitations in the whole country, having been around since Roman times, and when you look at it, you can understand why. Just like Visegrád, it features a high hill right next to the waters of the Danube – perfect for fortifications. In this case, however, pride of place on the top of the hill didn’t go to a castle (although there was one nearby). Instead, the Hungarians decided to build one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the land.

Esztergom Basilica stands on the former site of these earlier churches, and is both the largest church and tallest building in Hungary. That’s why it’s one of the most popular day trips from Budapest: you don’t need to be a massive church-goer in order to enjoy it. The interior of the basilica is stunning, with beautiful carvings and decorations, and the burial site of Cardinal Mindszenty, who opposed fascism and communism in Hungary for over fifty years.

But it’s the exterior which really steals the show. Head out of the church and take the paths leading to the left; you’ll eventually come to a lookout platform with a large statue of St. Stephen, overlooking the beautiful surrounding countryside of Hungary and Slovakia. And yes, if you visit Esztergom as part of a tour, they’ll drive you over the bridge to Slovakia so you can take photos of the Basilica from its best angle!

Yes, I know the name makes it sounds like some sort of bodybuilder’s colony. It’s not – or not that I know of, anyway! Pécs is actually a gorgeous city in southern Hungary with a distinct Mediterranean flavor, and it’s perfect for a day trip from Budapest!

A 2.5 hour train journey from Budapest’s Kelenfoeld Station will deposit you in the city of Pecs, right near the Croatian border. This university town has such a mix of cultures and styles that you really feel like you’re somewhere on the sunny Med; check out the architecture on pretty Szechenyi Square if you don’t believe me – doesn’t it give you that Italian feel? If that’s not enough, head along to Pécs Cathedral with its four distinctive towers, and muse on how it manages to look Hungarian, Turkish, and vaguely Italian at the same time.

There’s plenty of museums to look around (including an early Christian mausoleum, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site), and pottery shops abound for souvenir hunters. But another great reason to visit Pécs is the food! The city is a cultural melting pot, and you’ll accordingly find plenty of options – there’s everything from traditional Hungarian in rowdy pubs, to the best of the southern regions at the Balkan Bistro , to many Italian choices. There’s even a Czech pub! And because this isn’t Budapest, you’ll discover that everything is extremely reasonably priced, allowing you to eat somewhere just a little bit fancy for way less than you’d expect!

Pécs is an easy day trip from Budapest by train, although with so much to do, and a very kindly climate, you may be tempted to stay for a few days!

Lake Balaton

Fancy lounging on the beach, or swimming in fresh waters, but frustrated by Hungary’s distinct lack of coastline? Meh, who needs the sea when you’ve got Lake Balaton!

Best reached by car, Lake Balaton is huge – 78km in length, to be precise – with a multitude of towns and things to do along its coastline. Aside from swimming in the blue waters (and the town of Siofók is the most popular place to do that, with sandy beaches and weather that’ll have you half-believing you’re somewhere in Spain), there’s also a multitude of historic sites for you to go exploring. The town of Tihany is situated on a peninsula which juts out into the lake – it’s picture-perfect,and understandably has the highest property prices in the country!

How about days filled with spa baths, wine, and gazing out at lake views? If that sounds right up your alley, you’ll be wanting a trip to Keszthely, the largest city by the lake, where all of the aforementioned attractions are available in spades. Or is a stylish resort with thermal waters for bathing in more your thing? In that case, you’ll be wanting to visit Balatonfüred! Every town based around the lake offers something unique, and thanks to their popularity with Hungarian wanting to get away for a bit, they’re fully geared up for visitors.

If you want to see a little bit of everything that Lake Balaton has to offer – and as you can see, it’s pretty diverse – you’re better off signing yourself up for a tour from Budapest. These generally pick up a good number of the lake’s star attractions – and often throw in a yacht ride too; perfect for finishing up a sunny day!

You’ve probably never heard of Györ, but if the thought of a charming Old Town, and a plethora of museums and churches appeal, then this is one of the perfect day trips from Budapest for you!

Situated bang in the middle of Budapest and Vienna, Györ is considered one of the most important cultural sites in Hungary. Its position means that similarly to Pecs, the town became a melting pot of cultures and architectural styles – but also meant that it became hotly fought over. Nearly every nation in the area who has ever had any kind of influence over the centuries has had a pop at Györ. The Hungarians fought over it, the Turks fought over it, the Austrians got involved over it, and even the Allied forces in WW2 had a go it it. Even Napoleon had a quick attack for funsies.

Remarkably, considering everything its been through, the Old Town survived – and thank goodness for that, because it’s beautiful! Cobbled streets are lined with pastel-colored houses, and handsome squares have stately cafes along their edges, perfect for stopping in and doing a bit of people-watching. Best of all, the town is still largely undiscovered by tourists, and the locals are super-welcoming! They’ll be more than happy to point out the places you should visit, including an incredible amount of churches, and a veritable forest of statues and fountains.

Györ is easily reachable from Budapest, with regular train services departing from Kelenfoeld station. The majority of services are local ones run by the Hungarian rail service (MAV), but bear in mind that you may end up on long-distance trains run by Austrian Railways (OBB) or Romanian Railways (CFR) – these trains tend to be much busier!

Aggtalek National Park

Yeah, we all like towns and cities. All those facilities and buildings and souvenir shops; yadda yadda. But how about getting out into the great Hungarian countryside, and checking out a national park which is also a world heritage site? 

Well aren’t we lucky, because Aggtalek National Park in northern Hungary ticks all those boxes! It’s a truly beautiful place, with forests, cliffs, and crystal blue lakes surrounded by greenery and dappled sunlight. It’s the perfect place to visit for a day, and get away from the bustle of city life! It’s also a great spot for animal lovers: the park is a bastion of wildlife species which have faced their struggles elsewhere, such as lynx and wolves. The park is also home to Hucul horses, one of the closest relatives of ancient wild horses – if you visit the stud farm near Jósvafö, you can not only learn more about them, but see them living semi-wild near the village. 

But the main event is the series of caves which wind their way through the Hungarian soil, connecting up with a system of caverns just over the border in Slovakia. Signs of prehistoric life have been found here, and you can see why ancient peoples made this their pad – the caves are simply stunning! Stalactites and stalagmites do their thing while you gawp at them – and if that’s not enough, you’ll get treated to a music and light show whilst you’re there. I don’t think I need to tell you that the acoustics are just a little bit amazing.

If you love nature, visiting Aggtalek is one of the most ideal day trips from Budapest you can imagine. It’s just about possible by train (travel from Keleti station to Perkupa, then grab a taxi) but it’s a bit of a pain. If you’ve rented out a car, the drive there will take a mere two and a half hours!

The Royal Palace of Gödölló

I know this isn’t a phrase you hear every day, but I am a longtime fangirl of the Empress Elizabeth of Austria, 1837-1898. I know; so cliche. But it’s true; I even have a bust of my homegirl on the desk where I’m typing this right now. And if you take a day trip to the Royal Palace of Gödölló , you can visit her 18th century baroque party pad!

Okay, she didn’t do much partying there, but she was an extraordinary woman. She was born in Bavaria and married off to the Emperor Franz Joseph, but she despised fussy court life in Vienna. She had zero intention of being treated like a royal brood mare, was way more interested in travelling, writing, and trying to acquire a pet tiger, and eventually escaped off to Hungary to get away from it all.  When she got there, she promptly learned Hungarian – a notoriously tricky language – and caused the entire country to fall head over heels in love with her.

There’s only one way to get an insight into someone that awesome, and that’s by taking a trip to her favorite home. Gödölló fell into disrepair after Sissi’s tragic death at the hands of an assassin, but it’s been lovingly restored to its former grandeur. You can skip under the beautiful chandeliers in the Great Hall, check out the artwork in the Mirror Corridor, or explore the extensive grounds around the building itself. You’re bound to enjoy it even if you know nothing about Sissi, but if you too feel a bit of a kinship with her, it’s a fascinating look into a place she loved.

You can reach Gödölló by hopping on a train at Keleti station, and travelling to the tongue-tangling Goedoelloe. Have fun pronouncing that at the ticket office!

Puszta and Kecskemét

Pop into any of the tourist information offices in Budapest , and you’ll see that one of the most popular day trips is a coach ride out into the vast Hungarian plains. This is the land which the early Magyar tribes rode through on their way to founding Budapest, and its retained a special place in the heart of Hungarians ever since.

The plain – or Puszta, as it’s known in these here parts – is covered in traditional Hungarian horse ranches, because horses are super-useful in the farming which goes on here. Plus because who doesn’t want to be a cowboy? The Hungarians certainly do, and after being treated to a hearty rustic lunch at a farmhouse, you’ll be taken off to see a horse show. This is where the locals demonstrate their absolute skill on horseback, showing that they have the absolute trust of their steeds, and looking like total badasses while they do it. It’s an exhilarating sight!

If that’s not enough excitement for you, your next stop will be Kecskemét, a market city which is at the heart of plains life. You might be expecting something a little rough and ready, but you’d be wrong – it’s actually one of the most vibrant and artistic cities in the country, with buildings which are liberally decorated in Art Nouveau style. There’s a ton of museums to look around, or if you’re after something a little more… refreshing… Kecskemét is also one of the major producers of pálinka, a super-strong liqueur. You’ve been warned!

This is a popular day trip from Budapest, so you won’t have trouble finding tour operators to take you there. It’s a much better option than trying to do it independently, especially if you want to check out the horse shows!

Debrecen is the second-largest city in Hungary – and as it’s located on the other side of the country, it’s an ideal way to see what city life outside of Budapest looks like!

It’s another Hungarian city which has had a bit of a tough life thanks to its location. Being close to the Eastern frontier, it’s been in the hands of Turks, Romanians, and Soviets over the centuries, and it was almost completely destroyed during the Second World War (if you don’t know about how tough life was in Hungary around that time, check out the House of Terror in Budapest; things were bad). But like the rest of the nation, Debrecen rose like a phoenix, and reclaimed its status as one of the most culturally-important places in the country.

As you’d expect, there’s plenty to see! Whether it’s the grandeur of the Great Church or the family friendly fun of the Kerekerdo Adventure Park, you’ll find something you’ll love. My personal favorite, however, is the Deri Museum – it’s the best kind of museum, in that it has a bit of absolutely everything. Egyptian artifacts? Yup, got those. Priceless and vast pieces of artwork? Here in abundance. A surprising collection of Samurai armors and weaponry? Hey, why not!

As you’d expect, it’s super-easy to get from Budapest to Debrecen. Catch a train from Budapest-Nyugati, and you’ll arrive in your destination a mere two and a half hours later!

Day trips from Budapest to other countries

Budapest is perfectly placed in central Europe, almost as if its a halfway point for some of the most beautiful and important cities on the continent. Luckily for us travel lovers, that means it’s the perfect base for exploring some of those cities as a day trip, saving us the exorbitant hotel costs of actually staying there! (lookin’ at you, Vienna!)

I urge you to do at least one trip from Budapest to another country – Hungary is so distinct from its neighbors that you really will feel the difference, . It makes you appreciate both your day trip destination, and gives you an increased love of Budapest when you return! Although Vienna and Bratislava are the easiest to reach, there’s some magical places available to those who can go a little further afield.

Let’s look at those lovely options!

Day trips from Budapest to Vienna are a tried and tested favorite, and it’s an ideal way to explore a city which is famously beautiful, as well as famously expensive!

It’s an easy trip by train (head on down to Kelenfoeld station for regular services, but top tip: try to get a reserved seat if you can, because this service gets BUSY), and you’ll be in fair Vienna in 2 hours and 20 minutes. A short walk from Vienna’s main station is the Old Town, the beating heart of the city, and one of the most ridiculously beautiful places in the world. You won’t lack for things to do, whether you fancy a spot of luxury shopping on Kohlmarkt, seeing the historic sights of St. Stephen’s Cathedral or the Hofburg, or just kicking back with cake and coffee at Hotel Sacher.

If you don’t mind a little more public transport, take a bus from the train station, and visit Schönbrunn Palace. This has to be one of the most extraordinary places I’ve ever visited – if looking around 1,441 room of history isn’t enough, it’s located in vast grounds which put any other public space in the world to shame. We’re talking gigantic fountains emptying into a vast basin, rose gardens for miles, a hill which leads up to a glorious viewpoint, and even it’s own zoo in the middle. You can easily spend a day here, and it’s one of the most fascinating places in Europe, let alone Vienna.

There’s so much to do in Vienna, and you’ll need to narrow it down a bit before you travel! Take a look at my guide to Vienna Instagram spots , which will help you pinpoint those perfect sights!

Second-most popular on the list of day trips from Budapest to other countries is Bratislava, located a mere stone’s throw away from Vienna. It may not have the same glamorous reputation as Vienna, but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s not worth visiting – you’ll quickly fall in love!

Bratislava’s Old Town is a ten minute walk from the train station, and it’s utterly charming. Sure, Bratislava might not have the mega tourist attractions of Budapest or Vienna (the city’s castle is probably the main draw) – but seriously, that’s not what you visit Bratislava for. If you like your cities small and friendly, with cozy bars and pubs serving excellent food and beer at cheap prices, and a vibrant cafe and nightlife scene, then the city will be just perfect for you. It’s laid back, chilled out, and super welcoming.

That’s not to say that there’s nothing to see, however! Wandering the streets rewards you with achingly pretty houses and churches, broad squares filled with market stalls and quirky street performers, and statues. Actually, loads of statues. You might’ve noticed that Budapest is fairly brimming with statues , but the Slovaks take it to another level. The most famous is Cumil, the workman peeking out of the ground and seemingly watching the world go by – you can find him on Panská street, in the heart of the Old Town. 

Visit Bratislava, and be utterly charmed by what you find! For all the info you’ll need, check out my guide on how to get from Budapest to Bratislava!

Transylvania

Okay, let’s get the vampire jokes out of the way. Something about fangs or garlic? Cool, we’re done there, because you’d be absolutely bats to miss out on seeing Transylvania (I lied about being done with the vampire jokes).

Although it’s a bit of a stretch to do the journey by train (especially as you’ll need to stop and show your passport), it’s very possible to have a grand old time in Romania if you’ve rented a car. The town of Oradea is just over the border, and is a mere 3 hours from Budapest; it’s a strikingly pretty place and one well worth exploring! If history is more your thing, Corvin Castle is one of the largest castles in Europe, and one of the Seven Wonders of Romania! It’s a bit of a drive, but the scenery is so pretty that getting there is half the fun.

If you’re looking for other Transylvanian towns to explore, Timisoara is an extremely handsome place (it has two nicknames, Little Vienna and The City of Flowers, which give you an indication of just how pretty it is). Alternatively, if you don’t mind a fairly long drive, you can visit my favorite town in Romania, Cluj-Napoca. The best place you’ve never heard of, Cluj was voted the friendliest city in Europe, and they absolutely love welcoming visitors there. The main square is liberally littered with churches and museums, and it’s incredibly easy to spend a full day there!

Curious about Cluj? You should be! Check out my guide on things to do in Cluj-Napoca , and see if it’s the day trip for you!

Much like Transylvania, day trips from Budapest to Croatia are just about possible if you’re renting a car. But as long as you remember your passport, the travel to Croatia’s capital city is well worth it!

Yes, it might not be quite as pretty as Dubrovnik, but don’t dismiss it as being less interesting. For a start, you’ve got the iconic sight of St. Mark’s Church, which symbolizes the city thanks to the heraldic crests worked into its roof (if you look up Zagreb on any travel site, this is the image to represent it!). If that’s juts not enough magnificence for you, head along to the Cathedral of Zagreb, which towers over the city, and is quite simply one of the finest Gothic structures you’ll ever see in your life.

Want something a little quirkier? Well, Zagreb has you covered there too. Enter the Museum of Broken Relationships , and be confronted by the mementos of failed romances from all over the world. It’s strangely touching to look at items which were once treasured, and are now bitter reminders of relationships gone wrong, from dolls and shoes, to sex toys and, er, scabs. It’s sentimental yet vaguely hilarious at the same time, and a trip to the gift shop is a must!

Zagreb is only a three hour drive from Budapest, and it’s a day trip well worth taking!

The best day trips from Budapest by train

Okay, one more thing before we wrap up! 

Some of these day trips are far more viable by road rather than rail, and for those of us who can’t drive or don’t want to drive, I thought I’d give my recommendations for the easiest trips to take by train. These are:

So if you’re planning to take your day trips by train, you’re best off sticking to these (although do bear in mind that the Danube Bend towns are best seen on an organized tour ). Rail fares in Hungary are quite ridiculously cheap, so if you’re travelling by train within the country, you’re guaranteed a great day for very little cost!

Share this guide to Budapest day trips!

There we have it; we’ve discovered the best day trips from Budapest! Every single one of them is a fantastic day out, which will give you a better understanding of Hungarian history and culture, or a sneaky peek into the lives of its neighbors. Budapest really is an ideal spot for getting out and about!

If you’ve found this helpful, how about giving it a share? After all, you can help out your fellow travelers, and reap the good karma which comes with it! Simply hit one of those social media buttons on the side of the page, and you can plaster it all over your favorite network.

Even better, how about sharing the below images to Pinterest? That means that this article gets a share (which makes me happy), and you get a bookmark back to this page for when you need it (which makes you happy)! Everyone’s a winner!

Thanks for reading, and happy traveling!

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6 of the best day trips from Budapest

Jan 24, 2023 • 7 min read

Experience more of Hungary on these top day trips from Budapest © NaPeter / Getty Images

Budapest  might offer two cities for the price of one – handsome Buda and fun-filled Pest – but you can taste more of Hungary  on a day trip.

Not far from the capital is the countryside, where wine cellars, cobbled country towns and historic, arty outposts by the Danube await. The area around Budapest is gorgeous all through the year , and once you've had your fill of history, art, wine and nature, you can always retreat back to Budapest's elegant thermal baths to soak in lavish style before supper.

These day trips from Budapest are easy by bus, train, car, or even boat, so pack your walking shoes and start exploring.

1. Delve into Hungarian history over a glass of wine in Eger

Travel time: 1½ hours

Northeast of Budapest, Eger Castle is legendary as the bastion that held out against the Turkish invasion, but the relics of the town's eventual Ottoman conquest, including a 40m-high (131ft) minaret and Turkish baths, still pepper Eger’ s baroque streets.

Apart from the legacy of the siege, Eger is known for its wine – most notably "Bull’s Blood," believed by the Turks to have given the Hungarians superhuman power in battle. Today, you can try Eger wines straight from the barrel in the Valley of Beautiful Women (Szépasszony-völgy Hétvége) on the outskirts of town, where wine cellars are carved into the bedrock of the surrounding hills.

If you have time, pay a visit to the city’s historic Lyceum , with its wood-clad baroque Archdiocesan Library  and its Great Tower, housing an astronomy museum filled with vintage instruments as well as a camera obscura overlooking the city.

How to get to Eger from Budapest: It takes 1½ hours to reach Eger from Budapest by car. Alternatively, trains run from Budapest's Budapest-Keleti station to Eger station, taking around two hours.

2. Wander the cobbled streets of arty Szentendre

Travel time: 40 minutes

As you stroll along  Szentendre ’s cobbled streets, with the 18th-century tower of Blagoveštenska Church  peering above the wine-red and sunset-yellow colored houses, you'll immediately understand why this handsome country town is the most popular day trip destination from Budapest. Szentendre sees visitors year-round, but aim to avoid weekends in high summer when the town can get really busy.

Szentendre had a thriving Serbian community back in the 18th century, and it became better known as an artists’ colony in the late 1920s. The town is still dotted with galleries, including the Margit Kovács Ceramic Collection and  Serbian Ecclesiastical Art Collection . More cultural encounters await at the open-air ethnographic museum on the outskirts of town, and the National Wine Museum , which traces the development of winemaking in Hungary from its earliest days and offers a wine tour with tastings.

How to get to Szentendre from Budapest: Szentendre is about a 40-minute drive north of Budapest, but it's just as fast to come by train. The H5 HÉV suburban train line runs here from Batthyány tér station in the center of Budapest. In summer months, boat services also run up the Danube to Szentendre.

3. Experience extravagance at the graceful Gödöllő Royal Palace

Once the summer residence of Emperor Franz Josef and his wife Elizabeth, Gödöllő Royal Palace carries all the hallmarks of Habsburg extravagance. In the small town of Gödöllő, this many-winged baroque palace, accented with flecks of gold on the facade, houses a network of rooms decked out with upholstered silk in burgundy, turquoise, indigo and lavender. Too much? Not for the Habsburgs.

Golden chandeliers drip from stuccoed ceilings above velvet-covered chairs, Caucasian knotted carpets muffle the floors, and painted ceramic stoves are a reminder of how this lavish palace stayed warm during the icy Hungarian winter. The grounds stretch out into lawns surrounded by an arboretum of orderly trees, statues and botanical curiosities. Don’t miss the Baroque Theatre for a glimpse behind the scenes of a working 18th-century playhouse.

How to get to Gödöllő from Budapest : Gödöllő lies east of Budapest, 45 minutes away by car. Alternatively, take a direct train (40 minutes) from Budapest’s Budapest-Keleti station in the east of the city.

4. Feel the spiritual vibe of holy Esztergom

Travel time: 1 hour

Esztergom is Hungary’s most sacred city. The town’s enormous basilica , rising high above the town and the Danube River, is a striking sight, appearing unexpectedly in a stretch of green countryside. You might have to pinch yourself to be sure this is not some CGI special effect. 

But Esztergom’s appeal goes beyond its iconic domed church; there's also a former royal palace (now a museum) to explore. And, despite this being the seat of Roman Catholicism in Hungary for more than 1000 years, the town is home to a 400-year-old mosque (also now a museum) that visitors can nosy around.

For lunch or an afternoon coffee, Esztergom has a handful of great cafes – try the dramatic courtyard at Padlizsán or inventive Prímás Pince , in the cellars beneath the basilica. The town also boasts a dusting of good hotels and campsites, should you wish to stay the night.

How to get to Esztergom from Budapest: Esztergom is located northwest of Budapest. It takes about an hour to come by car, and 1 hour 20 minutes on the direct trains that run from Budapest-Nyugati station.

5. Spend the day at the lake in Balatonfüred

In summer, Lake Balaton (the largest lake in central Europe) is the go-to destination for Budapest citizens seeking a break from the city hustle. The elegant and historic resort town of Balatonfüred is an ideal taster for lake life, just a couple of hours’ train ride away from the capital.

The town was once frequented by artists, writers and scientists – you’ll find the names of illustrious past visitors inscribed on the placards embedded into the wall of the Pantheon , which overlooks  Gyógy tér , a leafy square with a natural spring at its center, dispensing slightly sulphuric, but drinkable, thermal water.

Balatonfüred remains a very popular resort, loved for its lakeside promenade, which meanders past yachts docked in the small marina with hazy views over to the Tihany peninsula in the distance. Make sure you take a boat trip around the lake from the jetty for the best views.

How to get to Balatonfüred from Budapest: Balatonfüred is southwest of Budapest, about 1½ hours away by car. Alternatively, some direct trains run from Kelenföld Railway Station in the south of Budapest to Balatonfüred in around two hours, or go to Lepsény (one hour), where you can catch a direct bus to Balatonfüred (one hour).

6. Hike the trail up to Visegrád castle

Visegrád is a small town on the Danube Bend  famous for its big views. An intense hike on a rocky woodland trail will take you up to the 13th-century citadel above town for dizzying views over this scenic kink in the Danube River, with the Börzsöny Hills beyond. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also take the City-Bus taxi van service from the ferry pier up to the castle.

Down in Visegrád town, go for a ramble around the romantic ruins of the handsome Renaissance palace , former seat of the warmongering king, Matthias, who ruled Hungary in the 15th century. Afterward, learn about how Hungary’s famous pálinka  (fruit brandy) is made – and how it tastes – in Visegrád’s small pálinka museum.

How to get to Visegrád from Budapest: Visegrád is located to the north of Budapest, just over an hour away by car. While you can come by bus from Újpest-Városkapu train station in Budapest (one hour and 15 minutes), it’s much more romantic to travel by boat up the Danube (one hour by hydrofoil, or three hours and 20 minutes by slow boat) from April to September. Another option is to take the train from Budapest-Nyugati station to Nagymaros-Visegrád (one hour) and then the hourly ferry across the river.

