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The complete guide to traveling budapest alone.

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Updated: 3 November 2022

Out of all the cities to travel alone in Europe , I have to say that Budapest is one of my favorite destinations, and is definitely a city I want to visit for a third time in the near future. I’m not even kidding. Traveling to Budapest alone = a great decision.

Therefore, if you’re a solo female traveler, you may wonder why you ought to choose Budapest, especially if you’re currently thinking about other Central European cities like Prague or Vienna.

You should do all three capitals if you have time, but I realize we may not have unlimited travel days (one can wish, right?) at our disposal.

So how can I convince you to visit Budapest on your next trip to Europe? Sit back and relax! You’re in for a real wanderlusty treat by deciding to do solo travel to Budapest.

Personally, I love Budapest. I love Budapest so, so, so much that I visited twice – in the summer and winter – and if someone offered me a ticket tomorrow, I would have no problem spending a third trip frolicking the streets of Hungary’s glorious capital city.

You can easily spend two weeks or four days in Budapest , and still have an incredible time.

Ultimately Budapest is one of those rare cities that I would move to. True story, ya’ll.

Table of Contents

My Solo Trip to Budapest 

What inspired this post anyway? As I was googling random places and procrastinating vacuuming my living room, I noticed a lot of solo female travelers wondered if visiting Budapest was a safe decision.

As women, we always have safety at the forefront of our minds. Society has given us no other choice (unfortunately). Our instincts are sharp and ready to go.

But why Budapest? And is Budapest safe to travel alone?

Absolutely!

On both my visits, I found Budapest not only safe, but a suitable city for solo travelers to enjoy.

What do I mean by suitable? Well … Budapest has everything available for the taking, and an adventurous traveler will deeply appreciate all the things to do alone in Budapest.

Great hostels, interesting tours, wine tastings, world class attractions, bustling nightlife (yay ruined bars), and a reasonable price tag to top it all off. It’s also a major destination and many other solo travelers are around for you to meet. I made a lot of new and wonderful friends on my own trip to Budapest.

Now let’s get into my specific guide geared toward traveling to Budapest alone!

Where to Stay for Solo Travel in Budapest

Which Neighborhood in Budapest? Buda or Pest? What? You mean I can’t stay in both?

Nope, as a visitor, you will need to decide if you want to stay in Buda or Pest.

Fortunately for you, Budapest has plenty of accommodation to choose from. Hostels, hotels, apartments.

Trust me, you’ll be fine booking the place of your choice as long as you carefully read the reviews ahead of time. You may want to reserve in advance if you’re visiting during “high season,” namely the summer months.

In summer, I stayed in Wombats Hostel Budapest and it was a great choice for me. Accommodations are clean and comfortable, and there’s a laundry room to wash your clothes if you’ve been on the road for a long time. Wombats as a chain has very high ratings. 

Meanwhile, if you’re not a hostel person or want a smaller accommodation, then your biggest decision will be whether or not you want to base yourself in Buda or Pest. Honestly, Buda and Pest really do have two different personalities , which I think adds to the city’s coolness.

I personally would base myself in Pest, but here’s a breakdown of the two areas so you can make a decision best suited to fit your solo travel needs.

Budapest Solo Travel: Buda vs. Pest

Buda is a place that is filled with historic buildings, street musicians, and cobblestone roads. Unsurprisingly, this area includes some of the most famous sights such as the Castle District, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Gellért Thermal Bath. Most tourists visit Buda during the day. At night, lights illuminate alllllll the streets, but it’s super quiet. Staying in beautiful Buda isn’t a bad idea for travelers seeking a peaceful visit.

Looking for action and fun instead? Then you must stay in Pest. The Jewish Quarter is home to cool cafes and the famous ruin bars. Additionally, I believe all of the best hostels are located on this side of the Danube River. Like I said, I feel as if solo travelers are best based in Pest, because there are more opportunities to meet other travelers and locals. Pest has many attractions, too. Examples include the Parliament Building, House of Terror, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, and much more!

How to Get Around Budapest Alone

Public transportation.

Public transportation in Budapest is safe and effective for solo travelers. So, ultimately, you will need to ride the Budapest Trams.

And, please, make sure to always validate your metro tickets at the orange machines. You don’t want to pay a huge fine. 

Budapest is walkable, but if you want to enjoy everything in this city, then you’ll eventually have to take the metro or trolleys.

I loved the metro. It’s clean, on time, and easy to navigate. If you’re used to, say, the New York City subway, then you’ll have no problems using Hungary’s public transportation system.

But a word of warning. AGAIN. Do not ever, ever, ever  forget to validate your tickets in Budapest (or any metro in Europe).

Your metro tickets need to be stamped with a date and time. If you forget and a plain clothes cop checks your ticket, you’ll have to pay a pretty nasty fine.

From what I’ve heard, these cops aren’t too understanding about tourists who “don’t know” they had to validate their tickets. Be careful.

Taxis (And Scams!) in Budapest

This isn’t the most pleasant topic to discuss, but it’s still something solo travelers should be aware of on their trip to Budapest.

Unfortunately, you need to be careful about taxis in Budapest or else you could get ripped off. And your money is precious!

Now I don’t want to put all taxi drivers on blast. Like every other profession, I’m positive some taxi drivers are hard-working and honest.

Still, I wouldn’t recommend hailing a taxi off the street, especially at night. Budapest is a very walkable city with a well-connected metro system so you shouldn’t take taxis everywhere to begin with. It’s not practical.

But, if you really need a taxi, say to go to the airport, then have your hostel or hotel arrange transportation for you to avoid getting ripped off. Even then, as a precaution, double check to ensure the meter is turned on for the entire journey.

What to Do Alone in Budapest

Soak yourself in a public bath.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath or Gellért Thermal Bath? Decisions, decisions.

Mmm, who here doesn’t love soaking in a hot spa especially with the bottoms of your feet throbbing? Yes, I absolutely loved Budapest’s public baths.

The hot water relaxes the muscles after a long day of sightseeing. Budapest has two popular baths: Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Thermal Bath.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is my favorite of the two, because of the sprawling outdoor pools, including a crazy fun whirlpool. You can get different packages if you want to indulge in an all day spa extravaganza. Gellért Thermal Bath is also lovely and located inside a majestic building. You truly cannot go wrong visiting either bath.

If you’re visiting Budapest in the winter , don’t worry too much, because both Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Thermal Bath are open all year round for you to relax in. Yes, you can still soak in the outdoor bathes in the middle of the Hungarian winter. It’s fine.

And if you want to treat yourself to an extra dose of self-care, look into booking private entrances for your spa trips. Ahhh, relaxing.

Exploring beyond Budapest? Check out these 25 tips for solo female travel in Europe.

Get Wonderfully “Ruined”

Ruin bars are all the rage in Budapest.

These derelict buildings have been transformed into eclectic places to grab drinks and socialize with others. Most ruin bars are in the Jewish Quarter, which is the best neighborhood for nightlife in Budapest. If you want to party, stay here.

Szimpla Kert is the most famous ruin bar of all. It’s absolutely huge! I get lost every single time I visit. Furthermore, I looooove the crazy decorations. All the furniture is mismatched. Seriously, everything looks as if it were taken from five-hundred random yard sales, and this jarring decor only adds to the edgy ambience of the place. Quite an experience for a drink or two.

Like I said, I deeply enjoyed Szimpla Kert, but Budapest has many ruin bar options for solo travelers to explore! Be adventurous!

Don’t Want to Go Alone? Take a Pub Crawl of the Ruin Bars

Solo Friendly Restaurants in Budapest

If you have no dietary restrictions, you won’t go hungry in Budapest!

The meats, potatoes, cheeses, beers, and cakes are guaranteed to fill up your stomach – even if you love to eat like yours truly!

Here are some of my personal favorite places to eat and drink. Of course, if you need more options, then Lonely Planet’s Budapest guide is always up to date. 

Where to Eat Alone in Budapest

• Café Gerbeaud: This cafe is located in a grand high-ceiling building with a rich history. Popular with tourists, it’s worth sitting down with a coffee and cake while savoring the atmosphere of the place. You can find Café Gerbeaud on 1051 Budapest Vörösmarty tér 7-8.
• Faust Wine Cellar:  Visiting this wine cellar was by far one of the most wonderful experiences that I had in the Buda Castle District. It may come as a surprise, but Hungary is well known for its delicious wines. Faust Wine Cellar, containing only 5 tables, promises an intimate experience, but this means you need to make a reservation and honor it. You can find Faust Wine Cellar at Hess András square 1-3 inside the Hotel Hilton Budapest.
• Great Market Hall:  Budapest’s most famous market. Come and enjoy traditional Hungarian food and drinks of all types. The Great Market Hall is also a fun place for you to buy souvenirs for your friends and family.
• Hungarikum Bisztro:  I think this was my favorite restaurant in all of Budapest. I loved the checkered tabletops and delicious langos and goulash. This place is wildly popular so you must make reservations in advance.  Hungarikum Bisztro can be found at   Steindl Imre u. 13.

• New York Cafe:  Another famous cafe! New York Cafe is  elegant.  Seriously, I felt like a famous author from the 1920s stepping into the gilded building. This place gets packed, so patience is required especially when waiting for your check. Schedule some time to enjoy your coffee. Mmm, yum. New York Cafe can be found at Erzsébet krt. 9-11. Bonus! It’s open every day!
• Paprika: This restaurant has one of the coolest interiors that I have ever seen! You feel as if you’ve stepped into an old hunting lodge in the Hungarian countryside. The fish stew here is absolutely delicious, too. Paprika can be found at Dózsa György út 72.
• Pesti Disznó:  This place is located not too far from the Opera House. Come here for the simple ingredients. I especially loved the salad and pork knuckle. Mmm, pork knuckle.  Pesti Disznó   located at Nagymező street 19.

Reflect and Learn Budapest’s Dark History

I don’t know what this says about me, but dark history fascinates me. I always feel astonished that humanity is capable of such compassion … and such evil! It’s hard to reconcile.

Budapest itself has certainly experienced its share of tough times. My favorite “darker” attractions include the following three places:

• House of Terror Museum: This museum is dedicated to the victims of Hungary’s fascists and communist regimes. The exhibits take up three floors. Take your time reading through all the pamphlets. Personally, I think this attraction requires at least two hours. At least. Keep in mind that this museum is one of Budapest’s top attractions. On my winter trip, I waited in line for at least forty minutes before I was permitted to enter the building. Try to come early to avoid the wait. House of Terror Museum is located at Andrássy út 60
• Memento Park: One of the coolest open air museums ever!   Many of the statues from this era are now located in Memento Park , outside the city of Budapest.
• Hospital in the Rock:  This nuclear bunker is located in the Buda District. The history of this emergency hospital dates back to World War II. In the 1950s, the hospital was expanded and created to withstand chemical attacks, an ominous threat that lingered throughout the years of the Cold War. You can only visit the Hospital in the Rock on a guided tour so prepare accordingly. The Hospital in the Rock is located at Lovas út 4/c.

Go Enjoy an Opera Alone in Budapest

Budapest’s State Opera House is a wonderful sight for all travelers to behold.

Emperor Franz-Joseph funded the neo-Renaissance building, but he rarely attended an opera here, because he didn’t want to take the “limelight” away from the opera house located in Vienna.

Needless to say, Budapest’s State Opera house is a place of historical significance. Personally, I’m very  into arts and culture, so I would have no problem spending money on tickets to attend a show.

If you’re at all like me, then splurge a little on a delightful evening of music and emotion. You won’t regret it!

Okay, so let’s say you’re not into opera. Haha, that’s cool. We’re all different. You still may want to check out a guided tour of the stunning building. The Budapest State Opera House is located at Andrássy Ave 22.

Is Budapest safe for Female Travellers?

Yes, definitely!

Going to Budapest alone is way more enjoyable than unsafe. But, of course, it’s always smart to stay aware of your surroundings. Be careful in large crowds just in case pickpockets are lurking among the tourists.

As already stated, try not to hail taxis on the street since being overcharged is sadly common. But Budapest’s public transit system is of high quality both in cleanliness and speed. And you can always have your accommodation call a cab for you!

Otherwise solo travel in Budapest is great. Don’t feel too paranoid on your visit. Use common sense and you’re good to go, even as a woman traveling alone. The biggest danger will likely come from eating too much delicious Hungarian food.

There’s no best time to go to Budapest. Simply go and enjoy this amazing city.

I hope I inspired you to try traveling to Budapest alone. It really is a wondrous  city. Are you ready to book your visit to Budapest?  For those of you who have visited Budapest, what advice would you give solo travelers to this city?

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

11 thoughts on “ The Complete Guide to Traveling Budapest Alone ”

OMG the ruin bars sound amazing – gotta check them out next time I’m there!

Amy —

They are BEYOND cool!

My 23 year old daughter is determined to travel through Europe alone and Budapest is in her list. I’m concerned about safety and going to bars solo. Any advice for her, and more specially her parents?

Paty —

I completely understand your concerns! My big advice would be for her to stay in hostels. Many hostels arrange bar tours. That way she will be in a group at night. The more social the hostel, the better. As for parents, I always leave my parents an exact itinerary with my hostels and destinations. I also contact them at least once a day. I always send a text in the morning giving a rough idea of my plans. Finally you may want to google Busabout. It is a hop on, hop off bus service that makes it very easy for solo travelers to go around Europe. 🙂

I completely agree with this piece! I’ve been solo traveling for the last 5yrs mostly US, Western Europe and Canada, and this year decided to go explore the eastern part. Budapest was my favourite city of all time, and probably the safest I have ever felt even compared to other big cities. I went at the end of April to avoid the summer crowd and stayed for 2 whole weeks, used airbnb which was very cheap and convenient. It was beyond amazing. My tip for any solo female travelers who are worried is to take the free walking tour the very first day, it will help you get a better sense of orientation of the city. It felt very safe walking around on my own, night and day, obviously use commonsense but I never felt unsafe, not once. I also took a ruin bar/history walk (paid) which was amazing cos I didn’t fancy the ‘pub crawl’ tour.

I visited the ruin bars, the thermal baths, the castle, did a lot of museums, parks, I went to eat lunch and dinner alone multiple times, hungarian local dishes are delicious! I went to visit historic sites. The metro system is cheap and easy to use, and the city is walk-able everywhere. Margaret island was a great spot too to spend half a day and a definite must do is the night river cruise.

All in all Budapest was amazing and so affordable, I cannot wait to go back. I went to Bratislavia and Vienna afterwards and although I enjoyed myself, it didn’t feel as charming, as rustic and as nice as Budapest. I loved it all and everyone I met was friendly even though not everyone speaks english (most do though). It is totally safe.

I am planning to go in Feb, any suggestions as to which hotel is good?

I actually used airbnb and they are fabulous. You can rent a whole apartment to yourself, in a very convenient location close to the metro. I stayed close to the Opera and the metro was 2 mins walk away. Very safe and I paid $45/night for a fully furnished apartment. I can’t say much about Hotels it all depends on your budget I suppose.

Wendy, did you find that 2 weeks was a good enough time? would you recommend staying longer or for less time in budapest? I’ve havent been before so i’m trying to decide how long i want to stay there.

Hi, I am a 20 year old college student studying abroad this semester in Lille, France, and have booked a flight to Budapest in December. I have definitely heard mixed reviews about safety in Budapest, and I am wondering what the best ways to feel safe are? I want to do as much as possible, but also am concerned about safety, although this post has reassured me a bit.

I’m also planning a solo trip to Budapest this Christmas! Could you please suggest me a good hostel?

Hey! Great to see a piece for solo female travellers! I have a question, if I need to leave my hostel at 4am for the airport. Will there be any taxis operating at that time and if so what cost? Thanks!

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Budapest Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Budapest ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Capital and highest populated city of Hungary ( 1.76 million  residents).
• It’s pronounced “ Buddha-PESHT “!
• Consists of two parts ( Buda and Pest ), united into one city in 1873.
• One of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with many UNESCO heritage sites.
• Famous for its spas , the city has largest thermal water system in the world.
• Nicknames: City of Spas, The Pearl of the Danube, Paris of the East

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Forint  (HUF) and Euro (EUR).
• Spoken languages:   primarily Hungarian  (English spoken by many foreigners).
• Best time to visit: from  March  to October  (mild, continental climate).
• Arriving via airport: for the cheapest option, take the 100E bus (supplementary 900 HUF fee). For 6 Euros, you can also grab a shuttle bus (they leave when full – more information here ).
• Taxis from the airport: go to the official Főtaxi booth , with prices from 14 to 24 EUR, depending on the end destination within the city).

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers in Budapest: Maverick City Lodge . Clean rooms/beds, friendly staff, and modern facilities. Just a few mins walk from the train and metro stations. City tours organized for residents. Book ahead to reserve your spot!
• Accommodation in the city center ( District V ) is the most expensive, especially as you get closer to the Danube. For best value, try to find something close to (but not in) the center – Districts VI , VII or VIII .
• Many visitors prefer to stay on the Buda side, as it has better air quality (closer to hills and forests).

GETTING AROUND

• The public transport in Budapest is operated by BKV and there are plenty of options: buses, trolleybuses, trams, subway and trains.
• Tickets must be bought prior to boarding, except at night above ground. The tickets are available at stands, some shops, vending machines and subway stations. A single ticket, known as jegy , costs 350 HUF (450 HUF if purchased directly from the driver). It is valid on all public transport vehicles for one uninterrupted trip.
• The Budapest Card is not worth it! You get access to a few second-rate museums and free entrance to Lukács Baths (better alternative exist).
• Instead, opt for the Budapest-travelcard (the 24-hour and 72-hour are the popular ones). More information here . This is by far the most economical way to get around for visitors!
• All taxis in Budapest must have the word Taxi on them and a yellow registration plate, as well as the company name. Most of them have a basic fee, per km charge and a waiting fee. It is a customary to leave a 10% tip for the taxi driver.
• All EU/EEA senior citizens (age 65+) can use Hungarian public transport for free .

BUDAPEST NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is  18 , no official last call (some clubs are open at night).
• Start your night out at one of the cafes on  Linzt Ferenc Square .
• Most clubs and bars are located on the left bank of the river, between the Terez krt. Street, the Rakoczi ut. Street, Karoly krt. Street and the Bajksy-Zsilinszky ut. Street.
• Hip/local scene: visit  3rd , 5th and 7th districts.
• Casual nightlife recommendations: DOBLO Wine Bar and Shop, Olimpia Borozó ($ – wine bar), Élesztő ($$ – gastropub), Csendes Létterem ($$), Nappali Kávéház ($$)
• Looking for the authentic Budapest pub experience? Szimpla Kert and Potkulcs Pub are your best bets.
• For dancing , your best bets are the Instant-Fogas Complex (7-level club), AETHER Club, Arzenál, Heaven Club, Ötkert Club, and Akvárium Klub.
• Live music: Dürer Kert, A38 Hajó (a barge converted into a music venue), and Barba Negra Track.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• The Parliament Building , a stunning neo-gothic building overlooking the Danube. Entry is only allowed via a guided tour (free for EU residents, 3,500 HUF for non-residents). Buy tickets in advance as they sell out early. It’s also worth it to come back and check out the area at night – marvel at the view of the Parliament, mirrored in the water.
• Heroes Square . Consisting of the Millennium Monument, this is an often overlooked part of the city.
• Another UNESCO site in Budapest is the Buda Castle District , with some of the oldest and most romantic monuments in Hungary. The Castle, a royal residence of European rank, is one of the most visited landmarks in the country. Located within the Buda Castle District, the Royal Palace  features interesting museums and galleries. There is also  labyrinth  located under the Castle.
• The Danube is an attraction in of itself. One of the most well-known sights of Budapest, the river runs through three other capital cities.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Take a long walk up the Gellert hill until you   reach the Citadel, where you will be treated to a spectacular panoramic view of the city.
• Stroll along the Duna korzó riverside embankment on the Pest side.
• Wander through the Jewish district and visit the largest synagogue in Europe (the second largest in the world).

LOCAL WISDOM

• With so much to see and explore, some of the most interesting and unique areas do not get nearly enough attention from visitors. One example is Obuda , the oldest part of Budapest.
• Try one of the city’s many  baths and thermal springs . Great places to start: Gellért Thermal Bath and Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
• Tips are usually left on the table. If possible, add a 10% tip at restaurants, cafes, taxis, etc.
• Traditional Hungarian dishes to try before you leave (links to what they look like): Hortobágy crêpes ,  hurka-kolbász (sausage), goulash , langos , and Somló trifle for dessert!
• Chill out for a bite and drink at the Massolit Budapest Books and Café .
• Great Budapest restaurants that locals love: Borkonyha ($$$), Stand25 Bisztró ($$$), Petrus Restaurant ($$$), KönyvBár ($$), Kao Niaw Ping Kai ($$ – Thai), Budapest, Gyros Kerkyra Görög Ételbár ($$), Bors GasztroBár.
• Where to find  good cheap eats : food is generally more affordable in Budapest than in other European cities. For budget eating, check out the  Raday utca district .
• Dangerous areas :  Easter and Western railway stations, where pickpocketing could be an issue. Also, avoid Districts 8 and 9  at night, as well as the unlit areas along the river banks.

Recommended trip duration:  2-3 days

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Ultimate Solo Travel Guide To Budapest (2024)

After exploring Amsterdam and Berlin, I took a solo trip to Budapest in search of baths, coffee spots by the Danube River, and Art Nouveau architecture. Whether you can make it to Hungary’s capital city for a couple of days or a few weeks, you’ll find total immersion in the creative vibe and warm energy of this Central European treat. 

I loved the accessibility of the city. From the door of my hostel, I was able to explore everywhere on foot, getting my step count up and keeping my purse full! I like the authenticity of public transport, but it’s lovely to spend time exploring without it. The weather is great pretty much all year round which I didn’t expect. In the summer, I relished every minute, strolling the winding streets and devouring endless Lángos and Kürtőskalács.

My solo Budapest trip is one I’ll always remember for its vibrant nightlife, mouth-watering dishes, and diverse array of things to do. The Szechenyi Thermal Baths were amazing to experience after reading and hearing so much about them on my travels through Europe! I was blessed with bright cerulean skies as I sat and absorbed the beauty around me with my toes in the water.

>> READ:  The Perfect Budapest Winter City Break Itinerary

Planning a solo trip to Budapest? Here’s where you’ll find:

Everything you need to know before a solo trip to budapest, how to get to budapest as a solo traveller, tips for finding cheap flights to budapest, do i need a visa for my trip to budapest, how do i book a solo trip to budapest.

• How To Book Hostels and Hotels in Budapest
• Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Budapest
• SIM Cards in Budapest
• Is Budapest a Good Place to Travel Solo?

How Much Does A Solo Trip To Budapest Cost?

Is budapest safe for a solo female traveller.

• Best Places For Solo Travel In Budapest
• How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling Budapest?

Taking the plunge to solo travel Budapest is perfect if you’re already planning an adventure to Central Europe. Surrounded by Austria, Slovakia, Croatia, and more, combining several countries in one epic overseas break could be the trip of a lifetime! Just make sure you carve out enough time for Budapest, as you don’t want to miss the grand Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, or the bustling Central Market Hall.

A blend of architectural styles makes Budapest an incredibly beautiful city, and being so walkable, visitors can stroll around, soaking everything up. Many solo travellers flock to Budapest yearly, so even if you head there alone, you’ll meet other backpackers everywhere. I predominantly stayed in hostels which exposed me to lots of travellers from around the world. After connecting and forming closer bonds, we did the Wombats Hostel Pub Crawl– a fun way to let loose, and party while feeling safe as a solo female traveller. 

The fastest flight to Budapest from the UK will land you in Hungary in just a couple of hours, but hear me out when I say this might not be the best option. Fast flights can also be expensive flights. Adding a couple of hours or a layover onto your journey can save hundreds– I mean it! Take the flights to Budapest I found below as an example:

A four-hour stopover in Stuttgart, Germany saves nearly £100 on your outward flight to Budapest. Yes, waiting for flights is far from exhilarating, but it could be an opportunity for a mooch around the airport or a window to catch up on emails. Try to be as open as possible when planning your trip to Budapest, considering a little less convenience for big rewards like saving money. 

Making savings on your Hungarian adventure means you can jet off to other locations with your leftover budget, or start saving for a trip to another continent! When I first started my solo travelling journey, little did I know I’d spend the next 10 years circling the globe, taking planes, boats, trains, and buses around Europe and beyond. This experience has allowed me to find ways of saving money on flight prices . For now, let’s get into a few of my top tips, shall we?

Look At A Variety Of Options

A rough plan of where and when you want to travel forms a solid foundation, but you don’t need to be concrete! Keeping yourself open to various options from the airport and destination to the date and time you fly will showcase the best deals. Off-peak travel at an inconvenient time of day will be cheaper than flying at the height of summer, and some airports may cost less to fly into than others.

Use Comparison Websites

Comparison websites take care of the mundane task of scanning the web for the best flight deals. This is what I used to do to make savings wherever possible, but it took a lot of time and effort! I now trust Skyscanner to do the job. For Budapest, you can search flight options based on dates, budget, journey duration and more to find the best deals. 

Like Marmite, you either love packing or hate it! Either way, avoid surprise baggage fees by keeping within the limit of the airline you’re flying with. Budget airlines tend to have smaller weight limits that can catch out travellers if they aren’t aware beforehand. Take a look at your airline’s website and check out the luggage weight allowances. Weigh your bag once packed to make sure you’re not over the limit and have to eat into your budget for something non-essential! 