This article was first published June 2019 and updated January 2023

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Home » Travel Guides » Hungary » 15 Best Day Trips from Budapest

15 Best Day Trips from Budapest

The Hungarian capital is renowned for the impressively high density of heritage sites that reside within the city limits and as you’d expect, this makes it a hotbed of tourist attractions and draws in millions of visitors a year.

That being said, the area surrounding Budapest has, if you can believe it, even more to offer in the way of unimaginably beautiful nature, historic wonders and more.

Given Budapest’s location, on the banks of the Danube River, the city is an ideal spot for a base from which you can plan day trips to the seemingly endless number of villages, towns and cities that are scattered around this central part of the country.

Let’s check out some of the best day trips from Budapest :

1. Esztergom

The fact that the city of Esztergom was once originally the capital of Hungary over 1000 years ago might give you some kind of idea as to the sheer amount of historically fascinating sites and activities there are to see and do here.

Located around 60km northwest of Budapest, Esztergom lies where the Danube coincides with the country’s Central Uplands and the resulting scenery is nothing short of spectacular.

With so much to do, it’s tempting to stay for more than a day in Esztergom, but if you’re only there for one, be sure not to miss the Castle Hill area, famed for the Hungarian Royal Palace ruins and the stunning Cathedral with its iconic towers flanking its sides.

If you’ve got time, venture up into the adjacent Pilis Mountains where you can explore oak and beech forests peppered with caves and beautiful chalk cliffs.

A couple of hours train ride away, you’ll find the quaint but gorgeous town of Eger that is famous for its picturesque Cathedral and serene central Plaza where you can spend afternoons watching the sun go down.

With no less than 17 Baroque Churches and a network of thermal baths, you’ll be hard pressed not to stay another day relaxing and exploring in one of the most stunning small towns in Europe.

Some must-see sights here include the medieval Castle of Eger and the beautiful Eger Basilica, dating back to 1837 and built in a classical Baroque style with numerous towers and an unbeatable view.

As with many Hungarian cities, Eger is also home to a charming Old Town where you can spend hours wandering it’s narrow lanes and take in the sounds and smells of the buzzing central marketplace overlooked by the impressive church of St. Anthony.

3. Lake Balaton

A perfect example of the kind of unfiltered beauty that can be found in the areas surrounding Budapest, Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Europe and has an astonishing amount of fascinating activities to do, from rolling, lush grassy landscapes to explore, to vineyards and historic towns.

Also known as the Hungarian inner sea, the lake can be traversed by cruise with one of the many tour operators that’ll take you on a journey over the glassy waters of the 50-mile long expanse.

Thanks to its size and beautiful surroundings though, there’s an endless amount to do besides this.

You can visit the stunning town of Szigliget, where you’ll discover the mysteries of Szigliget Fortress, or hike around the volcanic hills surrounding the lake which are also home to marvellous vineyards.

4. The Danube and Vác

In the west of Hungary, close to the town of Esztergom, the gorgeous Danube River sharply bends towards the south and on this bend you can find the charming little town of Vác, originally a Baroque settlement that has lost none of its quaint attractiveness.

Jump on a river cruise that’ll give you a chance to marvel at the town’s beautiful skyline from the water or simply just dive in and begin exploring.

In Vác’s historic center, you’ll find the impressive and positively enormous Cathedral of Mary’s Ascension, surrounded by streets of luxurious merchant’s homes.

With 18th Century bridges, plazas and Baroque churches, the little riverside town is both fascinating and romantic, perfect for a day trip that combines walking and ferry rides.

5. Gödöllő Palace

A mere 30km to the northeast of Budapest, you’ll find one of the largest and without a doubt, finest Baroque palaces in all of Europe.

The impeccably preserved palace was once the favourite summer getaway of Emperor Franz Joseph and walking through its grounds it’s easy to see why.

A shining example of the beauty of Hungarian Baroque architecture, the building is a quarter of a century-old and has a rich history full of infamous counts and reigning monarchs.

There are various tours that’ll give you the opportunity to explore in full the numerous gardens, stables and vast park that surround the palace.

6. Nagytétény Castle and the Museum of Applied Arts

One of the most convenient day trips to take when in Budapest is to head to the southern district of Nagytétény which can be easily reached by public transport or car.

Here, standing in the middle of a stunning agricultural region, you’ll find the magical Nagytétény Castle, an old Baroque palace that was built in the 18th Century.

Inside, you’ll find the Budapest Museum of Applied Arts, a fascinating collection of artefacts with a focus on fine German and Hungarian furniture from as early as the 15th Century.

This is a perfect day trip for those looking to brush up on a little history and soak up the charm of Nagytétény Castle.

7. Velence Lake

Though not as large and well-known as its popular counterpart, Velence Lake is still the third largest in the whole of Europe and is a perfect alternative for those looking to escape the crowds at the busier Lake Balaton.

The warm water and sandy beaches offer a wonderful respite from the city during summer and it retains its magic during winter when you can skate across the frozen water.

Also on offer are hikes up into the enchanting fauna of the Southern shore, or cycling the 10km around the lake, all the while soaking up the sights.

8. Szentendre

Ever since the 1930’s, artists and creatives have been descending on and settling in the town of Szentendre, which gives you an idea of the vibrant place it is today.

A must see on any trip to the Danube Bend, Szentendre has colorful but cosy streets that lead down to the river’s edge, making for a quaint but beautiful and inspirational town.

If you’re looking for some history, then head to the impressive Blagoveshchensk Church, complete with Baroque archways and immaculate frescoes.

If you’re looking to do a spot of shopping on the other hand, head to one of the town’s markets and browse Szentendre’s famous arts, crafts and artisanal products.

9. Kecskemét

Venturing out into the Hungarian Great Plains, you’ll find the impossibly beautiful city of Kecskemét, right in the middle of the country and perfectly epitomising what life in Hungary can be like when you’re not moving at the breakneck pace of the capital.

Famed for its equine roots, you can embark on tours that take you out into the Great Plains, or visit the popular horse shows at Bugac.

Characterised by ornate and colorful buildings, the city is every bit as beautiful as Budapest but feels isolated enough to attain peace and quiet, the perfect trip for those who like to explore further than the main cities of Hungary.

10. Hollókő

Reachable within an hour by car, Hollókő is one of the most spellbinding places in Hungary on account of it being one of its last inhabited towns that demonstrate and celebrate how Hungarians lived in rural communities centuries ago.

Easter is the best time to visit as there is a festival centered around traditional food, clothes and artisanal crafts that’ll make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

If you want to learn more about the charming way of life you’ll see here, head over to Skanzen where you can visit the open-air museum celebrating these same traditions.

Standing on the Little Hungarian Plain is the quaint town of Győr, just over an hour away on the train from Budapest and nestled between the rivers Danube, Rába, and Rábca.

Though it’s a small town, it more than compensates for in charm, with a selection of Baroque-style buildings to rival any European destination.

The Old Town is one of the most beautiful townscapes in the country and is home to no less than 170 listed buildings, perfect for ambling around and marvelling at architecture.

12. Miskolc

A strong contender for an overnight visit on account of how much there is to there, Miskolc lies a few hours away from Budapest in an area surrounded by stunning nature reserves.

The city’s most famous attraction is the network of thermal baths built into a cave, though with the adjacent Bükk National Park, picturesque Diósgyőr Castle and endless forests to hike through – you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to sightseeing.

13. Aggtelek National Park and the Baradla Cave

One of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this list, Aggtelek National Park covers almost 200 square kilometres and is famed for its unique flora and fauna, as well as a seemingly endless network of paths that are clearly marked and give walkers the freedom to explore to their heart’s content.

During your visit, make sure you don’t miss Baradla Cave, one of the longest and largest stalactite caves in Europe.

Only two hours from Budapest, you’ll find the small town of Pécs, known for its mild climate and popular due to its location on the slopes of the Mecsek Mountains.

With historical attractions that date back to the 11th Century and graves dating back to the 3rd Century, Pécs is not only beautiful, but a hotbed of fascinating sites.

The highlight is the medieval marketplace in the heart of the Old Town, make sure you visit it if you are in town.

15. Koszeg and the Church of St. James

Just over 200km west of Budapest is the town of Koszeg, which is home to one of the most important historical buildings in the country, not to mention one of the most breathtakingly beautiful.

Build in the 1400’s using the remains of a Romanesque church; the building takes influences from an intriguing array of time periods including Baroque, Gothic and Medieval.

Filled with wall paintings and statues, the Church of St James is a fascinating insight into the merging of architectural styles bound together by religion.

15 Best Day Trips from Budapest:

• Lake Balaton
• The Danube and Vác
• Gödöllő Palace
• Nagytétény Castle and the Museum of Applied Arts
• Velence Lake
• Aggtelek National Park and the Baradla Cave
• Koszeg and the Church of St. James

20+ Fantastic Excursions and Day Trips from Budapest

By: Author Contributor

Posted on Last updated: 11th February 2023

Categories Hungary

Last Updated on 11th February 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

While there are many beautiful places to visit in Budapest, these 20+ best day trips from Budapest will give you a taste of what Hungary has to offer without the hassle of straying too far from the capital. They’re all very easy, doable as a group or perhaps on a solo trip to Budapest.

Many people who travel to Hungary stay in Budapest, without realising there are so many worthwhile towns and cities outside of the capital to experience. Hungary is a country rich in history and culture (not to mention delicious food) , and well-worth exploring!

If you’re looking for information on Budapest itself, please check out our guide on how to spend one day in Budapest . Otherwise, taking a day trip from the Hungarian capital can be a great day if it’s raining in Budapest itself.

Gödöllő

Visegrád, lake velence, siófok, kecskemét, hollókő, pécs, bratislava, slovakia, vienna, austria, hévíz, novi sad, serbia, prédikálószék (danube bend), aggtelek national park, košice, slovakia, brno, czech republic, hortobagy national park, day trips from budapest in under 1 hour.

Vác is a town located just outside Budapest.  Many day-trippers overlook this delightful town in favour of Szentendre or Visegrád to explore the Danube Bend region, but Vác actually has a lot to offer. Popular things to do include visiting the epic cathedral, the White Church and Monastery, the Town Hall, the Wine Museum, the Tragor Ignac Museum, and the Diocesan Library.  

Vác is reachable by train from Budapest and takes just over 40 minutes, making it one of the best day trips from Budapest for those short on time. There are two trains leaving per hour from Budapest Nyugati station. After arriving in Vác, it’s a 10 minute walk to the city centre, and all attractions are accessible on foot.

Szentendre (‘St Andrew’ in Hungarian) is one of the most popular day trips from Budapest.  It’s one of the most quaint towns on this list and is teeming with visitors who come to admire its charm.  It was formerly an art colony but now primarily caters to the tourists who visit. 

Some of the most popular things to do in Szentendre include the Art Mill, Ferenczy Karoly Museum, Amos-Anna Museum, and the Belgrade Cathedral.

Szentendre is easily reached on the H5 HÉV suburban railway line from Batthyány tér in Budapest. Trains depart every 10-30 minutes and take 40 minutes to reach the town. Alternatively, you can book a Szentendre Half-Day Tour from Budapest like this one.

Gödöllő is a city east of the capital, frequently visited as a day trip from Budapest.  It’s home to a large Austrian royal palace, the former home of Emperor Franz Josef and Queen Elisabeth.  The royal palace is definitely the most popular site in Gödöllő, but there are a number of other things to do as well. 

Be sure to stop at Queen Elisabeth Park, the Arboretum, the forest railway, and check out the World Peace Gong.  There’s also a Bear Farm, where you can get (somewhat) up-close and personal with bears, wolves, and reindeer.  

The train from Budapest takes under 40 minutes and leaves twice per hour, giving you ample leeway in terms of scheduling your day trip. Alternatively, you can book a Gödöllő Royal Sissi Guided Tour like this one.

Visegrád is a small town north of Budapest, situated on the right bank of the Danube River.  It’s most well-known for the remnants of the Early Renaissance summer palace of King Matthias Corvinus of Hungary as well as the adjacent medieval citadel.  Be sure to also check out the Ruins of Pone Navata while you’re here!  

The train from Budapest will leave you on the opposite side of the Danube, from where you can take a ferry to reach Visegrád.  The entire journey takes around an hour, including time on the ferry.

Alternatively, you can book a guided tour from Budapest to the Catholic Church at Esztergom, the largest basilica in Hungary and the former royal residence of Visegrád like this one.

Less popular than the famous Lake Balaton, Lake Velence is a great option if fewer crowds appeal to you.  Because of the high duration of sunshine hours per year (2,500) coupled with the shallowness of the lake, it’s one of the warmest in all of Europe.

Aside from taking a dip in the warm waters, there are a number of other things to do in the area. There are bicycle paths surrounding the lake’s perimeter to enjoy the scenery and natural beauty. 

There are also a number of hiking trails in the Velence Hills, which are somewhat arduous.  If you’re not in the mood to sweat, stick to the flat area on the lake’s southern shores.  

In the lakeside towns and villages, you can visit museums, Castle Park, Ethnographic museums, and mansions of royal Hungarian families. By train, you can depart from Budapest and arrive in Velence in under an hour – the trains leave hourly.

Day Trips from Budapest in under 2 hour s

Esztergom is a border town separating Slovakia and Hungary. It’s situated on the right bank of the Danube, and boasts the largest basilica of Central Europe.

The Esztergom Basilica is the biggest attraction in town, both literally and figuratively. Széchenyi Square is another popular tourist site, with breathtaking Baroque buildings, fountains, and many restaurants and cafes to satiate your hunger. The most beautiful views of Esztergom are seen from the Slovak side of the river.

Nyugati train station is the Budapest station that serves Esztergom. After you arrive, it’s about a thirty minute walk from the station to the river. 

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Arpad in Budapest which brings you to Esztergom centre. The journey from Budapest will take around an hour and thirty minutes.

Siófok is a charming town on the southern shores of Lake Balaton, and is one of the most popular resorts in all of Hungary. The lakeside town is renowned mainly for its epic nightlife and the seemingly endless parties, particularly on summer weekends. In fact, it’s often referred to as the ‘party capital of Hungary,’ putting the capital city to shame. 

Outside the centre of town there are many stretches of peaceful beaches and places to rent rowboats if you’re looking for something more relaxed. Direct trains from Budapest leave hourly and take just under an hour and thirty minutes.

Kecskemét is a town in central Hungary renowned for its secessionist architecture, museums, and for being the birthplace of composer Zoltan Kodály. There are many things to do in Kecskemét. 

Main sites of interest include the Ornamental Palace, a great example of secessionist architecture which now houses an art gallery. There is a beautiful moorish-style synagogue that is home to the House of Science and Technics.

Bozsó Gyűjtemény features Hungarian folk art and furniture from the local residents, the Museum of Hungarian Naive Artists depicts rural peasant life. Another treat in Kecskemét is the Toy Museum and Workshop, which has a large collection of peasant toys of Hungary, including a wooden pinball machine. 

Workshops at the Toy Museum are great treats for the little ones.  Finally, be sure to check out the Zwack Fruit Brandy Distillery if you’re into spirits and craft cocktails!

If you happen to be in Kecskemét in March, check out the Tavaszi Festival, which features local art and performances. Direct service from Budapest leaves from Nyugati hourly, with the ride taking an hour and twenty minutes. 

Győr is located near the Slovakian and the Austrian borders in northwestern Hungary and is one of the best day trips to take from Budapest. Of the many things to do in this relatively large Hungarian city, the most popular include visiting the reliquary of King Laszlo I, the Basilica of Győr, the City Hall, and the Baroque Gardens in the main square. 

If you’re there after dark, the City Hall Square is best seen at this hour, with twinkling gold lights illuminating it from one end to the other. Although Győr is the sixth largest city in Hungary, its main attractions are in the city centre, and everything is accessible on foot. 

The train from Budapest takes only an hour and fifteen minutes. Alternatively, if you want the travel details taken care of for you, then you can book a Győr, Lébény and Pannonhalma Day Tour from Budapest like this one.

Eger is mainly known for its mouthwatering Hungarian wines, thermal baths, and historic buildings.  This is by far one of my favourites on this list, so if you can only take one day trip from Budapest, seriously consider Eger.  

Eger is home to Egri Vár, a castle housing exhibits of varying sorts as well as a series of underground passages that you can tour. Here, you’ll also see the northernmost medieval minaret in Europe. 

You can climb the minaret to the top, but be forewarned that the stairs are narrow and uneven. If you’re not into heights or confined places, just admire it from the outside. Eger is also home to the Valley of Beautiful Women, which is the main stretch of wineries in the town. 

From the center, it’s about a twenty-minute walk – just follow signs that say ‘Nice Woman Valley’.  Bring your own (empty) bottles, and the vendors will fill you up.  Most vendors sell plastic jugs as well. 

Don’t count on all of the vendors speaking English, as many do not. Google Translate is your friend. If you do stumble across an English-speaking vendor, be sure to ask about the history of Eger’s infamous ‘Bull’s Blood’ wine.

Trains from Budapest leave Keleti each hour, with the trains departing at odd hours being direct. They take about two to two and a half hours. When you get off the train, you’ll have to walk twenty minutes to the city centre. Head towards the Basilica to get to the city centre.

Alternatively, those wanting to delve deeper into the history and culture of Eger who want the transportation taken care of for them might consider booking an Eger Countryside, Culture, and Wine Full-Day Tour like this one.

Miskolc is located in the northeast of Hungary, just east of Bükk mountains. The most popular things to do here include Széchenyi ut. and Városház tér, with 19th century houses and a myriad of different shops to explore. 

Just outside the city, you can find the partially restored ruins of medieval Diosgyor Castle. There are several exhibitions here, including archaeological findings, medieval weapons and two waxworks.  Medieval reenactments are held annually in May and August. 

You can also visit Ottó Herman Museum and the National Theatre of Miskolc. From Budapest, there is an hourly train that departs Keleti and takes two hours.

Hollókő is a preserved traditional settlement in Hungary and the first UNESCO World Heritage Site on our list.  It’s a relatively small village, with just one street. On both sides of the street you’ll find museums and craft shops. 

At the end of the main road, there’s a pathway to the Hollókő Castle – the hike takes roughly twenty minutes to reach the top of the hill, which is well-worth the epic scenery it provides.  

The village is home to some phenomenal celebrations. If you happen to be in Hollókő for Easter, you’ll see residents adorned in ornately decorated folk costumes and partake in Easter customs. 

There is a Raspberry Festival each July, and a Castle Tournament in August. Also in August is the annual grape harvest, which is celebrated with folk performances in both the castle and Hollókő Church.

From Budapest, you can reach Hollókő by bus from Budapest. The bus leaves the main station once daily, at 8:30, arriving at 11. The return bus departs Hollókő at 16:00, returning to Budapest at 18:30.

Day Trips from Budapest in under 3 hour s

Pécs is an enjoyable college town that has remarkably avoided communist architecture and mass tourism. It’s the second on our list of day trips from Budapest that are included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and so is a must-see for history enthusiasts. 

In 2010, Pécs was named one of the European Capitals of Culture. The fact that it isn’t more inundated with more tourists is nothing short of astounding. The Mosque of Pasha Quasim is among the most popular attractions in Pécs. 

It was renovated as recently as the mid-20th century, restoring its iconic Turkish character.  On the interior, there are gemstone-hued frescoes depicting quotes from the Qur’an that date back to the 16th century.  

The Cathedral of Pécs is the second most-visited tourist site in the city, dating back to the 11th century, and is well-worth visiting for its Romanesque style and iconic beauty.

The journey from Budapest to Pécs can be as fast as two hours and forty minutes on an express train, but much longer if taking an alternative method of transportation.

Bratislava is the highly underrated capital city of Slovakia, but one of the most epic day trips from Budapest. One of the perks of staying in Budapest is that it is so well-connected to other European capitals, so you have ample opportunity to visit other countries, even for a short while.

Bratislava has a very pleasant medieval inner city with narrow, cobblestone streets, a hill-top castle perched on the bank of the Danube, and many iconic churches and historical buildings to explore.  

Noteworthy sites in Bratislava that are worth a visit include St. Martin’s Cathedral, Bratislava Castle, the SNP Bridge and the Old Town. When you go to the SNP Bridge, be sure to check out the flying saucer restaurant aptly called ‘UFO’ – there’s an awesome rooftop observation deck that gives its visitors spectacular views of the Old Town and the communist-era apartment blocs. 

From the SNP Bridge, you can catch a twenty minute bus ride to Devin Castle, a must-add item to your Slovakia bucket list. From Budapest, the first direct train departs at 5:41 and the last at 15:41.

Just as Budapest is one of the top day trips from Vienna , so is Vienna one of the best day trips from Budapest. The Austrian capital is a gigantic city with plenty to stay entertained for a day (or more). 

As its stately former home of the Habsburg court and its multiple empires, the city still retains the nickname ‘the Imperial City’. Its stunningly beautiful (and clean) historic city centre is a noted UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Vienna is teeming with history and rich with culture. It’s without-a-doubt the cleanest and most beautiful city I’ve had the pleasure of visiting in all of Europe. There’s an abundance of museums and historical sites to visit. 

I have my personal list of favourite things to do in Vienna, but there’s something for everyone here. St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Ring Road, Schönbrunn Palace, and the Vienna Riding School are all well-worth a visit.  

Trains depart Budapest East or Keleti frequently each day, and tickets include the return journey (within four days). If you only have a short time in the Austrian capital, check out our suggestions for how to spend one day in Vienna .

Hévíz is Hungary’s most renowned spa town, and with good cause. It is home to Gyógy-tó, Europe’s largest thermal lake. A dip in this lake filled with water lilies is a must for anyone visiting the region, in search of some aquatherapy.  

There are plenty of other things to do in Hévíz aside from soaking in the lake. There’s culture, gastronomical delights (Hungarian food is nothing short of excellent), period architecture, water sports, local wine, hiking, or hot air ballooning over the treetops.  

From Budapest, the best way to reach Hévíz is by car, taking under two hours. If public transport is your only option, the bus takes just about three and a half hours.  It’s on the ambitious side, for a day trip, yet doable.  Spending a night here is an excellent option as well.

The intimate town of Tapolca just north of Balaton offers something special on this list. Interested in an underground boat trip? This gives an interesting day trip alternative for rainy days while still having the adventure aspect of an outdoor activity.  

The cavern was discovered accidentally in the early 20th century, when a laborer was digging a well.  Upon further investigation, an extensive network of underground caves was discovered beneath the town. 

There’s also a cave crawl for the little ones and a petting rock exhibit designed to test the senses. The tour and boat trip total about one and a half hours, making it easily doable if you’re taking a day trip from Budapest.  

If you prefer to stay above ground (I can’t say I blame you) , head to the Mill Pond for a bit of old world romance, with charming cafes and small boutiques fringing the perimeter of the pond.

By car, Tapolca is accessible in under two hours from Budapest. If you’re relying on public transportation, the journey by train takes three hours.

Badacsony is one of Hungary’s most famed wine regions. It’s best known for its full-bodied mineral whites. Badacsony has a unique volcanic terroir that leads to its wines most interesting (and appreciable) qualities. 

The region is filled with uniquely shaped hills, interesting buttes and former volcanoes, and small terraced plots of land with houses and villas. It’s the equivalent of a Hungarian version of Tuscany.

Wine tasting in Badacsony is certainly a unique experience to have in Hungary, making it one of the best day trips from Budapest. Badacsony is accessible from Budapest by train, taking just under three hours. A bus ride will take around the same amount of time.

Novi Sad is a city in northern Serbia that makes for one of the numerous international day trips from Budapest on this list. It’s actually the capital of Vojvodina, which is an autonomous region of Serbia.

There’s a lot to see and do in Novi Sad, including the Fortress of Petrovaradin, which houses the city museum. The Old Town, the Novi Sad Synagogue, and the multiple museums that decorate the city will leave you craving more Serbian culture.  

If you happen to visit Novi Sad in July and are into international music festivals, be sure to secure your tickets in advance to EXIT. EXIT Festival features a wide variety of music genres (think Electric Castle or Coachella-type lineups).

In the past, it’s featured Wu Tang Clan, Iggy Pop, Billy Idol, The Cult, and numerous DJs. In 2004, EXIT Festival was named the biggest cultural event in Southeastern Europe.

Novi Sad is accessible as a day trip by car only – the drive takes under three hours. However, if you require public transportation, you’ll need to stay a night or two to make it worth the trip. An indirect bus ride will take just under six hours. Make sure you have your passport, as Serbia is not a Schengen state (nor is it an EU member country) .

Debrecen is the second largest city in all of Hungary with important historical connotations with regard to Hungarian Protestantism. The Nagytemplom, the Reformed Great Church of Debrecen, is a must-see and easily accessible (purchase your ticket here in advance).

As for museums, the Déri Museum is definitely worth a trip, but how much time you want to spend exploring museums in Debrecen strictly depends on how much appreciation you have for Hungarian art. 

Most of the major attractions are in Nagyerdő, the city park, which makes for a pleasant place to spend an afternoon or evening. Debrecen has a stunning botanical garden located next to the university as well.

If you happen to be in the city during August, be sure to visit Virágkarnevál, the Flower Carnival.  It’s an entire celebration dedicated to the summer season and national holidays, with virtually everything made of flowers and plenty of festivities for young and old alike to enjoy.  

One place you absolutely must visit in Debrecen is Csokonai restaurant, which is a steak house specializing in Hungarian style steaks. It’s located right in front of the Opera House.

Trains depart Budapest hourly and take two and a half hours to reach Debrecen. Leave from Nyugati station – Keleti offers trains to Debrecen, but these take an hour longer.

Prédikálószék, aka the Preaching Chair, is one of the Visegrád Mountains that border Komárom-Esztergom county and Pest county. For lovers of nature, this is a perfect option for best day trips from Budapest. 

The Preaching Chair has an altitude of 639 meters, making it the ninth highest point of the mountain range. Its summit offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of Hungary, unfolding a breathtaking view of the Danube Bend, Börzsöny, Nagymaros and Visegrád.  

Getting there from Budapest is slightly tricky without a car. From Budapest, take a train to Nagymaros (approximately forty-five minutes) and from there, take an hour-long taxi. 

If you can hitch a ride with someone or have rented a car, you can get there in under an hour from the city centre.

Aggtelek National Park is located in the northern part of Hungary along the border of Slovakia. This is where you want to come if you want to explore caves, wilderness, and wildlife.  

Aggtelek boasts over 250 caves that span the boundaries of the park. They vary in size as well as in features.  Some offer iconic stalagmites and stalactites (the Baradla Cave, for instance) while others are more renowned for their therapeutic properties (such as the Peace Cave) . The entire network of caves is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Aggtelek is much more than just its caves, however. The area is rich in castles, palaces, forts, ruins, museums, and interesting wildlife. If you’re lucky, you can catch a glimpse of wolves, lynx, deer, and wild boars (among others).  

Driving to Aggtelek is the most time-efficient method, with a drive taking under three hours.  If you must resort to public transportation, be prepared to wake up early, as it’s a four hour journey by train or bus.

Day Trips from Budapest in under 4 hours

I know you’re thinking that these places can’t possibly be doable as a day trip if they take so long, right?  Well, if you’re ok with getting up early and sleeping on the train, trust me, they’re doable!  

The Eastern Slovak city of Košice has had a vibrant history.  It’s a colorful university town with one main stretch of street to explore on foot in one day. There’s plenty to do in Košice on a day trip. 

The most noteworthy things to do in Košice include Saint Elizabeth’s Cathedral, which is the largest in Slovakia and one of the easternmost Gothic cathedrals in Europe. You can climb to the north tower, giving spectacular views of the Old Town. 

St. Michael’s Chapel, Saint Urban’s Tower, the State Theatre, the Singing Fountain, the Plague Column, Jacab’s Palace, and the East Slovak Museum are all highlights worthy of your time. 

For a coffee or snack, head to Halmi Place.  For a more formal meal, Med Melina is my recommendation – both are located along the main street. Košice was named European Capital of Culture in 2013, but is still an underrated and under-appreciated gem in eastern Slovakia. From Budapest, the train takes three and a half hours, and runs twice daily.

Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic, and a fantastic option for a day trip from Budapest if you’d like to experience an international destination. The city sits between the beautiful South Moravian vineyards and the Moravian Karst in a scenic natural environment.  

The city is brimming with pastel-hued buildings, cafes and restaurants, and charming city squares.  It’s an ideal springtime destination, when flowers are blooming and the air is permeated with the aromas of freshly baked Czech pastries from the local bakeries.  

Popular things to do in Brno include visiting Freedom Square, Špilberk Castle, the Moravian Museum, and UNESCO World Heritage Site Villa Tugendhat. This short list is by no means exhaustive, there are a countless number of churches and museums to visit in Brno.  

From Budapest, the train takes just under four hours. If you want to trim an hour off your travel time, hitch a ride with a local or rent a car.

The Hortobagy National Park is where you want to visit to explore the vast Hungarian plains in the east. It’s best-known for its interesting wildlife and rich cultural traditions. This is also where you want to go if you’re interested in horseback riding or seeing the renowned Hungarian riders in Puszta.

There’s a wide variety of flora and fauna in the national park, and is especially popular with bird watchers, who love to visit to see various species migrations. From Budapest, there is a train twice daily and takes under four hours.

If you want to stay longer at Hortobagy National Park, check out Patkos Csarda for cozy rooms in thatch-roofed buildings. The attached restaurant will not disappoint!

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The 9 best day trips from Budapest

Take a trip out of Budapest and discover castle towns, hiking trails, historic villages and one of Europe’s biggest lakes

Most travellers make a beeline for Budapest when they visit Hungary , and we can’t blame them: from ruin bars to blissful spas , the Hungarian capital boasts everything you could want from a European city break . But if you find yourself with a bit of extra time, consider taking a day trip from Budapest and exploring the villages, lakes and hiking trails that lie just outside the capital.

Whether it’s the country’s rich historical treasures, its spectacular cuisine or its beautiful nature, you can get a taste of the thousand colours of Hungary at these cool places not far from the city. All reachable within a couple of hours by public transport, here are some of the very best day trips to take from Budapest, according to Budapest-born writer Adrienn Bardossy.

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9 excellent day trips from Budapest

1.  Lake Balaton

The largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Balaton stretches nearly 50 miles across the western part of Hungary. Owing to its size and dazzling shade, it’s known as the Hungarian Sea – and it really is the closest thing to an ocean this landlocked nation has. There are nearly 180 towns to explore along its shores, as well as several national parks and protected areas. Weather-dependent, the water is lovely for a dip, with the high season lasting from mid-June to the end of August. Summer, of course, is the best (albeit busiest) time to relax on the lake’s natural beaches, or to hop on board a boat and enjoy the sunset. It’s also well worth visiting the surrounding Balaton wine region and tasting some Hungarian wines, such as the local specialty,  Olaszrizling.

How far? 60 miles

Get there… One hour 45 minutes by train from Budapest Déli station to Balatonkenese, the first town by the lake. Once you reach this stop, the train continues to many of the other small villages.

2.  Tata

Just under an hour’s drive from Budapest, Tata makes for a great day trip, particularly if you’re a fan of small towns and nature. It’s known as the ‘city of living waters’ for its many lakes and mills, with the vast Old Lake taking centre stage. Graced at its northern tip by the fourteenth-century Tata Castle, the Old Lake is also the most valuable bird habitat in the region. Visit during the migration season – usually the last week of November – to see as many as 50,000 waterfowl resting here every day.

How far? 37 miles

Get there...  56 minutes by bus from Budapest Keleti station to Tatabánya.

3.  Rám-szakadék

This popular valley for hiking is just outside the historic village of Dömös, and can be reached by train or bus from Budapest in under two hours (or under an hour if you’re driving). Made up of volcanic rock walls dotted with magnificent waterfalls, the terrain makes for perfect – albeit challenging – hiking conditions. The three-spring valley, which cuts into the block of the Rám hill, is a particularly wild, scenic part of the valley. 

How far? 26 miles

Get there… Around 40 minutes from Batthyány tér metro station on the H5 suburban train to Szentendre, then the 50-minute 880 bus to Dömös. Or around 45 minutes by car.

4.  Gödöllő

If you want to take a trip back in time and feel like royalty for the day, the picturesque town of Gödöllő is only a metro ride away from Budapest. Thanks to its location on the outskirts of the city,  Gödöllő is a popular spot to live for ex-Budapesters. It ’s mainly famous for the eighteenth-century Royal Palace, a favourite residence of Queen of Hungary Empress Sisi, as well as the Szent István University. While you ’r e in Gödöllő, enjoy a hearty lunch of  Central European delicacies  at Smarni restaurant, followed by ice cream at Sissi ice-cream parlour. And if you’re in town in December, get properly festive at the Royal Palace’s annual Advent celebrations, which involve everything from puppet shows and concerts to Christmas decoration workshops.

How far? 18 miles

Get there… Around 47 minutes from Örs vezér tere metro station. Catch the H8 suburban train until the final stop, Gödöllő.

5.  Visegrád

A castle town on the edge of the Danube river, Visegrád is an ideal day trip destination from Budapest. Though you can get there pretty sharpish via train, if the weather is good and you have time on your hands then we strongly recommend the journey by boat. You’ll take in extraordinary sights as you sail along the Danube, including the beautiful village of Vác and the uninhabited islands along the river. When you reach Visegrád, head to its famous namesake castle to check out medieval performances, traditional weapons and even the odd jousting tournament. The Pálinka Museum is also worth a stop: it’s all about the history and production process of pálinka, the traditional Hungarian fruit spirit.

How far? 27 miles

Get there… Around 40 minutes by train from Budapest Nyugati railway station to Nagymaros-Visegrád.

6.  Prédikálószék lookout

Take Instagram-worthy photos of the Danube Bend from Prédikálószék, one of the prominent hills of the Pilis, the Prédikálószék, which translates to  ‘Preaching Chair’ . At 639 metres tall, this is the third highest point of the Visegrád Hills, and is one of the most famous viewpoints in all of Hungary. It’s very popular among hikers – and if you’re feeling up to it, you can go even higher by climbing an extra 12 metres to the lookout tower. From Budapest, catch the train to Dömös, from where popular hiking trails lead to this dizzyingly high destination.

How far? Just over 26 miles

Get there… Around 40 minutes from Batthyány tér metro station on the H5 suburban train to Szentendre, then the 50-minute 880 bus to Dömös. Start the hiking trail marked with the red triangle.

7.  Szentendre Skanzen Village Museum

The first open-air museum in the Hungarian countryside, Szentendre Skanzen opened its doors in 1967. It’s a large-scale display of folk architecture and the culture of traditional village life in Hungary. You can explore the nine areas of the museum by foot or by the Skanzen train, which leaves from the entrance.  You can also book in for a wine tasting or goulash cookery class, or  mooch around souvenir shops in each of the museum’s spaces. Once you’re done, indulge in some traditional Hungarian cuisine at the Skanzen restaurant or check out the variety of places to eat in the small town of Szentendre. Fancy staying the night? Skanzen even has its own hotel. Take note: the museum is closed throughout the winter and reopens in April.

How far? 13 miles

Get there… Around 40 minutes by train from Batthyány tér metro station. Catch the H5 suburban train to the final stop, Szentendre.

8.  Esztergom

See where two countries meet on the shores of the Danube at Esztergom: a Hungarian city connected to the Slovakian town of Štúrovo by the Maria Valeria Bridge. The Basilica of Esztergom, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, is well worth a visit. The city is also home to numerous museums: for treasures dating back to the ninth century, visit the Castle Museum; or to learn about all things water – from the history of navigation to the creation of soda water – visit the aptly named Danube Museum. And if you fancy crossing an international border on your day trip, it’s only a five-minute walk over to Slovakia for a beer.

How far? 25 miles

Get there…  One hour 30 minutes by train from Budapest Nyugati station to Esztergom.

9.  Mátrafüred

The picturesque village of Mátrafüred lies at the southern foot of the Mátra Mountains, and it takes less than two hours to get there from Budapest by train or bus. It’s a lovely day trip, but if you have time, stay for longer – there are several great hiking trails through forests in the region, and loads of lovely apartments and wellness hotels waiting to welcome you after a day in the great outdoors. If you want to discover more of the region, take the small railway from Mátrafüred to the town of Gyöngyös. Along the way, you can stop for a wine in the Mátra wine region and taste local whites and rosés.

How far? 52 miles

Get there… Around one hour 20 minutes by the Volán bus from Kacsóh Pongrác út bus stop. Take bus number 1045 and get off directly in Mátrafüred, or get the 1066 to Gyöngyös and change for the 3662 from there to Mátrafüred bus stop.

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Home » Europe » Hungary » 13 BEST Day Trips from Budapest, Hungary

13 BEST Day Trips from Budapest, Hungary

By Author Rebecca Crowe

Posted on Last updated: March 5, 2024

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

From the stunning Hortobágy National Park to Lake Balaton to delicious local wine tours, these are the best day trips from Budapest for a great day out!

As the capital of the historic nation of Hungary, Budapest is a super popular destination for an affordable weekend away.

Whether you’re looking to spend some time at the famous thermal baths, explore the many museums and galleries, or enjoy the historic architecture, it’s an amazing city break. In fact, if you’re staying in the city, you can check out my guide to the best things to do in Budapest !

However, if you’re looking to get outside the city, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Budapest. Most tourists just go and see Budapest, but there is so much to see and do in Hungary – it really is an amazing place to visit! 

From amazing wine regions to stunning lakes and mountains, the areas around Budapest are vibrant and interesting. I love the variety that a little day trip can add to a city break – it helps you really get a feel for the country and the culture as a whole.

Whether you’re looking for Budapest tours, you want to get your fill of adventure, or you want to experience history up close and personal, one of these amazing Budapest day trips is bound to be right up your street. 

So, without further ado, here are the best day trips from Budapest. Let’s dive in and find out more!

Planning a trip to Budapest in winter ? Then check out the best things to do in Budapest in winter .

Are you planning an amazing holiday to Budapest? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in Budapest:

• Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa (best rated 5* hotel)
• Eurostars Ambassador  (best rated 4* hotel)
• Butik Art Hotel (cheap with great reviews)

Best activities and tours in Budapest :

• Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco (top rated tour)
• Sightseeing Tour by Segway (great way to see the city)
• Full-Day Gellért Spa Ticket (the ultimate relaxation)

Best day trips from Budapest, Hungary

Hortobágy national park.

Located just two hours East of Budapest, you’ll find Hungary’s largest national park, Hortobágy National Park. As a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site, Hortobágy National Park draws tourists from all over Europe to experience the Hungarian grasslands. 

Once you’re there, you’ll be able to experience local flora and fauna, as well as a cultural museum that has tons of examples of local folklore and craftsmanship. Whether you love the great outdoors or want to learn more about Hungarian traditions, this is an excellent Budapest day trip. 

Northwest along the mighty Danube you’ll find the Slovakian capital of Bratislava. If you’re driving it’s only 2 hours and 10 minutes away, but many people opt to jump on a river cruise up the Danube, taking the slower, more relaxing journey between the two European capitals. 

With charming cobbled streets, amazing hiking trails, and beautiful parks throughout the city, you can easily enjoy a day trip from Budapest to Hungary. In fact, it’s a hugely common interrailing route , so you won’t even need to drive!

Once you’re in Bratislava, I’d recommend going on a walking tour of the city so you can take in all the sites on your day trip.

Aggtelek National Park

If you’re looking to get out in nature during your time in Budapest, pack up a day bag and head just under three hours northeast to the stunning Aggtelek National Park . As another Hungarian UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aggtelek National Park has been very well-kept and protected over the years, despite the huge numbers of tourists that visit every year.

The main draw of Aggtelek National Park? Over 280 jaw-dropping caves that you can explore, including Europe’s largest stalactite cave, Baradla. Spanning over 26 kilometres long, you can easily spend your entire Budapest tour exploring just this one cave alone. You can find out more about this tour here !

Lake Balaton

Who doesn’t hanging out around the water? I know that enjoying lakeside retreats is one of my favourite things, especially when I’ve been in the city for a while. Lake Balaton, just an hour and a half away from Budapest, is also known as the Hungarian Sea as it spans over 200 kilometers, so it looks like it goes on forever.

Hike around the water’s edge, have a dip, and cool off in the waters, or enjoy watersports like paddleboarding or kayaking. Lake Balaton is especially beautiful in the summer months the resorts come to life.

There are some amazing tours from Budapest that take you to the lake, show you around, and take care of everything else for you. This really is one of the best day trips in my opinion!

If you’re looking for a quick and easy day trip from Budapest, simply head half an hour north to the beautiful town of Szentendre. Almost immediately, you’ll feel like you’re a world away from the hustle and bustle of Budapest in this quieter town with its cobbled streets.

This quaint town has a ton of cultural attractions, the most popular of which is the ethnography museum, which has plenty of folklore exhibits. There are also so many museums, galleries, and churches to explore if you’re interested in Hungarian architecture. 

Want to check out a cute Hungarian town on the Danube that isn’t overrun with tourists? Vác might be just what you’re looking for. Reachable by train from Budapest in just 40 minutes, Vác is a quieter spot than a lot of riverside towns, but there is still plenty to enjoy.

One of the more niche attractions in Vác is The National Wine Museum . Yep, I know, it already sounds like a fun Budapest day trip! As Hungarian winemaking goes back centuries, this specialist museum is full of amazing facts and exhibits, as well as a tipple or two that you can try!

Kecskemét

If you love being out in the countryside and rural traditions then there’s going to be no better day trip from Budapest than Kecskemét. As a small farming town, the locals pride themselves on their horsemanship skills, even having festivals and events to show off to locals and tourists alike.

Aside from the horse shows, you can enjoy the calm hillsides and benefit from the local vineyards and brandy-making factories all around the area. As it’s only an hour away from Budapest, it’s the perfect day trip from the city. 

Gödöllő

Interested in European history and politics? Jump on one of the trains heading out towards Eger and get off at Gödöllő, just 25 minutes outside of the city centre. Here, you’ll find the stunning Gödöllő Palace, built and lived in by Hungarian royalty way back in the 18th century. 

In more recent history, it was occupied by Soviet Troops and since then it’s been restored back to its former glory. You can easily jump on a guided tour around the palace and learn more about the bloody history of the Hungarian royal family. 

Located just 30 minutes north of Budapest by car, or an hour and a half by train is the stunning wine region of Eger. Honestly, if you do just one Budapest day trip on this list, I’d recommend this one. Not only can you drink some amazing local wines, but you can also enjoy a soak in one of Eger’s famous thermal baths. 

If you’re seeking out culture in Eger, head to the Egri Vár Castle. Filled with tunnels, passageways, and minarets, this beautiful castle is like a rabbit warren running through the Hungarian countryside. 

Journey an hour North of Budapest, you’ll find the amazing town of Esztergom. Straddling the border between Slovakia and Hungary, you can experience a blending of the two cultures, which can be seen in the awesome architecture all around the area.

From dazzling Baroque museums and buildings to the mighty Esztergom Basilica – the largest basilica in the whole of Central Europe – Esztergom is an architecture lover’s paradise, with stunning river views. 

As Hungary’s second city, Debrecen is a popular day trip for tourists to take from Budapest. It’s around two and a half hours away from the city centre, so it’s one of the further destinations on this list, but it’s definitely worth it! 

With museums specialising in Hungarian art to historically-poignant churches to stunning botanical gardens, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy on a day trip to Debrecen. In fact, you might need more than a day to see all the sights and enjoy the many summer times festivals in Hungary’s second-largest city.

Also located on the Danube River, you’ll find the glorious Austrian capital of Vienna . Whether you sail down the riverfront, speed across on the train, or drive around an hour and a half west, it’s easy to go between these two iconic European capital cities.

Vienna is best known for its stunning amount of historic buildings, including the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the gorgeous Schönbrunn Palace.  Although I’d recommend staying a few days in Vienna to experience it to the max, if you’re short on time, you can hit all the major sights in a long day trip from Budapest. Oh, and if you’re looking at making it a little longer, this is one of the best weekend trips from Budapest!

Visegrád

If you want to check out one of the most impressive royal palaces in Hungary, jump on a train and a short boat ride to the town of Visegrád. Located on the North side of the Danube bend, Visegrád is home to the famous summer palace of King Matthias Corvinus of Hungary.

Located just an hour away from Budapest, this Renaissance-era palace is situated within an impressive and imposing Medieval citadel that transports you back in time. Wander around the citadel, take a tour around the summer palace itself, or sit and enjoy a spot of lunch on the banks of the Danube. Truly, it’s a special place to visit while you’re in the Budapest area.

If you’re interested in learning more about Budapest and why this is such a fascinating place to visit, then check out my fun facts about Budapest here!

So there you have it, all the best day trips from Budapest. Where are your favourite places to visit near Budapest? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll check them out!

Like this blog post? Then Pin it for the future!

About the Author

Rebecca Crowe is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about travel, food, and outdoor adventure. She is often found holding a taco, in an airport, or halfway up a climbing wall.

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15 amazing day trips from Budapest

If you’re looking to escape city life for the day, I’ve got you covered with some of the best day trips from Budapest.

Don’t get me wrong, I adore Budapest. It’s city of grand architecture, vibrant culture, and rejuvenating thermal baths.

While the city itself offers a myriad of attractions, its location in the heart of Central Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding regions.

On my recent visit to Hungary, I decided to explore beyond the city itself. And I found a variety of wonderful destinations just a short journey from the lively city centre.

From historical towns brimming with mediaeval charm to serene natural landscapes, the options for day trips from Budapest are as varied as they are fascinating.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to explore beyond the city’s limits, I’ve got a day trip for you.

In my guide, I share some of my favourite day trips from Budapest, plus a selection of options recommended by friends and fellow travellers. 

From the rolling hills of the Hungarian countryside to the charming streets of ancient towns, there is plenty to explore.

So, pack your day bag, lace up your walking shoes, and join me as we discover the treasures that lie just beyond Budapest.

This post contains affiliate links .

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

1. Szentendre 

Best for: Art lovers

By car: 30 minutes

By train: 45 minutes

Just a stone’s throw from Budapest, Szentendre is a wonderfully charming town that I know art and history lovers will thoroughly enjoy exploring.

I’d recommend this day trip from Budapest for those who don’t want to travel too far, as it’s only a half hour drive away from the city.

Known as the “Town of Painters,” Szentendre’s cobbled streets, baroque architecture, and vibrant art scene have long been a source of inspiration for artists.

As well as its artsy heritage, Szentendre has retained much of its historical character too. The town’s architecture is a delightful mix of mediaeval, baroque, and 18th-century buildings.

The Main Square, with its beautiful baroque church and colourful townhouses, forms the heart of the town. It’s incredibly picturesque, so make sure you bring your camera!

What I really love about Szentendre is its thriving artistic community. The town is dotted with galleries, studios, and museums, showcasing a wide range of art from traditional to contemporary.

The Margit Kovács Ceramic Museum and the Marzipan Museum are two of my favourites.

Activities & tours to book in Szentendre:

• Danube Bend & Szentendre with Lunch: Day Tour from Budapest
• Budapest: Szentendre Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch
• From Budapest: Szentendre Artists’ Village Tour

Best for: A touch of royalty

By car: 40 minutes

By train: 25 minutes

​​Gödöllő is a serene town located just a short journey from the city centre and is another of my favourite day trips from Budapest.

The town’s main attraction is the magnificent Gödöllő Palace. It provides a fascinating insight into Hungary’s rich aristocratic history and royal past.

In fact, it’s one of the largest Baroque palaces in Hungary. I’d highly recommend exploring the beautifully manicured gardens which surround the palace.

Inside, the palace’s restored rooms and exhibitions offer insights into the lives of its royal residents, showcasing exquisite furnishings, artworks, and personal items of the imperial family.

Beyond the palace, Gödöllő itself is a quiet town with a pleasant, laid-back atmosphere.

The town hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, so I’d definitely suggest checking out the events calendar when planning a visit.

The area surrounding Gödöllő offers a number of lovely nature walks and paths, ideal for a peaceful afternoon outside of the city.