Hungary is in the Schengen Area, so UK citizens can enjoy the country visa-free for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. To travel to Budapest, it’s necessary to hold a valid passport with an expiry date of a minimum of 3 months after your planned departure from Hungary. You may also need to show an onward ticket, sufficient funds, and proof of accommodation at the border. For stays longer than 90 days, you need to explore the best-suited options for your needs with the Hungarian authorities. Find out more information on the UK GOV website here . 

There’s no right or wrong way to solo travel Budapest, but it’s good to consider the type of trip you want. Maybe a fully organised itinerary is what you need to feel comfortable and content, or perhaps a group trip is your answer for adventure.  

Entire Planned Trip

A day-to-day itinerary with activities and accommodation isn’t my preferred way to travel, but it might appeal to beginner solo travellers. Organising everything beforehand takes away the stress of finding activities and places to stay when you’re in the city. 

If scheduling everything is a bit too much planning, why not look into group trips? Think about a sightseeing cruise on the Danube, a Parliament tour, or maybe a group walking tour for the first day so you can learn about the hot spots to go to!

Flight and One Night Accommodation 

If you’ve already experienced a few solo trips and are full of confidence, booking only your outbound flight and first night’s accommodation might be appealing. Spontaneous adventure is an incredible way to grow and challenge yourself, with Budapest being a safe and exciting destination for explorative solo travel without having every detail mapped out.  

How To Book Hostels And Hotels In Budapest?

Booking accommodation for your solo trip to Budapest is an exciting time! The city is home to unique and creative places to stay for a range of budgets. I don’t plan every night’s accommodation before a trip as I like to discover options on the ground, but for the nights I do book, I use Booking and Hostelworld .

Read everything I’ve learned about finding cheap hotels , but know these two websites are game-changers! Both are easy to use and with honest feedback from other travellers, I can quickly assess whether I will feel comfortable in a space. Hotels are by far the cheaper option, but Booking has countless luxury options at budget prices worth exploring!

Currency, Plugs And The Best Way To Get Around Budapest

When it’s time to start putting a bag together for a trip , I make a list of everything I need to bring, and things I’d like to bring if I have space and weight to play with. For Budapest, you need Hungarian Forint and adaptors for plug types C and F. Cash and cards are accepted in Hungary, but I like to bring a mixture of the two in case one method fails, gets misplaced, or is stolen. 

Budapest’s walkability is unbeatable, but other ways of getting around include a river boat, bicycle, subway, or taxi. Public transport is affordable and accessible across the city, so you can easily get from place to place without solely relying on your feet.

Best Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Budapest

With so much to think about before setting off on your Hungarian venture, it’s easy to forget about travel insurance. It isn’t a must, but I find myself braver and more comfortable when backed by travel insurance. Explore everything I’ve learned about travel insurance and check out my three recommendations below:

No one wants to spend hours in front of a screen looking for travel insurance deals, which is why so many rely on Outbacker insurance. Boasting coverage for over 100 activities, medical expenses up to £15 million outside the UK, and access to a UK GP for minor medical issues, Outbacker offers more for less. 

See if Outbacker is right for you here 

I hate to think of anything going wrong when I head overseas, but it’s important to have a plan if the worst happens and you need help from elsewhere. SafetyWing offers diverse, affordable plans for global travel with countless positive reviews detailing their dedication to putting travellers first, always. 

Find out more about SafetyWing policies here 

World Nomads

Travelling comes with the unexpected, but this doesn’t always mean good things. That’s why millions of adventure-seekers have relied on World Nomads to bring comforting reassurance and support when needed. Travel quotes are available online so you can be covered the instant you take out a policy.

Learn about the options from World Nomads here

Best eSIM For Travelling To Budapest

One of the perks of travelling in the modern world is the ability to stay connected via devices. As a substantial part of my work is online, I need the ability to work during trips, answering emails, producing content, and keeping in touch with my community. Expensive roaming charges have caught me out more than a few times, so I now use eSIM technology from Airalo. 

With options for 200+ countries and regions, Airalo is the ideal solution for internet abroad, without hidden fees or surprise charges. There are six options for Hungary, starting from just £4 for a week of data, but you can see all the potential eSIM plans here .

Is Budapest A Good Place To Travel Solo?

Welcoming millions of tourists across its borders each year, Budapest is a popular European destination for couples, groups, and solo travellers. Navigating the city is a breeze with a reliable public transport system of trains, trams, buses, and more, affordability priced so tourists can enjoy every corner of the city without blowing too much budget. 

Meeting people is also simple in Hungary’s capital with frequent night events, pub crawls, tours, and group trips. Staying in hostels is my most recommended way to find other solo travellers, so hang out in the communal area and chat! For solo travellers, there’s non-stop action in Budapest, with unmissable landmarks like the gorgeous ELTE Füvészkert, informative Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum, and vast views from the top of Gellért Hill. 

Should I Go To Budapest On My First Solo Trip?

Wondering if you should take your first solo trip in Budapest? Why not!? It’s an incredibly diverse city with so much to do, see, eat, and experience with plenty of other solo travellers doing the same thing. Hungary is known as one of the safest countries in Europe for travellers, with an impressive tourist infrastructure, affordable prices, and accommodation throughout. 

I didn’t experience a moment of feeling uncomfortable or nervous during my Budapest adventure, and I met many other solo females who also didn’t have a bad word to say! English is commonly spoken in the capital which is a relief for non-Hungarian speakers, but it isn’t heard so much in rural areas, so bear this in mind when heading off the beaten track. 

Is Budapest Expensive For A Solo Traveller?

Hungary is one of the more affordable European countries, with solo travellers easily cutting costs by opting for hostels, cheaper flights, and keeping a daily budget to track spending. I found my budget stretched far in Budapest, and it wasn’t difficult to balance paid and free entry attractions, restaurant and street food vendor visits, and flights. 

Compared to the UK, the prices of a solo Budapest trip are dreamy! It’s easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of an overseas trip and go over budget in the first few days, but this is a gateway for disaster if you’ve got tight funds! By making smart choices, planning daily spending, and sacrificing luxury for the ability to do more in Budapest, your Hungarian adventure can be rewarding without emptying your bank account.

One month in Budapest

Budapest may have been cheaper several years ago, but it remains a largely affordable location. If the last 10 years have taught me anything about solo travelling on a budget, it’s that we hold the power in our hands! By making better choices with accommodation, transport, and activities, spending can be cut substantially. I’ve written lots of information about ways to save money for travelling .

Hungary is recognised globally as a peaceful, safe, and unique country to travel to, with Budapest being a bucket list destination for many. On both ends of the spectrum from high tourist areas to rural parts of Hungary, I felt safe as a solo female. With such popularity with travellers, I didn’t spend much time alone! I hiked, took sightseeing tours, and swam in thermal pools with friends I made along the way. 

I’m always vigilant when travelling alone, so even though I was comfortable in Budapest, I still avoided walking alone at night, kept my phone and belongings close, and made note of my hostel address so I could easily make my way back safely. Find out more of my solo travel tips , and don’t forget to bookmark the page so you can also reference it when needed! 

Where’s The Best Place To Stay In Budapest For Solo Travellers?

You won’t be short of accommodation options when you solo travel Budapest, with everything from luxury hotels to party hostels available around the city. I’ve selected two options for their positive reviews, amenities, and proximity to landmarks. 

Best Luxury Hotel: The Royals Downtown Hotel

Melt into luxury with air-conditioned rooms, comfortable furnishings, TV, private bathroom, and simple kitchen amenities at The Royals Downtown Hotel. The Hungarian National Museum and Hungarian State Opera are just a short walk away, and en route, you’ll pass food courts and restaurants to enjoy fresh, local dishes. 

>> Book a stay The Royals Downtown Hotel

Best Budget Hotel View: Victoria Boutique Hotel

The Victoria Boutique Hotel is a great budget hotel stay with comfy suites, friendly staff and just a short walk away from the top sights in the city of Budapest. But you’re really staying here for the view, incredible panoramic windows in every suite of the hotel reveal incredible views across the Danube River and Budapest’s famous Hungarian Parliament Building which is spectacular by day, but will take your breath away when all lit up at night.

>> Book a stay at Victoria Boutique Hotel

Best Hostel: The Hive Party Hostel Budapest

Boasting 300 cosy beds, The Hive is the third biggest hostel in Budapest and a hotspot for partygoers. Local attractions are a stone’s throw away, and with a club in the courtyard, backpackers don’t need to search far and wide for a good night– it can be reached mere moments from your dorm room!

>> Book a stay The Hive Party Hostel Budapest

4 Unique Things For Solo Travellers To Do In Budapest:

It’s impossible to narrow down everything to do in Budapest, but I’ve chosen a few spots that made my trip feel special. If you only have a few days to spend in Budapest, I’d recommend arriving at landmarks early to beat the crowds and fit as much as possible into each day. 

1. Light Art Museum

Showcasing works from over 35 international and Hungarian artists, the Light Air Museum is a striking experience in the heart of Budapest. Science, art, and technology merge to create something other-worldly, displayed in stunning pieces around the museum. Tickets are affordable at the door, but you can save money by buying tickets online. 

>> Book the Light Art Museum in Budapest

2. Escape Room

Put your mind to work for an afternoon in one of Budapest’s Escape Rooms. Beat the clock and solve mysteries alone or with new-found friends from your hostel. Various games are available with different themes and tasks to make even the most confident puzzle master sweat!

>> Try an Escape Room in Budapest

3. Evening Prosecco Sightseeing Cruise

Fancy a taste of luxury at an affordable price? Look no further than a sightseeing cruise while sipping a glass of prosecco. Treat yourself to a solo adventure or bond with hotel buddies and cruise one of the most attractive cities in Europe. 

>> Book a Prosecco Sightseeing Cruise

Ever blended a spa and a party? The result is Sparty– a unique experience at the Széchenyi Thermal Spa combining nightlife with spa culture for an immersive, memorable evening. With hundreds of positive reviews, Sparty is an unmissable event with fairly priced tickets and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. 

>> Book this Sparty experience

Check out amazing activities in the city:

How do i make friends when solo travelling to budapest.

I enjoy my own company, but sometimes I get lonely on solo adventures. Making friends helps combat feelings of isolation, and also helps boost confidence, especially if you’re new to the solo travelling scene. There’s a lot to consider when travelling by yourself , but I’ve got some tips to help you make friends effortlessly. 

Join Online Travel Groups

The online world is an incredible place to interact with other people. Before heading to Hungary, why not check out some online groups for others about to take a solo trip to Budapest? Make friends with other travellers online and arrange to meet up at a hostel together so you’ll have a friend already waiting for you. 

Stay In Hostels

Hotels provide so much more than just a place to stay. They are a social haven, uniting people worldwide to experience Budapest together. Hanging out in the communal area of the hostel will make it far easier to chat with others and form the base of a new friendship. 

Suggest A Group Activity 

Group activities like a walking or sightseeing tour can be a useful investment at the start of your trip so you know where to head to see key landmarks later on. To bloom into a social butterfly, suggest a group activity to familiar people in your hostel. It could be a boat tour, music event, or pub crawl to help bring travellers together. 

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Budapest Solo Travel Guide for First Time Travellers to Budapest Hungary

When I think of Budapest, I think of digital nomads working in coffee shops and coworking spaces. I also think of bachelor and bachelorette parties every weekend. And you cannot forget about the famous thermal spas! And most of all, I think of the beautiful architecture on both sides of the Danube River that make up Budapest.

As one of Europe’s best travel destinations, Budapest attracts millions of visitors each year. In Budapest, solo travel is very common. Many single travellers visit the Hungarian city and have the best time! Between all the historical and cultural buildings, museums and thermal spas, I can honestly say I thoroughly enjoyed my solo trip to Budapest.

If you are wondering what to do alone in Budapest and if the city is a safe destination for solo female travellers, then keep reading. I compiled everything I know about Budapest in this post. So follow along!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the disclosure for more info.

What you need to know before travelling solo to Budapest Hungary

Before you take your Budapest solo holiday, take a look at some of these useful travel tips for travelling in the Hungarian capital city:

• Hungarian Forint (HUF) is Hungary’s official currency.
• The standard voltage is 230V . Power sockets are of type C, and F. Check  here  and see if you need to bring a travel adapter.
• Use  GoogleMaps app  to navigate around Budapest.
• You can get by speaking English in Budapest . Most Hungarians speak English, especially in the tourism industry.
• Budapest is safe for solo female travellers . But with visiting any big cities, please practice your normal safety precautions. Violent crime is not prevalent, but pickpocketing and scams occur in touristy areas.

Hungary entry requirements

Hungary is part of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen area . 

Non-EU travellers can only stay in the Schengen region for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days . You will need a valid passport for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU country, and it must be issued within the last 10 years . 

Check if you need to apply for a Schengen visa from a Hungarian consulate or embassy and apply for a visa before you leave your home country. 

How to get to Budapest Hungary

Budapest Airport (BUD), or Ferenc Liszt International Airport , is located 16km southeast of the city centre. 

The easiest way to get to Budapest’s city centre is by taking Bus 100E , a direct public bus from Terminal 2 to Deák Ferenc tér in the city centre. There is a bus every 20 minutes (5:00 am to 1:20 am), which takes about 35 minutes. Costs 900HUF.

There are 3 rail stations in Budapest: Keleti Pályaudvar Station (east), Nyugati Pályaudvar Station (west) and Budapest-Déli Station  (south).

Depending on where you are coming from, you could arrive at one of these three stations.

How to get around Budapest Hungary

Budapest is very easy to navigate, and most places are walkable .

But you can also take public transit BKK  (buses, trams, four metro lines, trolley-buses and suburban railway). They are all very easy to use. 

Tram 2 tours the city and experiences the panoramic sightseeing tour on the yellow streetcar that follows the Pest embankment.  Metro 1 is the world’s third oldest subway.

Tickets for public transport can be purchased at the airport , newspaper stands and from the ticket machines at 350HUF .  Tickets purchased directly from the driver cost 450HUF .

Depending on how long you travel solo in Budapest, you can get a 24-hour, 72-hour, or weekly pass for all Budapest public transportation. Alternatively, you can get a BudapestCard , which includes all public transportation, free entrance to 19 museums, and a free walking tour.

What to do in Budapest Hungary on your own

First, let’s talk about geography. The Danube River split Budapest into Buda (west of the river) and Pest (east of the river).

District I is on the hilly Buda where you will find Castle Hill.

The flat Pest is divided into many districts. Still, you will want to know District V Inner City , District VI & City Park (technically District XIV), District VII Jewish Quarter and District VIII Palace District .

There are many other districts, but chances are you will spend most of your time in these districts.  Check the map for more details. 

All the top things to do in Budapest are pinned on the interactive map. You can find more information about each attraction by clicking on the individual pin.

District I Budapest

Spend an afternoon strolling the hilly Buda where you find Buda Castle , Fisherman’s Bastion , and beautiful Matthias Church  on Castle Hill . You can either hike up the hill or take the funicular to the top. For those who like museums,  Budapest History Museum and Hungarian National Gallery  are also on Castile Hill.

And while you are on the Buda side, walk up to the Citadella on top of Gellert Hill for the best spot for sunset.  On the way down, the Hotel Gellért and  Gellért Thermal Bath  are just at the base of the hill.

District V Inner City

One of the best ways to experience Budapest is by walking along the Danube River. You can get a close-up and personal experience with the Hungarian Parliament Building , the iconic Neo-Gothic building in front of the Danube.   Make sure to check out Shoes on the Danube Bank . They are little sculpted shoes next to the Danube.

And make sure you cross the river via  Liberty Bridge and Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the first stone bridge symbolic of Budapest. When you are hungry or want some retail therapy,  Vaci Utca  is where you want to be. And if you keep walking north, you’ll find  St. Stephen’s Basilica , a Roman-Gothic basilica.

Or experience the Danube River by cruising on a  Danube River Cruise . The 1-hour tour cruises down the Danube during the evening and includes a welcome drink.

District VI + City Park

As one of Hungary’s World Heritage sites, Városliget (City Park) has a lot to see and do. You are immediately greeted by Hősök Tere (Hero’s Square) , the city’s largest and most impressive square. And immediately around the vicinity of Hero’s Square, take in some culture at the Museum of Fine Arts and Kunsthalle (Hall of Art) . Walking further in, you will find Vajdahunyad Castle , a romantic castle by the boating lake. And  Széchenyi Thermal Bath is also in the park as well.

House of Terror is a bit south of the City Park. A monument to remember all those held captive, tortured and killed in this building. As horrific as it sounds, the horror ended with the victory of freedom and independence.

District VII Jewish Quarter

There are a lot of casual eateries and shops in the Jewish Quarter. You can find some of the best Hungarian food in this district. See below for more restaurant suggestions.

And while you are in the Jewish Quarter, visit the  Dohány Street Synagogue , the largest synagogue in Europe. The building is impressive along with the intricate details in the courtyard. Many significant events took place in the synagogue, considered the most important religious place of the Neolog Jews in Hungary.

Ruin bars are synonymous with Budapest nightlife, all in the Jewish Quarter. Essentially, they are bars in old and abandoned spaces . It doesn’t sound very attractive, but it is the city’s most happening nightlife and bar scene. Even if you are travelling alone, you should still experience this as it is truly unique to Budapest.

And you have to visit  Szimpla Kert  because this is THE ruin bar of Budapest! The interior feels like a maze as you walk through each room. I saw this space during the day, and it was dizzying. I can’t imagine at night after a few drinks! Or try one of the best Budapest ruin bar crawls if you want to do a bar-hop experience.

Thermal Baths

One of the unique activities that you need to do is going to the thermal bath. Budapest is known for thermal baths! You have to try at least one! They are relaxing and have a medicinal effect due to the mineral-rich waters.  

Most people will visit Széchenyi Thermal Bath because of its beautiful complex. It is one of the largest bath complexes in Europe, with 21 pools. You pay an entrance fee for the thermal spa, including all thermal baths, saunas and aqua fitness. Indoor pools have various temperatures while a beautiful yellow Neo-Renaissance building surrounds the outdoor pool. You can also pay more to experience the Beer Spa, where you sit in a tub of beer and have all-you-can-drink beer from the tap next to the tub.  

However, Gellért Thermal Bath was my favourite. Even though the spa is part of Hotel Gellért, the spa is open to the public and has spa treatments and an outdoor pool. The Art Nouveau building is decorated with colourful mosaic tiles. The overall feel and ambiance are relaxing and comfortable.  

Rudas Spa and Király Thermal Baths are both highly recommended during my research. And there are sparties, spa + parties, on Saturdays at either Széchenyi during warmer months and Lukács Baths during winter months, where you can enjoy a bevy and music in the thermal spa!

Street art in Budapest

Walking around Budapest, you can see colourful murals on the sides of buildings, under a bridge, in ruin bars, and around open courtyards. Some of these murals are quite big – several storeys tall. These vibrant murals match the vibe of the city.

Festivals in Budapest

There are a lot of festivals during the warmer mothers in Budapest. One of the best ways to find out about them is to check out  We Love Budapest website. It has all the upcoming calendar events and activities.  

Some favourite events include Budapest100 , where some of Budapest’s squares and courtyards inside buildings are open to the public for viewing. There are some elaborate and intricate courtyards around the city, but they are usually not accessible. This is the day when some are open to the public for viewing. There is also the Night of the Museums where visitors can visit the participating museums past midnight.  

As for food, both  Beer Week  and Gourmet Festival at Millenaris Park  are happening around May. The one event I participated in was the Rosalia Festival where Hungarian rosé winemakers gather at the City Park for a weekend. There are performances, typical Hungarian food stalls, and lots of rosé wine!  

If you want to make the most of your time in Budapest, check the event calendar so you will not be disappointed.  

Solo day trips from Budapest

There are several great day trips from Budapest that you can take while you are in Budapest.

Szentendre is a small town 22km north of Budapest. The Serbian town has churches, museums, galleries, and cafes in a serene baroque setting. This quaint cobblestone town has summer festivals and many arts and cultural events. Some of the must-sees include the Hungarian Open Air Museum and Blagovestenska Church .

Or if you want to make it easy-peasy, join a day tour to Szentendre that includes a boat ride on the Danube and lunch.

How to get there : Take the suburban train H5 at Batthyány tér to the end of the line for a self-tour from Budapest. On the way back, take the boat from Szentendre at 5pm, and you will experience the boat ride on the Danube River, slowly cruising its way back to Budapest.

Visegrád is a castle town just 40km north of the capital city. An itinerary of a day trip to Visegrád includes a  medieval citadel on top of a steep hill, Roman Empire ruins, a tower that is part of the Lower Castle, and a museum inside the Royal Palace .

An organized day tour of Visegrád, Esztergom and Szentendre combines all the best highlights from these charming towns via bus and/or boat cruise (available May to September) if you would rather join a tour instead.

How to get there: Take the suburban train to Nagymaros-Visegrad and the local ferry to Visegrad.

Where to stay in Budapest Hungary as a solo traveller

There are plenty of good and cheap hostel options in Budapest. Below are the two best hostels in Budapest for solo travellers. I also include a mid and high-end hotel option.

For more information about each accommodation option, check out the description below and the location on the map by clicking on the individual pin.

• Check prices & reviews: Agoda

What to eat in Budapest Hungary

I love traditional Hungarian food ! Before this trip, I only know about Hungarian goulash, and that’s about it. I was pleasantly surprised to learn I don’t have to eat goulash every meal! Ha! Not like that’s a bad thing though…

Typical Hungarian food and drinks in Budapest

Here are some of the top Hungarian food you must try while in Budapest :

• Gulyás  – Hungarian goulash: Hungary’s national dish
• Lángos  – Hungarian fried bread
• Paprikás Csirke  – chicken paprikash
• Pörkölt  – Hungarian beef stew
• Kürtőskalács  – aka “Chimney Cake”
• Dobos Torta  – Hungarian’s famous sponge cake with chocolate cream and caramel
• Ruszwurm cream cake  – egg cream cake exclusively sold at Cafe Ruszwurm
• Pálinka  – fruit brandy

Where to eat in Budapest Hungary

There is delicious Hungarian food everywhere! Many casual eateries are in the Jewish Quarter, and food stalls are all over the city. I probably had way too much good food during my Budapest solo trip.

Traditional Hungarian restaurants and cafes

• Street Food Karavan Budapest – modern food stalls serving Hungarian cuisine in an open passage.
• Central Market   Hall  – an indoor market on the ground floor and fast food vendors on the upper floor.
• Gettó Gulyás  – my favourite Hungarian restaurant in Budapest. Everything on the menu is excellent.
• Terv Bisztró  – a hip cafe with cool vibes and good Hungarian food.
• Pörc & Prézli Étterem  – cozy Hungarian restaurant with live music.
• Róma Ételbár – a local Hungarian restaurant on the Buda side with daily specials.
• Ruszwurm Confectionery – founded in 1827, one of the oldest cafes in Budapest.

Want to travel like a minimalist? Learn how to pack a 7kg carry-on luggage by following my minimalist travel packing list

Are you ready to travel solo to Budapest Hungary?

Phew! That was a lot of info! I hope you like this informative post about solo travel in Budapest! And if you are considering travelling to Budapest alone, go for it! Budapest is safe for solo female travellers, even if you are going there for the first time. I was there for more than a month and had no issues.

Honestly, I could stay even longer if I had the time. But if you have time constraints, you can see Budapest in 2 days and still see all the best Instagrammable places.

Let me know in the comments if you have any specific questions about travelling solo in Budapest.

Thank you for reading my Budapest solo travel guide

You may also like these other Hungary solo travel posts:

Hungary posts

• 26 Best Budapest Food: Where and Where to eat in Budapest
• Visegrád day trip from Budapest: 1-day itinerary
• Esztergom Day Tip: how to get there and what to do

Like this post? Pin it on your Pinterest board!

queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

How to Travel from Budapest to Esztergom Hungary and Things to Do in One day

How to travel from Budapest to Visegrad Hungary and things to do in one day

Budapest Food Guide: Where and What to Eat in Budapest Hungary

10 comments.

Great info on your blog ! ! !

I am planning to travel solo to Romania then head to Budapest

Feeling nervous but after reading your entry I feel more relieved and assured 🙂

Hi Sam, I’m also planning to travel to Romania. Budapest would be a great place to visit after Romania. I spent over a month in Budapest and felt safe. But of course, always practice your regular safe precautions 🙂 thank you for your comment!!

Great article. Thank you for the tipps. I am planning going to Budapest and i found this really helpful as a solo traveler 🙂

Hi Leslie, it looks like my reply didn’t show up. but I was saying how Budapest truly is one of the best destinations for solo travellers. I went back to Budapest again because I had such a good time the first time around. Hope you will enjoy the city too!

Hi Queenie, I am planning to visit Budapest in December. Your article reassured me as it is my first trip there. I plan to visit nearby countries with the base in Budapest. Heard that it will be extremely cold over there in winter. Any suggestions or tips to note for winter there ? Thanks much.

Hi Fanny, Budapest is so lovely and safe also. I’ve only been here in the spring and summer so not too sure what it would be like in winter. I read that it’s cold and possibility of snow. But that’s great about coming in December is the Christmas Market! I think it’ll be magical time to be in Budapest! 🙂

Thank you so much for this post. All this detailed informations and tips will make my trip to Budapest so much smoother. Super helpful article . And the photos you take are so good and so sharp. Would you mind sharing with me what camera are you normally using? Thanks 🙏

Hi Andrei, thank you so much for your comment. I use my smartphone – Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ Plus. I’ve had other Samsung Note phones before and have been amazed by the quality of the camera!

Thanks Queenie for such a comprehensive guide! I’m going next month so I’m very excited to read about all the wonderful things about the city. I’m a big foodie as well so looking forward to trying out so many different things (besides Goulash!)

Hi Phil, I think you will really enjoy Budapest – there’s so much good food in the city. I also have a post about eating in Budapest where I listed all the typical Hungarian food you should try and the best places to try them. Enjoy your trip!

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What to Do in Budapest Solo Travel: Your Ultimate Guide

Solo travel in Budapest offers a variety of experiences, from exploring the city’s architecture and historical sites to enjoying its thermal spas and vibrant nightlife.

Here are some recommendations for solo travelers in Budapest:

Table of Contents

Sightseeing and Activities

• Explore the Architecture : Visit the historical and cultural buildings on both sides of the Danube River, including Castle Hill in Buda and the Jewish Quarter in Pest.
• Visit the Thermal Spas : Enjoy the famous thermal spas, such as Gellért Thermal Bath and Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
• Take a Free Walking Tour : Consider getting a BudapestCard, which includes free entrance to museums and a free walking tour.
• Day Trips : Take day trips to nearby towns like Szentendre, which offers a serene baroque setting and cultural events.

Dining and Nightlife

• Try Ruin Bars : Experience the unique atmosphere of Budapest’s ruin bars, which are great for solo travelers to meet new people.
• Solo-Friendly Restaurants : Explore cozy Hungarian restaurants and cafes, such as Pörc & Prézli Étterem and Ruszwurm Confectionery.

Safety and Practical Tips

• Public Transportation : Consider getting a 24-hour, 72-hour, or weekly pass for public transportation, or use the BudapestCard for convenience.
• Useful Phrases : Learn some basic Hungarian phrases to help you navigate the city and interact with locals.
• Stay in Social Accommodations : Choose accommodations with communal areas or events to meet other travelers.

While some travelers may experience loneliness in the evenings, there are opportunities to join group activities, such as pub crawls or city tours, to meet new people.

Additionally, participating in social events at hostels or joining local meetups can enhance the solo travel experience in Budapest.

What are the must-visit sights for solo travelers in Budapest?

Some must-visit sights for solo travelers in Budapest include:

Danube River : Take a walk along the Danube River to experience the beautiful architecture on both sides of Budapest.

Hungarian Parliament : Admire the iconic Hungarian Parliament building, especially stunning when lit up at night.

Thermal Spas : Relax and rejuvenate in the city’s famous thermal baths, such as Gellért and Széchenyi Baths.

Castle Hill : Explore the historic Castle Hill in Buda, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Jewish Quarter : Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Jewish Quarter, known for its ruin bars, street art, and vibrant nightlife.

Free Walking Tour : Join a free walking tour to get acquainted with the city and meet other travelers.

Great Market Hall : Visit the oldest indoor market in Budapest to sample local delicacies and buy traditional Hungarian products.

Szentendre : Take a day trip to the charming town of Szentendre, located 22km north of Budapest, known for its baroque architecture and artistic heritage.

Budapest is known for being safe for solo female travelers and offers a wide range of activities, making it a popular destination for those exploring alone.

Are there any specific safety tips for female solo travelers in Budapest?

The search did not return specific safety tips for female solo travelers in Budapest.

However, based on general travel safety guidelines, female solo travelers in Budapest, as in any other city, should take standard precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and dressing modestly to respect local customs.

It’s also advisable to research the local culture and laws beforehand and to stay in well-reviewed accommodations.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to share your itinerary with someone you trust and to keep important documents and emergency contacts secure.

What are the best neighborhoods to stay in as a solo traveler in Budapest, Buda or Pest?

The best neighborhoods to stay in as a solo traveler in Budapest are Pest and the Castle District (District I) in Buda.

Pest is recommended for solo travelers looking for action, fun, and opportunities to meet other travelers and locals.

It is home to the Jewish Quarter, cool cafes, and the famous ruin bars.

On the other hand, the Castle District in Buda is great for mature travelers, those seeking a peaceful visit, and couples looking for a romantic trip.

It offers stunning views over the city and is close to major sights such as Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Gellért Hill.

If you’re a solo traveler, you may want to consider staying in the 5th district (Pest side) or the 1st or 2nd district (Buda side), as they are popular tourist areas with good vibes, restaurants, and sightseeing options.

The 5th district in Pest is recommended for its proximity to the Danube River and the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building.

How can solo travelers enjoy the nightlife in Budapest and meet new people?

Solo travelers can enjoy the nightlife in Budapest and meet new people through various activities and strategies.

Some recommendations include:

Joining Social Events and Tours : Participate in activities such as the Budapest Boat Party, bar crawls, walking tours, and expat meetups to meet and connect with other travelers and locals.

Staying in Social Accommodations : Consider staying in hostels with communal areas, which are great for meeting other travelers. Many hostels organize events and provide a social environment for guests to interact.

Using Social Apps and Websites : Utilize platforms like the Travel Ladies app, which can help solo travelers connect with locals and other travelers in Budapest.

Being Open and Proactive : Be open to initiating conversations with fellow travelers and locals at bars, events, or tourist attractions. Asking about their travel experiences and plans can be a good conversation starter.

By engaging in these activities and approaches, solo travelers can enhance their nightlife experience in Budapest and have the opportunity to meet new people.

What are some unique experiences or activities that are well-suited for solo travelers in Budapest?

Some unique experiences and activities well-suited for solo travelers in Budapest include:

Exploring the Thermal Spas : Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, such as the Széchenyi and Gellért Baths, where solo travelers can relax and enjoy the unique spa culture of the city.

Visiting Unique Districts : Explore the different districts of Budapest, such as the Buda Castle District, the Jewish Quarter, and the Palace District, each offering its own distinct atmosphere and attractions.

Participating in Local Events : Check the event calendar for festivals and events like the Rosalia Festival or other cultural events to make the most of your time in Budapest.

Taking Day Trips : Consider taking day trips to nearby towns like Szentendre, which offers a serene baroque setting with churches, museums, and galleries, making for a peaceful solo excursion.

Meeting Other Travelers : Budapest is a common destination for solo travelers, and there are opportunities to meet others in hostels, on walking tours, or during organized group events like pub crawls.

Enjoying the Culinary Scene : Indulge in the local cuisine at cozy Hungarian restaurants, cafes, and wine tastings, and consider trying out some solo-friendly restaurants in the city.

Budapest is generally considered safe for solo female travelers, and English is widely spoken, making it an accessible destination for those traveling alone.

Are there any recommended tour companies or services that cater specifically to solo travelers in Budapest?

There are several tour companies and services that cater specifically to solo travelers in Budapest.

Some of the recommended ones include:

• TourRadar : Offers tours for singles in Hungary, including Budapest.
• GetYourGuide : Provides recommended Budapest solo travelers’ tours.
• Exodus Travels : A tour company that caters to solo travelers and offers tours in Budapest.
• Abercrombie & Kent : Offers luxury solo travel with small group journeys, providing a comfortable and secure environment for solo travelers.

Additionally, local companies such as Blue Sky Travel International Kft., VoyageOn Travel Budapest, and Lupustravel may also offer services suitable for solo travelers.

Furthermore, free walking tours are available through Triptobudapest.hu and White Umbrella Tours, which can be a great option for solo travelers looking to explore the city in a group setting.

What are some common misconceptions about solo travel in Budapest, and what should solo travelers keep in mind while visiting the city?

Some common misconceptions about solo travel in Budapest include concerns about safety, loneliness, and the ability to communicate.

Solo travelers should keep in mind that Budapest is generally a safe city for solo travelers, and there are many resources available for those traveling alone, such as free walking tours.

It’s also important to be aware of local customs and etiquette, as Hungarians may have different expectations regarding punctuality, language, and social interactions.

Additionally, while English is spoken in most tourist areas, travelers venturing outside these areas may encounter language barriers.

Therefore, having a few basic phrases in Hungarian can be helpful.

Overall, solo travelers to Budapest should prioritize safety, cultural awareness, and preparedness for potential language barriers.

Helpful Resources

https://www.mstravelsolo.com/solo-travellers-guide-budapest-hungary/

https://blondwayfarer.com/budapest-solo-female-travelers/

https://www.passportsandpreemies.com/10-things-to-see-and-do-in-budapest/

https://www.reddit.com/r/solotravel/comments/u8wou8/travelling_solo_in_budapest_and_loneliness/?rdt=53495

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g274887-i263-k9889244-Solo_traveler-Budapest_Central_Hungary.html

Albert Detrick

Albert’s expertise lies in seamlessly blending travel with work, inspiring others to explore the world while staying connected and productive. His engaging writing style and practical advice make DigiNomadGo.com an essential site for modern travelers seeking to embrace the digital nomad life.

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10 Things to See and Do in Budapest As a Solo Traveler

Budapest, the capital of Hungary and perhaps the most unique capital city in all of Eastern Europe.  It’s a city brimming with interesting architecture, fascinating history, tons of activities to fill your time, and to top it all off, it’s an incredibly affordable city.  As a solo traveler, there’s no better city to explore than Budapest and therefore there’s no reason that Budapest shouldn’t be at the very top of your list when visiting Eastern Europe; or Europe in general.  Here are the best and most interesting things to see and do in Budapest as a solo traveler.

Things to Know Before Visiting Budapest

Brief history of budapest.

One thing you should know before visiting this incredible city is that Budapest is split into two different areas – Buda and Pest .  Buda (on the west bank) and Pest (on the east bank) are separated by the Danube River, connected by the Szechenyi Chain Bridge.  While the city is now collectively known as Budapest, you may still hear people say, “that’s on the Pest side”, or “that’s on the Buda side”.  Buda is generally not as lively as Pest but is where some of the most famous attractions are located.

Langauge Spoken in Budapest

Another thing to know is that while English is widely spoken, the main language in the country is Hungarian.  While you’ll find most menus are translated to English and most locals speak a bit of English, as a solo traveler, it’ll get you far to brush up on a few Hungarian phrases before visiting.

• Good day = J ó  nap
• Hello = Hell ó
• Do you speak English = Besz é lsz angolul
• Where’s the bathroom = Hol van a f ü rd ő szoba
• Thank you = K ö sz ö n ö m

Lastly, Budapest is pronounced BudaPESCHT.  It’ll win you major brownie points with locals if you pronounce the name of their city correctly.

Why is Budapest a Good Choice for Solo Travelers?

Why should you visit Budapest as a solo traveler?  For starters, it’s an incredibly affordable city.  Hungary operates on the Hungarian forint (HUF), weaker than both the Euro and the USD meaning your money will go far.  You can typically get by spending a minimal amount of money each day choosing affordable food options and cheap beer from the local bar.  While there is an upscale side to Budapest with fancy cafes and expensive hotels, there are just as many options for cheaper alternatives.

Another reason to visit Budapest solo is because of the sheer amount of unique things to see and do in the city.  Bathe in the thermal baths, take in the beautiful architecture, visit war museums, and more!  Although you’re alone, there’s no way to be bored with all of the things there are to do to fill your time.

Lastly, Budapest hosts a ton of travelers each year (in 2022 the city welcomed 3.1 million tourists).  It’s easy to make friends by staying in a hostel or participating in a free walking tour of the city.  And if you prefer to explore alone, you can do that too!  When I visited Budapest by myself, I not only felt safe walking around the city, but I felt welcome.

The Best Things to See & do in Budapest as a Solo Traveler

1.  view the hungarian parliament building from fisherman’s bastion.

Fisherman’s Bastion first opened in 1902 and was built to celebrate the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian state.  It’s located on the Buda side of Budapest and is the perfect place to enjoy views across the Danube of Pest.

One of the most impressive views from the Bastion is the views of the Hungarian Parliament Building.  I recommend visiting both during the day, and at night when Parliament is all lit up.  Entrance to Fisherman’s Bastion is free and is open 24-hours/day.

If you want to get a glimpse of Fisherman’s Bastion before the crowds show up, I recommend visiting around 8 am.

2.  Walk Across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge

The Szechenyi Chain Bridge is the main link between Buda and Pest, across the Danube.  It opened in 1849 and at the time, was one of the largest bridges in the world.  And while the bridge connects the two sides of Budapest, it’s also a symbol for strength and advancement, linking the West and the East.

Impressive both day and night, similar to the Parliament building, the Chain Bridge lights up at night creating a glowing suspension bridge under the starry sky.

3.  Visit Matthias Church

If you’re visiting Fisherman’s Bastion make sure to step inside this Roman Catholic Church located in the heart of Buda’s Castle District, directly behind Fisherman’s Bastion.  The entrance is 1,800 HUF and the church is open Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm, Saturday 9 pm-1 pm, and Sunday 1 pm-5 pm.

Pro tip:  Show up to Fisherman’s Bastion around 8 am to explore in peace and quiet.  Then pop into the church at 9 am and you’ll have seen two of the main attractions in Budapest without fewer crowds!

IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN A GUIDED TOUR OF CASTLE HILL AND MATTHIAS CHURCH, JOIN THIS TOUR !

4.  enjoy hungarian wines underground in faust wine cellar.

Step inside the Hilton Hotel located on the Buda side of Budapest, and go underground to enjoy Hungarian wines in this historical cellar.  Your tasting expert will guide you through the regions the wines are made and provide a clear picture of Hungarian wine country.  This is a small and intimate experience, with only five tables in the cellar, so I recommend booking reservations ahead of time.

If you can’t get reservations at Faust, I recommend this wine tour instead!

IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN WINE, CHECK OUT THIS WINE TOUR TO ETYEK WINE COUNTRY!

5.  bathe in the hungarian thermal baths.

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths located throughout the city.  Bathing in these thermal baths in Budapest signifies health and wellness.  While tourists pay a fee, doctors can prescribe locals to go to the baths for medicinal purposes such as treating “orthopedic and degenerative conditions” as well as help with “premature aging of the body”.

The baths can be accessed all year round, and are set to a toasty 100(ish) degrees, meaning you can visit even if it’s snowing out!  The three main thermal baths are Király Thermal Bath, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, and Gellért Thermal Bath.  Out of the three main thermal baths, Széchenyi is the most famous and is the largest medicinal bath in all of Europe.

6.  View Budapest from Gellért Hill

Gellért Hill is 235 m high and overlooks the city of Budapest.  The walk itself is a short 20-30 minutes uphill and you don’t need special shoes, tennis shoes should be just fine.  I recommend coming at sunset with a bottle of wine to enjoy the city in peace and quiet before hitting the bars at night.

7.  Participate in a Free Walking Tour with – Trip to Budapest

As a solo traveler, one of the best ways to meet people and get to know the city you’re in is by participating in the free walking tour offered.  The walking tour in Budapest is perhaps one of the best that I’ve been on in all of Europe.  Expect to be provided with crucial information into the back-story of Budapest and how it has gotten where it is today.  Plus guides will give you recommendations on where locals go to eat and drink, so you can have an authentic experience when visiting the city.  I recommend squeezing this tour in upon arrival is that you’ll get your bearings and a clear idea of how to navigate the city.  The original walk is daily at 10:30 am, but they offer other walks too.

Pro tip:  Make sure to bring cash!  Tips are highly encouraged at the end of the tour.

If you’re looking for more recommendations on walking tours throughout Europe, don’t miss:

• Free Walking Tours in Europe Ranked

8.  Party in the Ruin Bars

Located in what was once the Jewish Ghetto, this area of Budapest all but collapsed after WWII when 10,000+ Jews were deported.  In 2002-2004, these abandoned and crumbling buildings were transformed into what we now know as the “Ruin Bars”.  Szimpla was the first to open up as an experiment, offering affordable drinks to a young crowd.  Because of the success of Szimpla, many more bars have opened up in abandoned spaces around Budapest and are collectively referred to as the “Ruin Bars”.

Even as a solo traveler, I highly recommend checking out this unique concept.  If you don’t feel comfortable going out alone at night, head there early for a drink and leave before the crowds start to roll in.  Szimpla Kert is by far the most famous ruin bar and opens at 6 pm daily.  You could also consider joining a tour if you’re looking for things to do in Budapest at night alone.

9.  Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building

Located on the Pest side overlooking the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament building is one of the most impressive sites in all of Budapest.  It’s a mix of Gothic Revival and Renaissance Revival architecture and stands big and proud in the heart of the city.  If you plan to visit (and you should), make sure to purchase tickets ahead of time.

10.  Visit the Shoes on the Danube Bank

A harrowing display of history, the Shoes in the Danube signify a time when people of Jewish faith were persecuted by the Arrow Cross Military during WWII.  The people were ordered to take off their shoes and were shot into the water so the river would carry their bodies away.  It’s a touching memorial that was created in 2005 and is located near the Parliament building.  The memorial is free to visit.

Tours to Join in Budapest if You’re a Solo Traveler

One of my favorite things to do as a solo traveler is to join tours where I can meet other travelers and dive deeper into a city and country.  Below you’ll find my favorite tours to join if you’re a solo traveler in Budapest!

• Dinner & Cruise on the Danube with Folklore Dance Show & Live Music
• Budapest Evening Sightseeing Cruise & Unlimited Prosecco
• Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Etyek Wine Country
• Thermal BeerSpa + Szechenyi Ticket (skip the line)
• Budapest Culinary and Wine Walk
• Hungarian Wine Tasting with Cheese & Charcuterie
• Adventure Caving Experience in Budapest
• Hungarian Cooking Class in Budapest

Q:  Is Budapest safe for solo female travelers?

• A:  Speaking from experience, I felt completely safe as a solo female traveler in Budapest.  However, with that being said I always recommend following general safety rules.  Don’t stay out late at night by yourself.  Watch your alcohol intake.  Don’t tell random strangers you’re traveling alone.  Make a copy of your passport and keep it with friends/family.  And know how to contact emergency services.  (Also in 2023, Hungary ranked in the 18th spot on the global peace index; the United States ranked 131st).

Q:  “What is there to do in Budapest at night alone?”

• A:  If you’re looking for a free activity, I recommend going to Fisherman’s Bastion to see the Parliament building light up at night.  Otherwise you can join a night cruise on the Danube , visit the Ruin Bars, go on a night walk tour , see Budapest on night on a scooter , or take yourself out to a fun solo dinner!

Q:  “Are there free things to do in Budapest?”

• A:  Yes!  Aside from my favorite free thing to do in Budapest (participate in a free walking tour) there are tons of other free activities.  A few of my favorite free activities are visiting Shoes on the Danube, Fisherman’s Bastion, and climbing up Gellert Hill.

Hungary Essentials – What You Need & Need to Know About Visiting Hungary

Traveling through hungary.

• The easiest way to book bus tickets in Hungary is through Bookaway
• The easiest way to book train tickets in Hungary is through Omio
• To rent a car in Hungary, I recommend Discover Cars
• To book a private, English speaking, car transfer at the airport (select cities) use Welcome Pickups
• To book a flight to Hungary, I recommend Expedia or Skyscanner to compare options
• I highly recommend travel insurance when traveling through Hungary – I use and recommend SafetyWing

ACCOMODATION IN HUNGARY

• To easiest way to book hotels in Hungary is through Booking.com or Expedia
• For rental properties in Hungary, I recommend VRBO

TOURS IN HUNGARY

• For tours and activities in Hungary, I recommend using Viator

WHAT TO BRING TO HUNGARY

• Don’t forget a Hungary guide book to help plan your travels
• Travel adapter for electronics
• I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to keep your water cold on hot days and to cut down on plastic waste

Budapest is an incredible and thriving city.  While most people don’t immediately think of it when visiting Europe, I highly encourage you – solo traveler or not – to spend time in Hungary’s capital.  There are so many things to see and do in Budapest as a solo traveler, it’s a perfect solo travel destination.

For more on Budapest, don’t miss:

• 4 Days in Budapest

Disclosure:  This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase through my link, at no cost to you.  Passports and Preemies is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees.

Kylee is a NICU nurse passionate about making travel affordable and accessible to nurses. Inspiring nurses to travel both near and far, Kylee began Passports and Preemies in 2017 while volunteering in Skopje, North Macedonia as a way to reach nurses and advocate for the prevention of nurse burnout by traveling. Kylee has been a NICU nurse for 9 years and a travel nurse for 7 years. Since starting her career in travel nursing, she’s worked in six different states, 10 different hospitals, volunteered as a nurse in North Macedonia, worked as a nurse in Saudi Arabia, and has traveled to 45+ countries. Her favorite travel nurse assignment was in Seattle and her favorite destination is Georgia (the country). Kylee is the original creator of the “8 Day Vacay” – a vacation geared towards nurses who aim to take advantage of the potentially 8 days off between work weeks with no need to use PTO.

Find me on: Web | Twitter/X | Instagram | Facebook

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Solo travel in budapest: all you need to know.

Are you a solo traveller searching for a European city break? The answer may be Hungary’s vibrant capital city.

Solo travel in Budapest is safe and affordable, the city has more bars and restaurants than you can shake a stick at, and there are oodles of things to do. It’s one of my favourite European solo city break destinations .

Dive into my Budapest solo travel guide to get the lowdown on why you should go there on your own, solo female traveller safety tips, where to visit, how to get around and where to stay.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: Hungarian but English is widely spoken

CURRENCY: Hungarian Forint (HUF or Ft)

ELECTRICITY : 230V. Power sockets are of type C and F

FEMALE SOLO TRAVEL SAFETY RATING: Safe

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED? Spend at least two days in Budapest to see its main sights but preferably three days

BEST TIME TO VISIT BUDAPEST: Spring or autumn

Introducing Budapest

Once known as the Paris of the East, occupation, dictatorships and the communist regime diminished much of Budapest’s legendary culture and sparkle. After a startling renaissance, it has re-emerged as one of Europe’s finest cities.

Budapest was created when Buda and Pest were united with a smaller third city, Óbuda, in 1873. Each side of the river has a distinct personality.

Buda is on the river’s west bank and is where you’ll find Budapest’s Old Town.

Pest , on the river’s east bank, is the city’s lively 19th-century commercial centre, home to many of the city’s top attractions.

Why Take a Solo Trip to Budapest?

Choosing a solo travel destination is no mean feat.

Ideally, you want to visit a place that fits your interests, is easy to get around and is affordable. It helps if that destination is blessed with natural beauty. Above all, it needs to be safe, especially if you are a woman travelling alone.

Budapest ticks all of these boxes.

Budapest is jam-packed with attractions

You won’t be bored, whether you spend one day in Budapest or two weeks. There is something for every solo traveller, from history buffs to solo shutterbugs and foodies.

The city’s history is reflected in its monuments, buildings and museums. Many travellers have soaked away their cares in Budapest’s healing thermal waters and dined on the food for which the city is famous.

If you are bagging UNESCO sites, Budapest is one of its World Heritage sites. The listed areas include the Buda Castle Quarter, the Danube embankment from Liberty Bridge to Margaret Island and Andrássy Avenue.

It has a legendary bar scene

Budapest’s nightlife is unrivalled in Eastern Europe. Whether you want to party on a boat on the Danube or hit the ruin bars, a lively night out is guaranteed and presents excellent opportunities to meet other travellers.

It’s easy to get around

For the most part, Budapest is a very walkable city.  As the most popular tourist attractions are concentrated in a small area, exploring the city on foot is often your best bet.

For places further afield, you can hop on one of the trams, buses or metro trains that make up Budapest’s inexpensive public transport network.

Budapest is affordable

If you’ve been stung by the cost of travelling in the tourist honeypots of Southern Europe, Budapest will come as a refreshing change.

Budapest remains one of the cheapest cities in Europe for solo travellers. This is largely because Hungary is not part of the Eurozone and the Hungarian Forint has decreased in value in recent years.

Eating out is inexpensive. On my last visit, I rarely paid much more than €15 for a generous evening meal with wine. Excellent 4-star hotels set me back around €150 a night.

Of course, if you are on a tighter budget, you can bring costs down further.

Is Budapest Safe for Female Solo Travellers?

Keeping safe when travelling is the most important consideration for women going it alone. Budapest is safe for solo female travellers.

I never felt unsafe during my two solo visits to Budapest, even walking around at night

Violent crime is rare. The main risk is from bag snatchers and nimble-fingered pick-pockets. They are most active in the city’s 8 th District (the Palace Quarter near the National Museum) and along Váci Street, one of Pest’s main thoroughfares.

As with any solo travel destination, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. After dark, stick to familiar streets and make sure that you know your way back to your hotel or apartment.

Keep your valuables at your accommodation and use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I use  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

My Favourite Things to Do in Budapest

1. take in the swoon-worthy views from the fishermen’s bastion.

Head to the Disneyesque Fishermen’s Bastion for the classic views of Pest across the River Danube. Although you can pay to access the upper level of this undulating white rampart of stairways, turrets and cloisters, the views are just as good from the free lower level.

2. See both sides of the river from Géllert Hill

Gellért Hill offers one of the best panoramic views of Budapest. This 140-metre-high dolomite rock is one of the city’s most popular Instagram spots.