Activities & tours to book in ​​Gödöllő:

• From Budapest: Gödöllő Royal Sissi Guided Tour
• From Budapest: Royal Palace of Gödöllő Private Tour
• From Budapest: Gödöllő Palace of Queen Elisabeth Tour

3. Lake Velence

Best for: Nature lovers

By train: 50 minutes

A delightful contrast to the urban hustle and bustle of Budapest, picturesque Lake Velence is a truly serene destination.

It’s perfect if you’re looking to spend some time outdoors, soak in the surrounding nature, and enjoy some fun activities.

Located halfway between Budapest and Lake Balaton, this lesser-known gem is an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip.

Lake Velence, with its warm, shallow waters, is particularly popular in the summer months. It’s one of the warmest lakes in Europe, making it perfect for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing.

The lake is also a haven for birdwatchers and animal lovers, with various species of birds and aquatic wildlife to be found.

Well-maintained bike paths circle the lake, making it ideal for cycling enthusiasts after a scenic route.

For families, there are numerous beaches and recreational facilities where children can play and enjoy the outdoors.

The towns and villages surrounding Lake Velence, such as Agárd, Gárdony, and Velence, offer a glimpse into local life and culture. 

4. Visegrád & Danube Bend

Best for: Epic scenery

By car: 1 hour 10 minutes

By train: N/A

Visegrád, located in the heart of the Danube Bend, boasts some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in Hungary.

This area, known for its panoramic views of the Danube River and its rich history, is a favourite among visitors to Hungary – and I can see why.

Visegrád is famed for its imposing fortress, the Visegrád Citadel, perched high on a hill overlooking the Danube.

This mediaeval castle was once a royal residence and fortress. Visitors can explore the remains of the palace, the Solomon Tower, and enjoy beautiful views of the Danube Bend from the castle’s terraces.

The Danube Bend itself is renowned for its extraordinary beauty – and believe me when I say, it is extraordinary!

This region offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in Hungary, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and river cruising.

There are various viewpoints to check out around Visegrád. For example, the Citadel or the nearby Pilis Mountains provide captivating vistas of the river and surrounding countryside.

The lush forests and hills of the Danube Bend are ideal for outdoor adventures and provide a refreshing change of pace from the urban environment.

Activities & tours to book in Visegrád & Danube Bend:

• Danube Bend: Full-Day Hiking Tour from Budapest
• Danube Bend Hiking and Kayaking Adventure
• Danube Bend: Private 8-Hour Full Board Tour from Budapest

5. Esztergom

Best for: History and culture

By car: 1 hour

By train: 1 hour 20 minutes

Esztergom can be found on the Danube River near the Hungarian-Slovakian border.

Known as the birthplace of Saint Stephen, the first King of Hungary, it’s a city steeped in history and religious significance.

I’d say this makes it a must-visit destination for those interested in the country’s history and heritage.

The crowning glory of Esztergom is its magnificent basilica, the Esztergom Basilica. Also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and Saint Adalbert (quite the mouthful!).

This stunning structure is the largest church in Hungary and one of the largest in Europe.

It’s worth a visit for its impressive architecture, vast interior, and remarkable collection of religious art.

The basilica’s dome offers a panoramic view of the Danube and the surrounding areas, including a glimpse across the border into Slovakia.

The city makes a great excursion as it’s a great base for exploring the rest of the Danube Bend, with its breathtaking landscapes and charming towns.

This also makes it a lovely destination for riverside walks and other leisure activities, adding to its appeal as one of the best day trips from Budapest.

Activities & tours to book in Esztergom:

• From Budapest: Full-Day Danube Bend Bus/Boat Tour with Lunch
• Michelin star weekend in Esztergom, Hungary

6. Rám-szakadék

Best for: Hikers

By train: 3 hours 30 minutes

Rám-szakadék is a spectacular gorge located in the Pilis Mountains near Budapest. Hikers, this one is for you!

Known for its steep walls and lush surroundings, this natural wonder provides both a thrilling and scenic hiking experience.

In fact, the hike through Rám-szakadék is often considered one of the most exciting hiking trails in Hungary. It’s a bit of a challenge but it’s definitely rewarding!

The trail takes hikers through narrow passages, over streams, and along rocky paths. It’s an exhilarating journey through the heart of the gorge.

The gorge is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and a connection with nature. The sound of the flowing water and the cool, damp air of the forested gorge offer a refreshing respite.

As the hike can be completed in a few hours, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the serene beauty of the area.

The hike can be challenging, so I’d recommend wearing appropriate footwear and to be prepared with water and snacks. 

I’d say the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.

Best for: Beautiful Baroque architecture

By car: 1 hour 20 minutes

By train: 1 hour 5 minutes

Győr is a vibrant city located halfway between Budapest and Vienna. Rich in history and art, the city offers a delightful exploration for those venturing out from Budapest.

Győr’s old town is full to the brim with Baroque architecture, boasting beautifully preserved buildings and charming cobblestone streets.

Don’t miss the Győr Cathedral with its stunning interior, and the historic Bishop’s Castle.

Museums and galleries, such as the Győr National Theater and the Museum of Roman Archaeology, provide the perfect way to while away a few hours.

Győr’s culinary scene offers a taste of traditional Hungarian cuisine, so it’s a great destination for foodies too.

I love that the city is also a gateway to exploring the wider region, including nearby vineyards and the banks of the Moson-Danube, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.

Best for: A glimpse into the past

By train: 2 hours 10 minutes

Hollókő is a really unique destination. It’s a picturesque village located northeast of Budapest and is a living example of rural life in Hungary several centuries ago.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its well-preserved folk architecture and traditions, so it feels very much like a time capsule.

The village is most famous for its traditional Palóc houses, which are constructed using white-washed walls and steep, dark-tiled roofs.

These historic buildings, some of which house museums and craft shops, provide an authentic representation of 17th-century Hungarian village life.

Hollókő is not just an open-air museum; it’s a living community where traditional customs are still practised. It’s truly fascinating!

Visitors can witness local crafts, such as weaving and embroidery, and experience folk festivals and events that celebrate the village’s heritage.

I’d recommend a visit to the nearby Hollókő Castle, perched atop a hill, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

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9. Lake Balaton

Best for: A lakeside escape

By car: 1 hour 30 minutes

By train: 1 hour 30 minutes

Lake Balaton is Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake. It’s a beloved summer destination, although I actually visited in winter and still had a wonderful time.

Known as the “Hungarian Sea,” this expansive lake offers a variety of experiences, from lively beach resorts to serene thermal spas.

The towns of Siófok and Hévíz are among the lake’s most popular places to visit – I stayed in the latter myself.

Siófok, on the southern shore of Lake Balaton, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive beaches.

Often referred to as the party capital of the lake, Siófok is bustling with beach bars, nightclubs, and lively summer events.

On the western end of Lake Balaton lies Hévíz, which has a very different atmosphere. It’s famous for its unique thermal lake, which is the largest of its kind in the world.

The warm, mineral-rich waters of Lake Hévíz are said to have therapeutic properties, so it attracts those seeking relaxation and healing. Read my guide to visiting Hévíz .

Whether it’s sailing, fishing, hiking in the surrounding hills, or exploring the lake’s numerous vineyards, there is plenty to do in Lake Balaton.

Activities & tours to book in Lake Balaton:

• From Budapest: Lake Balaton Tour
• The Turquoise Sea of Hungary: Lake Balaton Private Tour
• Lake Balaton: Paddle Board Tour of Tihany National Park

Best for: Wine lovers

By car: 1 hour 40 minutes

If you love wine as much as I do, then Eger is likely to be one of the best day trips from Budapest for you.

The city is known for its exquisite wines, beautiful baroque architecture, and the heroic tale of its castle.

Eger Castle is a highlight of any visit to the city – don’t miss the panoramic views of the town from the castle walls; they are simply breathtaking.

The city’s well-preserved baroque architecture undoubtedly adds to its charm. The Eger Cathedral, with its impressive facade and gorgeous interior, is one of Hungary’s most beautiful churches.

Plus, I think the town’s pedestrian streets, lined with colourful buildings, are perfect for leisurely strolls.

Eger is also renowned for its wine, particularly the red blend known as Egri Bikavér (“Bull’s Blood of Eger”).

For a spot of wine tasting, I’d recommend heading to The Valley of the Beautiful Women, just outside the city centre. Here you’ll find numerous cellars offering samples of the region’s best wines.

For relaxation, carve out some time to enjoy Eger’s thermal baths, such as the Turkish-era Eger Thermal Bath.

The city also serves as a gateway to the nearby Bükk National Park, where you can go hiking and exploring.

Activities & tours to book in Eger:

• Eger: Countryside, Culture, and Wine Private Tour
• From Budapest: Guided Tour of Eger with Wine Tasting

Best for: Sunny weather

By car: 1 hour 50 minutes

By train: 2 hours 20 minutes

Szeged is another of my favourite day trips from Budapest. Known as the “City of Sunshine,” it’s famed for its bright weather, which I think is reason alone to visit!

This lively university city offers a blend of academic vibrancy, architectural splendour, and culinary excellence.

Szeged is home to a stunning array of Art Nouveau buildings, including the Votive Church and the Szeged Synagogue. 

Szeged is also known for its foodie offerings, particularly the Szeged Fisherman’s Soup. It’s a spicy paprika-based river fish soup that I think is a must-try for visitors.

For those after a spot of relaxation, the nearby Ópusztaszer National Heritage Park provides a peaceful escape with its historical and natural exhibits.

The Tisza riverfront in Szeged is another spot for leisurely walks and enjoying the scenic views.

12. Miskolc

Best for: A blend of both urban and rural

By car: 2 hours 10 minutes

The third-largest city in Hungary, Miskolc is a unique city where industrial roots meet remarkable natural landscapes. It’s this contrast that makes it an intriguing day trip from Budapest.

Miskolc’s industrial heritage is a significant part of its identity, with the former ironworks and current museums offering insights into the city’s past.

The cultural scene is vibrant, highlighted by the Miskolc National Theatre and various galleries and museums dotted around the city.

Nearby Lillafüred, a small resort town within the city limits, offers a stark contrast to Miskolc’s urban environment.

Set in the Bükk Mountains, Lillafüred is home to a beautiful palace hotel, serene hanging gardens, and the highest waterfall in Hungary. 

One of Miskolc’s unique attractions is the Cave Baths of Miskolctapolca. These thermal baths, set in a natural cave system, provide a unique spa experience. These are not to be missed!

The city also boasts historical architecture, like the Gothic Protestant Church of Avas, and several castles in the surrounding area. 

13. Bratislava

Best for: Charm and beauty

By car: 2 hours 15 minutes

By train: 2 hours 25 minutes

If you’re looking to cross borders, just a short journey from Budapest lies Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia.

Bratislava’s Old Town is a highlight, with narrow, winding streets that lead to the main square, historic buildings, and cosy cafes.

The Bratislava Castle, perched on a hill, provides unforgettable views of the city and the Danube. While the mediaeval Michael’s Gate is another must-see historical site.

The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, like the Slovak National Museum and the Bratislava City Museum. Both worth a visit if you ask me!

For the foodies amongst you, Bratislava’s culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural influences. You’ll find a range of Slovak, Hungarian, Austrian, and modern international cuisine.

The Danube riverfront is a popular spot for leisurely walks and dining, while the UFO Observation Deck offers panoramic views of the city.

Activities & tours to book in Bratislava:

• Neighbouring in Bratislava: Full-Day Tour from Budapest
• Bratislava: Private Walking Tour
• Bratislava: Wine Tasting with Sommelier

Best for: Arts and architecture

By car: 2 hours 45 minutes

Vienna, the illustrious capital of Austria, lies within surprisingly easy reach of Budapest. It’s an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in imperial history, classical music, and stunning architecture.

This grand city, once the heart of the Habsburg Empire, offers a day trip experience filled with culture, art, and timeless elegance.

Vienna is famous for its magnificent palaces, such as Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg Imperial Palace.

The city’s skyline is also adorned with iconic structures like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Belvedere Palace.

As the birthplace of many classical composers, including Mozart and Beethoven, I love that Vienna is steeped in musical history.

To truly experience they city’s musical heritage, you cannot miss a visit to the Vienna State Opera or the Musikverein.

While art lovers can explore world-class museums, such as the Albertina and the Museum of Art History (Kunsthistorisches Museum).

Foodies will of course love sampling the Viennese cuisine, from the famous Wiener Schnitzel to the delightful Sacher Torte.

The traditional Viennese coffeehouses, recognised by UNESCO for their cultural significance, are another highlight of this elegant city.

I can’t think of a better way to spend an hour or two than with a coffee, pastry, and a chance to soak up the local ambiance.

Activities & tours to book in Vienna:

• Transfer by Car to/from Vienna & Budapest
• Vienna: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & Mozart in the Musikverein
• Vienna PASS: 1, 2, 3, or 6 Days of Sightseeing

15. Aggtelek National Park

Best for: Nature and adventure

By car: 3 hours

By train: 4 hours

Aggtelek National Park, located in the rugged terrain of northeastern Hungary, is a natural wonderland famed for its extensive cave system. This includes the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Baradla Cave.

The park offers a unique and enchanting day trip experience, a world away from the urban life of Budapest.

The highlight of Aggtelek National Park is undoubtedly the Baradla Cave, known for its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Guided tours of various lengths take you through the cave’s vast chambers and corridors, revealing a hidden underground world of geological wonders.

Beyond the caves, the park is a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. I’d definitely recommend exploring the marked hiking trails that wind through lush forests and past scenic karst formations.

The area’s rich biodiversity and unique geological features make it a fascinating destination for both casual walkers and serious naturalists.

While a bit further from Budapest than some other day-trip destinations, Aggtelek National Park is still accessible for a full-day excursion – and I do believe the longer journey is worth it!

This concludes our exploration of day trips from Budapest! Have you visited any of these incredible destinations? Let me know in the comments below.

For more Hungary travel inspiration, you may also like:

• Budapest travel guide – coming soon
• 15 best things to do in Budapest in the winter
• Hévíz travel guide
• Prague or Budapest: which city to visit

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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22 Top-Rated Day Trips from Budapest

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Nov 26, 2021

While not one of Europe's largest countries – it has a population of just under 10 million citizens – Hungary has one of the continent's highest densities of historic sites and tourist attractions. Add to this the fact that the country has stunningly beautiful scenery, and you'll not be surprised to learn that Hungary is increasing in popularity as a European tourist destination.

Given the central location of Budapest, as well as its idyllic position on the banks of the mighty Danube River, this always bustling capital is the perfect place from which to venture out and explore Hungary as part of a fun day trip.

Across this friendly country, you'll find countless cities, towns, and villages to explore. Not only have they successfully preserved their historic roots, but they also reflect a tremendous variety of influences, from the Romans to the Ottoman Empire. And all of them are worth visiting. Whether you are enjoying a family day trip or, if traveling a little further afield, planning an overnight stay in one of Hungary's many unique accommodation choices, you'll not be disappointed.

Whatever your choice, be sure to make full use of our list of the top day trips from Budapest, Hungary.

1. Eger's Baroque Heritage

2. the danube bend and vác, 3. the royal palace of gödöllo, 4. nagytétény castle and the museum of applied arts, 5. the hungarian open air museum, 6. aggtelek national park and the baradla cave, 7. pécs and its picturesque precincts, 8. szentendre's slavic influences, 9. gyor: hungary's baroque city, 10. esterházy palace, fertod, 11. kecskemét and the puszta great plains, 12. székesfehérvár's royal basilica, 13. the castle of diósgyor, 14. historic castle hill - esztergom, 15. hortobágy national park and the puszta, 16. the medieval reformed church of nyírbátor, 17. pannonhalma archabbey, 18. the savaria museum in szombathely, 19. koszeg and the church of st. james, 20. nádasdy castle and museum in sárvár, 21. castle quarter, veszprém, 22. st. george's church in ják, map of day trips from budapest.

The town of Eger, located 140 kilometers east of Budapest on the southern slopes of the Bükk Mountains, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe. Boasting 17 Baroque churches, thermal baths, and a Turkish minaret, this well-preserved historic town makes a great day trip destination from Budapest.

Highlights include the lovely Eger Cathedral (Egri főszékesegyház). Also known as Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Apostle, this beautiful structure was built in 1837 in classical style, featuring twin towers and a wide stairway leading to its portico. Superb views over the Old Town can be enjoyed, too.

Other fun things to do in Eger include visiting the István Dobó Castle Museum , as well as the Baroque Lyceum. The latter is notable for its 53-meter-tall tower and revolving dome with more fine views.

Be sure to also explore the narrow lanes of the Old Town. It's here you'll also find the large central market place and the impressive church of St. Anthony, built in 1773.

Finally, no sightseeing visit would be complete without visiting medieval Eger Castle (Egri vár). Built in the 11th century, it was expanded numerous times over the ages, and is a delight to explore.

Between Esztergom and Szentendre in western Hungary, the Danube River makes a sharp turn south before flowing through Budapest. The historic town of Vác, situated in the middle of the bend on the left bank, is just 34 kilometers north of Budapest and has retained the charm of an attractive little Baroque town.

You can also admire great views of the town's silhouette, with its characteristic church towers, from a river cruise or from Danube Island, accessible from Vác by car ferry. The town's historic center is in fact dominated by its huge cathedral, the Assumption Cathedral. Also notable here is Március 15 tér (March 15th Square) to the north, lined by fine old merchant homes.

The road from Budapest crosses a twin-arched, 18th-century bridge that spans the Gombás River, and is worth a visit for its fine statues. Other landmarks easily explored on foot are the 1745 Piarist Church of St. Anna, with its narrow towers and pointed spires, and the Baroque triple-naved Franciscan church, built using stone from the medieval cathedral.

Located only 30 kilometers northeast of Budapest stands one of Europe's largest Baroque palaces: the Royal Palace of Gödöllo. The favorite summer retreat of Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Queen Elisabeth (known as "Sisi"), this spectacular 250-year-old structure is a masterpiece of Hungarian Baroque architecture.

The palace was in fact originally built in the 1700s as the estate of the Grassalkovich counts, and was later owned by the Hapsburg monarchs. A variety of guided tour options are available that include its extensive park, gardens, and royal stables. A variety of fun programming is also available for families traveling with children.

Address: Gödöllo, Grassalkovich-kastély 5852, 2100 Hungary

Official site: https://kiralyikastely.hu/main-page.html

Nagytétény, the most southerly district of Budapest and just a few minutes away via car or public transit, is set on the Buda side of the Danube in a largely agricultural region once favored by the Romans. Here, you'll find the lovely old Baroque Nagytétény Castle, built in the 18th century on the remains of a 15th-century palace.

After extensive damage, it was rebuilt after WWII and now houses the Furniture Museum of Budapest's Museum of Applied Arts . Of particular interest are its many fine examples of German and Hungarian furniture from the 15th to 19th centuries, along with a collection of stoves, artwork, china, and Roman artifacts.

Address: Budapest, Kastélypark u. 11, 1225 Hungary

Official site: www.imm.hu/en/contents/239,Nagytétényi+Kastély

The Hungarian Open Air Museum (Szentendrei Skanzen Village Museum) is located just 23 kilometers from Budapest and faithfully recreates the rural architecture and lifestyle of 10 different 18th-century Hungarian settlements. Buildings typical of the region are scattered throughout the gently rolling landscape and linked by pathways.

In addition to visiting the quaint houses, you'll see various working quarters, including old mills, stables, barns, a forge, and a weaver's workshop. There's also a village church. Guided tours are available, as are fun programs and things to do for kids, including the chance to ride on the historic Skanzen train.

Address: Szentendre, Sztaravodai út 75, 2000, Hungary

Official site: http://skanzen.hu/en

Covering a vast area of nearly 200 square kilometers, much of it protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aggtelek National Park (Aggteleki Nemzeti Park) sits astride the Slovak-Hungarian border. A travel time of just 2.5 hours by car from Budapest makes it one of the country's most popular (and easy) day trips.

In addition to its unique flora and fauna, the park is famous for an excellent network of marked paths attracting walkers from across Europe. The chief attraction here, however, is the Baradla Cave .

Over 25 kilometers long and extending into Slovakia, it's one of the largest and most impressive stalactite caves anywhere on the continent. The main tunnel stretches seven kilometers, with several wide passages formed over thousands of years as rain and melting snow penetrated cracks in the limestone.

The water dripping through the chalk has carved bizarre shapes, with stalactites hanging from the roof like giant icicles, and stalagmites in all colors of the rainbow rising up from the floor. A variety of English language guided cave tours are available, some of which can be organized to include travel from Budapest.

Address: Aggtelek National Park Directorate, H-3758 Jósvafo, Tengerszem oldal. 1, Hungary

Official site: https://anp.hu/en/

Pécs, a small town just a two-hour drive south of Budapest, is one of the most popular day trips for tourists due to its mild climate and location on the slopes of the Mecsek Mountains. Its many first-rate historical and cultural attractions range from Early Christian burial chambers to Turkish mosques, along with numerous well-preserved medieval buildings and contemporary art galleries.

The most popular points of interest in the fortified Old Town are the Cathedral Precincts surrounding the lovely Pécs Cathedral (Sts. Peter and Paul's Cathedral Basilica). Built between the 11th and 12th centuries along with many later alterations, the church also served as a mosque during the Turkish occupation.

Below the cathedral square and in the courtyards of the old houses are graves dating from the 3rd and 4th centuries. These are considered to be the most important surviving examples of Early Christian culture in Hungary. Be sure to explore Szénchenyi tér , a lovely medieval market place in the heart of the Old Town.

Szentendre, a small town perched on the hilly right bank of the Danube, 20 kilometers north of Budapest, is one of the most popular getaways for people from the capital.

Highlights include Blagoveshchensk C hurch , a Serbian Orthodox place of worship built in 1752. The doorway is a focal point, with its Baroque curved balcony and a fresco above the side entrance depicting the Emperor Constantine and his mother Helena with the cross of Christ.

Visitors can also admire Fo tér , the main square. Notable features include the Merchants' Cross built following a plague, and the lovely old Church Square with architectural influences from the Catholic Croats of Dalmatia who settled around the church. Another must see is the nearby Hungarian Open Air Museum, a popular tourist attraction for those wanting to learn more about the country's rich history, culture, and traditions.

Gyor, 123 kilometers west of Budapest, sits at the confluence of the Mosoni-Duna (Danube), Rába, and Rábca rivers, in the middle of what's known as the Little Hungarian Plain. The Old Town , including Cathedral Chapter Hill and the Royal Town, is one of the most beautiful Renaissance and Baroque townscapes in Hungary and includes 170 listed buildings and monuments.

The town's most famous feature is its Vienna Gate Square (Bécsi kapu). It's a much-photographed spot, consisting of a lovely Baroque square surrounded by well-preserved 17th- and 18th-century homes. Also worth seeing is the impressive Carmelite Church.

Other fun things to do in Gyor include visiting the Bishop's Castle, with its museum and 14th-century tower and later residence of Bishop Kálmán (his coat-of-arms still adorns its front). Look also for the 11th-century Gyor Cathedral, the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, as well as the eight-meter Ark of the Covenant Monument built at the request of Emperor Charles III and depicting two angels holding the Ark of the Covenant .

Other highlights include the famous Iron Cockerel atop the bank of the Mosoni Danube, famous as the town's emblem; and Széchenyi tér , the 17th-century Hungarian Old People's Home still in use today.

Fertod, 180 kilometers west of Budapest near the borders with Austria and Slovakia, is where you'll find Esterházy Palace (Esterházy-kastély). The largest and most beautiful mansion in Hungary, it's often called the Hungarian Versailles.

This stunning Rococo residence was built between 1760 and 1767 and is an impressive estate with a magnificent wrought-iron gate and courtyard fountains. Other notable features include its splendid two-story side wings linked to the main building, which is dominated by a central tower.

A highlight of a visit is the spectacular view from the garden balcony overlooking the estate's remaining parkland. Inside, the Chinese Salon, the Green Salon and the Maria Theresia Chamber are all decorated with fine Rococo furniture and fireplaces. One of the estate's most famous guests was composer Joseph Haydn, who spent much time here as a court musician for the Eszterházy family.

Address: Fertod-Eszterháza, Joseph Haydn utca 2, 9431, Hungary

Official site: https://esterhazy.at/en

Hungary's southern Great Plains region is a scenic land of rivers and lakes, wheat fields, and grassland marked by rustic farms. At the heart of it is the small city of Kecskemét, known for its colorful Art Nouveau architecture.