3. Visit one of Europe’s most beautiful churches

Matthias Church is beautiful inside and out. It’s well worth the admission fee.

Its exterior is a profusion of towers with toothy spires. Inside, multicoloured columns are painted with leaves and geometric motifs, and shafts of light illuminate its gilded altars and stone sculptures.

4. Wallow in the Gresham Palace’s Art Nouveau splendour

Like Art Nouveau architecture? Then you will love the Gresham Palace which is now part of the Four Seasons hotel chain. You don’t have to stay in the hotel to walk around its lobby.

5. Pay your respects to Holocaust victims at the Shoes on the Danube

This powerful memorial to the Jews who were murdered during the Nazi occupation of Budapest comprises sixty pairs of cast-iron shoes arranged along the riverbank. Many Jewish victims met their fate at the Danube and were ordered to take off their shoes before being shot.

6. Tour the Hungarian Parliament Building

You can see inside one of Budapest’s most beautiful buildings by joining one of the 45-minute tours of the Hungarian Parliament Building. Book ahead as these sell out well in advance but you may be able to buy a ticket for same-day admission at the Visitor Centre.

You can book your ticket via the official website here .

7. Admire the view from the terrace of St. Stephen’s Basilica

Enjoy the best view in Pest from the panoramic terrace of St. Stephen’s Basilica. This glorious 19th-century confection of polychromic marble and gilt houses the mummified hand of Hungary’s patron saint.

8. Don’t miss visiting Europe’s largest synagogue

Dohány Street Synagogue , or Budapest Great Synagogue, is an architectural marvel, a beacon of cultural heritage and a testament to the enduring spirit of the city’s Jewish people and their history. Visit the Holocaust Tree of Life Memorial on the synagogue’s northern side after the excellent 45-minute tour included with your ticket.

9. Learn more about Budapest’s dark history at the House of Terror

The superb House of Terror remembers the victims of the Fascist and Stalinist regimes that operated in Hungary in the 20th Century. It is housed in the former headquarters of the dreaded ÁVH secret police.

10. Treat yourself to coffee and cake in one of Budapest’s opulent cafes

And why not? My patisserie of choice is Gerbeaud Café . Although it is hugely popular, I don’t think Budapest’s New York Café is worth it .

11 Soak your cares away at one of Budapest’s thermal baths

Relaxing in one of the city’s thermal baths is a wonderful Budapest solo activity. Széchenyi Baths and Gellért Baths are the two city pools that are most popular with visitors (I had a lovely time at the Géllert Baths on my first visit to Budapest).

12. Spend a night at the opera (or take a tour of the opera house)

Compared to opera houses elsewhere in Europe, attending an opera performance in Budapest is affordable. As this is a popular activity, book ahead .

If you cannot go to the opera, you can join one of the 45-minute tours of the opera house.

13. Take a sunset cruise on the River Danube

What could be better than sailing along the Danube as you watch the city’s skyline light up, whilst sipping a glass of fizz? This one-hour Danube cruise also includes an audioguide.

>>> BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE HERE

14. Learn all about Hungarian wine at a wine-tasting evening

An evening spent tasting Hungarian wine was one of my favourite solo experiences in Budapest. We were served eight generous pours of wine, including the famous Tokaji dessert wine, paired with charcuterie and cheeses.

15. Hit the ruin bars

I’m more a cheese-and-wine girl but pub crawls around Budapest’s ruin bars are hugely popular. These (in)famous bars are in the courtyards of vacant pre-war buildings of the city’s Jewish Quarter.

Getting There and Getting Around

How to get to budapest.

Flights land at Budapest Airport (BUD), ten miles southeast of the city centre. The cheapest way to get from the airport to Budapest’s city centre is the frequent 100E Airport Express bus , with a journey time of 40 minutes.

On my most recent visit, I arrived by train from Kosice at the magnificent Keleti station. Budapest is a major international railway hub and is served by three train stations: Keleti Pályaudvar Station (east), Nyugati Pályaudvar Station (west) and Budapest-Déli Station (south).

Getting around Budapest

Although much of the city is walkable, Budapest has a network of cheap buses, metro trains and trams. The one time I used the metro system was to get to and from the train station.

You can find out more about public transport in Budapest here

24-hour, 72-hour or weekly passes are available for Budapest public transportation. The Budapest Card includes the city’s buses, trains and trams, and free entrance to some of the city’s top attractions, admission to St. Lukacs Thermal Bath and a free walking tour.

>>> CHECK THE PRICE HERE

Where to Stay in Budapest as a Solo Traveller

Picking the right place to stay can make or break a solo trip and you’ll need to choose between staying in Pest or Buda .

Choose a hotel in Pest if you want to stay in the thick of things. The Buda side of the river tends to be quieter at night.

Having stayed on both sides of the city, I prefer Buda as it is more tranquil and you benefit from wonderful views across the river. But what is right for me may not be the best choice for you.

Here is where I stayed on my last visit:

Park Plaza Hotel

I would book a room at this Radisson hotel again purely for the unforgettable view of the river and Parliament Building from my bedroom window. As well as its fabulous riverside location, the room was spacious and the staff were super friendly.

>>> CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY & RATES

TG Hotel Suites Budapest

This large and stylish apartment is on the doorstep of several restaurants and cafes and a stone’s throw from St. Stephen’s Basilica. As a solo traveller, the building was very secure.

Thank you for reading my Budapest solo travel guide

I hope that it helps you plan the perfect solo vacation. If you have found this guide helpful, take a look at my other Budapest articles:

• Two Days in Budapest: An Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal
• A Perfect 1-Day Budapest Itinerary & Self-Guided Walking Tour
• Is It Better to Stay in Buda or Pest? Where to Stay in Budapest
• Is the New York Café Budapest Worth it?
• Visiting Budapest Great Synagogue: Bridging History and Faith
• Exploring Matthias Church Budapest: A Historical and Architectural Marvel
• Why You Should Go Wine Tasting in Budapest

Happy travels!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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Budapest Solo Travel: Exploring the Best of Hungary’s Capital

Are you ready to explore one of Europe’s most fascinating and beautiful cities? Budapest awaits!

Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveller or taking your first steps into the world of wandering alone, Budapest solo travel is the perfect way to satisfy your wanderlust.

Budapest is a city that exudes beauty and grandeur from every corner. From its vibrant streets, to its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder the Hungarian capital city has become one of Europe’s most popular destinations for solo travellers.

I’ve visited Budapest as a solo traveller and as part of a group a few times, and I’ve gotten to feel how incredible the city is. I may not speak their language, but I’ve found Hungarians so friendly and helpful when you need to ask them for directions or recommendations. It’s definitely one of my favourite European cities!

Let’s delve a little deeper into what Budapest solo travel is all about…

You might also like:

Budapest Bucket List: 30 Incredible Things You NEED to do in Budapest

• 1 Day In Budapest: How To Get The Most Out Of Your Short Trip
• Where to Stay in Budapest: Guide to the Best Budapest Neighbourhoods

75 European Bucket List Ideas For The Big Dreamers

Full disclosure! See those links below? If you happen to click on one of these and purchase something I recommend, I’ll get a small commission (wohoo). Don’t worry, this is at no extra cost to you (in fact, often I’ll have some discounts you can enjoy!). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying sales. You can read my full disclaimer  here .

15. Get out of the city on a day trip to Lake Balaton

Is budapest worth a visit, why visit budapest alone .

Budapest has a lot of things to do even if you go by yourself. From the beautiful architecture of castles and churches, underground wine cellars to underground castle ruins and ice plunge pools to hot water baths, each one of the items listed below should be on your Budapest bucket list .

Solo travellers in Budapest are so common that you’ll likely meet others just like you! Whether it’s in a hostel or in a restaurant or bar, it’s so easy to meet new people – if that’s what you choose, of course. I’m an introvert at heart so I love exploring by myself!

Tour operators and activity providers also cater to solo travellers, so you can easily book a walking tour or a day trip by yourself and join like-minded solo travellers.

The practical stuff – what you need to know before solo travel in Budapest

Before heading to Budapest, there are a few things you should note, especially for first-time solo travellers:

• The best time to visit Budapest is during the months of May, June, September, and early October, because of the milder weather and fewer tourists.
• The first language for the majority of the population is Hungarian but most locals can understand English. If you’re in touristy areas and the inner city, you can definitely get by using English.
• The Hungarian Forint (HUF) is the official currency in Budapest . Some places accept Euros and US Dollars, however, you might find that you’re paying more because of a higher exchange rate.
• I highly recommend getting travel insurance before heading to Budapest alone (or anywhere really) to ensure you’re covered for any unpleasant surprises. Get a free quote for travel insurance here .
• It’s customary in Hungary to tip 10-15% of the bill . And if you get the bill and are expecting change, don’t say “thank you” or they might keep the change!
• Budapest is pronounced Boo-dah-pesht (not Boo-da-pest) so that’s how you can keep on the locals’ good side!

Budapest solo travel – 15 things to do in Budapest alone

1. wonder at the parliament building.

The Hungarian Parliament Building, or the Országház, is the ground zero for Budapest travellers. It’s one of the best examples of Gothic revival and Renaissance revival architecture today and shows the rich history, art, and culture of the country.

and choose from more than 50 languages offered. More than 700,000 people visit each year (I was one of them) so this is definitely a must-go for you, too!

The massive Parliament Building is the third largest parliamentary building in the world. Architect Imre Steindl designed this impressive masterpiece with precise symbology. The central dome is 96 meters high and there are 96 steps on the main staircase – both symbolise the year of the settlement of Hungary in 896.

And of course there’s the 365 towers throughout the building, one for each day of the year!

While you’re there, get a closer look at the Holy Crown of Hungary, also known as the Crown of St. Stephen, which was donned by more than 50 kings since the 12th century. Keep an eye out for the guards – they rotate every hour!

2. Spend the day soaking at the Thermal Baths

Solo travel in Budapest wouldn’t be complete without getting into the thermal baths of the city.

The spa culture in Budapest started even before the Romans came in the 3rd century and established public baths. The early Hungarian tribe, the Eravisci, discovered the springs calling them Ak-ink which means “abundant water”.

True to this name, about 123 thermal springs in Budapest alone release some 40,000 cubic meters of mineral-rich, hot water to support the many outdoor pools and thermal baths in the city.

Spend the day soaking in Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the most popular thermal bath in Budapest and the biggest natural hot spring bath in Europe. It’s more than 100 years old, and about 100 million people have enjoyed these fun pools with water jets, underwater aqua massage, whirlpools, and an impressive labyrinth of 18 pools.

Looking for a second option (because soaking in the thermal baths two days in a row is obviously better than one!)? The Gellért Thermal Bath is another famous spa and public bath with a wave pool, many swimming pools, and relaxation treatments.

Opening times at the different thermal baths vary so booking in advance would help. A quick tip: check if they open at night, some thermal baths are occasionally open for night dips!

Bring your swimwear, towel, and basic toiletries just to make sure you have what you need (don’t worry you’ll be provided with a locker). And drink a shot of the warm, mineral-rich water for good measure! Locals swear they have healing powers.

Taking a dip at the thermal baths is a quintessential Budapest experience – so take that plunge!

3. Explore Buda Castle District

The Buda Castle District is one of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites , which includes museums, monuments, and of course, epic views.

The most scenic way to go up Castle Hill is to take the “Siklo” or funicular which runs from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM every day. Another way to get there (not as fun) is by bus which runs every 5-6 minutes during the day.

Admission is free to The Royal Palace but you’ll need to pay for The Castle Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery, or any tours you join.

Other things to see in the Castle District are the National Archives, Europe Grove, Mary Magdalene Tower, Holy Trinity Square (The Old Town Hall), Matthias Church, picturesque restaurants, cafes, open markets, and the famous Fishermen’s Bastion (more on that next!).

You’ve got to stop by the old pastry shop, Ruszwurm, where locals have been enjoying their decadent sweets since 1827. Try their Ruszwurm Torte and you’ll get why it’s the fan favourite.

If you want some wine after the sugar rush (who wouldn’t), visit Faust Wine Cellar for a tutored tasting of local grape varieties like Harslevelu and Kekfrankos.

Take your time (one of the benefits of doing a solo trip) as you explore historic Buda Castle and its excellent views, especially during the warmer months.

4. Take in the views at Fisherman’s Bastion

Before leaving Buda Castle, take a stroll up to Fisherman’s Bastion, which has the most beautiful panoramic views of Budapest. It was originally built to defend the Fishermen’s Town lying beneath it and if needed, the fishermen could defend the tower as well. The views are just unparalleled from this side of Buda.

It’s free of charge to enter but you’ll need to pay to enter the towers, which offer a slightly better view than the other parts of the Bastion.

I can’t fully describe how exhilarating it is to stand on Fisherman’s Bastion but I’m sure the above photo can slightly capture that feeling of awe while looking at the city below.

5. Get a taste of Hungarian food at Central Market Hall

The best way to taste authentic Hungarian cuisine is to visit Central Market Hall, which is one of the largest indoor markets in Budapest. Even the locals buy their groceries and eat lunch there, so you know it’s gotta be good!

On the upper floors, sit down at the eateries and food stalls and dine in for your Hungarian spread like goulash, sausages, local wines, mushrooms, and dumplings. Don’t be surprised if you see Foie Gras in the market because it’s a Hungarian speciality.

Inside this stunningly beautiful Neo-Gothic architectural building, you can find loads of fresh produce, dairy products, meat, fish, cured meats, pickles, and spices. There’s also souvenirs, clothing, and crafts sold here that you might want to bring home with you. If you’re a certified food-lover, you can . Locals always know best!

During the summer months of June to August, more farmers can be found displaying their produce at the small farmer’s market at the back and you can stroll around shopping and snacking on free samples laden on wooden spoons. Yay to free food!

And if you love food, you’ll love these food related tours!

6. Stroll across Szechenyi Chain Bridge

Strolling across the Szechenyi Chain Bridge is one of the best ways to breathe in the city’s vibe along the Danube River. The bridge lets you walk across the Buda side to the Pest side (and back) as it straddles the Danube River.

It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk from end to end of the Chain bridge. While you’re there, you’ll get to view the World Heritage-protected sites. Don’t forget to snap some photos of this architectural delight!

The Chain Bridge was inaugurated in 1849 and the iron chains were built into the structure from which the name came.

It’s currently closed for the first time since it was built because of reconstruction but it will soon be open for pedestrians again in the Autumn of 2023. However, you can still enjoy the historic bridge, whether day or night, as it’s one of the most famous landmarks of Budapest.

7. Explore Budapest History Museum

If you want to get to know more about the history of Budapest, the Budapest History Museum in Buda Castle on Castle Hill is a great place to start as it focuses on its history from the Middle Ages to the present.

Also called the Castle Museum, it best reflects the history and daily life throughout the various ages in Buda and Pest. There are tools, books, photos, furniture, clothes, and other graphics that depict the life of its people.

You might need some help understanding the captions as most of them are written in Hungarian.

I also highly recommend going down and discovering the basement where the Castle’s ruins are. They’re definitely worth visiting!

The museum is open Tuesdays to Sundays all year round but make sure you get your special festival entry on festival days in the country such as the Crafts Festival or Wine Festival.

8. Make some friends at a Ruin Bar

Interestingly, Budapest locals have a penchant for using derelict buildings from World War 2 and the Cold War. They left the facade in ramshackles, but they have actual bars inside these old, forgotten buildings.

Ruin bars have become popular watering holes in Budapest since the early 2000s.

Apparently, Hungarians vowed not to ‘cheers’ with beer for 150 years since the revolution against the Austrians in 1848. While that time period has long gone, most Hungarians have still never clicked glasses! Cheers or none, you can always enjoy a beer or local wine.

Try their national drink Unicom, a bitter herbal liqueur which is drunk with a digestif and aperitif. You also can’t refuse the boozy Hungarian favourite Palinka (a fruity brandy). As the Hungarians say, “a little Palinka is a medicine and in large amounts a remedy!” Tell me what you think when you get to taste them!

From the look of these abandoned buildings, you might be a little hesitant to go inside. But believe me, they have the hippest interiors I have ever seen – a different world inside!

Sip your cocktails at insanely unique bars designed with incredible art, weird interiors, funky furniture, and interesting antiques. And don’t forget to mingle with the ruin bars’ regulars, mostly Budapest’s young and artsy folks!

9. Take a guided tour of the Budapest State Opera House

The Budapest State Opera House or the Hungarian State Opera House is a neo-Renaissance building in central Budapest and has been marvelled as one of Hungary’s landmarks. It’s considered one of the finest opera houses in the world, with the quality of its acoustics and the beauty of its interiors.

I highly recommend a guided tour of this opera house as they take you to secret areas which are closed to the public during the evening performances. And you might even get lucky as some guided tours include a special short concert with the Opera’s soloists.

There are tours three times a day with 6 different languages offered. Book online here to get the best timings.

10. Wander underground for some Hungarian wine tastings

Hungarians know how to do wine! They’ve been producing wines for over a thousand years and have produced wines from 22 wine regions around the country.

The Tokaji is the pride of Hungary and the wine that was served to kings, emperors, and popes. This noble sweet wine was once described by Louis XIV as the “wine for kings, king of wines”.

The wines are stored underground in wooden barrels surrounded by walls. These walls are covered with a special kind of fungus that helps to develop the wine and its taste (I know, fungus might sound gross, but the wine isn’t!).

There are a ton of wine-tasting tours offered in Budapest, but I recommend this one . You’ll get to do a walking tour with a local wine expert – oh and tapas are included!

11. Take a leisurely cycle around the city

Biking around Budapest is fairly easy and safe because of the extensive cycle lanes crisscrossing the city.

The city has 200 kms of cycling paths that can get you anywhere from Buda to Pest.

What I love about cycling around Budapest (or in any city, that is) is that you get to cover a longer distance in a shorter period than walking.

One of the most scenic rides would be along the Danube River in Budapest where you can enjoy both the river views and the architectural sights. You can even stop and sit down in any one of the cafés or parks that dot the banks of the Danube.

There are also guided bike tours in Budapest where you can leisurely bike around with others while not missing out on the historic and cultural landmarks of the city like the Parliament, the Synagogue, or Hero’s Square.

Try this highlights group tour , or head out of the city on this self-guided one .

But remember, before you start cycling around an unknown city all willy-nilly: please be mindful of pedestrians, the speed limit is below 10 kms per hour, and you’re not allowed to ride on the footpaths.

12. Discover the Holocaust Museum

The Holocaust Memorial Center is a former synagogue from the 1920s and commemorates the thousands of Hungarian Jews who were victims of the Holocaust. It was the first to be built of its kind in Central Europe which was also founded by the State.

Although this focused on Jews who were victims of the genocide, the museum also gives importance to telling the story of the discrimination and death of Romani gipsies and the challenges of those with disabilities.

The museum houses permanent and temporary exhibits and a research centre where families can come to add to the list of names on their database. It is a grim reminder of what happened in the past and one to learn from.

13. Ride in style on a Segway

If you’re pressed for time and want to cover a huge portion of the city, you can book a guided Segway tour (like this fun one ) around Budapest. You’ll see all the important landmarks and hidden gems from the local guides as you breeze through the city on your own Segway.

You can also do this at night for a couple of hours as they also offer night rides around the city and alongside the Danube River. It’s a beautiful city at night!

I must say, I love a segway tour! It is easy, fast, and fun! Sometimes, the best way to go around Budapest is by Segway!

14. Visit the Matthias Church

Wondering how it feels to be in the presence of kings? Of course, you are!

Head over to visit the Matthias Church, which for centuries was where kings were crowned and married. There are some members of European royalty who are buried in this church too.

The Church of the Assumption of the Buda Castle, commonly called Matthias Church, is an impressive and intricately designed church from the Middle Ages. The tilework of the turrets is amazing! The colourful interior is equally and absolutely captivating. It reflects the influences of its owners: Hungarian kings, Ottoman Turks, Franciscans, Jesuits, and today’s Roman Catholics.

It’s the most visited Roman Catholic temple in Budapest and is situated in the Castle District on the Buda side. It’s also become a perfect venue for classical music concerts performed by the Hungarian Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra, Hungary’s most well-known ensemble.

To get the most out of your visit, book a guided walking tour and learn more about the Church and get an even better view by walking up to the big Tower.

And if you’re into classical music, you can book a ticket to one of Matthias Church’s classical music concerts each Friday.

Hungary is a landlocked nation but surprisingly you can still steal a getaway to the sandy beaches of Lake Balaton, a two-hour train ride from Budapest. Lake Balaton is the biggest freshwater lake in Central Europe and you can choose different activities around its breathtaking natural beauty.

One of the recommended must-stops is the Heviz Thermal Lake which is the largest thermal lake in the world where you can actually take a dip. There is a salt cave, a spa, and a sauna – a delightful pitstop after that train ride!

Tihanny Abbey and the Lavender Fields is another popular site, but it can be crowded during the peak season of July. Nevertheless, the endless fields of lavender are still worth a visit!

Public transportation can be a challenge here because Lake Balaton is about 77 kms long! Plan your day trip ahead, choose the places you want to visit, and time your activities so you can get back to the city after.

Alternatively, join this organised tour – that way you don’t have to do any planning or think about the logistics of getting there and back again!

FAQs on Budapest Solo Travel

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about solo travel in Budapest:

Is Budapest safe for solo female travellers?

Budapest is totally safe for solo female travellers, day or night. The city has retained its reputation as safer than other European cities because of low crime rates. But, of course, you have to use your common sense and stay away from the outer parts of the city centre or dark, secluded areas at night. 

Is Budapest good for solo travel? 

Yes, Budapest is a great destination for solo travel! The city is known for its beautiful architecture, thermal baths, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals, making it an ideal place for solo travelers.

Is Budapest expensive?

Budapest is an very affordable city. Most places are reasonably priced and you’ll even find some places are free to enter. A typical daily budget for meals, transportation, and one or two attractions would be around USD 40-60.  As with anywhere in Europe, public transportation is reliable and inexpensive, with no need to rent a car or take a taxi. 

Budapest is definitely worth a visit as it has amazing architecture, a distinct cuisine, long history, known spa culture, interesting culture, and vibrant nightlife. 

Budapest Solo Travel: The Verdict

Budapest is an excellent destination for solo travel. With its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and welcoming locals, the city offers a unique and unforgettable experience for solo travellers.

Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, relaxing in thermal baths, or trying local cuisine, Budapest has a myriad of things to offer for everyone.

With its efficient public transportation system and safe streets, Budapest is an easy and convenient destination to navigate.

So, if you’re looking for a solo travel destination that’s both exciting and comfortable, Budapest is definitely worth considering. And, with so many things to do in Budapest alone, you’ll no doubt want to stay longer than you planned! 

Vourneen is an award winning travel blogger and a chronic illness warrior. Although she was late to game in terms of travelling, she has picked up numerous tips and tricks from the almost 30 countries she has visited in the past 5 years. She shares epic destination guides and itineraries, as well as tips on how to travel with a chronic illness.

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A Complete Guide to Solo Female Travel in Budapest

01/19/2024 by Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

This is a guest post by Tina Riegelnegg.

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is one of the most beautiful and most affordable cities in Europe . It’s also a great destination for solo female travelers .

I’ve been to Budapest multiple times, the last time for two weeks, and I still can’t get enough of this amazing city.

In this post, I want to share with you what makes Budapest so special that I keep returning:

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Budapest

Treat yourself to a spa day.

Treating yourself to a spa day is one of the best things you can do in Hungary’s capital. There are several thermal baths in Budapest . During my last two-week stay, I tried out four, because I just loved them so much. 

Széchenyi Thermal Bath, located in the middle of City Park, is the most famous, but it’s also the most crowded. For that reason, it’s not my favorite.

My favorite is the Rudas Thermal Bath. There are far fewer people, and it’s a more relaxed atmosphere. There’s a hot pool and some sun lounges on the rooftop terrace, the perfect place to relax and read a book with great city views. The Turkish bath at Rudas is a dome-shaped room with different pools of varying temperatures. I loved this room, so I recommend going on a day when it’s open to all or on a women-only day, as there also are men-only days.

See the main attractions in Budapest

Whether you’re in Budapest alone or not, there are some sights you just have to see. Most of those attractions require an entrance ticket, but even if you’re on a budget and just want to admire the sights from the outside, it’s worth it.

Bridges of Budapest

Budapest is known for its iconic bridges that span the Danube River. 

An interesting fact is that the two sides of the Danube used to be separate cities. On the west side used to be Buda (and to this day this side is called the Buda side of Budapest). On the east side used to be Pest (still known as the Pest side of the city). And together, they make Budapest! I was very fascinated when I heard about that for the first time.

Anyway, back to the bridges. The most famous is the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, often just called the Chain Bridge. It’s the oldest in Budapest, and when you walk across it, you’ll get a stunning view of the Danube, Buda Castle, and Parliament. 

My favorite bridge in Budapest is the Liberty Bridge, with its distinctive green hue and art nouveau design — it’s just so picturesque.

Hungarian Parliament Building

The architecturally stunning Hungarian Parliament Building, located on the bank of the Danube, is a must-visit for any visitor. It’s one of the largest and most beautiful parliaments in the world. 

Because of its immense size, it can be difficult to capture the entire building in a picture. Your best bet is on the other side of the river. This view is especially impressive in the evenings, when the building’s lightsare reflected in the river.

Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church

Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church are perched atop Castle Hill on the Buda side. From the Fisherman’s Bastion, you have a great view of the city, and Matthias Church makes for an excellent photo background with its colorfully tiled roof.

Together, they are two of the main tourist attractions in Budapest, meaning there are always people around who you can ask to take a picture of you.

Buda Castle and Funicular

Buda Castle used to be a royal palace on top of Castle Hill. Today, it’s home to the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest Historical Museum. It’s also the center of the Castle District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the most popular ways to get to Buda Castle is by funicular. But even though the ride certainly offers a unique experience up to the castle, I highly recommend taking the time to walk up instead. The journey is short and scenic, and you can watch the charming funicular as it slowly makes its way uphill.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is named after the first king of Hungary (who is also a saint). You can’t miss this impressive church when you wander around the city center of Budapest. 

You might need to queue up to purchase an entrance ticket, but I think it’s worth seeing the inside. One of the most remarkable artifacts in the basilica is the mummified right hand of St. Stephen himself! 

I found climbing up to the rooftop viewing point to be a thrilling experience. The panoramic views of Budapest from there are simply stunning and worth the 364-step journey. 

The Great Synagogue

The Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue, is another fascinating stop on your travel itinerary in Budapest. It’s the largest synagogue in all of Europe!

A tour through is included with the entrance ticket. I really enjoyed it, as you learn about what makes this synagogue unique, as well as about the history of the Jewish people in Hungary. 

The Tree of Life Memorial in the rear courtyard is a moving tribute to the Hungarian Jews who lost their lives during the Holocaust. 

All in all, it’s a powerful visit that adds an important historical and cultural dimension to your solo journey in Budapest.

First Name:

Join a free walking tour

One of my favorite things I did while solo traveling in Budapest was joining a free walking tour. Not only did it provide a fantastic opportunity to explore the city, but I also got to meet fellow travelers, which was a bonus. 

There are various providers, but a great option is Trip to Budapest . There’s a free tour for the Pest side and another one for the Buda side. You don’t need to book in advance — just be at the designated meeting area at the right time, and look out for the “free walking tour” sign.

Run by knowledgeable local guides, these tours offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun facts that you might miss if exploring alone. It’s a great way to orient yourself, especially if it’s your first day in the city . 

While these tours are free, it’s standard practice to give a tip at the end as an appreciation for the guide’s time and expertise.

Relax in City Park

Taking some time out of your busy sightseeing schedule to relax and maybe read a book in City Park is one of the privileges of solo travel . Choose a sunny spot under a nice tree, and relax or get lost in the pages of your book. It’s so good to be able to take time for yourself while traveling alone.

But City Park isn’t just for bookworms. It’s one of the largest in Budapest and home to quite a few attractions. You can find the Botanical Garden, the city’s historic Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and Vajdahunyad Castle, a stunning replica of a Transylvanian castle. 

For those artistically inclined, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art are also located in the park. Between those two is Heroes’ Square, one of the major plazas in Budapest.

Meet new people at the ruin pubs

The perfect place for an evening drink is in one of the ruin pubs, or ruin bars. These eclectic spots, built in abandoned buildings and filled with mismatched furniture and quirky art, buzz with an energy that’s hard to resist. For a solo traveler, it’s an incredible place to meet new people.

The friendly, laid-back atmosphere of the ruin bars makes it easy to strike up conversations and maybe even form lasting friendships. So, while in Budapest, don’t miss a chance to visit at least one or two. A great place to start is at the most famous one, Szimpla Kert.

Who knows, it might turn out to be the highlight of your solo trip!

Best Places to Stay in Budapest

Budapest offers a wide range of accommodation options for every budget, from an affordable bed in a hostel dormitory to five-star hotels.

The Avenue Hostel is a great option for budget travelers. You can choose between variously sized mixed dormitories or a female-only dorm with a private bathroom. The centrally located hostel is next to a metro stop, so you don’t have to worry about walking home alone at night.

A great midrange hotel is the Hotel Memories OldTown near the Great Market Hall in Budapest. The hotel is a mix of rustic and modern interior design, and breakfast is included in the room price. There’s also a small spa area and a fitness studio you can use.

You can also opt for the Anantara New York Palace Budapest , a stunning five-star hotel in a central location near a metro stop. The hotel has a spa area, with a hot pool, steam bath, sauna, and fitness center. Choosing this hotel guarantees a luxurious getaway. Having a coffee in the hotel’s New York Café is basically a thing to do in Budapest in and of itself.  

How to Get Around Budapest

Budapest has a great metro and tram network, but to be honest, most of the time, I just walked everywhere. Walking through the streets of Budapest is the best way to take in the atmosphere of this beautiful city.

The only attraction where I would recommend getting the metro to is City Park. Taking the metro there could be considered one of the amazing things to do in Budapest by itself, as it’s the oldest subway in mainland Europe.

How to Stay Safe in Budapest

As a solo traveler in Budapest, safety should always be a priority. While Budapest is generally safe, like any other city, it has its share of petty crimes, like pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist spots. Here’s a list of tips on how to stay safe in Budapest:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist spots where pickpocketing may occur.
• Always keep your belongings close to you, and try not to openly display expensive items like jewelry.
• Make sure that your accommodation is securely locked before leaving, and bring a padlock for your locker in case you stay in a hostel.
• Take reliable transportation, like official taxis or public transport, for getting around town.
• If you’re out late at night, stick to well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone in secluded places. 
• Always keep a digital copy of your important documents, such as your passport, as a backup.
• If you decide to venture off the beaten path, make sure to inform someone of your plans.
• Always have a way to contact emergency services. Save local emergency numbers in your phone. Get an international SIM card in case you don’t have cell coverage in Hungary.
• Finally, trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to remove yourself from the situation. Remember, your safety is the most important thing.

How to Meet Others in Budapest

Meeting new people in Budapest as a solo traveler can be a rewarding experience. 

One of the most popular places to do so is in a hostel, but Budapest also offers other opportunities. Language exchanges, meetups, events, and parties are common in the city. These gatherings are great places to meet locals and fellow travelers. 

You could join a local cooking class, attend a cultural event, or participate in a workshop that sounds interesting to you. There’s also the “Meet Friends from Around the World” group on Meetup.com, where you can connect with locals and expats. 

Don’t be shy to simply strike up a conversation, as Hungarians are generally friendly, can speak English very well, and are open to sharing their culture and experiences. 

Remember to be respectful and open-minded, and you’ll find that making connections in Budapest can add immense value to your solo travel experience.

Whether you’re strolling through the city’s stunning parks, relaxing in a thermal spa, diving into the rich history on a walking tour, or connecting with locals and other travelers, you’re sure to fall in love with Budapest. Just like I did.

About the author: Tina Riegelnegg is the owner of the vegan-travel blog Veganderlust . She’s from Austria, a neighboring country to Hungary, and has visited Budapest multiple times. Most often she travels in Europe, but also occasionally further away.

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support this site at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. Everybody wins!

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Budapest Solo Travel Guide

SOLO GUIDES

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Hungary’s capital city is a lively center, filled with plenty of excitement for solo travelers. Situated along the Danube River, Budapest is home to spectacular historic architecture, majestic thermal baths, and rich culture.

Discover famous landmarks such as the magnificent Hungarian Parliament building, the Széchenyi Chain bridge, and Buda Castle. The city consists of two separate banks, Buda and Pest, which are divided by the river.

A solo trip to Budapest provides the opportunity to see the city’s top highlights and explore things at your own pace.  If you’re wondering how to best navigate this lively city, keep reading below to see our Budapest Solo Travel Guide. 

Top Things to Do on a Solo Trip to Budapest

Buda castle.

Perched on a hill in Buda, choose to make your way up by foot, or hop on the convenient funicular for a fun ride up the hill. Wander around the magnificent grounds, with lovely gardens, and a view overlooking the Danube river.  Inside the castle, you’ll also find the Budapest Historical Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.

Váci Street

Take a stroll through Budapest’s main pedestrian street. This lively promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops. A fantastic spot for those traveling alone to experience the vibrant atmosphere, admire the storefront displays, and shop.

Fisherman’s Bastion

Situated within the Castle Hill district, this popular monument showcases spectacular architectural detail. Ascend up the staircase and admire the ornate complex. Step onto one of the many lookout terraces which showcase a magnificent panorama of the Danube River, Hungarian Parliament building, and city skyline of Pest.

Margaret Island

Situated right in between Buda and Pest, Margaret Island is easily accessibly via the Margaret Bridge. It’s a perfect spot for solo travelers looking for a peaceful retreat in the city. Stroll through the pedestrian pathways, rent a bike, admire the gardens, or visit the lively musical fountain. 

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Budapest is known for their thermal baths, which are composed from natural hot springs. There are various baths and pools to choose from. Enjoy a spa-like experience at Széchenyi   Thermal Baths, the largest and most popular bath in the city. This stunning historic thermal bath complex features a large outdoor thermal pool, plunge pool, saunas, and steam rooms.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

One of the major landmarks in the city, this chain bridge was built in 1840, connecting the Eastern and Western sides of the city. Enjoy a walk across this intricate bridge, or see it at night when it is lit up with vibrant lights. Try an evening sightseeing boat tour where you sail down the Danube river, amongst the bright cityscape, admiring landmarks such as the illuminated chain bridge and glowing Buda Castle.

Solo Dining in Budapest

Central market hall.

Don’t miss the Central Market Hall, the massive market with food vendors, fresh produce, handmade crafts, and gifts. This lively market offers plenty of delicacies such as traditional Hungarian dishes, paprika gift sets, cheese and smoked meats.

Food markets are an amazing spot for when you’re traveling by yourself and wish to sample a variety of foods in a casual atmosphere, and the Central Market Hall is no exception. 

A popular Hungarian street food, Langos is a fried dough with various toppings such as cheese, sour cream, bacon, and peppers. Grab a fresh bite at the popular Retro Langos, with an array of toppings to choose from.

Chimney Cakes

Stop by Molnár’s kürtőskalács to try the best chimney cakes in the city! The traditional pastry is served fresh, with a variety of delicious toppings to choose from, including cinnamon, walnut, and almond. Enjoy the tasty treat as is, or add ice cream!

Menza Étterem és Kávéház

At this bustling restaurant, you’ll find traditional Hungarian dishes such as goulash soup and beef stew, along with a variety of chicken, duck, pork, beef and vegan entrees. The restaurant is situated in a convenient location, just off one of Budapest’s major boulevard, the elegant Andrássy Avenue. The restaurant also offers a bit more of a casual environment, with indoor seating as well as an outdoor patio that’s excellent for people-watching.  

Best Places to Stay in Budapest

The city of Budapest is divided by the Danube River. You can’t go wrong staying on either side, as both both Buda and Pest provide accessibility to various top attractions. However, the Eastern side of Pest is where most of the action is, especially for evening entertainment and nightlife. Buda on the other hand, offers a bit of a quieter atmosphere once the sun sets.

Either way, it’s convenient to get from one side to the other, via the underground metro, or by walking across the various bridges. There’s quite a few options to consider when visiting Budapest alone.

Buda offers a more relaxing vibe, and provides close proximity to popular landmarks such as Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion. Also situated on Buda, are four spectacular thermal baths including Gellert Thermal Bath and Rudas Bath.

District 1: This is the most central district in Buda, and home to the elegant Castle Hill, with cobblestone streets and spectacular historic monuments. District 1 also includes a variety of cozy neighborhoods and shops to explore.

In Pest, you’ll come across busier streets and a larger selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops. In central Pest, there’s also plenty of nightlife. Solo travelers staying in Pest will have easy access to top attractions such as the Hungarian Parliament building, the massive Szechenyi thermal bath, and Central Market Hall.  

District 5:  This is the central district of Budapest, where all the action is. The area is easy to navigate and great for solo travelers looking to be close to major attractions, bars and restaurants.

District 6: District 6 is a lively area, with a cultural flare. It features the Hungarian State Opera, as well as Andrassy Avenue, a tree-lined boulevard with wide streets, historic buildings, and cafes.

Getting Around Budapest as a Solo Traveler

If you’re traveling by yourself, the best way to navigate the city is through the public transit system. On the street level, there are trams that travel through popular routes such as to the Hungarian Parliament building. The efficient and cost-effective metro conveniently offers service on both sides of the river.

Solo travelers planning to use the public transit frequently can purchase a Travel Card for 1 to 5 days, which gives you unlimited access for the specified time period you choose.

The central districts of Pest are also ideal for walking and exploring the area. The vibrant districts 5 and 6 have plenty of charm to explore by foot. Single travelers can join a free walking tour to uncover hidden gems within a group setting, or venture out solo and navigate at your own pace.  

To get between Buda and Pest, walk across one of the four bridges spread out along the Danube river, or hop on the underground metro which will take you from one side to the other.

Budapest is also a popular stop on a river cruise through the Danube River. On a river cruise, you’ll travel through various ports along the the famous river, providing opportunities to explore the charming towns and beautiful landscape.

Read More for Solo Travelers:

• Best Vacations to Take Alone
• Solo Travel Group Tours  
• Best Singles Cruises

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The Hangry Backpacker

Go Alone. Get Lost. Eat.

Solo Travel in Budapest

March 9, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker Leave a Comment

Travelers make mistakes. Learning from these mistakes molds us into better, smarter travelers. Lessons on the road often come suddenly. Mistakes are bound to occur with even the most practiced and prepared travelers. Solo travelers are not immune, and my travel mistake was in Budapest.

Budapest has been attracting visitors for thousands of years. The city’s baths and strategic location on the Danube River have been a draw since Roman Times. Today, Budapest is celebrated as a center of history, stunning architecture and fun. Solo travel, in particular, is a popular way many backpackers find themselves in Budapest.

“Paris of the East”

One of many cities referred to as “Paris of the East,” Budapest is one of Europe’s most romantic and striking cities. Through centuries of history and influences from a variety of kingdoms and regimes, Budapest has the perfect balance and blend of architecture.

The capital city of Hungary lies in the center of Europe and is deserving of such recognition. Meandering through her streets, it is easy for travelers to forget they are in Hungary. Steeped in history and man-made beauty, Budapest is a strange and faraway locale in most minds.

However, travel to Budapest is on the rise as it is not far from some of Europe’s most popular destinations. The city is popular for travelers of all kinds, and despite romantic comPARISons, Budapest is popular for solo travel as well.

The Most Beautiful Building in the World

Images of the Hungarian Parliament Building at night – perhaps the most beautiful building in the world – drew my attention and instantly landed Budapest high on my travel list for a solo trip through Europe.

This building is jaw-dropping. Photos show a beautiful riverside structure, glowing in the night. Up close and personal, the Hungarian Parliament Building is even more impressive, enormous and covered with intricate detail.

Daytime views of the Hungarian Parliament are stunning, but nighttime is when it shines. No other building in the world is illuminated so perfectly.

Turning a corner on my first night in Budapest, the building came into view. These moments are often so hyped up in our minds that, when the time comes, the reality is a letdown. Whether you travel solo or with a group, this is not the case in Budapest. As I walked along the Danube, it was impossible to look away. The Hungarian Parliament building lives up to every expectation of grandeur and beauty.

Fisherman’s Bastion

Further research of Budapest reveals scenes of the Danube and Fisherman’s Bastion, another stunning structure on the opposite river bank (Buda) of the parliament building. Research on Budapest results in beautiful scenes, one after the other. The real thing is only more remarkable.

Fisherman’s Bastion is an elaborate terrace and series of towers next to Buda Castle. The complex is imposing as it sits atop a hill and looms over Pest across the Danube.

Fisherman’s Bastion is a perfect spot to stop and enjoy a spectacular view across the city.

History in Budapest

From a history-lover’s perspective, Budapest has plenty. From the Romans to World War II, there is no shortage. Solo travel in Budapest is often known for a fun party scene, but thirsty backpackers can do some exploring and learn a bit in between long nights.

Some important places for history:

The House of Terror: a fantastic museum that chronicles the history of Budapest under the oppressive Nazi and Communist Governments.

Buda Castle: home to the Budapest Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.

Great Market Hall: the most popular market in Budapest, good place for souvenirs and great place for Hungarian food.

Saint Stephen’s Basilica and the Holy Right: particularly intriguing is the the Holy Right. The actual, nearly-one-thousand-year-old right hand of Hungary’s First king, Saint Stephen, is on display in a chapel of St. Stephen’s Basilica. The beautiful cathedral is enormous, and is a very important landmark for Hungarians.

Mistakes are Made

Free-wheeling solo travel is the best in Budapest. A little wandering with few plans is an invigorating change of pace. Hostels are home. New faces come each day. You never know where the day will lead.

At times, the spontaneity is exhausting. Most often, hostels are a welcome escape from the life of solo travel.

After several weeks of solo travel in Europe, knowing I would be in Budapest on certain dates, I prematurely decided to give myself a break from the life of late nights and hostels. I booked a hotel.

This was a huge mistake.

Upon my arrival, after a long train ride and a very long walk to my hotel, I arrived at a nice little hotel in a perfect central location. After months of noisy and grimy hostels, I felt out of place in such a warm, clean place. Here I am – sweaty, dirty and probably not smelling too fresh – checking in next to classy-looking families and men in suits.

After reaching the room, my feelings of uneasiness quickly subsided. For the first time in too long, I enjoyed a long, hot shower without the concern of keeping others waiting. Exhausted from a day’s travel through three countries, I plopped down and sank in the big, soft bed. I ate dinner and drank a nice bottle of cheap local wine, while watching a terrible Tom Cruise movie with voice-overs in Hungarian. Somehow, it was better than in English.

Twelve hours later, I was back to life and ready to go.

Initially, the hotel felt like the right decision. I was finally comfortable and well-rested. This feeling was temporary.

Searching for Pubs

After wandering the city center for the day, the time came to find a pub. The problem is this nice hotel was located around a bunch of other hotels. Where are the pubs, the cheap ones? After searching for a few hours, hunger won and I settled on something near the hotel. Overpriced was the result. Ultimately, the minimart prevailed over the search for a pub.

The next few days were more of the same. Solo travel, wandering through beautiful Budapest, exploring museums and streets alone.

Ordinarily, I am more than happy to explore and wander on my own. And I certainly prefer my pubs on the calm and quiet side. But there is something different about Budapest. Solo travel to Budapest needs to be approached differently. For backpackers, that is a warning about choosing proper accommodation.

Make no mistake. Budapest is, without a doubt, a great city to visit. Whether in a group, with a single companion or traveling solo, Budapest is a travel destination with charming scenes, alluring history and great food. And really cheap beer!

Choose accommodation wisely.

Lessons are Learned

Budapest is a city to share with someone. As I wandered the streets for several days, I constantly felt a nagging inside. I said to myself, over and over, “I will never return to Budapest alone.” In hindsight, my feelings remain but are not as strong.

For backpackers, the occasional night in more comfortable accommodation is fine. However, the several nights I spent in a hotel in Budapest were too many. It was nice, but it certainly wasn’t the Ritz. One or two nights is sufficient to re-energize your inner nomad. The cost of that hotel room is better used for further travel.

A hostel encourages finding places you may never find on your own. Other travelers share advice and experiences that can help lead to new places.

One of the perks of hostels is the social aspect. Budapest has a lively social scene, which I did not discover for a few days. Staying in a hostel, those elusive pubs would have been found much sooner.

The constant nagging feeling as I walked the streets admiring architecture was that I shouldn’t be doing so alone. When you travel solo, there is certainly a need for company at times, especially in cities like Budapest with that “Paris of the East” vibe. The best part of hostels is you are automatically in a place full of other people just like you: budget travelers hoping to have some fun while exploring.

Unless you are a certified prick, it is inevitable that you will make friends in a hostel. New suggestions, pushing boundaries, encouragement. New people help bring the most out of you.

Budapest is the perfect city for travel, solo or with others. The history, architecture, food and fun draw millions of visitors a year. Budapest is not quite to the point of overtourism in Prague and other famous places , but curious travelers might want to get there soon.

After several days of solo travel in Budapest, I look back and recognize my mistakes. I have no regret, as travel and regret don’t mix. I’m happy for the opportunity to visit Hungary and look forward to a return.

When the next trip comes around, one thing is certain: I will likely be traveling with someone. If it is more solo travel, you will find me in a hostel in Budapest.

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A One Day in Budapest Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

Last Updated on 27th June 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

While you won’t be able to experience everything in 24 hours in Budapest , you can still get a sense of how epic a city it is! This one day in Budapest itinerary will detail everything you need to know.

Beautiful Budapest is one of the most fascinating and historic European capitals that you can visit. Sitting at the crossroads of Europe, the city is a fascinating blend of cultures from east and west.

Whether you’re sipping on Turkish style coffee, admiring 18th century architecture or dining on some of Central Europe’s best food, there’s so much to enjoy in Hungary’s capital.

Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes to walk in as you’ll be wandering around the city a lot! Be sure to also pack a camera as Budapest is truly one of the most stunning cities in Europe.

Why visit Budapest?

Is budapest a walkable city, is one day enough time to visit budapest, fisherman’s bastion, breakfast at cirkusz, walking tour of budapest, buda castle, hospital in the rock, the parliamentary building, lunch at the magic budapest, house of terror, budapest baths, street food at karavan, end the day with a cruise on the danube, where to stay in budapest, what to wear when exploring europe.

Budapest is best-known for its world-class spas and amazing foodie scene. As the capital city of Hungary, there is obviously no shortage of things to do from museums to parks and eateries. Budapest is also particularly known for its nightlife, including ruin bars and nightclubs.

Yes, Budapest is an infinitely walkable city, especially if you select a centrally located place to stay. You can easily get to almost all of the major attractions on foot, though the metro system can come in pretty handy if you don’t want to walk any further or don’t have too much time to get between attractions.

As the capital of Hungary, Budapest is a large city with plenty of attractions and even more to see. As such, you won’t be able to cover everything that there is to do in Budapest over the course of 24 hours.

The ideal amount of time to explore Budapest is three to five days. You’ll need more than a day to see all of Budapest’s best attractions, but with this itinerary, you’ll definitely be able to scratch the surface and see why this capital is such a popular favourite, time and time again. 

If you have more time to explore the wider region, be sure to check out our guide to the best day trips from Budapest .

Suggested one day in Budapest itinerary

While a lie in is always nice, if you’re visiting a new city then waking up for sunset is worth it, particularly if it’s to see the town illuminated by golden hour. The number one must see spot to go for sunrise in Budapest is Fisherman’s Bastion.

Located in the 1st district of Budapest, not far from Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion was built between 1895 and 1902 and comprises of 7 towers andd Neo-Romanesque lookout terraces which offer breathtaking views of the city. The lower terraces and towers are free to visit.

Cirkusz (address: Budapest, Dob u. 25, 1074 Hungary) is known as one of the best breakfast restaurants in the world, so it’s no surprise that your Budapest itinerary should include a stop here!

Whether you fancy eggs sunny side up or avocado toast, there’s plenty to enjoy on the menu. The quality of the food, as well as the presentation is simply beautiful. Unfortunately you can’t reserve a table in advance and so be prepared to queue in order to dine at Cirkusz.

One of the best things to do in Budapest in a day is a free walking tour! Several companies run these tours, but SANDEMANs are well-loved and reliable. Please note that, while the tour is free, it is customary to give a tip at the end of your walk.

You’ll walk around the city, learning facts about its unique heritage (for example, did you know that the city is split into two parts, Buda and Pest?) and seeing the beautiful sights like the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a structure that makes its way onto many Budapest postcards.

Walking tours usually end at Buda Castle, and it’s worth taking some time to walk around this complex. Most of the exterior dates back to the 18th century, although there’s been a castle on this site since the 13th century. You can also enter the building (entrance fee of 1,400 HUF) and look around its museum and art gallery.

Nestled in the rocks near Buda Castle, the small museum and former bunker was once a WWII hospital to treat wounded soldiers in the city. Today it stands as a museum, reminding visitors of the horrors of war and the value of peace.

It’s a fascinating place to learn about how the war affected Budapest, and there’s also information about the country’s 1956 revolution.

The museum also stands to remind visitors that, even in times of dictatorship and war, it is possible to choose the good. It costs 4,000 HUF to enter. Visiting the museum is also a great rainy day in Budapest activity.

The Budapest Parliamentary building is a must-do experience in Budapest and it is probably also the most photographed building in the city. On a visit, you’ll learn all about the history of Hungary’s parliament, the significance of the building and more!

Guided tours take place hourly, and they last for about 45 minutes. You can do the guided tour in English or various other languages. It’s recommended to book online before your trip as tickets can sell out.

This is a must-visit for all Harry Potter fans! Serving wizarding world inspired burgers and other main plates with juice or cocktails in steaming cauldrons, you’ll have a truly magical lunch at this Hogwarts-esque cafe.

Alternatively, there are lots of local restaurants along the river where you can grab some more traditional Hungarian food. Try the bread soup bowls, which are quite literally a hollowed-out loaf of bread with goulash or meat soup inside!

The Hungarian museum of House of Terror (known in Hungarian as Terror Haza) isn’t an easy one to visit, but it’s very important. It focuses on the two regimes of terror that shaped 20 th century Hungarian history: the Nazi regime and the Communist regime.

During the Nazi Occupation of Hungary during WWII, hundreds of thousands of Jewish Hungarians were transported to concentration camps, many to their deaths. After the war, the Communist regime caused more fear, poverty and isolation.