After a scenic ride to Kecskemét and some sightseeing of its landmarks, continue onwards to the town of Lajosmizse. Some of the things to do here include watching Puszta horsemen perform in a show, or take a carriage ride through the Puszta, also known as the Pannonian Steppe. Both towns are easily accessible from Budapest by train.

Few towns are as closely linked with the beginnings of the Hungarian monarchy as Székesfehérvár , which also possesses the former sepulchral and coronation church of the Hungarian kings. Situated between the foothills of the Bakony Forest and the Velencei Mountains and just 45 minutes southwest of Budapest, Székesfehérvár is an easy day trip that has a well-preserved inner town.

Popular points of interest include Városház tér and the Bishop's Palace , the Town Hall and Hiemer House , all built between the late 17th and 18th century. Another must-see is the Romanesque Royal Basilica , a triple-naved church with a semicircular apse, founded by King Stephen in the 11th century and rebuilt several times since.

It's believed the invading Magyars erected the first fortress on the site of the present Diósgyor Castle. Located near Miskolc, 180 kilometers northeast of Budapest, this impressive fortress was built in 1340 and modeled on the castles found in southern Italy, it's flanked by four towers and protected by an outer ring of fortifications.

Although now largely ruins, the outer foundations have been uncovered, and parts of the inner fortifications reconstructed. Visitors can, however, be impressed by the size of the great Knights' Hall in the north wing and the castle chapel in the east wing.

Three of the four corner towers have been reconstructed, and in the southwest tower, the Late Gothic vaulting of the corner room has been rebuilt. Some of the stone-masonry and other castle finds are on display in the castle museum in the northeast bastion. Open-air events are held in the castle courtyard during the summer months.

Editor's note: Be sure to check the attraction's website, below, for restrictions due to a major renovation program currently underway here.

Address: 3534 Miskolc, Vár St 24, Hungary

Official site: https://diosgyorivar.hu/en

Esztergom is one of the oldest towns in Hungary and lies only 46 kilometers northwest of Budapest where the Danube breaks through the Hungarian Central Uplands. It's an area that's easily accessible from the capital either by car or public transit, and makes for a perfect day trip from the capital.

Highlights of the town's historic Castle Hill area, Várhegy, adjacent to the Danube include the ruins of the 10th-century Hungarian Royal Palace ; the imposing cathedral, the Basilica of Esztergom, with its entrance marked by two tall towers and several Corinthian Columns; and the adjacent Christian Museum (Keresztény Múzeum) with its collection of works of Hungarian Italian Renaissance artists.

If visiting Esztergom by car, be sure to venture into the Pilis Mountains . Located in the loop formed by the Danube Bend, this chain of mountains, an official nature reserve, is well known for its caves and fossils. Add to the mix its mountain slopes covered mainly in forests of beech and oak with steep and picturesque chalk cliffs, and it's a popular area to explore on foot.

Situated between the Tisza River and the eastern Hungarian town of Debrecen stretches the Hortobágy, or Puszta, a lowland prairie of grass-covered steppes and pasture famous for its cattle, sheep, and horses.

Much of the area has been preserved in the Hortobágy National Park in order to safeguard its unique and varied fauna and flora. Covering an area of 800 square kilometers, it also preserves the traditional farming methods employed here since the 14th century. As a result, it's the perfect place for a driving tour and to explore the area's many small villages and towns.

It's also very popular among bird-watchers, who travel from afar just to see migrant birds such as various species of heron, spoonbills, white geese, reed-warblers, waders, rare black storks, falcons, and eagles. A variety of domesticated animals are also unique to the area, including the Hungarian Steppe cattle, long-horned sheep, the nonius horse, and the komondor and puli dogs so beloved by the shepherds.

Official site: www.hnp.hu/en

In the Middle Ages, this rural town 260 kilometers east of Budapest on the Romanian border once belonged to the Báthori family-princes from Transylvania who become great feudal lords. As a result, Nyírbátor boasts two magnificent medieval churches of which St. George's Church, now the Reformed Church , is one of the major late Gothic Hungarian edifices.

The Báthori coat-of-arms can still be seen above the west door, with a projecting tower at the side, while the main Renaissance-style door is on the south side. Inside, the eye is immediately drawn to the filigree reticular vaulting. The tomb in the choir is that of the writer István Báthori, who died in 1605, and the founder of the church is interred under a marble gravestone in the crypt.

Address: Nyírbátor, Egyház u. 1, 4300 Hungary

Official site: http://nyirbator.reformatus.hu/about-us/

Visitors travel to Pannonhalma largely to see the famous Abbey of St. Martin, also known as the Territorial Abbey of Pannonhalma. The focal point of the Benedictine order in Hungary, many monks still live here, and since 1997, the monastery-together with the Lady Chapel, the Calvary, and the surrounding cultural region-has been on the list of World Cultural Heritage Sites.

This huge complex sits on a high point of land known as the Mount of St. Martin (Márton-hegy) and can trace its roots as far back as the 10th century. It's also a very popular destination for cultural programming, including jazz festivals and organ recitals. For those looking for a fascinating place to stay, accommodation packages are available.

Address: 9090 Pannonhalma, Vár 1, Hungary

Szombathely, about 220 kilometers from Budapest on the eastern edge of the Alps, is home to the excellent Savaria Museum (Savaria Megyei Hatóköru Városi Múzeum) with its outstanding collection of Roman antiquities. The lapidarium in the basement is of particular note and contains statues and mosaics from Savaria, as well as ornaments from the church in Ják.

On the upper floor are extensive exhibitions of archaeology and the natural history of the Szombathely region. Afterwards, be sure to explore the area around the Iseum , a reconstruction of the ancient Roman temple that once existed in the city. The museum features a variety of fun programs for kids, along with a gift shop and restaurant.

Address: Kisfaludy Sándor utca 9, Szombathely, Vas 9700, Hungary

The most important historical building in Koszeg, 220 kilometers west of Budapest, is the Church of St. James. It was built in Late Gothic style in 1407 using the remains of a Romanesque Minorite church.

The front of the church and its furnishings were redesigned in Baroque fashion in 1758, while the tower is 15th century. The interior of the triple-aisled edifice is Gothic, and the keystone of the groin vault in front of the choir bears the arms of the founder, Miklós Garai.

Along the south side of the choir are niche-seats with pointed arches, and a Gothic Madonna and Infant Jesus above the tabernacle date from around 1500. Also Gothic are the wall paintings on the end wall of the south side-aisle depicting the Magi, an outsize St. Christopher and a protective Madonna.

The heart of the Old Town, the well-proportioned Jurisics Square containing the Town Hall, two churches and medieval town houses with characteristic enclosed gables, is also worth a visit.

Address: Koszeg, Jurisics tér 1, 9730 Hungary

Built on the site of a 12th-century fortress, Nádasdy Castle was named after the wealthy family that owned it for centuries. It was designed in a pentagonal Renaissance style.

Located in Sárvár, about 200 kilometers west of Budapest, its Renaissance tower has been preserved in its original style of 1598. Inside is an impressive palatial room with stucco-framed frescoes decorating its walls.

The ceiling paintings portray the Nádasdys as commanders in the Turkish wars, and on the walls are scenes from the Old Testament. The allegorical paintings in the tower room offer a continuation of the frescos from the palatial room. Also of interest is the Ferenc Nádasdy Museum devoted to the history of the family, regional folk art, and the town's history.

Address: Sárvár, Várkerület u. 1, 9600 Hungary

The walled castle quarter of Veszprém, 120 kilometers west of Budapest, is best known as Várnegyed by locals. This historic area includes a number of historic attractions worth visiting. One highlight is the Neo-Romanesque Heroes' Gate , erected in 1936 on the site of the former medieval gate, and home to a small museum chronicling the history of Várnegyed.

Another highlight is Gisela Chapel . Built in 1230, it served as a private chapel to the bishop as well as the queens who resided here, and its small interior contains fine cross-ribbed vaulting with original paintings and notable keystones. On the north wall, original frescos were exposed during its restoration depicting six apostles and ghostly floating figures suggesting Byzantine influence.

St. Michael's Cathedral is also worth seeing. Built on the foundations of a bishop's church founded by King Stephen and first documented in 1001.

The village of Ják, 230 kilometers west of Budapest, is a treat for those interested in art and church architecture. One of Hungary's outstanding Romanesque churches, the impressive St. George's Church has a history dating back to the early 1200s, and although extensively restored in the late 19th century, elements of the past can still be seen.

Opposite the west front of the church, on a quartered ground plan, stands the small, two-story St. James' Chapel built in 1260. The rounded decorations on the double-windows of the upper floor complement the motifs on the windows of the abbey church, and the relief on the tympanum above the south door depicts the Lamb of God between two dragons. The interior furnishings of the chapel are Rococo, and the mid-18th-century altar is also of note.

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72-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Budapest

The 6 Best Day Trips to Take From Budapest

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While there's lots to ​ explore in Budapest , there are tons of destinations within easy reach of the city that are perfect for day trips, from castles and palaces to one of the world's top wine regions.

Around 55 miles northeast of Budapest in a valley of the Cserhát mountains, Hollókő is a traditional Hungarian village and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old part of the village is a conservation area of 55 houses that have been rebuilt in timber and stone to reflect the original Palóc rural architecture. The protected zone includes the 12th-century castle ruins that sit on a hilltop above the village. It's scooped the title of Hungary's Most Beautiful Village on several occasions and there are a number of festivals throughout the year that celebrate local traditions and craftsmanship.

How to Get to Hollókő From Budapest: The easiest way to travel to and from Hollókő is by car. The journey takes around 90 minutes. Alternatively, there's a direct bus service from Puskás Ferenc Stadion (on the blue metro line). The journey takes around two hours and there's one service per day during the week and two services at the weekend.

Székesfehérvár

Between Budapest and Lake Balaton, Székesfehérvár is one of Hungary's oldest towns. It served as the country's capital in the Middle Ages and parts of its iconic cathedral date back to 1235. The colorful town features beautiful baroque buildings and there are plenty of cultural attractions to explore including the King St Stephen Museum , the Toy Museum and the Istvan Csok Art Gallery . Just outside the center, Bory Castle is worth seeing. It was built by architect and sculptor, Jeno Bory between 1923 and 1959 as a loving tribute to his wife. The castle features a range of architectural styles including Romanesque and Gothic and it's set in beautiful sculpture-studded gardens.

How to Get to Székesfehérvár From Budapest: There are frequent trains that run from Budapest-Déli station. The journey takes between 65 and 80 minutes. There's also a direct bus service from Budapest's Népliget station. The journey time is around 80 minutes. Ticket prices are roughly the same for the train and bus however the bus station is closer to the center of town than the train station.

Lake Velence

While Lake Balaton is Hungary's largest lake (and the biggest in Central Europe), it's a little far from Budapest for a day trip. Lake Velence however is just a 45-minute drive away and a great spot to spend a few sunny hours by the water. The warm shallow waters can reach temperatures of 26-28 degrees celsius in the summer months and there are several beaches lining the shore. Reeds cover almost a third of the lake's surface making it attractive to rare water birds and fish. Activities include bike riding, kayaking and windsurfing and there's a thermal spa at Agárd.

How to Get to Lake Velence From Budapest: There's a direct train service from Budapest-Déli station to Gárdony that takes around 45 minutes. One way tickets cost around $5. If you're hiring a car, the journey takes around 45 minutes.

Less than an hour northeast of Budapest, Gödöllő is home to a magnificent ​ royal palace that once served as the summer residence of Austrian Emperor, Franz Josef. Built in the mid 18th century, it's Hungary's largest baroque manor house and was a favorite spot of the much-loved Empress Elizabeth (better known as Sissi). It served as a barracks for Soviet and Hungarian troops under communism until it underwent a renovation in the mid-1980s and you can now enjoy wandering around the lavish interiors which have been restored to reflect the imperial era. There's also a beautiful botanical garden to explore that covers an area of 190 hectares. 

How to Get to Gödöllő From Budapest: There's a frequent HÉV suburban train service from Budapest's Örs vezér tere station or an hourly bus service from Puskás Ferenc Stadion. Both journeys take around 45 minutes.

The Danube Bend

North of Budapest, the  Danube Bend  (Dunakanyar) is the most scenic stretch of Europe's second longest river. The best way to explore it is on a boat trip when the river's at high tide between May and September. Traveling from the capital you'll pass picturesque peaks and lush riverbanks. On the west bank you can visit some of Hungary's oldest settlements: Szentendre, a small baroque town with cobblestone streets lined with art galleries, museums and shops; Visegrád, with its 13th-century hilltop citadel and Renaissance palace ruins, and Esztergom, the country's former capital city, home to Hungary's largest cathedral.

How to Get to the Danube Bend From Budapest: There are a number of guided boat tours that depart from Budapest between May and September and visit Esztergom, Visegrad, and Szentendre. You can expect to pay around $50 for a full-day tour including lunch. Alternatively, there's a train service from Budapest's Nyugati station that runs to Esztergom via Vác and Visegrád and takes up to 90 minutes. Or you can catch bus 880 BK-SZ from Budapest's Újpest Station which runs to Szentendre, Visegrád, and Esztergom. Hiring a car would give you the most flexibility if you want to explore each town independently.

At the foot of the Bükk Mountains around 85 miles northeast of Budapest,  Eger  is one of the country's best-known wine regions. The area's winemaking traditions date back to the 11th century and many of the ancient cellars are carved into limestone rock that form a network of underground tunnels. The most famous wine produced in the region is Bull's Blood (Egri Bikavér), a blend of three or more grapes that have matured in oak barrels for at least 12 months. Head to Szépasszony-völgy (The Valley of the Beautiful Women) to hop between cellars for tours and tastings.

How to Get to Eger From Budapest: A direct coach service runs from Puskás Ferenc Stadion to Eger. The journey takes about two hours and a one way ticket costs around $10. Alternatively, you can take a direct train from Keleti train station. The train also takes around two hours but the train station is on the edge of town whereas the bus station is right in the center. If you're hiring a car, the journey should take just under two hours.

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13 Excellent Day Trips from Budapest + Weekend Trips for 2024

Hungary’s capital is home to impressive historical landmarks, gorgeous architecture, jaw-dropping street art, and bustling nightlife or dining scenes. However, beyond its city limits, the country has much more to see. Therefore, I teamed up with other travel bloggers to bring you some of the best day trips from Budapest and weekend getaways.

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Best Day Trips from Budapest in Hungary

Eger is a not-so-tourist town a couple of hours bus ride from Budapest. There are many historic buildings, churches and a couple of museums to explore in the town. The first major attraction you will come across is the magnificent Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Apostle next to the bus station. The cathedral interior is decorated with numerous sculptures and remarkable stained-glass windows.

A few minutes walk from the church is the main square of the town, the Dobo Square, which is dominated by Istvan Dobo, the commander of the castle. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops surround the square.

One of the top things to do in Eger is to explore the Eger Castle. The historic castle sits on a hill overlooking the town of Eger. There are several permanent and temporary exhibitions in the castle where you can learn more about the town’s history.

For someone looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, there is also a thermal bath in the town. It’s also known as a wine region where the Wine Valley boasts more than 200 wine cellars. There are several Baroque buildings and churches in the town, which you will come across if you wander around the town.

There are two buses every hour from Puskas Ferenc Stadion station in Budapest, which is on the M2 metro line. Make sure you have enough local currency as they accept only local currency to sell the tickets. And Eger is a small town, so you find some shops and cafes which do not accept Euros.

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Another great option is Szentendre , located very close to the city. Known for its cute houses, artisan shops, and churches, Szentendre won’t leave you disappointed.

You can take HEV 5 from Batthyány tér metro stop (on M2, red, on the Buda side). Even if you have a travel day card (or for multiple days), you still pay an add-on when you travel outside of the Budapest Metropolitan area. You can get this add-on on the train. The ride takes about 45 min.

Once you get off in Szentendre, follow the signs towards the center, and you’ll soon come upon the cute downtown.

Should you prefer to rent a bike, there’s a path that departs from Budapest – close to the Aquincum site – and follows the Danube River. The path is scenic and offers quite a lot of picture-taking opportunities.

Whether you plan to check out the churches or stores, one of the things to do in Szentendre is to visit the Marzipan Museum. The entire museum is filled with Hungarian artifacts made of marzipan. And when you are done exploring, stop to taste the marzipan, too. In May 2018, the ticket price was 450 HUF per adult.

While walking in the cute downtown, you will find a lot of opportunities to take photos. And even more to spend money on various things.

There are a lot of places to eat. If you are vegan, aim for vegetarian dishes and ask them to take out the cheese and eggs. Unfortunately, for the local restaurants, “vegan” means “no meat.”

If you visit during the warm months, make sure to bring a water bottle with you. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as well as shades. The sun can be brutal, so sunscreen is also recommended.

And yes, English can be used here.  Just be prepared to explain several times what you want.

Explore Szentendre in a half-day tour including lunch , or add a Danube Bend tour to visiting Szentendre with lunch

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Esztergom makes a perfect choice as is situated on the Danube bend, among other beautiful towns like Vác, Visegrád, or Szentendre.

The best part is that you can get to Esztergom from Budapest by hydrofoil! You can go on a trip to visit several cities in the Danube bend every day of the week (except Monday): the hydrofoils leave Budapest’s Vigadó tér at 10 AM, reaching Esztergom at 11:30. Keep in mind that the hydrofoil is available from April 28 till September 30. The price of a round-trip is 8000 HUF.

While you can get there in 1 hour and 20 minutes by train or car, going there with a hydrofoil is quite an experience!  

This town is one of Hungary’s most historical places: there isn’t a decade in the 1000-year-old Hungarian history where Esztergom’s name is not mentioned. The first Hungarian king, Stephen, was crowned in this town. Esztergom served as the center of the Hungarian state and religion throughout history.  

One of Esztergom’s most visited places is the Basilica: the monumental church built between 1822-1869 is Hungary’s tallest building. For an amazing view of the Danube bend, climb on top of the Basilica!

Don’t skip visiting the Cathedral Treasury: it’s Hungary’s richest religious treasury, with golden masterpieces dating back hundreds of years.

Other important landmarks include the Mária Valéria Bridge, the Christian Museum, and the Esztergom Castle Museum. Our favorite things to do include exploring the city center and walking on the Danube bend. A perfect way to spend a day in Esztergom!

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Lake Balaton 

Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Hungary and is nicknamed the “Hungarian Sea” by the locals. It is the most popular place in the country in the summer. It’s one of the easy Budapest day trips as it takes only two hours to drive. It’s also accessible by train or bus too within the same time.

The lake’s closest corner to the capital is Siofok, a busy holiday town and a great place for relaxation. In the summer, everyone can enjoy a refreshing bath, followed by a delicious local fish meal accompanied by a chilled drink.

More adventurous visitors can sign up for a hiking trip coupled with wine tasting, which involves many stations with local wine cellars on the way. Due to the unique soil around Balaton, wine gets fantastic volcanic notes. Get an entry ticket to Dobosi Winery to enjoy local sausage and wine tasting.

Fans of history and architecture should visit Tihany – the peninsula of Lake Balaton.

The most famous sight is the Tihany Abbey, constructed in 1055. Set on the highest hill of the village, providing the most beautiful panoramic views of its surroundings. The Abbey is open to tourists with exhibitions promoting the Christian and Hungarian cultures.

Lake Balaton is a beautiful place to spend a day trip, although it is also perfect for longer holidays in late spring or summer as there are so many things to see and do. 

If you want to avoid the hassle of planning, join a full-day trip from Budapest with stops at small towns and a short trip by nostalgic train.

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Visegrad 

Visegrad is another great town to explore as a day trip from Budapest. It’s only about half an hour away by car and an hour’s journey by train. The town’s historical and cultural heritage is vast, and everyone can find something they like about it.

The best and most popular place to start is the Castle of Visegrad or the Citadel, as Hungarians refer to it. Nestled on the town’s highest point, enjoy a gorgeous view of the Danube and the surrounding area from the terrace. The castle is also home to many exhibitions like the Holy Crown of Hungary and the History of the Castle. 

Make sure you stop at Palinka Factory to learn more about the local Hungarian drink and even have the chance to taste it.

Another incredible sight is the Tower of Salamon, which is one of the busiest tourist attractions. From spring to autumn, something happens almost every day. The Tower is the host of many traditional knight’s tournaments and is often a venue for weddings and receptions. It is close to The Citadel, so it’s easy to visit them on the same day.

If there is any time left, explore the Royal Palace. The 700-year-old building is home to several more exhibitions, and guided tours are available for history lovers. The Palace is open from the 1st of March until the 31st of October.

Any of these historical sights is an excellent opportunity to learn about medieval Hungary and see a bit of the countryside after the buzz of Budapest .

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When planning your trip to Hungary, consider Tapolca as one of the options for your day trips from Budapest itinerary!

The town of Tapolca is southwest of Budapest, approximately 15 km from Lake Balaton. It is easy to reach from Budapest in about 3 hours by train or 2 hours by car: this will require you to wake up quite early and come back late. 

Just 15,000 people live in Tapolca, which makes it quiet during autumn and winter, and more lively during spring and summer, when the weather is warm and sunny, and tourism is more active.

What to do in Tapolca ? It is pleasant to walk around the center, taste some wine and Hungarian food, and visit the unique Lake Cave.

Start with one of the main reasons to visit Tapolca – the magical Lake Cave Tavasbarlang, an underground lake shaped in a circular cave. After seeing an exciting science museum, the crystal clear water is navigable by small rowing boats.

The small city center of Tapolca revolves around the Main Square Fő Tér and Malom Lake. 

The Malom Lake looks like a fairy tale, surrounded by colorful buildings and a water mill. Find tucked in a corner the stairs called Halas Lépcső, painted with a decoration of fish and nets, an incredible piece of street art. 

In the Main Square, find the statue of the Little Princess Kiskirálylány. It’s easy to recognize as the same sculpture located on the Danube promenade in Budapest!

Many Hungarian wine varieties are produced on the hills surrounding Lake Balaton. A day trip to Tapolca is perfect to taste some local wine while having lunch at Topart Bistro or Hotel Gabriella with a Malom Lake view.

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Located in the far south of Hungary, bordering Romania and Serbia, lies the charming city of Szeged . The third-largest city in Hungary is an easy 90-minute drive or train ride away, making it one of the popular day trips from Budapest for locals.

With fabulous regional food and a youthful vibe (it’s a university town after all!), Szeged boasts superb public parks and squares, as well as the pretty Tisza River, making it perfect for exploring on foot.

Stroll through Dom Square to discover the twin spires of the landmark Votive Church, the historic Domotor Tower, and the Bridge of Sighs walkway. Hunt for heritage buildings, with plenty of magnificent examples of art nouveau architecture for which the city is so famous. Make sure not to miss the Reok Palace with its water-lily design and the onion-domed Unger-Mayer House.

Stop at one of the pretty riverside eateries on the Tisza River banks to sample the city’s famed fisherman’s soup, or wander the wide boulevards around Klauzal Square, the heart of Szeged’s café scene.

Explore Szeged’s many parks and squares, lined with big, shady trees, or pop into one of the city’s fascinating regional museums. Try the Szeged Paprika Museum to learn all about the country’s most popular spice. And don’t forget to finish off the day with a soak in the eclectic Anna Thermal Baths for its famed medicinal waters – you can even bring a refillable bottle to take some of the legendary waters home with you!

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Debrecen, the second-largest city in Hungary, is in the Eastern part of the country, around 230 km away. However, you can still make a perfect day trip from Budapest by train or renting a car. 

An express passenger train called “intercity” runs from Nyugati Central Station to Debrecen every hour. The journey takes two and a half hours. The last “intercity” from Debrecen back to Budapest departs at 7:23 pm. 

To purchase the ticket online, download the mobile app of the Hungarian Railways, MÁV. The ticket one way in 2nd class costs 4000 HUF and in 1st class 4500 HUF.

Most and foremost, Debrecen is famous for its lovely historical downtown. Its delicate architecture from the 17 th , 18 th, and 19 th centuries will fascinate architecture buffs. The old city center’s charming main square is full of fountains, greenery, and colorful flowers in summer and sparkling lightning in the winter.