You can learn all about these dark eras of Hungary’s past at the museum. I recommend the audio guide, which details the exhibits thoroughly. Purchase a guided tour of the House of Terror here.

You can’t go to Budapest without having a bath! The city is synonymous with its thermal waters, and there are spas throughout the city. You can spend anything from 2-4 hours in the spa, depending on what kind of experiences you want to have.

Please note that the Baths are often priced cheaper to visit during the week than at the weekend and so you can save some money by visiting during the week. The crowds also tend to be less during the week, meaning that you’ll have more of the place to yourself!

Among the best are:

Syzenci: these are the main baths, consisting of a huge pool where they host a ” Sparty” every week. If you’re with a group of friends and want to have some drinks, this is the spa to visit! Purchase your Széchenyi Spa Full Day entrance here.

Luckas: This is a more local spa, with multiple pools of different temperatures. It’s ideal to chill out in!

Rudas: If you want to sit in a giant rooftop hot tub, Rudas is your place! It has spa facilities on multiple levels and from the top, you can enjoy gorgeous views of Budapest. Purchase your Rudas Spa Wellness and Dining Experience here.

KARAVAN is a popular street food market serving food from all over the world, as well as local Hungarian dishes. Dine on vegan burgers at the all-vegan stall or try Mexican tacos and quesadillas!

Located next to Szimpla, Karaván is located on Kazinczy Street. There’s also a bar which serves Hungarian wine and beer at very cheap prices. You can also order cocktails!

Along with the bars, the Ruin Bars are another experience that just scream Budapest. Ruin bars are essentially bars which are located in formerly abandoned buildings. The concept has been around for two decades and the bars are located primarily in Budapest’s Jewish District.

The most popular is Szimpla Kert bar, which is right next to the food market. With a few different rooms, quirky decor, an outdoor area and affordable drinks, it’s one of the best places to have a drink in the city.

Another great place to have a drink is 360 Bar. This is ideal if it’s a bit chilly, as you can sip on cocktails in heated igloos! Alternatively, if you’re visiting in the summer months, it’s the ideal place to watch the sunset.

One of the best ways to get a unique view of Budapest is by going on a cruise on the Danube. Though it’s hard to fit a lot into just one day in Budapest, a cruise is a relaxing way to end the day, all the while discovering even more of the Hungarian capital. Book this 1-Hour Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Drink here in advance.

There are so many great hotels in Budapest for all budgets and tastes. So whether you’re travelling Europe on a shoestring budget or you’re searching for an accommodation where you can splash out, here are some of the top places to stay in Budapest (based on prices and location).

Vajda Hostel is a great budget place to stay. Although it’s a hostel, there aren’t any dorms – just double rooms with shared facilities. There’s also a kitchen downstairs.  Check prices and availability here.

NH Budapest City is conveniently located close to the Hungarian Parliament Building and is a contemporary hotel with comfortable beds and plush furnishings throughout. Check prices and availability here.

Stories Boutique Hotel is a gorgeous four-star property with elegant rooms and quirky furnishings. Check prices and availability here.

In the summer, you can’t go wrong by pairing a cute midi dress with classic white tennis shoes for a laid-back smart casual look that’s just as chic for walking around a city’s cobbled lanes as it is for wandering coastal paths. I love this dress and have it in several colour ways. In terms of tennis shoes, this is my go-to shoe.

When it comes to winter in Europe, most places (with the exception of a few islands) can get pretty cold and so warm layers is a must. I find that cute ankle boots like these ones are the perfect mix of practical meets cute.

Shoulder seasons (spring and summer) in Europe tend to come with a mix of rainy and sunny days and so, again, layers are a must. Trench coats and sneakers are the best uniform to explore the continent in.

Finally, a cross-body bag like these ones is a must. I personally use a crossbody bag  by this brand  and love its shape, size, and versatility. As well as being convenient and compact, it’s one of the safest ways to transport your valuables, all the while looking chic. I also recommend bringing along a travel adapter  like this one  so you can charge all of your electronics during your stay!

Enjoyed reading about how to spend one day in Budapest? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Claire Martin is a travel blogger and freelance writer who specialises in overland adventures. She’s drove around Australia, travelled from Bali to London without flying, lived in Mexico and has spent many months exploring Europe. You can follow her adventures on her blog, Claire’s Footsteps.

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The best 4 days in budapest: an itinerary for solo female travelers.

Last updated on June 19th, 2020 at 10:55 pm

Traveling solo in Budapest was a great way to spend a week before teaching English to local teenagers in the Hungarian countryside. As a solo female traveler, I felt very safe exploring the city during the day and at night. Budapest offers an excellent public transportation system that takes you everywhere you’ll want to visit during your 4 days in Budapest, even for day trips to neighboring cities like Eger . I loved the number of activities (gawking at architecture, eating, soaking in thermal spas) to occupy my time so I put together this epic 4 day Budapest itinerary to ensure you have a great solo trip in Budapest.

When I visited Budapest, it was August in the middle of a European heat wave. I spent my time there sweating through my clothes as I criss crossed the Danube trying to see all of the sites. I hand picked my favorite activities and combined them in a way so that you won’t have to criss cross the Danube as many times as I did! I also created a Google Map with all of Budapest’s hot spots, which you can download by dropping your email at the bottom of this post.

Also, there are a few affiliate links in this post, which means if you decide to click through and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

Now, let’s get on with your 4 day Budapest Itinerary!

Budapest – Day 1

Your first day in Budapest will be filled with food, but don’t worry you’ll also get your steps in and finish the day relaxing in one of the city’s many thermal spas. So wear loose pants and comfortable walking shoes as you get ready to explore Budapest’s diverse and delicious food scene.

Great Market Hall

Start off by visiting the Great Market Hall. Here, you will find three levels and numerous stands filled with fresh produce, meats, local delicacies, and so much more. Pick up some fruits and nuts for your breakfast or even sample the local treat Langos on the second floor. But, don’t fill up too much, there’s a full day of eating ahead of you!

Getting to the Great Market Hall:

Via Metro: M3 or M4 Stop at Kalvin Ter

Via Tram: Tram  2 47 or 49 Fővám tér

Great Market Hall Opening Hours:

Sundays: Closed

Mondays – 6:00 am: 5:00 pm

Tuesdays – Fridays: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm

Saturdays: 6:00 am – 3:00 pm

Self-Guided Food Tour

Spend the next few hours following the self-guided bitemojo food tour through the Jewish Quarter. It will guide you to 6 different food stops each with a tasty bite, and some stops also include a drink! In addition to being shown local restaurants, the tour will also take you by notable locations such as the Kazinczy Street Synagogue, the former Jewish Ghetto Wall, and a unique antique museum!

To book your own bitemojo food tour use the code Sunsets2018 for a discount!

Relax at Rudas Baths

One of the most popular things to do in Budapest is to visit one of the many thermal spas the city offers. You’ll likely hear about Szechenyi and Gellert baths which are excellent and highly visited baths, I suggest going to one that doesn’t always make the guidebooks. Rudas Baths located on the Buda side is smaller than the others, maintains single gender bathing hours, and has a traditional Turkish bath.  Plus, if you go around sunset you’ll have epic views of the Danube and Pest while you soak in its rooftop pool.

If you want more of a party scene, then check out the Sparty series offered by Szechenyi during the summer months for an epic pool party.

Getting to Rudas Baths

Getting to Rudas Baths:

Via Metro: M4 stop at Gellert Ter and walk

Via Tram: 17, 19, 41, and 56 stop at Rudas Baths

Rudas Baths Opening Hours:

Sunday – Thursday: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm

Friday & Saturday: 6:00 am – 4:00 am

Tuesdays: women only for the Turkish spa

Make sure to get the google map with all of these locations already saved for you!

Budapest – Day 2

Ok, so today is going to be a fairly heavy day of sightseeing. Each of the buildings I suggest also has tour options. I just ogled the buildings from the outside as my budget was running low at this point in my travels. So, if you decide to take a tour make sure to factor that in for your timing!

Hungary’s Parliament Building

Start your day at Hungary’s Parliament building. This is the third largest Parliament building in the world! I loved walking all the way around this expansive piece of architecture. Catching it from all angles.  You can take a tour inside to view Hungary’s Crown Jewels and royal scepter. I suggest booking tickets in advance online as the line at the visitors center looked quite long while I was there! Later you’ll cross the Danube to find epic views of the Parliament from Fisherman’s Bastion.

Tour Cost: Check here for up to date info and to book your ticket

Non-EU: 5800 Huf

EU: 2200 Huf

Getting to Hungary’s Parliament Building:

Via Metro: M2 @ Kossuth Lajos tér

Via Tram: Tram 2 stop @ Kossuth Lajos tér

Hungary’s Parliament Building Opening Hours:

Sunday – Saturday: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm

Shoes on the Danube

Once you’ve finished ogling the Parliament building, walk along the banks of the Danube toward the Chain Bridge. This walk will take you past the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial. This memorial pays remembrance to the 3500 victims who were shot into the Danube during the Holocaust from 1944-1945.

The victims were asked to remove their shoes before being shot and their bodies washed away down the river. Just a word of advice – be respectful here. I saw so many people taking photos that were for Instagram, placing themselves in between the shoes. It’s one of my biggest pet peeves, especially after visiting Auschwitz and witnessing people do the same thing there. Remember people were executed here simply for their religious beliefs. Ok, I’m off of my soapbox now. Once you’ve paid your respects, walk across the beautiful Széchenyi chain bridge guarded by lions to Buda.

Up next, you’ll be heading up to the Buda Castle Complex. But, it’s been a fairly intensive day already, so you may want to stop for a bit of tea.

Zhao Zhou Tea

This is a lovely tea shop where you could easily spend a few hours. Casually pouring yourself cup of tea after cup of tea as you leisurely turn the pages of your book. Zhao Zhou does have WiFi so if you prefer to catch up on your Insta feed or emails you can do that as well. The ladies who work here are incredibly knowledgeable about tea and will provide you with the leaves and hot water and leave you be. And they keep the teas traditional, when I asked for a matcha latte they kindly replied they have matcha but prepare it in the ceremonial way. I found that to be a unique feature compared to other tea shops I’ve visited. Although I was craving some matcha… latte style.

Castle District

Budapest’s Castle District encompasses a few notable buildings: Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion. This area could easily take an entire day to explore, especially if you want to view the museums. Let’s break these down one by one. I highly suggest taking a walking tour of this complex as they can fill you in on all of the details. The one I took was set up by Angloville, the English teaching program I volunteered for, however, I found a great company that offers free walking tours here!

Buda Castle

Buda Castle is an expansive building overlooking the Danube. During WWII, the Castle was occupied by the Nazi Regime and it was all but destroyed due to heavy battle. Reconstruction began after the war to bring us Buda Castle as we see it today. (Shoutout to the walking tour guide for this info!)

Buda Castle is now home to the National Gallery (1,800 Huf entrance fee), the Budapest History Museum (2,400 Huf entrance fee), and the National Szechenyi Library (1,200 entrance fee). I was too enthralled by the changing of the guards, which included a proposal, and taking photos on the grounds to enter the museums! As I said, there’s a lot to see here!

A tip about the changing of the guards : it happens every hour on the hour from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. However, on the last Saturday of the month (which is when I visited), it is accompanied by music, which added something to the somewhat boring marching. So if you can, see it with music! I can’t promise a proposal though!

Getting to Buda Castle Hill:

Via Funicular: From the bottom of the Chain Bridge you can take the Funicular to Castle Hill. It stops in between the Royal Palace and Sandor Palace.

Via Your Own Two Feet: You can walk up the hill!

Via Bus: Buses 16, 16A, and 116 serve castle hill.

Opening Hours of the National Gallery & History Museum:

Monday: Closed

Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Opening Hours of Széchényi National Library:

Sunday & Monday: Closed

Tuesday – Saturday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

Matthias Church & Fisherman’s Bastion

Once you’ve had your fill of Buda Castle, it’s about a 10-minute walk through the complex to Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion. Or you could take bus 116! There are plenty of restaurants along the way if you need a bit of a pick me up at this point in the day! I highly recommend Walzer Cafe for good prices and good tea!

Matthias Church

My jaw dropped as I turned the corner and saw the orange and blue-tiled roof of Matthias Church. Matthias Church held a number of coronations as well as two weddings of King Matthias (for whom the church is named).  As I sat there snapping photos of this stunner, I witnessed two brides entering, presumably to get married, but likely not to any king. It costs 1,500 Huf to enter.

Matthias Church Opening Hours:

Liturgies take precedence

Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Sunday: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Fisherman’s Bastion

Once you’re done marveling at Matthias Church, it’s time to marvel at the seven towers (and the view) from Fisherman’s Bastion. Fisherman’s Bastion was built between 1895 and 1902 to serve as additional ornamentation for Buda Castle. It overlooks a neighborhood of Buda that was once home to fishermen, hence its name. Additionally, the seven towers represent the original magyar tribes. Today, it’s still a place where we go to find epic views and photo ops of the Danube and Pest. This is a great place to end your day, taking in the sunset on the steps of Fisherman’s Bastion.

There is a cafe onsite, one of the towers has a bar, and you can pay to enter the upper towers for 1,400 Huf if you’d like. But honestly, you get to see most of it for free!

Getting to Matthias Church & Fisherman’s Bastion:

Wander Budapest at Night

After sunset, when the lights come on, Budapest takes on a magical atmosphere. Watch Parliament light up from Fishermans Bastion and then take your time walking back to your hostel to soak in how the lights change the architecture of the buildings. I had no issues wandering solo at night!

Budapest – Day 3

Day two was quite jam-packed with sightseeing. I wouldn’t be surprised if you want to go back to explore the Castle a bit more, but for day three in Budapest we are staying on the Pest side…and taking it a bit slower.

Dohaney Street Synagogue

After a healthy breakfast at Juicy + Budapest Bagel, head to the Dohany Street Synagogue. This is the largest Synagogue in Europe and the third-largest in the world, I believe. During WWII, this Synagogue was part of the Jewish Ghetto and many Jews sought refuge here. Ultimately, many perished, and they created a cemetery on the Synagogue’s grounds to bury the fallen.  The Tree of Life Holocaust memorial is also on the grounds of the Synagogue. The entrance fee is 4,000 Huf.

Getting to Dohaney Street Synagogue:

Via Metro: M1, M3 to Deak Ter or M2 to Astoria

Via Tram: 47 or 49 to Astoria

Via Bus: 7 or 78 to Astoria

Dohaney Street Opening Hours:

Times vary depending on the season. Check here for all of the info!

St. Stephen’s Basilica

After the Great Synagogue, head to St. Stephen’s Basilica, the second tallest building in Budapest, with the Parliament building coming in first. It’s free to enter the church and you can pay 500 huf to climb 364 stairs for panoramic views of Budapest. When I visited, it was about 90 degrees before 10:00 am, so I opted out of this. Just another reason to go back!

Getting to St. Stephen’s Basilica:

Via Metro: M3 to Arany János or M1 to Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út

St.Stephen’s Basilica Opening Hours:

Walk Andrassy Avenue to Heroe’s Square

You’re now in a prime location to walk Andrassy Avenue to Heroe’s Square. It’s about a mile walk or you could take the M1 (Millenium) underground train. These are both good options as walking you’ll be able to see more of Budapest’s architecture, the Opera House, do a bit of window shopping and even pop into a cafe for lunch. Did you know Budapest is known for its coffee?! I mean, I wouldn’t ‘cause I don’t drink it, but they are and the city has plenty of cafes to prove it. The tea is great too!

And if walking isn’t for you, the M1 is still a “must ride” as it is not just the oldest in Hungary, but in Europe! The M1 was the first underground metro line in continental Europe. So you have two good options for transport and either way you’ll end up at Heroe’s Square.

Heroe’s Square

Heroe’s Square lies at the end of Andrassy Avenue and the entrance to City Park. In the center of Heroe’s Square you’ll see a large column erected to celebrate the 1,000 year-old history of the Magyars. At the bottom of the column are statues of the 7 chieftains of the Magyar tribes. In the semi-circle around the monument are statues of various Kings and historical figures important to the history of Hungary.

Getting to Heroe’s Square:

Via Your Own Two Feet:  Walk Andrassy Avenue

Via Metro: M1 to Hősök tere

Heroe’s Opening Hours:

Dawn to Dusk

Passing behind Heroe’s square will bring you into City Park. Crossing the bridge, turn right to view a stunning castle, albeit much smaller than Buda Castle. City Park is also home to Budapest Zoo and the famous Széchényi Baths. There are a few restaurants in the park as well! You could easily spend a few hours wandering in this park or relax in the baths for the evening!

This effectively ends day 3, but if you’d like to go out with a bang, head back to the Jewish Quarter for the Ruin Bars.

Drink Palinka at the Ruin Bars

When someone told me to visit the ruin bars when I went to Budapest I’m pretty sure I looked at them like they had 5 heads. I didn’t get it. But basically, these are bars that are housed in ruined and abandoned buildings. I visited the most popular one, Szempla Kert, and found a number of rooms, two dance floors, and plenty of bars to sample the traditional drink, Palinka. I also found a spot where someone was getting tattoed behind a curtain. Strange and questionable sanitation!

This ruin bar is definitely very touristy and I admittedly didn’t last too long. There are other ruin bars and I suggest asking your hostel about them, my Couchsurfing host didn’t know of any others.  Thankfully, Nomadic Matt JUST put out this blog post about the Ruin Bars in Budapest.

Budapest – Day 4

The final day in Budapest. Sad times. There are a few things that are popular “to do” in Budapest and quite honestly, you’ve ticked most of them off of the list already. Your final day in Budapest is for relaxing and perhaps recovering from a ruin bar pub crawl.

Margaret Island

Gather a picnic and head to Margaret Island. Spend the day relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of Budapest. Find a shady tree and read a book. I know, crazy right? If that’s not enough stimulation for you, there is a large track and field area, an open air theatre, rose gardens, and musical fountains. I didn’t get to see any of that as I opted to visit by going for a run there, in the rain. Don’t do what I did. Go when it’s sunny so you can enjoy it!

Getting to Margaret Island:

Via Tram: 4 or 6 to Margit-sziget

Margaret Island Opening Hours:

Danube River Cruise

I went back and forth for about an hour before finally deciding not to do a night time river cruise. Why did I decide not to? Three reasons: I was at the end of my budget, I saw lots of couples signing up for it (which as a solo traveler didn’t seem appealing) and my hostel was having a free dinner. So, I didn’t go. But my friends who have gone tell me it’s awesome. Go to the Danube on the Pest side right near the Parliament building and you’ll find plenty of kiosks selling tickets to river cruises. Hostels also tend to get groups together to go.

Watch the Sunset on the Green Bridge

Instead, I watched the sunset from the Green Bridge. One Saturday evening as I was crossing the Green bridge from Pest to Buda, I noticed that it was closed off to cars, but people were everywhere! They’d tied up hammocks or climbed on top of the bridge or just sat in the middle of the bridge! It was a lively atmosphere as people shared beers and food with friends as the sun set. Bands were playing in the center of the bridge and it was a lively fun atmosphere. It turns out that the bridge is closed to cars on Saturdays and Sundays from mid-July to the first weekend in August.

Gellert Hill

Another option to end your 4 days in Budapest is to walk up Gellert Hill to the Citadella. At the base of Gellert Hill is a cave church that is supposedly still functional! The entrance to the trail is just behind Gellert Baths and as you ascend panoramas of Budapest will come into view. At the top is the Liberty Statue and if you keep walking behind this statue you’ll find a small park and excellent views of the Danube and both sides of Budapest.

String up a hammock or lay out a blanket, grab a few beers, and watch the sunset.

Wow, 4 Days in Budapest Go Fast!

This is a pretty epic 4 day Budapest itinerary, if I do say so myself. This could easily be extended if you’re there for longer by taking your time, perhaps popping into buildings for tours. I didn’t even include The House of Terror or catching an opera! Budapest is a city where there is always something more to see and explore. But it’s also a great place to have an aimless wander, enjoy the architecture, and see where the city leads.

Here are a Few More Tips for Visiting Budapest

…and don’t forget to get the map!

Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Budapest

Green Bridge

Banks of Danube on the Pest side

Where to Eat in Budapest

I know, there aren’t a lot of food recs in here and that’s because, outside of the food tour, I cooked quite a bit. Hey hey budget traveling! There are a few food truck areas which had something for everyone – vegan to meat eater! For more specifics about where to eat check out this post .

Where to Stay in Budapest

I stayed at two hostels and I Couchsurfed in Budapest . My first night, I stayed at Flow hostel located near the Great Market Hall before going to my host’s place for the rest of the week. The staff was nice, it had a large kitchen and comfy beds.

When I returned after teaching English, I stayed at Avenue hostel which was huge and catered to a wide demographic of travelers. But it was super cheap, had good WiFi and free dinners! Seriously can’t complain about that!

Getting Around Budapest

Public transportation is an excellent way to get around Budapest. They have a safe and reliable underground, a trolly system, and bus lines that can take you anywhere you’d like to go. Just make sure to validate at the machines on board! There is also a train service to neighboring cities and towns if you’d like to go on a day trip !

Here are a few resources for public transit in Budapest:

All buses, trams, and metro info!

Based on Sightseeing

If you’d like to book a tour or your day at the spa – check out what Get Your Guide has to offer for Budapest

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justchasingsunsets

4 thoughts on “ the best 4 days in budapest: an itinerary for solo female travelers ”.

Been to Budapest in wintertime and everything was so different, I may have to visit it again! Love your photos and the feeling that you pass through them 🙂 Thanks for the informative post!

I would LOVE to visit Budapest in winter. The baths must be amazing and seeing the snow surrounding these buildings jaw dropping. Bitterly cold I’m sure, but that’s what warm ruin bars are for, right?!

Your pictures of sunset are beautiful! I went to the baths in the city park a few years ago (Széchenyi) but I’ll make sure to try Rudas next time, it looks wonderful.

I wanted to get to those baths too, in fact when I first arrived I thought I had enough time to visit all of them. But there’s just so much to do there!

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• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveler’s Guide To Budapest

Budapest was always on my bucket list of cities to visit and I ended up choosing it for my first trip as a solo traveler. The experience could not have been more positive! The city is full of possibilities and activity, with events taking place all through the week. Do you feel like partying until dawn on a Monday evening? Are you looking for a diverse cultural scene? Hype bars? Good food? Budapest has it all! Here’s a guide to the Danube’s pearl.

When I began asking around about Budapest, one subject was on the top of everyone’s list: parties! I enjoy a good party as much as the next person, but I was also looking for more: beautiful sights, bits of history, fairly new gastronomy, and some cultural entertainment. I arrived on a Saturday night with a backpack for my clothes for the following five days. I got picked up at the airport by a driver who spoke no English, but who smiled enough to reassure me he knew where we were going. In 20 minutes, he dropped me at my hostel in the Ferencváros district.

The hostel was central enough to allow walking to both the Danube and the city center. Or, if I was feeling lazy, I was able to jump on metro line 4 and 6 – they run 24/7! I was very pleasantly surprised about this, as most public transportation in Europe closes by 1AM. The extended hours meant that I didn’t need to spend money on taxi fare and I also didn’t need to worry about missing the last train. Having stayed next to Mester Street, I woke up to the difficult task of choosing one of the many bakeries around. The sign – ‘Coffee’ – in a bike shop caught my eye. Mester Bike + Coffee Project has recently opened its doors in this new location. The bike shop had already existed for five years, but the owners, Viki and Kitty, said they always dreamed of a place where they could combine their interest in bicycles with their taste for very good coffee. I enjoyed the best cappuccino of the trip at Mester Bike + Coffee while relaxing on one of their sofas and watching the busy street outside. Even if you just pop in for coffee, it’s hard to resist the temptation to purchase from their selection of bikes and cycling accessories. The shop is clean and cozy and the ambient music creates such a dreamy environment that you’ll want to linger, and definitely return!

Good walking shoes are important if you plan to stroll along the Danube. Start at Petöfi Bridge for your first view of Buda Castle (Royal Palace). I had been told that Gellért Hill offered the best panoramic view of the city, so that was the next stop. The 20-minute hike uphill was well worth the effort. The views from atop are magnificent and imperial. The Danube’s deep blue divides Buda and Pest and you become entranced observing this white city, awash with green and red cupolas. It is however when night falls that you can’t help but ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ at the beauty of the city! The image of Budapest at night is one you’ll store in your mind throughout your life; no matter how many other beautiful sights you’ve laid eyes upon, it will haunt you. You must save a whole evening for a stroll that includes Gellért Hill, Buda Castle, and Matthias’ Church, and then head down to the river front to be confronted with the Parliament’s blazing lights. My favorite spot was Margit Bridge, where I could see both sides of the city and the boats that shake the reflections off the water.

As you will probably be tired from walking so much take a break at Morrison’s 2 , located right off the bridge. Monday evening means cheap cocktails and the place fills up from 11PM. Don’t only expect tourists, as there will also be a good number of locals present. The first dance floor opens with salsa music, so start dancing and leave your stereotypes at the door. You may be surprised at how well the locals can move to this style of dance, more commonly associated with Latin America. Later in the evening, you can visit dance floor number two, which plays commercial hits. If you feel like singing instead, head down to the karaoke room. No one would guess it’s a Monday, but Budapest keeps its energy levels very high! Following a local’s advice, I started my second day at Angelika’s Café . The view of the Parliament and an award-winning sponge cake made the trip worthwhile. Despite being in every guide, this café still offers affordable options, unlike the expensive New York Café , where you pay for the location. New York Café claims to be the most beautiful café in the world, and indeed you’ll believe it. Ornately decorated ceilings, baroque décor, luxurious desserts, and old age charm will make you feel a bit aristocratic. There’s even a piano player to help you feel like you’re in the 1920s! Until October 31st, you can visit the temporary exhibition of Robert Capa’s work in color photography at the Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center . At the end of the exhibition there’s a movie about Capa’s life. Save an hour for it; it’s definitely worth learning more about one of the greatest photographers of the 20th century.

Cultural Budapest continues with a visit to the gorgeous Opera House , the construction of which dates back to 1875 and was only allowed by the Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria-Hungary under the condition that it would be smaller and less magnificent than Vienna’s own Opera House. It didn’t look less impressive in my eyes, but then again comparisons can be subjective. Verdi’s Otelo just premiered and will run until at least 2016. The Erkel Theater hosted a dance show that lasted for less than a month, but it was so good that the creators should consider a European tour! Mad Dance is a compilation of four pieces – nearly three hours of excellent contemporary dance. Troy Game will glue you to your seat from minute one; raw masculine power on stage. Petite Mort highlights Mozart’s elegance, and this dance piece is original and surprising. You will enjoy the playfulness and humor in Six Dances and be moved by the tension of Walking Mad , the piece that brings Bolero’s Ravel to its climax. A trip to Budapest would not be complete without a visit to the thermal baths. I was not original in my choice – I went to the most famous: Széchenyi. I thought I would quickly try one of the aromatic pools and be done in two hours. Instead, I spent four hours pool hopping between 30 and 37 degrees. You can continue to indulge at Drum Café , home to the best meal I had in Budapest. Typical Hungarian cuisine and good service; entrée, main dish, dessert, wine, and espresso, all for under ten euros. You cannot get a better deal than that! For vintage lovers and those who simply can’t miss a chance to shop, check out Szputnyik store . The title comes from a Haruki Murakami novel – Sputnik Sweetheart . Here you’ll find unusual pieces with unique designs and new items lined up with vintage men’s and women’s wear. It’s hard to leave empty handed.Finally, don’t forget the Ruin Pubs ! I had no idea what they were, despite the fact that they were in every guide book and recommended by everyone. After entering one of these places you will want to tour them all. Budapest has some of the best bars in Europe. The best-known ruin pub in Budapest is Szimpla Kert (‘simple garden’). It is so well known, in fact, that you’re likely to bump into every tourist you’d met while exploring the city. This place is like a surrealistic painting. There are so many unique features of the bar: an open air cinema, an exhibition hall, a bicycle fair, and a Sunday vegetable market. You should then wander through the narrow streets around Király Street as you won’t be disappointed with the ruin pubs on offer; you’ll find Anker’t , Extra , and Doboz , just to name a few. Get some bottles of Hungarian wine to take home, if you can! Emptying them will serve as the perfect excuse to visit Budapest on vacation again. By Sara Gonçalves

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Budapest Solo Travel: Why You Can (and Should)

November 17, 2018

Once a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers, Budapest, the shining gem on Hungary’s Danube River, is enjoying an explosion of the luxury market and a well-deserved reputation as one of the most beautiful cities and the second fastest-developing urban economy in Europe.

As a female solo traveler, I found Budapest to be among the best-of-the-best in safety, luxury, activities, and gastronomy. I visited Budapest in the summer. It was extraordinarily beautiful at this time of year, but it was a bit crowded, and a bit warm (which I did not mind. If you’d prefer to visit during the cooler months, here is a guide to visiting Budapest in winter .

In truth, part of the reason for my utter enjoyment of Budapest was due to the Goldilocks-just-right attention from JayWay Travel .  JayWay custom caters to each traveler’s preferences, from adventure to luxury and everything in between – a perfect fit for my inclination to combine tours with my own exploration during the day and relax in luxury at night.

Budapest is the result of an 1873 merger between two distinct cities with two very different personalities: Buda on the western bank of the Danube and Pest on the eastern bank.  The two sides offer a slate of very different activities, from the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Buda to hip ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter of Pest.  One thing they both have in common…the city can captivate for a weekend and beyond and is best explored by a combination of foot and public transportation.

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Below are recommendations for Budapest solo travel, and to have a fantastic all-around experience in Budapest, here are 20 free things to do in Budapest.   Or, if you are limited on time, here’s a highlight list of what to see in Budapest in one day .

Stay in the Aria Hotel

There are a variety of hotels available with JayWay, but if you want luxury, look no further than the Aria Hotel, a stylish musical-themed boutique hotel with the feel of a great Hungarian palace. The hotel has four wings, each one impeccably designed to honor a genre – Classical, Contemporary, Jazz, and Opera. Each room has a wall-sized composer caricature and amenities such as fireplaces, views, and sitting rooms.  The grand foyer sits under a massive glass ceiling with a grand piano and keyboard walkway. There is a spa and a rooftop bar with expansive views of the city. Perhaps best of all, the hotel is perfectly located adjacent to St. Stephen’s Basilica square, festive and safe any time of day, and close to a selection of good restaurants.

Walk in the Buda Section of Budapest

Arguably, there is no better sightseeing in Budapest than walking along the medieval cobblestone streets of Castle Hill.  I’m about as independent as they come, but to get the most out of this area, I enlisted one of JayWay’s private tour guides, and it was a great decision.  Betti was a treasure trove of information, history, and fun stories that I otherwise would not have known.

It was a beautiful, sunny day, so we chose to walk up to Castle Hill, but there’s also a funicular near the Chain Bridge. The castle dates back to the 13th-century when citizens sought refuge after the Mongolian invasion.  The area enjoyed a golden age through the 15 th century until Budapest was occupied by the Turks and much of the architecture was destroyed. Subsequently, the city was rebuilt in the stunning Baroque style that remains today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Castle Hill is also an elite residential area, with houses that date back as far as the 14 th century.

Some sights in Castle Hill not be missed include Trinity Square, Matthias Church – one of the finest examples of 13th-century Gothic architecture, and Fishermen’s Bastion – an ornate, multi-terraced structure with dramatic panoramic views across the Danube to Pest.

Shop in the Pest Section of Budapest

There is no shortage of markets in the city, but the mother of them all is the Great Market Hall next to the Danube on the Pest side.  It’s sometimes called Central Market Hall due to the 5-minute walk from the city center. All manner of goods are sold in this gigantic three-story warehouse. Edible fare is lined up, row upon row of sausages, fresh loaves of bread, cheeses, vegetables, and Hungarian paprika.  It’s also the best place to find souvenirs, from inexpensive kitsch to pricey embroidery.  Do try the traditional Hungarian pastry, langos – deep-fried dough bigger than your head heaped with cheese and garlic.

After you’ve had your fill of shopping (and eating!), be sure to see the other sights in Pest, e.g. St. Stephen’s Basilica containing the alleged mummified hand of the saint, Heroes Square, the Hungarian State Opera House, and stroll along beautiful Andrássy Avenue.

Go on a Sunset Cruise

After a full day of sightseeing, I really enjoyed a relaxing, complimentary glass of champagne in hand, on a romantic cruise down the Danube, dividing the city into Buda and Pest.  We began while it was still daylight and started the glide past the best of the riverfront beauties of Budapest.  Our vessel slid under the 19th-century Chain Bridge and five other bridges. We watched the sun go down behind Buda Castle Hill with its enchanting castles and churches lined up on the bank. As night fell, the magnificent sight of the lit Hungarian Parliament was memorizing, with the clubs and bars of Pest as a backdrop.

Soak in the Thermal Baths

Because Budapest was built over a network of almost 125 thermal springs, ‘taking the waters’ has been a pastime since the time of the Romans.  Whether you are seeking a cure, relaxation, or like me – just plain old fun, there are two dozen thermal baths to suit every taste.  One such thermal spa is indeed the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Built in 1923, the Széchenyi Baths is a sprawling, festive Neo-baroque palace with 15 indoor thermal pools ranging from lukewarm to borderline unbearably hot, three impressive outdoor pools, fountains, steam rooms, and a spa.

Explore the Ruin Bars

The name alone intrigued me to find out what it’s all about.  Located in the old Jewish Quarter, the quirky pubs are essentially abandoned buildings and unused outdoor spaces, providing cheap beer, music, and sometimes a limited menu.  A glance behind the doors reveals unsuspected creativity and ingenuity. The décor is distinctly eclectic – even chaotic – with mismatched furniture, bizarre sculptures, and offbeat artwork. Despite the trendy hipster feel, the ruin bars are frequented by locals and tourists of all ages. For the best experience, here is a great Budapest ruins bar guide .

Try the Goulash

Hungarian goulash is without a doubt the most famous dish of Hungary, and perhaps even Eastern Europe.  But don’t let that stop you from trying it.  While goulash may be considered a melting pot entree of the continent, in my opinion, the Hungarian/Magyar version is much better than that found in Romania or the Czech Republic.  It’s more savory, has more paprika spice, and not so thick making it more of a soup than the stew you’ll find in other countries. It’s peasant-style comfort food, with generous chunks of beef, potatoes, and vegetables.

Stroll Under the Chain Bridge at Night

Crossing the width of the Danube, the Chain Bridge was the first permanent stone-bridge connecting Pest and Buda and the most famous of many bridges in the city.  The name comes from the iron chains connected by large rivets making it a real moving chain.  The bridge features stone lions standing sentry at each side.  The nighttime illumination is brilliant (pun intended). The pillars are lit by reflectors, and light runs along the top chains to accentuate the shape of the bridge.

Click here to check on the best time to visit Budapest .

Solo Travel in Budapest  first published in JustLuxe, 2017.

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Disclosure:  The author was honored to be the guest of JayWay Travel during her stay in Hungary, but as always, the opinions, reviews, and experiences are her own.

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About the Author

Patti Morrow is a freelance travel writer and founder of the award-winning international blog Luggage and Lipstick and southern travel blog Gone to Carolinas . TripAdvisor called her one of “ 20 Baby Boomer Travel Bloggers Having More Fun Than Millennials ” and she was named one of the “ Top 35 Travel Blogs ” in the world.

She is also the star of the upcoming TV series “ Destination Takeover ” which is scheduled to premiere in the new few months.

Patti is the author of the book “ Girls Go Solo: Tips for Women Traveling Alone ,” and has over 150 bylines in 40 print and online publications, including The Huffington Post , International Living Magazine, Washington Post Sunday Travel, Travel Girl, Travel Play Live Magazine, and Ladies Home Journal .  She has traveled extensively through six continents looking for fabulous destinations, exotic beaches, and adventure activities for her Baby Boomer tribe.

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10 Reasons Why Budapest Should Be Your First Solo Trip

My first real solo trip was to the Queen of the Danube , Budapest, one February years ago. Though I was no stranger to being in foreign places alone after having lived abroad, this was my first solo ‘vacation’. I learned so much about myself and solo travel during throughout this experience. Now, many years and countless cities later, I’m more convinced than ever that Budapest makes the perfect first solo trip destination . Ready to start planning? Here are my 10 reasons why Budapest should be your first solo trip.

HUNGARY TRAVEL RESOURCES

Table of Contents

How did I choose Budapest for my first solo trip?

I found cheap flights from Boston to Barcelona using my fool-proof method to experience new places while finding the cheapest flights . Unfortunately, Barcelona is probably my least favorite city. So, I began looking for the best flights out of Barcelona to neighboring European cities. Taking into consideration cost, layovers, and flight duration, I eventually decided on Budapest!

10 Reasons why Budapest should be your first solo trip

English will get you far in budapest.

Though I am a huge advocate of learning a few key phrases when traveling some place new (more if the language is familiar), Hungarians do not expect you to know their language. Hungarian is a notoriously difficult language to learn , and even by the end of my time there, I still could only say ‘thank you’ in the language. Hell, even being engaged to a Hungarian now, I still only know a handful of words.

Thankfully, since Budapest is a popular tourist city, everyone in restaurants, airports, hotels, etc. will speak a good amount of English.

That isn’t to say that you shouldn’t at least make the effort – I could tell that locals really appreciated my butchered pronunciation of ‘köszönöm’ every time I uttered the word.

But for first-time solo travelers who may find the language aspect to be intimidating, be comforted in knowing that English is widely-spoken in Budapest . It’s for sure one of the top reasons why Budapest should be your first solo trip!

Budapest is central to other European gems

I’m the queen of day trips! OK, maybe only in my own mind, but still. I love a good day trip. And thanks to the central location of Hungary’s capital, there are a ton of excellent day trips from Budapest – even international. You can visit Austria , Slovakia , and other countries depending on your interests.

During my first solo trip to Budapest, I went for a few days to Vienna and a day trip to Kosice, Slovakia (though Vienna could’ve been done in a day as well). There are other hidden gems in Hungary that are definitely worth checking out as a day trip as well.

I tend to opt for day trips many others would dismiss as too far. But usually, even if the train ride is three or three and a half hours, if you leave super-early in the morning and sleep on the train, you can still make an unrushed day out of these longer trips. One of the perks of traveling solo is without-a-doubt choosing my own time tables.

It’s easy to meet new friends as a solo traveler in Budapest

Budapest has no shortage of hostels , which is a tried-and-true way to meet friends while traveling solo. Many hostels offer private rooms if you’re not into the whole dorm thing, and most organize group events in order to meet fellow travelers, get out and have some fun. A popular hostel event in Budapest is a typical ‘pub crawl’ visiting the famed ruin bars.

Hostels aren’t your thing? Mine either. I didn’t stay in a hostel and wound up meeting a bunch of new friends during my first solo trip to Budapest . My first night I was adopted by a Portuguese couple who I did shots with till the wee hours, afterwards I made friends with a bartender where I frequented for drinks, and eventually I even wound up making friends with my Airbnb host.

Budapest is a fun city, and the people here – both tourists and locals – are almost always up for a good time, with the ‘more the merrier’ mindset. I’m introverted by nature, but had no problems making friends in Budapest while solo.

Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe

I had no idea before visiting just how incredibly beautiful Budapest is! I think that both the Hungarian Parliament building and Fisherman’s Bastion are among the most beautiful structures I’ve ever seen in Europe . From the gritty streets of Pest to the green and residential Buda, there’s always beauty to be found.

If you’re into photography or just want to take some fun photos for your Instagram, Budapest has no shortage of beautiful places to capture. 

It’s also one of the cheapest!

You’ve got to love European countries who don’t use the Euro – the currency in Hungary is the forint (HUF). The relative pricing is, on its own, enough reason to book a trip.

I was able to comfortably spend around 90 USD per day, which might seem like a lot. But, I ate out for nearly every meal, got massages, drank plenty, had an entire Airbnb apartment, and went to museums and other ticketed sites. While it may not be quite as inexpensive as some of its neighbors, such as Romania , it is worlds away from its Western European counterparts. You can also get a Budapest Card to save money. 

Traditional Hungarian food is spectacular, and easy on the wallet. But what makes eating in Budapest really special for a solo traveler is how normal it is ! Every restaurant I’ve frequented in Budapest (and by now, it’s been a lot) has treated me exactly as I would’ve been treated as part of a couple or group.

My favorite restaurants in Budapest: Paprika Vendéglő (my number 1 recommendation!), Rosenstein Vendéglő, Korhely Faloda & Daloda, and Százéves Étterem (the oldest restaurant in Pest). For a fun drinking/dining experience, check out Gozsdu Udvar. There are also a huge number of great breakfast places in Budapest , perfect for refueling after a night out.

Insider tip: If you like spicy food , ask for some pista ( peesh-ta ) next time you are eating out in Budapest – it’s like a Hungarian spicy pepper spread, it’s delicious (but a little salty).

You’ll never be bored in Budapest as a solo traveler

There are so many things to do in Budapest ! There are a ton of museums including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Hungarian National Gallery, Terror Haza, Budapest History Museum, the Museum of Agriculture, and the Hungarian National Museum – to name a few! Visit churches and synagogues, tour the Jewish district, explore Great Market Hall, chill in one of the thermal baths, get a massage, go ice skating, whatever.

Budapest is perfect for a day of relaxation

There was one day during my first solo trip that I became so exhausted that I knew I wanted to do nothing all day. My Type-A brain wouldn’t allow that, so I tried my best to create this itinerary for the ultimate day of relaxation in Budapest – and it was perfect! Book some spa services, go to the thermal bath, take yourself out to a luxurious breakfast – there are ample opportunities for some self-care and you-time.

Fewer crowds mean less chances to feel overwhelmed

A common fear or occurrence for first-time solo travelers is feeling overwhelmed – with a new culture or language, with loneliness, with transportation schedules – the list is endless. I’ve found that I prefer to visit slightly smaller cities, relative to the major players in Western Europe anyway.

Budapest, particularly in the off-season, is much more manageable than Paris or Rome.

You’ll find the perfect amount of discomfort

Solo travel is a lot more than traveling alone because no one wants to go. It’s a transformative experience, one that we know for certain will take us out of our comfort zones. This was the major draw of solo travel for me – the changes that could be set in motion.

But that transformation doesn’t come from nowhere – it comes from how the discomfort is tolerated . Traveling from Boston to Budapest wasn’t enough of a culture shock, for me, to be too scary. But this one is personal – just because it’s not too much of a culture shock for me doesn’t mean that will be your experience.

Still, with a completely unfamiliar language and further east, Budapest was the perfect amount of discomfort to get my toes wet and acclimate to the world of solo travel .

Is Budapest safe for solo travelers?

Budapest is incredibly safe ! Not once in my time there did I feel ill at ease or in harm’s way. There were a couple of mornings I had suuuuper early trains to catch, so I was leaving around the time that most people were leaving the ruin bars in the wee hours of the morning. Even walking past the bars en route from my Airbnb to Keleti Train Station, where everyone was undoubtedly shitfaced, proved very safe.

Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your judgement . There can be unsafe situations anywhere in the world.

Also, be sure to familiarize yourself with the most common scams in Budapest .

What can you do in Budapest alone?

I’ll let you in on a little secret – most things you can do with others, you can also do alone ! This is the same no matter what city you’re in. See an opera or theatre piece, see shows, take tours, do wine tastings, visit museums, you name it – all of these things are enjoyable alone. It’s very peaceful to have your own experience to navigate in silence.

How to prepare for your first solo trip

If you haven’t booked your first solo trip yet, you might consider taking a few days to a nearby city or some other destination that’s just a few hours away . This can help ease you in to solo traveling without having to venture too far.

If you’re ready to go, plan out your first few days . If you’re not so into planning, get a general idea of what you want to do instead of going into specifics.

Download any necessary apps you might want to use . Whatsapp is great for communicating with new friends and your old ones back home. I use Google Maps to navigate while walking around new cities. Uber or other rideshare apps are good choices as well.

Do something that makes you feel empowered . This could be a sweaty, powerful yoga class or simply going for a drive. Do something that gives you a quick boost of confidence!

Depending on how long I plan on staying, I sometimes join expat groups on Facebook – usually if I’ll be staying a month or more. You can get some great insider tips this way.

Where to Stay in Budapest

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About the author: meagan, related posts.

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I loved Budapest when I visited but would love to go back and see more of the city. I would agree that it’s great for a solo trip!

Budapest has been on my list forever! Loved your photos btw. Even though I’ve already solo traveled before, I can definitely see why it’s a great city for that.

It’s one of my favorite cities and I want to go back! Great recs!

I agree that Budapest is a great city to travel solo, though when I visited for a week I was there with a friend. It’s an easy city to get around and did feel very safe. There is so much to do there and I loved spending a day in one of the thermal baths and relaxing.

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2 Days in Budapest Itinerary for Solo Travelers

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I spent 2 days in Budapest on a whim. While studying in London, I had wanderlust. I needed to get out and go somewhere in Europe. Somewhere I hadn’t been before. I literally just opened a map and pointed, Hungary it was. I didn’t know much about it, save that it was the home of  goulash and paprika . So I had to figure out what to see and build a 2 day itinerary for Budapest. I decided to go on Sunday. I left Wednesday for my Budapest solo travel trip . Little did I know it would be one of the most wonderful random trips of my life.

⏳  Short on time?   My top recommendations for 2 days in Budapest include:

🏨  Hostel:  The Loft Hostel 🗺️  Tours:   Castle Hill , Spa Day , and a Food and Wine Tour 📍 Recommended Day Trips: – Eger Wine Country ( review )

📲 Must-Have Apps to Use: Maps.me , CityMapper , and Currency Exchange

📺 Movies and TV Shows to Watch Before Visiting: The Spy Who Dumped Me

🗣️ Learn a Language: Hungarian is spoken, though English is prevalent in tourist areas

🧳 Tips on Packing: For hostels and how to pack light

💡 Feel like you’ve forgotten something? Learn how to plan a trip on Google Docs and discover 37 things to do before an international trip

Table of Contents

MY BUDAPEST SOLO TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

There’s something to be said for traveling alone. I never thought I’d want to do it, and this was my first trip alone. As a Budapest solo female traveler, I was nervous, sure, but I was determined to go and have an adventure. I was going to meet people and have fun and get out of my comfort zone. I was going to learn how to travel solo and thrive . And I was right.

TRIPS TO BUDAPEST: BUDA AND PEST

Budapest is separated into two major areas: Buda and Pest. Buda is the city’s historical side, while Pest is the more modern city. Each has excellent aspects about them, but as I’m a history nut, I spent most of my time in Buda and would recommend adding it to your 2 day itinerary for Budapest.

Budapest’s transit system is great and the metro isn’t too difficult to handle. I didn’t use it, though, as I walked everywhere. It’s a walkable enough city, though there were some long wanderings. It’s a great place to go because it’s not an immediate place you think of, but there are amazing places to visit with 2 days in Budapest, and it’s one of the  cheapest cities in Europe . You can find tons of free things to do in Budapest , which is great for a solo traveler on a budget.

Here’s just a taste of your Budapest solo travel trip!

WHAT TO SEE DURING YOUR 2 DAYS IN BUDAPEST

If you’ve only got a weekend in Budapest, check out Castle Hill ( Várhegy ). It is the old medieval settlement of Buda that overlooks the Danube. It’s a beautiful part of the city where you’ll not only get stellar views but can also wander around archaeological sites, such as the Royal Palace (Királyi palota), a historical castle and palace of the Hungarian kings.

I’d also add you should visit the stunning Fisherman’s Bastion (Halászbástya), which is made to look medieval, but it’s actually Victorian. It was built near the site of the old fisherman’s market and is named for the old Guild of Fishermen. It’s a fantastic piece of architecture, and I felt a little like Harry Potter wandering around. The lower sections are free to visit, but there’s a small fee to walk on the bastion walls.

Buda has the largest concentration of things to see in the city and is worth a full day on its own if you can spare it. There’s a grand host of museums there, including the  Szabo Marzipan Museum . Yes, a marzipan museum to add to your 2 day itinerary for Budapest.

Book Activities & Tours:

VISITING THE PEST SIDE

The Pest side has a few monumental places you cannot miss during your 2 days in Budapest. The gorgeous Gothic architecture of the Parliament Building is a stunner. I never made it over there as I got the view from Castle Hill, so make sure to add it to your 2 day itinerary for Budapest and get up close for me.

There was, and still is, a substantial Jewish population in Budapest and the Jewish Quarter is a particularly beautiful part of the city. It’s also home to the Great Synagogue and the Jewish Museum (Dohány utcai Zsinagóga). The museum is small, but it’s worth your while.

Having one of the largest populations of Jews in Europe before WWII the memorials for them are intense. The Tree of Life in the courtyard has the name of every Jewish person in Budapest who died under the Nazi regime. It’s something to be seen and take time to remember what happened.

Check Out These Posts:

• Taking a One Day Trip from Budapest to Eger
• What’s the Difference Between a Hostel and a Hotel?
• The Best Apps for Traveling in Europe that are FREE

Adding a Spa Day to Your Budapest Itinerary

Bathing is a huge thing in Budapest. Yes, bathing. So be sure to add it to your 2 day itinerary for Budapest. There are public baths all over the city, as well as swimming pools. There are thermal baths that are more spa-like, and most of them are open-air, which is really nice on a lovely day. Gellért Baths in Buda are the most popular, surrounded by exquisite Art Nouveau architecture. Széchenyi Spa (Széchenyi Fürdő) is the largest spa in Europe. That’s reason enough to check it out during your 2 days in Budapest.

The Best Food in Budapest

Goulash. Goulash goulash goulash. You’ll find goulash everywhere in Budapest. At this time, I still ate meat, and this was one of the best meals I’ve ever had. I couldn’t tell you the name of it, sadly. I stumbled upon what kind of looked like a diner, but wandering in, I was hit by the stench of cigars, wood paneling, and more knickknacks than I could count. The menu was all in Hungarian, but gulyás is identifiable enough when eating Budapest food.

It was different from the goulash I grew up with. Actual goulash is more of a soup than a stew. It’s made with beef, potatoes, vegetables, and paprika. It’s hearty and delicious, and with some nice bread, it was the perfect fall dish. Budapest food and Hungarian dishes are heavy on the paprika, and you can buy every sort of paprika you can imagine at various markets or stores. I hope you like paprika.