The city center’s key highlights are the Reformed Great Church, the largest protestant church in Hungary, the Dery Museum, where you can learn about Hungarian culture and history, and the Csokonai Theatre.

You can also marvel at Debrecen’s compelling architecture from the terrace of one of the cafés or restaurants on the main square while taking an excellent Hungarian rest with traditional Hungarian delicacies.

There are several good restaurants in the main square where you can try Hungarian meals, such as rascal burger (betyár burger) or Hungarian stuffed crepes (hortobágyi húsos palacsinta). There are also vegetarian options such as fried cheese (rántott sajt).

If you want to have a cocktail, beer or coffee, hit Simonffy Street and Halköz, where you can find excellent restaurants, bars, and cafés. They all have tables outside. 

Debrecen also boasts one of the top universities in Hungary. It was founded in the 16 th century when its magnificent and majestic main building was built in Nagy Erdő (Big Forest of Debrecen).

Last but not least, a wide selection of wellness options is available in Debrecen. The best one is the Aquaticum Spa, which was renovated and expanded in 2020. The new complex has fantastic swimming pools, a Mediterranean Aqua Park, thermal baths, a sauna world, and a wellness island. A day ticket for all thermal baths, aquapark, and saunas costs only 5500 HUF. 

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Aggtelek National Park

A beautiful national park worth visiting in Hungary is Aggtelek National Park, an excellent choice to consider as one of your day trips from Budapest. 

Situated in the northern part of Hungary, close to the border with Slovakia, this beautiful national park is home to hundreds of underground caves that all look different from the inside. Because of its unique cave system, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The largest one is the Baradla Cave – 26 kilometers long. 

Apart from caves, Aggtelek National Park offers plenty of hiking trails, castles, forts, and museums. If you are looking for a place with fantastic nature and something special underneath it, Aggtelek National Park is the place to go. Note that the caves are open throughout the whole year! 

The easiest way to get to Aggtelek National Park is to rent a car via highway M3 to Miskolc and then follow the signs. The drive takes about 2.5 hours. 

Alternatively, you could take bus 1054 and get out at the stop Aggtelek. However, this will take much longer and not be convenient for a day trip from Budapest.

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Day trips from Budapest to Slovakia

If you follow the Danube to the west, you’ll come across an adorable city Bratislava. Only a quick two-hour drive or three-hour train ride from Budapest, Slovakia’s capital, has much to offer for any visitor.

Known as a melting pot of many European cultures and religions due to its location in almost the exact center of Europe, the atmosphere in Bratislava feels very all-encompassing with Austrian, Bulgarian, Croat, Czech , German, Hungarian, Jew, Serb, and Slovak influence seen throughout the city and country.

Visiting Bratislava during Christmas as part of the European Christmas market road trip is quite enjoable. There are about 5 Christmas markets in the city each year, all with amazing food, treats, and trinkets to buy!

The city itself is beautiful, with an old-world charm, but so clean! The 18th-century pedestrian area is perfect for wandering and taking in the sites of the ancient buildings. There are many amazing cafes to stop into and try the incredible Slovak food.

While exploring the old city, stop in Hlavne Namestie, the main square, and see St. Martin’s Cathedral. It’s so much fun to wander the old streets and take in the view. Some of the best streets you can’t miss in Bratislava are Michalska, Farska, Kapitulska, Venturska, Panska, and Laurinska.

Be sure to visit Michael’s Gate, the only city gate that has been preserved of the medieval fortifications in the old city. Built about the year 1300, it’s an impressive sight!

You can climb the hill to see the imposing Bratislava Castle, which overlooks the Danube. You can tour the castle museum and take in the sites from there.

Bratislava, Slovakia is an excellent choice for a day trip from Budapest and will allow you to see an additional country during your trip. Also, if you plan on making a day trip to Vienna, Bratislava is right on the way!

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Day trips from Budapest to Serbia

Located in Northern Serbia’s autonomous Vojvodina region, Subotica is synonymous with Art Nouveau architecture. It’s a must-do on any Serbia itinerary – and because of its proximity to the Hungarian border, it can quite easily be visited as a day trip from Budapest as well.

Subotica is located 200km south of Hungary’s capital and can be reached by bus in a little over 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a direct train from Budapest to Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, and backtrack to Subotica by local bus.

Subotica was part of Austro-Hungary until the end of WWI, and you immediately notice many similarities with smaller Hungarian cities, particularly Szeged. The main things to see and do revolve around architecture. The Subotica Synagogue (pictured) is one of the most celebrated in Europe, known for its incredible interior that was designed by Budapest architects Dezso Jakab and Marcell Komor and finished in 1903. Note that it’s closed on Mondays.

A self-guided audio tour of Art Nouveau Subotica will lead you to more of the city’s iconic facades, including the beautiful Raichle Palace. Be sure to break for lunch at Boss Caffe in the palace courtyard – they serve a great range of European and Balkan dishes. You can take a local bus to the nearby Palic Lake in the afternoon, a former summer retreat for the Austro-Hungarian elite. Here you can see yet more impressive architecture, including several summer houses, and find scenic hiking trails.

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Day trips from Budapest to Austria

Vienna, another historical city of Europe, makes it a perfect spot to include in your day trips from Budapest itinerary. Located only a 2:30h drive or 3:30h train ride, Austria’s capital is home to splendid architectural landmarks, historical sites, beautiful parks, and gorgeous castles, to name a few. With so many things to do in Vienna , it should be noted that one day is not enough to explore everything, so you need to be smart and pinpoint all the locations you want to visit.

To make your travels here as budget-friendly as possible, you can buy a Vienna Pass or a Vienna City Card. Both of them offer various discounts to museums, sights, shops, and dining venues. Vienna Pass has more free entrance to the museums and sights than the City Card. However, the latter has more discounts at different venues. The prices also differ; Vienna Pass costs 59 Euros for a day trip, while Vienna City Card only 17 Euros. But, again, check out their pages to choose which one best suits your travel needs.

What to see in Vienna exactly? Start your trip from the First District or Innere Stadt. The area is full of historic buildings you can admire for free. While walking through those streets and looking at the architecture, you’ll feel as if you traveled in time. And when you get hungry, make sure you try some of these Austrian foods .

Then continue your way towards royal palace Hofburg, one of the largest palace complexes in the world. It was the home to the Habsburgs monarchy until 1945, and today houses the President and his cabinet’s office. Go inside the Sisi Museum to view more than 300 personal objects of Empress Elisabeth Sisi.

Another palace worth seeing is the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located a bit far from the city center. This 18th-century summer residence built in rococo style is absolutely mindblowing. There are daily tours that take you through the history and gorgeous halls of the complex.

If you are an art lover, don’t forget to visit museums at the Museum Quarter, along with the Belvedere Museum and Albertina.

As I said above, it’s hard to see everything in a day in Vienna; however, if you’ll decide to stay here for a night, here’s your 2-day Vienna itinerary . And make sure not to miss: Hundertwasser House, Karlskirche, Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, Rathaus, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, State Opera House, and Spanish Riding School, to name just a few.

Day trips from Budapest to Romania

Visiting Timisoara in Romania is another option for a day trip from Budapest. The fastest option is to drive the 300km, which will take you about 3:30 hours. There is also a bus option, or you could go by train, but they are much slower, and you could do that if you plan to spend one night in Timisoara too. 

Timisoara is a place to enjoy. It has an extensive pedestrian area uniting four squares full of restaurants and coffee shops. The best time to visit is from May to October, when you can sit outside on a terrace, admire the architecture and watch the world go by. 

Start your walk in Union Square and have a look at the Secessionist buildings in the piazza. The buildings have pastel colors, and you can visit the two cathedrals in the square, the Catholic and the Serbian Orthodox one. 

Then, make your way through the historic center to the large Victory Square with the Orthodox Cathedral at the far end.  

Just behind the cathedral, you can walk through the Roses Park to the Bega River. A boat ride on the river is one of the popular things to do in Timisoara during the summer. 

One of the lesser-known attractions in Timisoara is the tiny museum of the Communist Consumer. You will have a glimpse into what life was like in Romania before the revolution started in Timisoara in 1989. The three rooms display things that people had access to before that moment, anything from electronics to toys or newspapers. 

Recommended by Travel for a While

Two day trips from Budapest

Zakopane, poland.

Zakopane, a small resort town in the south of Poland, is one of the great options for weekend trips from Budapest. Located at the Tatras Mountain base, Zakopane is filled with stunning natural landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, and amazing food. And, you can make the most out of this winter wonderland even if you are on a tight budget.

In Zakopane, you can book a dorm bed for as low as 7 Euros at Target Hostel. If you are not keen on sharing a room, book a double or a twin at Gazdówka u Janka for just 13 Euros. As for restaurants, your best bet is the long line of wood-paneled eateries that line Krupowki. Here, you can get some hearty portions of sausages and pork.

If you are not keen on eating meat, you can go for a vegan burger at Mountain Bar. You can also get a huge portion of goulash in a bread bowl for just 3 Euros at Restauracja Pstrąg Górski. You can also nibble on some smoked goat and sheep cheese, which you can easily find in the market and street stalls.

Hit the ski slopes of Bialka Tatrazanska or Kasprowy for just 15 to 28 Euro or head to one of its thermal baths like Bialka Tatrazanska and Terma Bukowina for just 7 Euro. There are also several museums to look out for in the area if you want to know more about the town’s history and crafts.

Recommended by Travel Poland Tours

Zagreb, Croatia

Croatian capital, located only 3:30h drive or around 5h bus ride from Budapest, makes a great weekend trip from Budapest. Zagreb sees fewer tourists than the country’s all-time popular destinations like its islands , Dubrovnik , or Split . Therefore, if you don’t like crowded cities, then it’s a great place to be.

Most of the attractions here are free or have a meager entrance price. Start with exploring the city center and continue your way towards the Kaptol district to visit some of the past’s remaining landmarks. Don’t forget to pop in the cathedral and admire its architecture from inside. Then ride the shortest funicular I have ever ridden to go up a small hill that leads to the St. Mark Cathedral, the iconic landmark of the city.

On your way to the cathedral, visit the Museum of Broken Relationships. It’s such a cool place!

The next day, come to Dolac Market in the morning to buy some fresh fruits, souvenirs or have a seafood lunch at one of the restaurants.

Uzhgorod, Ukraine

Traveling to Uzhgorod in Ukraine may seem like a bit of a stretch for a day trip. However, if it is a weekend trip, it can work out perfectly fine.

It is around 3 hours one way by car, and most of it is via Hungarian tolls. Alternatively, it takes about 2 hours to fly from Budapest to Lviv and catch a local bus to Uzhgorod. 

So, why go there?

A small town hidden in western Ukraine, Uzhgorod is seriously under-the-radar , and it truly deserves more exposure. Its downtown is a mix of old and colorful buildings from the times of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The narrow streets are home to modern hipster cafes serving cherry strudels. The secret is to have this legendary pastry with a cup of coffee. Ukrainians love their coffee, and they know how to make it in a unique local style. The term for it is zalyvana kava (kava means coffee).

The list of attractions in Uzhgorod includes the old city hall, the linden promenade (one of the longest in Europe and gorgeous in spring and fall), the quest to find small monuments hidden around downtown, and the Skansen. 

Skansen is a unique open-air museum. On display are the wooden huts and churches, original buildings dating back to the 18th century, brought to the museum from villages around Ukraine, and re-assembled on site.

The area around Uzhgorod is filled with lots of attractions, too. These may be perfect for the second day. The activities include visiting old vineries and cheese farms in the nearby villages and exploring the gorgeous Shenborn Palace or the old town Mukachevo with its medieval castle Palanok and hiking in the Carpathians.

Recommended by Through a Travel Lens

Where to stay in Budapest

Budapest offers a wide selection of accommodation options for various budgets. You can check out my dedicated post on where to stay in Budapest , covering the neighborhoods and best hotels, but here are a few other options, too. 

Budget-friendly: B&B Hotel Budapest City – located in the center, it is a short walk from many Budapest sites. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the hotel has a variety of amenities, including a rooftop terrace, a gym, and a bar. 

Mid-range: Hotel Moments Budapest – situated in a quiet neighborhood, but still close to many of the city’s main attractions. The rooms are stylish and modern and have a restaurant, a bar, and a sauna.

Boutique: Boutique Hotel Budapest – located in a historic building featuring tastefully decorated spaces with modern furnishings. The rooms are intimate and cozy. It also has a spa. 

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest – this grand building on the banks of the Danube River offers stunning views of the city. The rooms are spacious with stylish and minimalist design. The hotel also has a spa and an indoor pool. 

→ None of them suit your taste? Check out more hotels in Budapest .

More Budapest travel guides:

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We just did 9 cities in Europe and I didn’t make it to Budapest. It’s definitely on my bucket list! Thanks for sharing.

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12 Easy & Epic Day Trips from Budapest

Budapest is Hungary’s elegant, historic and let’s be honest very, very beautiful capital city. There are a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, old walking streets, natural thermal baths, and the glorious Danube River cuts through the city center. But there are also some amazing day trips from Budapest that you shouldn’t miss. 

With so much culture and history in the capital, few visitors ever make it outside of Budapest to explore the rest of Hungary. In fact, most visitors aren’t even aware of what there is to see or do outside of the city.

But Hungary isn’t all about Budapest. No, there is much more to see and to experience in the country. Fortunately for travelers, the capital is the perfect base for day trips from Budapest to the rest of the country.

Within easy reach are the many historic Hungarian towns that line the Danube. The beautiful Lake Balaton is just a short drive away and even the neighboring Slovakian capital of Bratislava can be reached easily for a cross-border day excursion.

Hungary has so much more to offer than its capital and once you get out and start to explore you’ll be left wondering why you spent so much time in Budapest, to begin with.

Don’t leave home without:   Lonely Planet Budapest & Hungary (Travel Guide)

12 Easy & Epic Day Trips from Budapest

Table of Contents

1. Lake Balaton

Hungary might be a landlocked country but you can still escape Budapest to visit the ‘Hungarian Sea’ at the huge Lake Balaton. It’s one of the largest freshwater lakes in Europe, being over 200 kilometers in circumference.

You can spend the day exploring quaint lakeside towns and villages, cruising along the water or hiking the many trails around the edge. This makes it one of the best day trips from Budapest.

In summer, things get really exciting at the lake as thousands of locals visit when the sun is out to enjoy the outdoor air and scenery and then to party the night away at the many festivals that are held on the beaches of Lake Balaton.

You may just find that you need more than a one day trip from Budapest to really explore all that the lake has to offer.

Our top recommended tours of Lake Balaton:

• Full-Day Private Tour around Lake Balaton from Budapest by Car with lunch
• Lake Balaton & Herend Tour with Ferry Ride
• Full-Day Tour to North Balaton Lake
• Full-Day South Balaton – Home of Champagne

2. Debrecen

Debrecen is Hungary’s second-largest city after Budapest and it’s well worth the two hours drive across the country to see and experience a side of Hungarian life that you may miss in the much more touristy capital.

Debrecen is quieter and more peaceful than its larger neighbor too, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t much to see or do here. Far from it, there are Hungarian museums, historic buildings, and beautiful green parks to stroll through in the city center.

Make sure you check out the Deri Museum while you’re visiting Debrecen for an interesting look at local culture, customs, and traditions that are truly unique to this part of the country.

Our top recommended tours of Debrecen:

• Full-Day Tour to Debrecen and Hortobagy National Park from Budapest
• Budapest Puszta Day Trip with Kecskemet, Horse Show, and Lunch

3. Hortobágy National Park

On the way to Debrecen from Budapest can be found Hungary’s largest national park, Hortobágy. This is a beautiful area of flat grassland that’s historically part of the Hungarian Plains.

It’s a place that’s not only vital to local flora and fauna but to Hungary’s history and culture too, as the plains are where the roots of modern Hungarian traditions evolved from.

Hortobágy is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the protected region encompasses an area of 800 square kilometers. Visit the village of Hortobágy itself too to experience Hungarian folklore and to see displays of horsemanship from the locals.

Our top recommended tour of Hortobágy National Park:

• Full-Day Private Tour to Debrecen and Hortobagy National Park from Budapest

The small town of Hévíz is famous in Hungary for being the site of the world’s second-largest thermal lake. Anyone that has ever visited Hungary knows that the country is essentially built on thermal springs.

One of the favorite past times of Hungarians is to sit back and relax in the many thermal spas across the country.

At Hévíz, it can be found one of the best spa experiences in Hungary and even in the cold depths of winter the water rarely drops much below 24 degrees Celsius in the thermal lake.

Spa opportunities abound in Hévíz, but more than this, Hévíz also offers opportunities to explore the Roman ruins and bath culture that began here centuries ago and that laid the foundations for the modern spa experience today.

Our top recommended tours of Hévíz:

• Private Thermal Lake Hévíz Visit from Budapest
• Budapest Luxurious Day at Hévíz by Private Helicopter
• Balaton Area Tour: Hévíz, Keszthely, Badacsony

5. Szentendre

The town of Szentendre lies just 20 kilometers north of Budapest’s city center but a day trip to this traditional Hungarian town will be a real escape from the crowded streets and city life of the Hungarian capital.

Szentendre is well known for its ethnography museum, which details Hungarian culture and folklore in an open-air setting.

The quaint cobbled streets are perfect for a peaceful stroll while around town there are many more unique museums, churches, and galleries to explore too.

Our top recommended tours of Szentendre:

• Danube Bend Day Trip from Budapest
• Full-Day Private Tour of Godollo Sisi Castle and Szentendre
• Private Danube Bend Day Trip from Budapest
• Szentendre Half-Day Sightseeing Trip from Budapest

6. Esztergom

On the border with Slovakia and on the banks of the Danube is the small yet historic city of Esztergom. Before Buda became the capital of an emerging Hungarian Kingdom in medieval times, Esztergom was the seat of royalty in the country.

Today, its importance is still pronounced, and the city remains the seat of the important Roman Catholic Church in Hungary.

The highlight of a trip here is a visit to the impressive Castle Hill and the magnificent palace, while across the river you can even see Slovakia, and you might want to even stroll across the bridge to visit the neighboring country.

Our top recommended tours of Esztergom:

• Private Helicopter Tour: Budapest Little Danube Bend and Esztergom Flight Including Transfers

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use Discover Car Hire for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

7. Visegrád

This lovely riverside town is the perfect day trip from Budapest. This is one of Hungary’s many beautiful, historic towns, but what really sets Visegrád apart from other towns along the Danube is the ruin of a 13th-century castle that is found overlooking the river.

The centuries-old walls and towers are well preserved but the hike from the town to the hill the castle is built upon is steep and can be tough. The views over the surrounding countryside are worth every uphill step though.

Our top recommended tours of Visegrád:

• Danube Bend Full-Day Private Tour From Budapest

8. Gödöllő Palace

In the countryside north of Budapest is one of Hungary’s most magnificent buildings, the Gödöllő Palace. Hungary was for centuries ruled by royalty and the extravagance and wealth of the royal family culminated in the building of this palace in the late 18th century.

The building and gardens have in recent years been extensively restored after decades of use by Soviet troops during the cold war and today the palace is open for viewings and tours to the public, offering a unique insight into one of the most important families and buildings in Hungarian history.

Our top recommended tours of Gödöllő:

• Godollo Palace and Traditional Farm Trip with Horse Show and Carriage Ride
• Sisi’s Godollo Palace Tour from Budapest
• Godollo Palace and Magic Hungary Horse Show from Budapest

9. Kecskemét

Kecskemét is south of Budapest and found on the great rolling plains of Hungary. The city itself is beautiful to visit, with colorful buildings and architecture waiting to be explored, but the real attraction is a visit to the surrounding areas.

Close to Kecskemét are traditional horse farms and locals host regular festivals displaying horsemanship skills and traditional Hungarian culture out on the plains.

The land here is exceptionally fertile too and there are many wineries and brandy distilleries serving up fruity Hungarian beverages to visitors.

The most famous is the local Palinka , an apricot flavored brandy that’s loved across the country.

Our top recommended tours of Kecskemét:

• Puszta Great Plains and Kecskemet Day Trip from Budapest
• Kecskemét, Puszta Plains, and Horse Show Tour from Budapest

10. Hollókő

Hollókő is an intriguing and fascinating ethnographic village located north of Budapest. The village is one big open-air museum, recognized by UNESCO as an important piece of Hungarian history.

Hollókő gives visitors the chance to experience traditional local traditions and folklore in a unique, countryside setting. It’s an insight into what life was like for Hungarian villagers for hundreds of years.

Nearby you can also find the crumbling ruins of the Hollókő castle, a defensive structure which lorded over the village for centuries from its position atop the area’s largest and most distinct hill.

The castle’s setting and the views from the ramparts are as magnificent as the preserved ethnographic village of Hollókő.

Our top recommended tour of Hollókő:

• Private Day Trip to Holloko Old Village: Heritage of Hungary Tour

11. Aggtelek National Park

Aggtelek National Park is found in the north of Hungary and although it’s a long day trip from Budapest it’s worth the early start to visit the country’s most spectacular underground caves.

Found within this national park are 280 different caves of varied shapes, sizes, depths, and lengths. The most spectacular of these hundreds of caves is Baradla , which at 26 kilometers long is Europe’s largest stalactite cave.

It’s so long, that part of the cave actually crosses beneath the border with Slovakia. Many of the caves can be explored with qualified guides but the surrounding landscapes above ground are equally stunning too, and the whole national park is under the protection of UNESCO.

Our top recommended tour of Aggtelek National Park:

• Aggtelek Caves UNESCO site and Eger Tour with private transport and lunch

12. Bratislava

Follow the Danube north from Budapest and eventually you reach Slovakia and Bratislava. It’s possible to do this journey by boat, but the quickest way if you are looking for a cross-border day trip from Budapest is to take the fast train or to drive.

In two hours you will be in a new country. Bratislava is a small city, and it’s easy to explore the cobbled streets of the old town and to experience a taste of Slovakian culture on a day trip here.

Bratislava’s castle is an illustrious affair while intriguing statues and museums line the streets of the city. The city is very green too, with numerous parks and even a few accessible hiking trails that can be tackled around the capital, in a place where urban life meets nature.

Our top recommended tours of Bratislava:

• Local Secrets of Bratislava Small Group Tour Including Picnic and a Trolleybus ride
• Bratislava City Highlights Walking Tour
• Bratislava by Night: Walking Tour
• Bratislava Private City and Castle Tour

More on Hungary:

• Ultimate 3 Days in Budapest Sightseeing Itinerary
• 10 Awesome Things to Do in Budapest
• Rooftop Views & Relaxation at the Best Hotel in Budapest- Aria Budapest Hotel
• The Best Free Walking Tour in Budapest
• Ultimate 3 Days in Prague Itinerary
• 10 Interesting Day Trips from Prague
• Ultimate Guide to Eurail Pass Train Travel in Europe
• When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?
• Best Places to Fly a Drone in Europe

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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15 COOLEST Day Trips from Budapest [2023!]

Budapest, the capital of Hungary is the 6 th most popular city for tourists in Europe, attracting up to 4.4 million people per year! It’s known for its castle, thermal springs, and some of the best (and cheapest) nightlife on the whole continent! It’s little wonder that it’s so high on many people’s lists when it comes to planning a city break.

A few days in Budapest is enough to see the main sites and experience everything from the ruin bars to the striking neo-Gothic parliament building. However, you may want to swap fast-paced and hectic city life and get to know the Hungarian countryside, the towns which surround the capital, and some real hidden gems. In that case, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll guide you through the best day trips from Budapest.

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Budapest

• Best Day Trip from Budapest by Train – Esztergom
• Best Day Trip from Budapest by Car – Hollóko
• Best Romantic Day Trip from Budapest for Couples – Eger
• Best Day Trip from Budapest with Kids – The Children’s Railway
• Best Cheap Day Trip from Budapest – Pécs

Best Places to Stay in Budapest

In a capital city, it can be a tricky decision choosing a place to stay. There are just so many options! To help you out, I’ve put together a list of 3 great accommodation choices. No matter what your budget is, one of these should be suitable for your trip!

• Best Hostel in Budapest •

Flow hostel.

• Close to Budapest’s most vibrant and happening nightlife!

If you want to stay in a top quality hostel and easily meet fellow like-minded travellers, then look no further than Flow Hostel. There are plenty of activities and social spaces to help you make the most of your time staying in this cool and classical old town building!

• Best Budget Hotel in Budapest •

House beletage.

• Right on the doorstep of the Old Town!

Travelling to Budapest on a budget but don’t want to stay in a hostel? No worries – we’ve got you covered with this cool and modern hotel. If you want to keep the costs down even further, you can cook in the shared kitchen and enjoy a night in!

• Best Luxury Hotel in Budapest •

Corinthia hotel.

• Comes with a spa complex and indoor swimming pool!

If you’re only going to be in Budapest for a short time, why not treat yourself to some real luxury? This five star option has plenty of space in its boutique rooms, or if you’re feeling really flash, its decadent suites. Stay here for an unforgettable experience!

#1 – Esztergom

Best day trip from budapest by train.

• Visit the exquisite Esztergom Basilica – the home of the Hungarian Catholic Church
• Stroll around the mishmash of architecture in the riverside Víziváros District
• Head out into Duna-Ipoly National Park – Hungary’s most biodiverse environment.

Less than a two-hour train journey of Budapest, the former royal capital of Hungary Esztergom is home to a plethora of museums and historical and cultural things to do. A good place to start is the Castle District, where many of these sites are located – including the ruins of the Hungarian Royal Palace.

Esztergom is where you’ll find the largest church in Hungary – as well as a number of other religious buildings such as mosques and baroque churches in the Víziváros district.

You may be tempted to spend even longer than a day in Esztergom as there’s so much to do. A great option is to get out and explore some of the surrounding natural beauty, which includes the Duna-Ipoly National Park and the Pilis Mountains. Here, you can hike among chalk cliffs and oak and beech forests.

#2 – Hollóko

Best day trip from budapest by car.

• Step back in time to see how Hungarian communities lived centuries ago!
• Holds a festival around Easter time that celebrates traditional food, artisanal crafts, and clothing.
• Less than an hour away from Budapest by car!

Under an hour away from Budapest by car, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hollóko is a small village which is still inhabited while being an open-air museum at the same time! The traditionally preserved village dates back to the 17 th and 18 th century, and it’s here that you can see how life was before the agricultural revolution of the 20 th century!

You can also see the ruins of a 13th-century castle and learn about how the locals live off the vineyards, orchards, and woods which surround the village.

You will need a car to get to Hollóko – it takes less than an hour but it’s over 4 hours via public transport from Budapest! It’s worth it though – especially if you’re interested in Hungarian history and traditional culture!

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#3 – Velence Lake

Outdoor enthusiasts will love this day trip.

• Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with some natural beauty and peace and quiet!
• Cycle 10km around Lake Velence
• Take a picnic and relax on one of the sandy lakeside beaches

Hungary may be a landlocked country, but it’s still possible to go to the beach thanks to beautiful spots like Lake Velence! Just an hour and a half from Budapest by train, this is the perfect getaway if you want to enjoy the quiet of the stunning Hungarian countryside!

There’s plenty to do once you get here too – whether you just want to relax and sunbathe or take part in some outdoor activities. There’s a path around the lake that you can use for cycling, or you can even take a kayak out on still blue waters of the lake itself!

If you visit here in the winter, you can have the truly magical experience of ice skating across the third largest lake in Europe!

Have your dates picked? Read up on hostels in Budapest  before you book!

#4 – Eger

Best romantic day trip from budapest for couples.

• Watch the sunset behind the picturesque cathedral in the peaceful main square
• Soak in the 7 pools of therapeutic waters at the Eger Thermal Baths
• Try traditional Hungarian wine in the Valley of the Beautiful Women

The quaint town of Eger is just two hours from Budapest by train and the narrow, cobbled streets of the old town are the perfect place to aimlessly wander with someone special.

Of course, there’s still plenty to do other than just wandering. Eger boasts some real architectural and cultural treasures, the most famous being the Castle of Eger which overlooks the city. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich and complex history!

Eger is also on the doorstep of one of Hungary’s wine producing regions, and you can’t visit here without trying the local ‘bull’s blood.’ This robust wine is the perfect accompaniment to red meat and spicy food. Perfect for a romantic dinner in the main square!

Editor’s Note: If you’ll be in Budapest, check out the top things to do in Budapest  during your visit!

#5 – Lake Balaton

A must do for nature lovers.

• Explore the vineyards and historic towns on the shores of Europe’s largest freshwater lake.
• Take a cruise across the clear waters of the 50-mile-long lake.
• Hike the volcanic hills for spectacular views of Lake Balaton

There’s so much to do at Lake Balaton that you would probably find enough for an entire week here, rather than just a day! It’s a popular holiday destination for Hungarians who can’t get enough of the resort towns, hiking trails, and vineyards on its 197km shoreline.

The Káli Basin is known as the Hungarian Tuscany, thanks to its stunning landscape but even more importantly – its wine production! This is the best part of Lake Balaton to visit if you’re interested in the regions wine producing credentials, where you can visit cellars and of course, try a couple of glasses for yourself.

The Balaton Uplands are the best place if you’re an outdoor enthusiast – trails criss-cross the hills and occasionally give way to a gorgeous panoramic view that’ll have your Instagram followers green with envy!

Staying Safe in Budapest

While Budapest is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Hungary!

#6 – The Children’s Railway

Best day trip from budapest with kids.

• Ride on a railway staffed entirely by children!
• Combine riding on the Children’s Railway with a chairlift ticket for a fun day out in the Buda Hills.
• Less than an hour away from Budapest by public transport

This unusual attraction is a relic to Hungary’s communist days, when the Children’s Railway was developed to teach children teamwork and responsibility. The ticket office, signallers, and guards are all entirely staffed by children! You’ll be pleased to know that the train driver and engineer are fully qualified adults though!

The journey is a scenic 11km trip which takes around 40 – 50 minutes. Doesn’t sound enough for a day trip, but luckily The Children’s Railway is surrounded by some other attractions perfect for a family day out – including Vadaspark Zoo and Challengeland Zipline Park.

You’ll just have to hope that any of your kids get any ideas about re-located to Hungary and working on the railway themselves!

#7 – Miskolc

A very cool and hip spot.

• Explore the nature reserves that surround Hungary’s 4 th largest city
• Take the scenic forest train to the beautiful town of Lillafüred
• Relax in the therapeutic waters of thermal baths hidden away in a cave!

Miskolc is an industrial city two and a half hours from Budapest by train, so it may be worth considering spending an overnight trip here rather than just a day trip! The city centre isn’t the most fascinating in Hungary, but it’s what’s around that you should come to see.

Your first stop – Diósgyór Castle in the foothills of the Bükk Mountains. This used to be a retreat for Hungarian royalty, and it’s a great place for the whole family in summer when there are a number of medieval fairs and re-enactments.

A scenic train ride to Lillafüred is also a must, where you’ll find an elegant resort hotel, a terraced garden, and a pretty waterfall. However, Miskolc’s piece de resistance is the cave bath, located in the karst limestone of the Bükk Mountains!

#8 – Aggtelek National Park and the Baradla Cave

• Visit one of the longest and largest stalactite caves in the whole of Europe
• Enjoy one of Hungary’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Catch a glimpse of the Hucul pony!

Aggtelek National Park covers over 200 square kilometres and is famed for its unique flora and fauna, and it’s one of the spots in Europe where you can catch a glimpse of the Hucul Pony which inhabits the Carpathian Basin. There are even some tours where you can arrange to go horse-riding through the park itself! If you’d prefer just to walk, there are several trails marked through the hills of the park and admire the picturesque views.

The main attraction of Aggtelek National Park is not the plants are animals (although they’re pretty cool), but the Baradla Cave – one of the largest caves in Europe. There are a number of others in the park too, but this is the best one to see to take stunning pictures!

Looking to make friends in Budapest? One of these cool party hostels might be for you!

#9 – Gödölló Palace

Great for history lovers.

• Explore one of the largest and finest examples of a Baroque palace in the whole of Europe!
• Learn more about Hungarian history and culture and temporary and permanent exhibitions
• Take a stroll around the beautifully manicured palace park.

If you’re looking for somewhere close to Budapest and don’t want to spend the majority of your day travelling, why not take a look at the exquisite and opulent Gödölló Palace? In the days of the Austro-Hungarian empire, this was a favourite summer getaway of Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth, and it’s really not hard to see why!

The best way to see the palace is with a guided tour of its impressive and gorgeous interior before heading out for a leisurely stroll in the landscaped gardens and the pavilion. Before heading back to Budapest, make sure you enjoy a hot drink at the palace café!

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#10 – Szentendre

Great for a quiet get away.

• Wander down to the river’s edge via the colourful and cosy streets
• Admire the Baroque archways and well-preserved frescoes of the Blagoveshchensk Church
• See the architecture that has inspired artists and creatives since the 1930s!

The small village of Szentendre is a perfect day trip from Budapest, thanks to being just an hour away by commuter train from the city centre! Another way to get to this beautiful town is on a Danube cruise.

If you’re planning a spot of shopping in or near to Budapest, then this is the place to do it. There are a number of markets showcasing the region’s arts, handicrafts, and artisanal products which will make the perfect souvenir for a friend or family member back home.

Szentendre is often the first stop on a day trip to the next location on our list, The Danube Bend and Vác. However, if you spend an entire day there you certainly won’t be disappointed!

#11 – The Danube Bend and Vác

Cool getaway for retirees.

• Relax on a cruise along Europe’s longest river
• Head to the top of Visegrád Hill for views of the famous Danube Bend
• Pop over into neighbouring Slovakia across the Maria Valeria Bridge

Sometimes you don’t want to bother with the hassle of working out the local public transport routes or hiring a car on holiday. You just want things to be as easy as possible, and with a cruise to the Danube Bend and Vác, that’s exactly what you’ll get.

Vác is a quaint and attractive town full of 18th-century bridges, squares, and merchant’s homes all set around the stunning Cathedral of Mary’s Ascension. Visiting just the town is a perfect romantic day out for couples!

A cruise to the Danube Bend and Vác often takes in some of the other locations on our list, such as Szentendre and Esztergom. This is the perfect alternative if you want to see those places in a whistle-stop tour!

#12 – Pécs

Best cheap day trip from budapest.

• Visit the museums which line pretty Káptalan Street
• Enjoy delicious Hungarian cuisine in a traditional pub
• Marvel at a domed Catholic church that used to be a mosque

The small Roman city of Pécs is just two hours from Budapest by train, located close to the Croatian border. Although there’s lots to do here, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy the city’s sights – there’s architectural treasures everywhere for you to peruse and enjoy without spending a penny. Some of the city’s top attractions date as far back as the 11 th century!

The charming and pretty Old Town and Medieval marketplace is a great place to wander around and try some Kürtőskalács or pick up some reasonably priced souvenirs for friends and family back home. If you are willing to break out of your budget and splash the cash, visit a ballet show at the Grand National Theatre of Pécs!

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#13 – Nagytétény Castle and the Museum of Applied Arts

Art enthusiasts will love this day trip.

• One of the easiest day trips from Budapest
• Visit a fine art museum located inside a castle
• Admire fine Hungarian and German furniture dating back to the 15 th century

This easy and convenient day trip is under an hour away from Budapest by both car and public transport, and it’s a real treat if you’re into art! Technically within the city limits, the castle is in the heart of stunning countryside while it houses some precious art treasures from Hungary and across Europe.

As well as admiring the fine antique furniture that is over 500 years old, don’t miss the collection of clocks and watches that date back to the 17 th and 19 th centuries – all of which are still in full working order!

If you’re short on time in Budapest but still want to get out of the city, this is one of your best options as you can probably fit everything into half a day if you really want to!

#14 – Gyór

Recommended day trip for architecture lovers.

• Discover one of the most charming small towns not only in Hungary but all of Europe.
• Marvel at the 170+ listed buildings in Gyór’s historic centre
• If you’re travelling by car, head to the historic archabbey at Pannonhalma

The picturesque town of Gyór is just over an hour from Budapest on the train and sits on a plain nestled between the three major rivers of the Danube, Rába, and Rábca. It’s best-known for its plethora of Baroque architecture and boasts more than 170 listed buildings inside the quaint and scenic downtown area.

It’s also possible to visit one of the most important Hungarian monuments from Gyór, the Pannonhalma Archabbey which is over 1,000 years old. In the historical complex, you can also admire the 13th-century Basilica and arboretum before taking some incredible panoramic photos of the Pannonhalma-Sokoróalja region – with vineyards as far as the eye can see!

#15 – Kecskemét

Recommended day trip for seeing city life outside of budapest.

• Enjoy the slower paced life of a smaller Hungarian city
• Visit the surrounding Puszta region and be charmed by an authentic horse farm
• Take a tour out to the Hungarian Great Plains

Charming Kecskemét is right in the centre of Hungary’s great plains, and roughly an hour away from the capital Budapest. The city is a beautiful baroque masterpiece which has plenty to see or do but is isolated enough to give the city plenty of its own character. The thing that Kecskemét is best known for is not its baroque architecture, but its equine culture!

From the city, you can embark on several tours that will take you out to the Great Plains where you can try your hand at horse riding, or simply just enjoy the spectacle of a horse show at Bugac. Kecskemét is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Budapest’s city life while still having lots of things to keep you entertained!

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Budapest

There’s lots of exciting options for travelling in Budapest, and most people generally spend a long weekend in the city before moving on to their next destination or heading home. If you’re spending a week or a little longer in the city, I hope this article has been useful in helping you plan to see more of Hungary. From Esztergom to Eger, there’s lots to love about this small central European country!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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Budapest - Activities & Things to do , Tours , Travel

20 Best Day Trips From Budapest

Royal Palace of Gödöllő 004-by Rlevente-Wikimedia Commons

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1. Lake Balaton

Balaton Hungary Landscape-by txd- Wikimedia Commons

2. Szentendre

3. gödöllő palace.

Park of Royal Palace, Gödöllő-by Christo- Wikimedia Commons

practical information

Address:gödöllő, grassalkovich-kastély 5852, 2100 hungary, hours:mon-sun; 10 am-6 pm, phone:+36 30 427 3535, website: royal palace of gödöllő (gödöllői királyi kastély), 4. esztergom, 5. bratislava.

Bratislava Panorama R01-by Marc Ryckaert (MJJR)- Wikimedia Commons

6. Kecskemét

7. visegrád.

Visegrád castle-by Vid Pogacnik- Wikimedia Commons

9. Etyeki Manor Vineyard

Dvorák Guesthouse, 2019 Etyek-by Globetrotter19- Wikimedia Commons

Practical information

Address:etyek, báthori u 21, 2091 hungary, hours:tue-sat;10 am-5 pm/fri; 10 am-6 pm/sat; 11 am-7 pm/sun;11 am-6 pm, phone: +36 22 920 992, website: etyeki manor vineyard.

Győr stér-by Civertan- Wikimedia Commons

12. Hollókő

Pécs Montage-by Imoti95- Wikimedia Commons

14. Miskolc

15. hortobágy national park.

Hortobágy National Park kz06-by Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz- Wikimedia Commons

address: Hungary

Phone:+36 52 589 000, website: hortobágyi national park, 16. velence lake, 17. aggtelek national park and the baradla cave.

Aggtelek National Park and the Baradla Cave-by Skatya86- Wikimedia Commons

phone:+36 48 506 000

Website: aggtelek national park, 18. debrecen, 19. egerszalók.

Egerszalók, Hungary-by Palickap- Wikimedia Commons

20. Nagytétény Castle and the Museum of Applied Arts

Address: budapest, kastélypark u. 11, 1225 hungary, website: nagytétény castle.

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Top 12 Day Trips from Budapest – What to See Outside Budapest

This post may include affiliate links and I will receive a small commission if you click one. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

Budapest has the name of being a central destination in Hungary. But if you are looking for something beyond Budapest’s stunning architecture, there are lots of fantastic day trips which you can take from the Hungarian capital.

Budapest is a perfect base from which you can plan and travel to a variety of must-visit historical wonders, cities, towns that are worth seeing in Central Hungary and beyond the borders.

After all, Hungary is called Spice of Europe for a reason.

I had the pleasure of living in Budapest for 5 months and during that time I managed to have quite a few day trips outside of the city that were just as memorable as Budapest itself. So I asked a few fellow travellers to share their Budapest day trips suggestions and compiled this epic list which might come insightful for anyone planning a trip to Budapest for more than a few days.

Related: 3 Days in Budapest: The perfect Budapest itinerary

Here are the top 12 day trips that you can take from Budapest according to travellers.

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Table of Contents

Day trips from Budapest within Hungary

If you’re looking for a bit more of Hungarian landscapes, culture and history, these day trip destinations within Hungary are just for you.

This is easily one of the best day trips from Budapest for all nature and history lovers.

Visegrad is a small medieval town nestled right on the Danube’s bend . It is located less than 1 hour away from Budapest can be reached by train or by car.

The town is mostly famous for its charming medieval castle on the hill and the stunning view of the Danube bend. But it’s not all, you can easily spend the whole day exploring Visegrád by taking a short hike, visiting Visegrád Toboggan Park which is home of Summer bobsleigh / Alpine coaster tracks or having a medieval feast at one of the town’s restaurants.

You can read more about Visegrád and how to get from Budapest to Visegrad in this Visegrad day trip travel guide which I wrote based on my own experience there.

Eger is a perfect day trip for any wine lover. But the best part of this day trip is that it combines almost everything Hungary is famous for – wine, thermal baths and charming medieval castles .

The city of Eger is located around 2-hours away from Budapest but the beautiful scenery that you pass when driving or taking a bus to Eger is worth every minute on the road.

Eger itself is mostly known as the location where the Hungarians defeated the Turks, so you can imagine how much history this place has. On your day trip from Budapest to Eger, you can visit the castle of Eger, see the famous Minaret, wander around Dobo square and the streets of the colourful old town.

If you feel like relaxing a bit, you can even take a dip at the thermal baths and learn more about Hungarian wine in the Valley of Beautiful Woman.

Here is an extensive guide on how to have a fantastic day trip to Eger from Budapest .

Siófok is a beautiful town near the coast of Balaton Lake which is sometimes named as the Hungarian sea . The town is 100km away from Budapest and you can reach it by car or by train.

Siófok is a port town and has one of the most gorgeous beaches nearby called the Golden Beach. During your time there, you can cruise on the beach, take a swim in the lake or get a drink with lunch from lots of buffets, pubs, snack bars there.

If you’re looking for a bit more fun, there is also a Ferris wheel and water bikes which you can rent.

Also, Siófok is a great party day trip destination. There is a promenade full of clubs which is the heart of the nightlife there. Every year the biggest musical performers of Hungary have concerts in Siófok.

The town also has a lot of beautiful gardens and parks which are nice for a more relaxed afternoon. The most iconic and the highest building in the town is the water tower. Now the tower acts as a coffee bar from which you can get an awesome view.

So if you are looking for summery destination, Siófok is a perfect day trip idea.

Contributed by Szabolcs from Gabriella B & B

Probably the easiest and most common day trip from Budapest is to the tiny town of Szentendre. At the same time, it will reward visitors with a friendly atmosphere, interesting architecture, fascinating views and creative handmade objects that one can take home.

Szentendre is to Budapest what Montmartre is to Paris, just a little bit farther. It reunites more than 200 painters, musicians, poets, wood-carvers and potters from Hungary and beyond.  

Besides this, once upon a time there lived an important Serbian community. Even if today they only make 1% of the population, the Balkan influences can still be seen in the architecture of the buildings and the many Orthodox churches in the town center.

One of the most interesting museums is Micro Wonder Museum , a small room with art pieces that one can only analyze using a magnifying glass. Other museums that can be found on the cobbled streets are the Marzipan Museum, the National Wine Museum and several independent art galleries. Outside the city centre, there’s a huge open-air ethnographic museum . One can see there more than 300 buildings from different regions in Hungary.

Another area of interest is Donau riverfront. One can walk along or take a bicycle. The views as spectacular and some creative details were added by the many local artists. Szentendre features a slow-paced atmosphere and has a lot of pretty cafes to sit and enjoy it, both at the Donau and in the town centre. 

Szentendre is just 25 km from Budapest  and can be easily reached by public transport. One can either take the train or the bus for around 40 minutes and 2 euros in order to get there.

Contributed by Raluca from Travel with a Spin

One of the most memorable day trips from Budapest is one to the city of Esztergom. It is a city with a very interesting history as it is one of the oldest cities in Hungary.

When you walk through the city you will find beautiful old architecture everywhere. There are historic attractions throughout the city. So if you like history, this is a great city to visit!

One of the highlights of Esztergom is the Basilica of Esztergom . This Basilica is the largest church in Hungary, which is impressive to see. Other great sights in the city are Esztergom Castle, the Museum of Christian Art, and St. Stephen’s Square.

Also, it is very easy to get to the city of Esztergom from Budapest. The distance between the two cities is only 40 kilometres . The fastest way to travel is by car. This takes about 50 minutes. Besides that, you can travel by train or bus, and it takes about 1 hour and 1.5 hours, respectively.

Contributed by Dymphe from Dymabroad

Aggtelek National Park

If you’re looking for adventure with nature, a day trip to the Aggtelek National Park would be an excellent idea. Although it may be a long drive to this region, the beautiful scenery, especially the magnificent underground caves, makes the journey worthwhile.

Getting to this wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site will take about 2.5 hours by car so it’s best to start the trip early in the day. If you’re taking the train or bus, you’ll get there in 4.5 to 5.5 hours, respectively.

One of the best things to do in Aggtelek is to explore some of the over 250 caves within the national park. These caves vary in lengths, depths, and sizes, and the most notable of them is the Baradla Cave, the largest stalactite cave in Central Europe.

The cave tour duration varies from one hour to as long as seven hours. The view inside the caves is incredible but another unique experience would be to listen to musical performances in the concert hall inside the caves. You can enhance this experience by being mindful , tuning in to your senses to appreciate the amazing acoustics inside.

Some tips for travellers : note that the official cave tour is offered in Hungarian only. However, English-speaking guides are available from other tour agencies. Also, inside the caves can be very cold so bring a jacket to keep warm.

If underground cave exploration is not your cup of tea, there are other fun activities to do in Aggtelek, including cycling and horseback riding.

Contributed by Lucile from Lucile HR

Hévíz is a small town on the western end of Lake Balaton in Hungary. If you want to visit it from the capital Budapest, calculate around 2 hours by car and 3,5 hours by bus or train .

Hévíz is really worth visiting because it is the home of the world’s second-largest thermal lake and the biggest biologically active natural lake. Around 38 meters underground lie the cold and warm springs, which determine the temperature of lake Hévíz: the water in summer can be as hot as 37 °C (99 °F) and in winter it doesn’t cool down below 24 °C (75 °F).

As you can see, you can swim there year-round, especially in winter it provides a spectacular and memorable experience. The lake is in the middle of town, but it is fenced, so you must go to the main entrance and pay a reasonable entrance fee .

Once inside you can use all the facilities, including the inside and outside bathing area (it is really cool how they managed to build an inside area in the middle of the lake), just the wellness and spa areas are extra.

When swimming outside, it is so cool to swim past lotus flowers and now and then something will tingle you underwater – don’t worry, it’s just water plants. The thermal waters are rich in carbonic acid, sulphur, calcium, magnesium and hydrogen carbonate, which are all considered healing but have a significant smell. So next time, when you’re in Hungary, consider visiting Hévíz and do something good for your health.

Contributed by Simona from sLOVEnians Travel

Debrecen is the second-largest city in Hungary. It’s situated 230 km east of Budapest. The two best ways to get to Debrecen from Budapest is either by train or car.

The express passenger train, called “intercity” departs hourly from the Nyugati Central Station to Debrecen. The train ride takes two and a half hours . The ticket costs 4000 – 4500 HUF (11-13 €). The last “intercity” from Debrecen back to Budapest leaves at 19:23.

Most and foremost, Debrecen is famous for its historical center. Its architecture from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries will definitely fascinate architecture lovers. The main square of the city center is full of fountains, greenery, and colorful flowers summers, and glowing lightning winters.

The best things to see in the historical downtown are the Reformed Great Church, the biggest protestant church of Hungary, the Dery Museum where you will learn about Hungarian history and culture, and the Csokonai Theatre.

Going up to the tower of the Great Church from which you can admire the entire city center costs 1000 HUF (3 €) and the entrance fee of Dery Museum is 1800 HUF (5 €).

You can also marvel at Debrecen’s compelling architecture from the terrace of one of the cafés or restaurants enjoying traditional Hungarian delicacies.

Moreover, in Debrecen, you can find one of the most prominent universities of Hungary. Its magnificent main building was built in the 16th century in the greenest part of Debrecen, in the Big Forest.

Today, approximately 30,000 students including about 6,000 international students study there.

Last but not least, a wide spectrum of wellness options is available in Debrecen. The most popular one is the Aquaticum Spa . You will find there a brand new complex with fantastic swimming pools, a Mediterranean Aqua Park, thermal baths, sauna world, and wellness island. A day ticket for all thermal baths, aquapark, and saunas costs 5500 HUF (16 €).

Contributed by Diana Lesko from The Globetrotting Detective

Tapolca is a cute small town located in West of Hungary near the Lake Balaton. The town manages to attract a large number of tourists each year because of its surrounding lush hills and a charming atmosphere away from crowds and major Hungarian atrractions.

However, what Tapolca is most famous for is Tapolca’s lake cave which is situated right in the heart of the town and is a part of 3km long underground cave system. You can take a boat ride through a mineral healing underground cave and listen to the guide as he introduces you to the most fascinating facts of this underground gem.

If boating through the underground lake is not enough, there is also the Castle of Szigliget about 15 minutes by car from the centre of Tapolca. Located on the hill, the castle offers some of the best views of Hungarian hills and beautiful rural landscape.

You can get to Talpoca by car and it would take you around 2 hours to reach the town via M7 and Route 77. There are also buses and trains that can take you from Budapest to Talpoca but it would take you a bit longer, approximately 3-4 hours one-way.

Day trips from Budapest outside Hungary

What is great about Budapest’s location is that you can travel to another country in just about 2 hours. So here are all the amazing day trips from Budapest which you can take outside Hungary.

A really beautiful destination, which can be reached wonderfully from Budapest on a day trip, is the city Bratislava in Slovakia. It takes about 2 hours to drive from the Hungarian capital to the Slovakian capital. Especially if you have more time, then you should combine a visit to these two great cities.

Although Bratislava is not as big as Budapest, there are a lot of cool things to experience. There are so many amazing  things to do in Bratislava .

You can enjoy numerous fantastic viewpoints, stroll along the beautiful Danube promenade and drink coffee in one of the many hip cafes and bars. But watch out, because on the way you’re sure to come across one or two famous bronze statues !

These are something like the trademarks of the city. The most famous is the “Cumil”, which cheekily peeks out of a manhole cover and is a popular photo motif in town.

Another must-see is the white Bratislava Castle , as it is the city’s main attraction. This landmark is located on a hill and can be easily reached on foot from the Old Town. Once at the top, the beautiful castle garden with its fantastic view over the roofs of the city invites to linger.

Contributed by Jürgen & Martina from PlacesofJuma

Kosice, the second-largest city in Slovakia, is one of the most underrated cities in Europe.

Located some 3 hours away from Budapest , there are so many great  things to do in Kosice  that will keep you busy for the whole day. You can visit the easternmost Gothic cathedral in Europe, wander around the charming old town, see the spectacular gold treasure found during the renovations in the centre or enjoy an exceptional culinary scene (you can try their wine from the Slovak Tokaj region, less popular than the Hungarian one but also very good).

In 2013 Kosice held the title of the European Capital of Culture and still today you can find some unusual cultural institutions like the art gallery in the former swimming pool or the creative hub in the old tobacco factory.

You can travel between Budapest and Kosice by public transport (train or bus) or by car – this seems like the best option time-wise.

Contributed by Kami from Kami & the rest of the world

You can find yourself in Vienna on a day trip from Budapest in a little over 2.5 hours by train .

The Austrian Capital has a population of just under 2 million people and many more visitors every year. Everywhere you go there is another amazing building with history, dating back hundreds of years waiting to be explored.

Some of the main Vienna attractions include the Hofburg Palace and treasury, Schonbrunn Palace and Zoo, The Prater, St Stephans Cathedral, Vienna Time Travel and more.

The Prater is one of the oldest Amusement Parks in the world and a firm favourite with locals and visitors. The Regal Hofburg and Schonbrunn Palaces were both home to the Hapsburg Royal family.

Food in Vienna is heavily meat-based and borrows from its neighbour Germany. Figllmuler in Vienna has been making giant plate-sized Wiener Schnitzels for over 100 years, while at Schwizerhaus at the Prater serves one of the best Pork Knuckles anywhere in the world.

There are many great  attractions in Vienna  and all its old-world charm make it well worth a visit from Budapest.

Contributed by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

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Which of these day trips you will be visiting first?

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5 Fantastic Day Trips From Budapest to Take Year Round

Last Modified: August 17, 2023 //  by  Anda //   31 Comments

If you are in Budapest during the hot summer months, the only way to escape the heat is leave the burning asphalt behind and venture outside the city. There are many cool day trips that you can take from Budapest. You’ll discover that the countryside of Hungary is just as impressive as its capital city.

Table of Contents

1. Day Trip to Eger

2. day excursion to szentendre, 3. day trip to lake balaton, 4. excursion to miskolctapolca cave baths, what to do in miskolctapolca, 5. day trip to esztergom, best summer day trips from budapest.

While the Hungarian capital is undoubtedly a very attractive city, there are many beautiful day trips that you can take from Budapest that will will help you discover the charm of the countryside and other historic places. Unfortunately most tourists never think of going beyond the capital.

If you have more than 3 days in Budapest and finished seeing the Budapest highlights , here are some excursions you can take outside the city o help you make the kánikula  (heatwave, in Hungarian) more bearable and even enjoyable: 

Eger is small town just a couple of hours away from Budapest, well worth a day trip. Visiting Eger will give you a different perspective of Hungary to the one offered by its capital city. There are quite a few things to do in Eger, so you should start early.

Visit Eger Castle

Eger Castle was the home of the episcopal seat in the region. It also served as a fortress. In the 16th century, the Hungarians gathered here under the leadership of István Dobó managed to withstand the Turks for five-weeks. The event is remembered as The Siege of Eger

The castle is in pretty good shape. On the castle grounds we came across people dressed in medieval costumes and various exhibits that illustrate the historical traditions of the fortress. From the ramparts you have a sweeping view of the Eger town down below.

Visit the Church of St. Anthony of Padua

The Minorite Church of  St. Anthony of Padua was founded  in the year 1715 by a small group of Franciscan friars from Italy, who belonged to a monastic order and called the Minorites .

The original church built by the friars was flooded several years later. Around 1758 the church was rebuilt in the Baroque style you see today. St. Anthony of Padua is one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Europe and really worth visiting. 

If you happen to be in Eger during the winter Holiday season, make sure you don’t miss the beautiful Christmas market held in Dobo square.

Go Wine Tasting

Because it is located in the heart of Hungary’s wine country, the little town of Eger is more famous today for its wine than it is for its castle. People tend to forget history. The famous  Egri Bikavér  (Bull’s Blood) wine is something you should definitely try while visiting Eger.

Visit Eger Thermal Baths

A couple of hundred meters away from the the castle of Eger are the thermal baths. Located in a beautiful park with platan and cyprus trees several hundred years old, the pools display a luscious vegetation.

Because of their high content in radon and calcium-magnesium-hydrogen carbonate, the waters are recommended for rheumatic conditions, central nervous system condition, metabolism problems, skin and gynecology conditions. The water temperature varies between 27-38 C. 

Compared to the stunningly elaborate design of the Gellert and Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, Eger Baths will appear quite modest. They are however very beautiful and a great way to cool yourself off on a hot summer day away from the crowded city.

We visited the place on a weekend so we had to battle the local crowds. My advice would be to take this excursion during the week days when there are far less people. 

How to Get to Eger from Budapest

Eger makes a very easy day trip from Budapest because it’s well-served by public transportation. Trains, and busses are frequent and inexpensive in Budapest. You can reach Eger by bus, by car, or by train.

Despite looking a little touristy, Szentendre is actually quite cute. The lovely cobblestone streets with colorful houses will take you back in time to an era when horse drawn carriages were the main means of transportation in Europe.

The town has a very interesting history. This area was initially populated by Illyrians, then some celtic tribes moved in and then the Romans came and built a castle here and called the town Ulcisia Castra .

Later on the Avars, Serbs, Hungarians and Bulgarians arrived. Much of the town’s history is connected with the Serbs who built eight  orthodox churches here. Today Szentendre has about 25,000 inhabitants.

Szentendre is small enough to be explored on foot. From the train station it takes only a few minutes to reach the the main square and the promenade. There are quite a few fun things to do in Szentendre to justify a day trip from Budapest.

Brouse the Souvenir Shops and Art Galleries

You can wander around the whole day looking at the art galleries, browsing the arts and crafts shops, or tasting the local foods. 

Visit the Churches and Museums in Szentendre

There are some great churches that you can visit and numerous small museums. We particularly liked the Marzipan Museum which has a very interesting collection of pastries made entirely out of marzipan. There is also Margit Kovacs ceramics museum (the most famous ceramic artist in Hungary) and the Mikro Art museum that has very unique collection of microminiature works.

 If you want to buy authentic artisan Hungarian souvenirs like table linen, handwoven kitchen towels, or old crochet laces, Szentendre is the best place to find these country style articles.

Discover the Hidden Part of Szentendre

But if you really want to experience the town’s flavor, you should wander off the main streets to find hidden shops, beautiful old homes and baroque churches. At the top of the hill, from the Roman Catholic churchyard, you’ll have a beautiful view of the town below and the red-tile rooftops. And before you call it a day, take a little stroll along the Danube for a blissful view of the river. 

How to Get to Szentend re from Budapest

The town is ideal as it is located only 20km north of Budapest on Danube bend and can be easily accessed either by train,  by boat, or by bus.

TIP : Buy your train tickets online or at the station. It’s not possible to buy tickets on the train and if the ticket inspector finds you travelling without one you could end up paying a hefty fine.

If you are a bike enthusiast, biking from Budapest to Szentendre is very enjoyable. The total riding time is 1.5-2 hours  and the terrain is almost level, with mostly smooth concrete. 

Lake Balaton is a long body of water stretching from east to west. It’s the largest freshwater lake in Europe and is thus nicknamed the “Hungarian Sea.” For the locals, Lake Balaton is the place to visit outside of Budapest. An escape from the hectic life, a place to relax on the water. Kind of like what Cape Cod is for the people of Messachussets.

Lake Balaton is quite beautiful, with neatly-kept pink, orange, yellow and cream cottages and two-story vacation homes. The lake’s silky-green, shallow waters are warm enough to swim in from May to October.

Visit One of the Towns Along the Shore

Visiting every single town along its shores is impossible to do in one single outing, so you should probably choose only one destination. The southeast shore of the lake is the closest to Budapest. Siófok is one of the locals’ favorite vacation spots at Lake Balaton, famous for its beaches and nightlife. 

Hungarians often call the town “the capital of Balaton”, as it is the largest city on its shores and acts as the commercial and touristic hub of the region.

How to Get to Lake Balaton From Budapest

You can reach Lake Balaton from Budapest either by taking a train trip, or by bus. Trains and busses for Lake Balaton depart from the Pest side of Budapest. The easiest way to get to Lake Balaton is by car on motorway M7.

TIP: If you decide to drive to Lake Balaton, you need to purchase a  matrica (a highway permit) from a gas station before getting on the motorway.

This cave baths in Miskolctapolca are a miracle of the nature: a thermal bath inside an actual cave. You swim and play in a large cave system, with water temperatures around 30° Celsius. 

The cave is practically a tunnel with two entrances where visitors can come in and go out, so it’s impossible to loose your way inside. One of the entrances opens onto a hall with a sculpted fountain standing below a huge stained glass dome. You can enjoy both covered and open-air pools, but the ones inside the cave are more appealing.

The other entrance will take you inside a cavern whose walls have been shaped by centuries of mineral deposits. The baths are not deep enough for a proper swim, but are very popular among the younger generation in Hungary, who enjoys playing pranks in the dark tunnels. 

The Cave Bath is famous for reducing joint pain, and since it’s less salty than most thermal waters people can bathe in it for a much longer time. Because it’s so popular, the baths are always crowded but refreshing just the same. Despite being crowded however, this place still makes one of the best excursions from Budapest in summer.

How to Get to Miskolctapolca Cave Baths from Budapest

Like for mosst day trips from Budapest, you can reach the Cave Baths either by train, by bus, or by car in just under 2 hours. By car, the journey is fast and convenient, but you have to remember that motorways are are not free. You have to buy the special vignette ( matrica ) from a gas station before entering the motorway.

READ NEXT : Prague vs. Budapest: How to Decide Which One to Visit?

Esztergom was a royal seat for three centuries and also the seat of Roman Catholicism in Hungary for more than a thousand years. Esztergom is also the place where the nation’s first king – St Stephen– was born.

Budapest may brag about big churches, majestic cathedrals, and synagogues , but Esztergom won’t shy away from the competition. 

The city boasts the largest Basilica in Hungary, with an inner area of 5,600 squares meter. The church is breathtaking inside and out. It’s free to enter the church with the exception of the crypts, cupola and treasury. 

But the gigantic Basilica is not the only attraction in the city. While you could easily spend days exploring Esztergom, it’s worth hopping on a bus, train, or boat to visit it just for a day.

On the same grounds as the Basilica is the Castle Museum. While we did not go inside, this is another attraction that you can visit in Esztergom if you have time. Also, don’t miss the Christian Museum which has the largest collection of ecclesiastical objects in all of Hungary.

How to Get to Esztergom from Budapest

You can reach Esztergom from Budapest by train, by bus, by boat, or by car. There are also trains to Ezstergom from Budapest, but the train is not the most convenient way to get there. The train station in Esztergom is about a 30-minute walk from the center of town. 

If you found this information helpful, please pin it to help other travelers to Budapest:

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

Priya Singh

May 20, 2019 at 2:14 am

Hey, I am so glad to read your thoughts because I really enjoyed reading this. The way you explain your travel experience is truly awesome.

April 22, 2019 at 10:27 am

I would love to visit Miskolctapolca Cave Baths. A thermal bath sounds really therapeutic and relaxing. Thank you for the tips. Will take the train instead once we visit.

April 22, 2019 at 8:55 am

Hungary is such an underrated destination! Can’t believe you have all these options there besides Budapest. I am a big fan of their baths and it’s the first time I heard about this cave bath. I bet 2 hours drive is so worth it if this is the destination. Need to flex and relax all those muscles after driving!

Anda Galffy

April 22, 2019 at 9:44 am

You are right, Trisha. Most people only know about Budapest, but have no idea how many other interesting destinations are in Hungary.

April 22, 2019 at 5:04 am

I love your idea of biking to one of the closer cities. The cave baths sound most appealing to me, but Eger sounds like the most practical day trip if I’m traveling with friends because it sounds like there’s something there for everyone. I’d love to spend a week in Hungary and check out all of these places.

Blairvillanueva

April 20, 2019 at 9:35 pm

The first time I heard about Bupadest is from that movie “Grand Hotel Budapest”. It was a good movie. During that season, it would be nice to enjoy wine tasting and gain tips from locals. And enjoy the city and the architecture.

April 20, 2019 at 4:07 pm

As someone that visited Budapest on multiple occasions, this is one great list. You managed to cover the most interesting, touristy day trips one should take from Budapest. My favorite is Lake Balaton- I always keep going back there when I’m in town

April 20, 2019 at 10:25 pm

Balaton is beautiful, but a little farther away than Szentendre, or Eger.

Rhonda Albom

April 20, 2019 at 1:19 pm

I have not been to Budapest in many years but if I go back, I’d want to go see Eger. The castle and the hot pools are what attract me most. Although, I wouldn’t mind visiting the basilica in Esztergom. I guess I should plan on spending more time in Hungary.

April 20, 2019 at 10:26 pm

Esztergom is my favorite of all the day trips I listed here too.

April 20, 2019 at 4:47 am

I’ve just started mapping out a European road trip that includes Hungary so I’m glad that you gave me some great ideas for getting out into the countryside of Hungary. I’ve never been so I’m excited to see these areas.

April 20, 2019 at 8:29 am

A road trip through Europe will be a lot of fun. Looking forward to reading about it, Jill.

April 19, 2019 at 10:55 pm

I was melting in Budapest this past summer! I desperately wish I took these day trips that you recommended to escape the heat and explore more of Hungary’s hidden beauty! Lake Balatan and Eger would be at the top of my list! These photos are impeccable and I want to visit these regions ASAP!

April 20, 2019 at 8:30 am

Thank you, Martha. Hope you will get to visit some of these places soon.

April 19, 2019 at 4:28 pm

What a great list. We were in Budapest last year but only had a few days so we decided to stay in the city instead of taking day trips. Perhaps I’ll do that when I go back next. I am particularly interested in the Hungarian wine country…. they have a prolific wine industry I was os unaware of until I went to Budapest.

April 19, 2019 at 4:38 pm

The day trips are worth doing only if you have more time in Budapest. The city has so many attractions, it’s hard to leave it behind and go somewhere else if you only have a few days.

April 20, 2019 at 8:32 am

You’d have no problem walking on that platform, Jane. I am afraid of heights and still enjoyed walking on that platform a lot.

April 19, 2019 at 4:07 pm

Budapest is on my fall list, so I’m not necessarily looking to get away from the heat. But these day trips are great to see a different aspect of Hungary. I’m grateful that you specified how to get to each one since I’m probably not renting a car and need to plan on train access mostly. And wine tasting in Eger sounds appealing!

April 18, 2019 at 8:47 pm

Thank you for the day trips ideas from Budapest! I love getting out of the city when I travel to experience the countryside and take in some nature. Lake Balaton looks like a wonderful, relaxing place to slow down and relax. Miskolctapolca Cave Baths also look like an amazing, cultural experience.

April 18, 2019 at 10:04 pm

They are all cooler places to visit while it’s hot in Budapest.

April 18, 2019 at 7:15 pm

Of all the cities outside Budapest on the list, I think I want to visit Eger first. I like the history behind the fortresses and especially the church. It is so beautiful! The distance from Budapest is an added value. The second one is Lake Balatan. I just want to soak in that silky-green shallow water. Then the cave baths. Who says no to a thermal bath, right?

April 18, 2019 at 7:30 pm

Yep, you are right. We all love a thermal bath.

April 17, 2019 at 2:30 am

Can you believe I’ve still not been to Hungary, and it’s only 1.5 hours flight from me! I love the look of all these smaller towns, especially the ones with the thermal/cave baths. I’m a huge wellness fan when I travel so would love to de-stress here for an hour or so. Eger also is appealing as I’m a wine drinker, and would love to try Hungarian wines; it’d be a first!

April 16, 2019 at 11:04 pm

This is a great list! I love seeking out day trips from major cities. It’s such a great way to get even more out of a great trip. Eger looks amazing. I would love to see Eger Castle!

Jane Dempster-Smith

April 16, 2019 at 8:46 pm

We haven’t been to Hungary or Budapest yet but if we go we will definitely plan to visit the towns that you have mentioned. Love your photos. We have heard of Bulls Blood Wine and would love to enjoy a glass of two. The view of Esztergom Basilica from across the lake was stunning.

April 16, 2019 at 9:25 am

I do love this area of the world. I spent some time in Romania last fall and really wanted to visit Hungary, but didn’t feel like I’d have enough time on that particular trip. Seeing how many wonderful options there are around the country is very encouraging. Szentendre reminds me a lot of Sighisoara in Romania – cobblestoned streets, beautiful buildings, and a tall church tower. I’d love to visit someday!

April 16, 2019 at 11:56 am

You are right, Rachelle, I grew up in Romania and have seen the many similarities between these two neighboring countries.

April 19, 2019 at 10:53 am

That’s so cool! Where did you grow up? My friend just got married to a Romanian guy and they live in Ploiești!

April 19, 2019 at 2:33 pm

I grew up in Bucharest, Romania, just an hour away from Ploiesti.

April 15, 2019 at 8:21 pm

There is such a heavy focus on Budapest in travel writing lately but seldom do I see posts about places outside of the city. I really enjoyed reading this and adding lots of places to my bucket list! I’d be really interested to visit the cave baths and definitely the wineries! It would be nice to spend so much time relaxing before heading back into the busy city. I’m saving this post for later for sure, thank you so much for giving me so many ideas!

April 15, 2019 at 11:50 pm

Thanks, Stephanie. Totally worth taking some of these day trips if you have more time in Budapest.

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The 12 best day trips from European cities

Posted: March 15, 2024 | Last updated: March 15, 2024

The best part of Europe is how close together everything is, which makes day trips very doable. Here are 12 amazing recommendations from the most popular European cities.

From Paris: Versailles Palace & Grounds

The classic Paris day trip, a journey out to the former stronghold of the French monarchy won’t disappoint. Make sure to book a time slot in advance to avoid lines at the palace. I recommend going early before the crowds become unbearable. After marveling at the interior, allow some time to wander the expansive grounds and have a picnic along the lake on a nice day.

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From Paris: Fontainebleau

Another classic day trip from Paris, Fontainebleau is often overlooked for the more popular Versailles. However, it can be a better alternative due to less popularity, which means fewer crowds. Additionally, Fontainebleau is arguably more impressive as it wasn’t ransacked during the Revolution; thus, more artifacts are available to view.

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From Amsterdam: Tulip Fields

Amsterdam is famous for nightlife and culture, but don’t forget how the rest of the country comes alive in the spring. There are numerous colorful fields, just a train and bike ride away from the capital. Remember to go in the morning before the lines pile up!

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From London: Windsor Castle

London’s closest castle (after Buckingham Palace, of course) is a quick train ride away from the capital. Take a tour, view the royal artifacts, enjoy the gardens, and explore the surrounding town — a perfect escape from the Big Smoke of the city.

From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher

Admittedly a bit far as a day trip from Dublin, but if you can swing it, you won’t regret the decision. The straight-down bright green cliffs are a great viewpoint for Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. You’ll get plenty of exercise on the walk to make the long drive worth it!

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From Brussels: Bruges

Many prefer this adorable Medieval town to Belgium’s capital, Brussels. The quaint cobblestone streets, college-town feel, and an ambiance on even the rainiest day make it a wonderful place to spend some time. Wander a beer museum, visit a tasting room, and enjoy a stroll along the canal.

From Munich: the Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps are unlike any other part of Germany and make a great day trip from Munich. You can take a gondola up Germany’s highest point, the Zugspitze, hike or ski the trails, or just enjoy lake views. Bonus — don’t forget to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle on the way back to the city. 

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From Budapest: Lake Balaton

Hungary’s main lake is located about an hour and a half from Budapest. You can drive yourself for a day of relaxation or take a tour. But know these typically last all day, upwards of eight hours. You can wander the town or just tan at the beach. 

From Athens: Delphi

This UNESCO World Heritage site is just a couple hours from the Greek capital. It’s a must-visit if you’re a history or archeology buff. In ancient times, the town was known as the home of the Oracle, Delphi, and a naval stronghold. These days, it houses some of the most impressive ruins in the country.

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From Sofia: Seven Rila Lakes

Glacial lakes might not be what typically comes to mind when you think of Bulgaria, but these natural wonders are just a couple of hours from the capital. Set amongst the Rila Mountains, they make a perfect nature escape for a day of hiking or just cooling off far from the city.

From Malaga: Ronda

Ronda is a wonderful respite to nearby Malaga. Split by the El Tajo Gorge, the town's dramatic appearance is just one piece of its appeal. Walk the Puente Nuevo, the “New Bridge," and others that connect the two sides of the town. Once you’ve had enough exercise, visit the historic bullring or go wine tasting in the surrounding hillside.

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From Prague: Cesky Krumlov

Located just a couple of hours from Prague, this charming town is like a mini version of the capital city, where everything is much more walkable. The crown jewel however is the castle and surrounding grounds, which are very well preserved.

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2 replies to this topic

1. the fastest train on this route is the RJX train taking 6 hours 50 minutes, roughly there are 2 trains in the morning, and perhaps one train in the afternoon.,

2, if you buy at the station, that is the maximum price

see bahn.de for pricing

Thank you for your prompt response!

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