Hungarian pastries are…the best. They’re flaky and buttery and just decadent. They’re denser than French pastries but just, if not more, delicious. Make sure to grab chimney cakes (Kürtőskalács) at a patisserie or one of Budapest’s hundreds of coffee houses. Also, for some reason, Budapest has a lot of really delicious Chinese restaurants.

There are also some amazing Food Tours in Budapest you should check out if you’re dying to try all the best dishes and add them to your 2 day itinerary for Budapest.

Where To Stay in Budapest

There is only one place you should stay in Budapest, and that is The Loft Hostel . I have never enjoyed a hostel stay more than I did at Loft. It’s a small, cozy place on top of an old apartment building, perfect for Budapest solo travel. You have to go up the world’s creepiest elevator, which holds only one person, and walk along a balcony to get there, but once you arrive, you’ll know it’s worth it.

Painted walls with art and characters immediately let you know it’s a more eclectic place to add to your 2 day itinerary for Budapest. The communal kitchen is basic and quaint, with a large communal living area filled with bean bags, couches, and a sizable television. There are only four or five rooms, so this isn’t your mega Budapest hostel. No, it’s cozy and friendly, and the staff will hang out with you, go out with you, and just become an instant family.

The owner is also in a Mississippi blues band and one night after we had all drunk the four liters of wine I had brought back from Eger, he closed the hostel up and we all went to the bar where he was playing.

Staying at a Budapest Hostel

I don’t remember a whole lot from that night, just a few slightly blurry and drunken photographs to remind me, but I know it was a lot of fun. I’m not usually one to immediately take to strangers, but something about this Budapest hostel changed that. I immediately bonded with my roommate from Austria and was sorely sorry to see her leave the day before me.

I danced and goofed off with the other hostel stayers, and the next day, when we were hungover as all hell, we piled into the living room and watched the Star Wars trilogy . This summer, I’ll be going through Budapest again and while we may not be able to even stay overnight, I kind of hope we can, just so we can stay at Loft.

If staying at a hostel isn’t your style, there are many beautiful boutique hotels in Budapest .

Click here for the latest prices.

Spending 2 Days in Budapest

On your Budapest solo travel trip, don’t leave without visiting the Great Market Hall (Nagy Vásárcsarnok) at Fővám tér. These old markets are from a bygone era and are always a sight to behold. Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is a wonderful place to visit. I hope this 2 day itinerary for Budapest helps you navigate and get the low down on what to do, what to eat, and where to stay in Budapest.

This city surprised me. I loved my Budapest solo travel trip. I spent days roaming around Hungary, drinking wine, eating goulash, and trying to decipher Hungarian (and failing). It’s still one of the best trips I’ve ever taken and I hope it’ll be one of yours. Here’s a great more extensive itinerary for 4 days in Budapest if you have more time. Or, if you’re looking for a list of the best things to do in Budapest, I’ve got you!

I highly recommend spending 2 days in Budapest for solo female travelers and history lovers. I hope this post helps you to build your Budapest itinerary!

Want to remember this? Pin this 2 Days in Budapest Itinerary for Solo Travelers  article to your favorite Pinterest board!

Following my love of travel, I started The Nerdventurists, a travel blog which provides guides and tales from around the world with a nerdy twist. I’m an ardent traveler and have been to over 48 countries and have no plans to stop.

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Solo Female Travel in Budapest

Travel rating.

Based on 67 experiences

Based on our research

Based on safety reports

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Is Budapest good for solo travel?

Safety: Safe

Transport: Easy

Things to do: Interesting

Food: Excellent

Budget: Affordable

Is budapest worth visiting, overall rating.

based on 67 experiences

Things to do

Budget-friendly, solo travel.

Yes I feel really safe in Budapest. Beautiful architecture, good food, and relatively inexpensive compared to other countries in Europe. Id definitely recommend going here, there's so much stuff to see and do, maybe better 3 days to soak it all in!

Family travel

This was my first time traveling to Budapest. The city was very beautiful but a bit dirty. People were kind but the food in the city centre was a bit expensive. We paid 95€ for 3 pizzas and a salad (plus 4 beers). So I recommend eating a little more far from the city centre. We visited the Zoo, The Parliament, Citadella, Van Gogh's expedition, and it was amazing. Just pick a colder weather as it can get too hot there. Public transport was easy to use and understand. People can speak English well in restaurants, shops, public places, etc. There are few homeless people that may try to talk to you. I didn't walk alone in the evening but I didn't notice anything dangerous.

I feel safe There is a magnificent opera and ballet building. I watched Swan Lake ballet there. I went to the cinema. The nightlife is quite colorful and I liked it. I wasn't very pleased with the food. It wasn't bad but there wasn't much I liked. I found it a bit oily in general. Prices were average. I didn't find it too much. Public transport was very useful

Couple travel

Beautiful capital. It was my second travel to Budapest I gathered you some not-so-known places to enjoy: Food: -Getto gulyas- great national cousine -Bors- nice variety of street food: soups and sandwiches -wasabi- cheap running sushi Places to chill: -Margaret island -köztér- ruin pub 2 tips: -If you go clubbing there is a really nice gay bar: alterego which is much safer than other clubs - If you choose public transport, buy an "orszagberlet" it is very cheap and you can travel for anything including boats

It's a beautiful place with many spots worth visiting. The transportation is really good. The food is quite diverse, but if you're going for something typical, be prepared for a soup starter. People are generally very calm and quiet.

I felt more safe than I thought I would. Of course nights alone are scary, but except of some catcalling, there were no other situations. Would recommend using the app meet up to meet some people! Especially the language exchange us very nice

Felt safe walking around and talking the metro during the day and evening. Walked 30 mins to my hotel in the city center after landing at 1am and it was a bit sketchy - a few sections of homeless people but I was not acknowledged. 24/7 airport bus shuttle is clutch. Skip the thermal baths if you’re looking for authentic experiences - I did Gellert and it was filled with tourists. Walking around and looking at the architecture is amazing! Go to an étkezde!!! Or 2! Delicious home cooked food vibe and the servers and owners were all very friendly to me and happy to explain Hungarian food. You can spend <$5 on a meal here.

Group travel

I travelled with friends. The city and its sights are well worth seeing. And if you want to party, it's all planned with its ruined bars. As far as the budget is concerned, accommodation is not too expensive, but everything else is on a par with another European city.

Budapest felt quite safe while travelling, an underrated city stop. However, there isn’t particularly much to do so would recommend only a short stop there unless there is a specific event on as a solo traveller.

I really liked budapest because itnhas a new and an old side of town, the landscape is beautiful and the food is amazing. I recommend eating chimney cakes and langos, visiting the jewish district and the castle and booking a free walking tour to see town.

Is Budapest safe for women?

Safety rating.

Based on 36 experiences

Crime rates rating

I come from a Latin American country and the shock of safety here was highly positive - no need to walk on streets looking backwards, no need to avoid streets after a certain time. Here in Budapest, I feel so free as a woman to behave as I want. The only bad experiences I had related to harassment were done by tourists, so I cannot blame the city for it. It is a lovely place to visit. P.s.: Budapest has a big problem with drug/alcohol abuse so there are a lot of altered people on the streets, but they are not a risk or danger at all, at least I've never seen any causing trouble. Don't be scared of them, don't interact either, just walk away ;)

Budapest is my home. Love to walk around in the city, watching the beautiful buildings and just feel the history surrounding me. Love how the Hungarians are open and helpful with anything and how my beautiful country lives up to the people expectations.

Meet locals in Budapest

Hi! My name is Viola from Hungary! I'm 22 yo and I study landscape architecture. I really like the adventures, travelling and meeting new people!

My name is Natalia, I’m 30 years old and I’m from Valparaiso, Chile 🇨🇱. I love to meet new people and their culture, I think it’s the most important thing when I’m exploring a new place. I’m also into history and photography 📸. I’d love to connect with new girls from here and do things together 💕🌸.

The city center of Budapest is very safe and comfortable. It is 1,5,6,7 districts. If you want to try something hungarian, go to the local cafe and ask for langos or chicken paprika. The best options. Budapest is quite cheap, to save some money and visit most of the sightseeings you can by obtaining Budapest Card. You should definitely check out river boat cruise with unlimited prosecco, thermal baths,walk in Buda Castle district, see the Parliament building.

In my opinion Budapest is quite good place for women. There are many delicious restaurant, vibing night life and you can visit the most famous sights. We have famous churches, Parliament, museums and etc.

In Budapest you should definitely try ruin bars, which are really part of the youngster culture. Can be expensive though. Of course cultural sights are also worth it, such as like: -Heros' Square -Fisherman's Bastion -St. Stephen's Basilica -Shoes by the Danube -Parliament -National Museum

In Budapest, go to the Massolit cafe on Nagy Diofa street. Visit the Kerepesi Cemetery, which is free to enter and is a real museum with hundreds of sculptures. For lunch, you could go to Araz, Kiosk or Monk's Bistro and choose the "napi menü" (lunch formula), if you do not have allergies or orthorexia. Don't go to the large synagogue, but to the small one on Kazinczy street. It is much cheaper and more pleasant. And enjoy a bath at Dandár Bath, not where all the tourists go.

I have a few very personal recommendations. Must-see: Szimpla Kert is a kind of ruin pub, if you type "ruin pubs Budapest" into Google, you'll find similar ones, but Szimpla Kert is actually one of the best, though Instant is also cool, as well as Gozsdu Udvar! They are really unique, relaxing places. Margitsziget (beautiful park) - I definitely recommend the Parliament! Also at night! Beautiful! Take a walk to the Liberty monument (15 min from the Parliament), especially amazing in the evening. Simple walk 10 min. But what a beautiful view! Freedom Bridge. Also very cool! Belgrade riverside! - very nice walk along the river with historical details. If you like beer and wine, there are places (not touristy) where they are quite cheap. It's worth trying good Tokaji wine! One of the best wines in Europe! Food: goulash soup, kürtöskalács (chimney cake).

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Budapest Solo Travel: Your Ultimate Guide

by Bar Crawl Budapest | Jul 26, 2024 | Pub Crawl Budapest

Ready for the ultimate nightlife adventure? Dive deep into the heart of the city’s vibrant scenes with our pub crawl in Budapest . Every stop is a new story, every drink a memory waiting to be made. Get ready for an unforgettable evening!

Welcome to Budapest, the stunning capital of Hungary! Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or embarking on your first solo adventure, Budapest is a perfect destination. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your solo trip to this vibrant city.

1. Planning Your Trip

Before you embark on your Budapest adventure, it’s important to plan your trip carefully. Here are a few key things to consider:

• Best time to visit: Budapest is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring (April – June) and autumn (September – October) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded.
• Duration of your stay: Budapest offers so much to explore, and it’s recommended to spend at least 3-4 days to fully experience the city’s attractions and immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Safety: Budapest is generally a safe city for solo travelers, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Stick to well-lit areas at night, keep your belongings secure, and be aware of your surroundings.

2. Getting Around Budapest

Budapest has an excellent public transportation system that makes getting around the city a breeze. Here are the main transportation options:

2.1. Public Transportation

The Budapest Metro, buses, and trams cover the entire city, and they are efficient and reliable. Purchase a travel card valid for the duration of your stay or opt for single tickets if you prefer. Check schedules and plan your routes using the official Budapest Public Transportation website.

2.2. Walking and Biking

Budapest is a walkable city, and walking allows you to discover hidden gems and admire the stunning architecture. If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from numerous rental shops or use the city’s bike-sharing system, Bubi.

3. Exploring Budapest’s Attractions

Budapest boasts numerous attractions and landmarks that will leave you mesmerized. Here are some must-visit places:

3.1. Buda Castle

Perched on a hill, the Buda Castle offers panoramic views of the city. Explore its beautiful courtyards, visit the Hungarian National Gallery, and take a stroll in the surrounding castle district.

3.2. Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is an architectural marvel and a symbol of Budapest. Take a guided tour to admire its stunning interiors and learn about its rich history.

3.3. Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Indulge in Budapest’s famous thermal baths for a unique and relaxing experience. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest and most popular, featuring various indoor and outdoor pools.

4. Experiencing Budapest’s Culture and Cuisine

Immerse yourself in Budapest’s vibrant culture and savor its delicious cuisine.

4.1. Ruin Bars

Visit the famous ruin bars, unique establishments located in abandoned buildings and courtyards. These bars offer a lively atmosphere, live music, and a taste of Budapest’s alternative scene.

4.2. Hungarian Cuisine

Don’t miss the opportunity to taste Hungarian cuisine. Try traditional dishes like goulash, chimney cake (kürtőskalács), and langos. Explore local markets such as the Great Market Hall to sample regional delicacies.

5. Staying Safe While Solo Traveling

While Budapest is generally safe, it’s always important to prioritize your safety as a solo traveler. Here are some tips:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and public transportation.
• Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets.
• Share your travel itinerary with someone back home.
• Trust your instincts and avoid situations that make you uncomfortable.

6. Connecting with Other Travelers

If you want to meet fellow travelers and locals, Budapest offers several opportunities:

6.1. Join Walking Tours

Participate in guided walking tours to explore the city while interacting with other travelers. It’s a great way to make new friends and learn from the local guides.

6.2. Stay in Hostels

Consider staying in hostels, which are not only budget-friendly but also offer common areas and social activities where you can meet other travelers.

7. Embracing Solo Travel

Solo travel can be a life-changing experience, offering freedom, self-discovery, and personal growth. Embrace the opportunity to explore Budapest on your terms, try new things, and create unforgettable memories.

With this guide, you are well-equipped to embark on your solo adventure in Budapest. Enjoy every moment of your journey and make the most of this incredible city!

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How to Spend 3 Days in Budapest Like a Local

12 sep how to spend 3 days in budapest like a local.

Budapest is the perfect city for a short break –it’s compact and walkable, with plenty of sites to visit and great bars to party the night away.

However, while Budapest might be small compared to many other European cities, even if they have lived here for years, there’s plenty to uncover , like how each neighborhood has its own character and how Buda and Pest have entirely different personalities.

But, if you don’t have unlimited time to explore the Hungarian capital, don’t worry–we’ve got the cheat code to do the essentials with a local’s finesse .

We recommend you stay here at least for three days : That’ll give you enough time to see the most famous sites and explore a few quirky things that are often overlooked. So join us for our three-day itinerary of how to spend your time like a local while seeing the sites of Budapest.

Day 1 – Downtown (Pest side)

Let’s kick off day one on the Pest side . This side of the city is lined with stately apartment blocks, cute cafés, and quirky bars .

We’ll start with the big guys and the main sites just so you don’t feel like you’re missing out, but we’ll weave in a few special places you might not ordinarily come across.

Postal Savings Bank. Photo: hu.wikipedia.org

Begin the morning at the Danube Banks , and take in the view before you turn your back on Buda and feast your eyes on the Hungarian Parliament . Take in the architecture of Budapest’s most iconic building , but don’t let that distract you from some hidden spots around the area.

Make sure you look up and explore the surrounding streets between the Parliament and Liberty Square. If you’re into architecture , check out the mint-green facade of the Art Nouveau Bedő House and the nearby Postal Savings Bank by Ödön Lechner.

Spend time meandering the streets until you get to St. Stephen’s Basilica , another architectural star of downtown Pest.

Locals’ tip: If it’s lunch you’re after, then the charmingly old-fashioned Cafe Kör is the perfect place to stop. With its hand-written menu with Hungarian specials, this Hungarian restaurant is popular with people who work in the area, so you’ll get a local experience.

Andrássy Avenue. Photo: welovebudapest.com

For coffee, skip the Insta-hyped New York Café  (unless you want to spend all day in a queue for some mediocre coffee), but rather take a stroll up Andrássy Avenue to the Opera House and get a coffee and cake in Művész Café on the other side of the street for a classic Hungarian cake and a presszó ( no queuing required ).

City Park. Photo: szallas.hu

Afterward, just hop the UNESCO World Heritage Site metro to Heroes’ Square , taking public transport like a local. Stroll over to City Park to take in the sites, like the Vajdahunyad Castle or the House of Music .

Locals’ tip: If you want to grab a retro drink or snack, you might want to visit Pántlika , a retro hut at the edge of the park that’s always packed with locals in the summer.

Szimpla kert ruin bar. Photo: budapestflow.com

Hop on the 74 trolly bus and head back to the Jewish Quarter for the evening. Get off at Nyár utca and get ready to hit some of the ruin bars. If you haven’t been to Szimpla Kert before, make sure you pay a visit, as there’s good reason why it’s Budapest’s most famous ruin bar .

Locals’ tip: if you’re looking for something with a bit more local flavor, you might want to check out Kisüzem or Fekete Kutya , both spots popular with the local bohemian crowd with fewer tourists . While going between bars, look out for the vibrant murals and paste-ups that dot this quirky neighborhood.

Day 2 – Beyond the main attractions of the Pest Side

Now you’ve ticked off most of the mainstream sites in Pest, it’s time to go a little deeper and check out some areas that are a bit more off the tourist track (and get a more local experience) with a visit to a local market, an island, and the gritty but beautiful Palace District .

Újlipótvárs – Sarki Fűszeres Café. Photo: welovebudapest.com

Let’s start off in the XIII District ( Újlipótváros ), a residential area packed with great cafes , bakeries, and restaurants. Make sure you look up at the buildings, as you’ll find some wonderful Art Nouveau , Art Deco , and Bauhaus buildings in the area. But for the morning, let’s start with a market trip.

Lehel Market. Photo: wikimedia.org

Forget the Central Market Hall for now, that’s for tourists , instead, we’re gonna hit Lehel Market , a quirky building that looks like a psychedelic ship that’s crashed into a Soviet playpen. But this market is excellent , and a vibrant way to start your day with locals among fresh produce–maybe pick up some yummy snacks for a picnic later.

Locals’ tip: If you want coffee and a pastry, there’s plenty to try in the neighborhood, like Házi Rétesbolt or a coffee at Briós. If it’s lunch you’re after, try Babka for some Middle Eastern treats .

Margaret Island. Photo: mysterybudapesthotel.com

Walk across Margaret Bridge over to Margaret Island for a relaxing afternoon . Maybe bring a picnic blanket with you, and if you picked up some snacks from Lehel Market, this is your perfect chance to try them.

You’ll find several spots to relax on the island, but if you’re interested in history, check out the medieval monastery and convent ruins on the island.

The convent was where St. Margaret, the daughter of King Bela IV, was cloistered and whom the island was named after.

Locals’ tip: If you’re looking for a great place to grab a fröccs, a spritzer made with rose or white wine, then head over to Nyulam Presszó .

Szabó Ervin Library. Photo: wikipedia.org

It’s time to return to Pest and take the 9 bus to Kalvin tér. This time, we’re going to a lesser-known area–Palotanegyed (Palace District) –which is located in the VIII District (Józsefváros) . Palatial apartment blocks and leafy green parks characterize this area.

Make sure you don’t miss out on the Szabó Ervin Library ! Even if you can’t make it inside (although there are some days when it’s open till 8 pm), it’s worth admiring from the outside.

As you explore the district, you’ll find it’s quite a bohemian area with many quirky galleries and cafés. For some wine tasting, check out Tasting Table , who sell Hungarian wine and sometimes lets you try some of the wines by the glass before buying.

Locals’ tip: You can also grab dinner and listen to a jazz concert at Lumen , a cool spot around a former chemical factory building.

Day 3 – Buda side

Now it’s time to cross the river and explore the Buda side . Although this side is more residential than Pest, plenty remains to explore .

From the cobbled streets of Castle Hill to winding hilly paths on Gellért Hill , you’ll get a sense of peace in this part of the city while exploring some of Budapest’s most famous sites.

Fisherman’s Bastion in the Buda Castle. Photo: wheretostayinbudapest.com

In the morning, you’ll want to head up Castle Hill. If you need coffee before going up, grab a cup at Zërgë before hiking up the hill. We recommend taking the back way up Castle Hill , climbing these beautiful stairways through narrow, historic streets that look like something out of Montmartre.

Many people miss out on exploring these side streets leading up the hill, but we don’t think you should miss them. When you get to the base of Fisherman’s Bastion , take the stairs up here and admire the view .

Fisherman’s Bastion can get busy during the day, but in the morning, it’s relatively quiet . From here, you can explore the Castle District.

Koller Gallery. Photo: welovebudapest.com

One of the few great spots to uncover around here is Koller Gallery , a private gallery with a beautiful statue garden and three floors of art you can buy (but it’s worth checking out their collection, which you can do for free) and take in wonderful views of the river from the top floor.

If you want a snack, then try Budavári Rétesvár , a hole-in-the-wall strudel place tucked away in a passageway that serves excellent crunchy sweet and savory strudels at budget-friendly prices.

Another hidden spot worth visiting is the Hospital in the Rock , a subterranean museum that was once a secret underground hospital and nuclear bunker!

Alternatively, the Budapest History Museum in Buda Castle is interesting, as you can wander around some of the older parts of the castle dating back to Renaissance times ! Once you’re done, head down this side via Castle Garden Bazaar for scenic views of the city.

Lukács Thermal Bath. Photo: termalfurdo.hu

You have a couple of options here. If you are looking to soak in one of the thermal baths , jump on the 41 or 19 tram and head over to either the Lukács Baths , for a more classic thermal bath experience , or the Veli Bej , a Turkish bath hiding inside a hospital next door to Lukács.

But if the weather is good and you’d rather hike a little, climb up to the Philosopher’s Garden for incredible views of Buda Castle and Pest in the distance, and continue up Gellért Hill.

If you come down the other side, don’t miss the lookout point by the large cross over Liberty Bridge and the Gellért Hotel. Have a little fun exploring the winding paths around the hill as you make your way up and down the hill.

Kelet Café at Bartók Béla Avenue

If you’re at the baths, then grab the tram back to Bartók Béla Avenue , but if you’re at Gellért you can simply stroll over. This part of Buda is packed with b ars, galleries, and cafés.

There’s always something going on and things to do. You can grab something to eat at Béla Bár , a quirky spot with bird cages and plants hanging from the ceiling, Mitzi , a cute spot with a gallery upstairs, or Kelet , more of a café and brunch spot but they serve some good food and wine, it’s also a cultural hub and a second-hand book swap spot with wall-to-wall shelves of books waiting to be exchanged.

For a drink , see if you can find the tiny Gdánsk , a Polish bookshop bar with excellent beers and vodka shots (and mean pierogies if they have not sold out).

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What is Contiki?

Contiki are the world leaders in organized youth travel. We’ve been providing amazing travel experiences for young travellers, from 18-35 years old, since 1962. Imagine how good you would be at something if you had been doing it for more than 60 years?

Everything about Contiki is deeply rooted in our two values ‘Make Every Moment Count’ and ‘We’re About People’. We don’t just talk, we walk the walk and live by our brand philosophy of ‘ Travel.Together. ’ which means to travel with one another, with the destinations we visit, the people and cultures we enjoy and the environment.

You’ve never experienced travel like this.

Why only 18-35?

Focusing on 18-35 year olds allows us to tailor a dramatically more powerful travel experience and an itinerary so fun it feels like all of your best Friday nights combined.

Tailoring to select ages brings together like minded, likeable people, and allows us to use Social Travel planning to build great groups of people so fast you’ll wonder if you’ve been friends forever.

What destinations can I go to with Contiki?

A sunrise, shoreline or bright light for every whim. We are proud to offer over 200 global trips, intelligently designed for a seamless and simple social travel experience. Visit our search page to discover your perfect travel destination.

How does it work?

We’re reinventing hassle free travel. Whether you are a solo traveller or group you can be rest assured that there has been tonnes of planning behind every trip.

Booking with Contiki means you are saying yes to a smile inducing trip where the typically stressful elements just seem to magically happen.

No one does trips like Contiki, essential accommodation, transport, reservations and so much more is all taken care of. You can multiply the magic with trip add ons and numerous customisations for your free time.

Every single Contiki social travel trip is managed by one of our expert Trip Managers, who are there to provide hands-on support and ensure your trip runs smoothly whilst you stay in the moment.

From 2022 your good time will be good for the planet as all Contiki trips are carbon natural. Find out more here.

How many other travellers are on each trip?

Group sizes are completely dependent on where and how you choose to travel with Contiki. 

In Europe and in most of North America and New Zealand, group sizes can range between 24 – 53 awesome travellers. 

In regions like Asia, Australia, Africa and Latin America, and on some North America and New Zealand trips, our group sizes are considerably smaller – as low as 12 or up to 30 travellers max.

Detour trips offer a different type of experience and max out at 16 people led by a local host.

Wondering what is so great about travelling together? Check out the Contiki Social travel page.

Each group is administered according to our strict Covid policies which can be viewed here.

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You certainly can! All of our trips are available to book online, just select your preferred travel date(s) and away you go. You can also book over the phone if you'd prefer.

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All essential trip elements have been catered to ensure a great time, with great people in great places. But you mean more specifically right?

Your accommodation, essential trip transport, and a good handful of meals are included in the cost of your Contiki trip (on most trips we offer breakfast every day, plus a hand-picked selection of authentic and tasty meals). 

To fill your days and Insta feeds we have Included Experiences, which are basically the sights and activities we think you just can’t afford to miss. Of course you also get our expert and highly trained team of Contiki staff to support throughout.

A day by day breakdown of inclusions and Free Time Add-Ons are available on the trip specific pages. 

We always try to accommodate special requests such as birthdays, proposals etc. Please chat to our team and we can explore how we may support the request.

What’s not included?

Contiki social travel trips have a large degree of flexibility built into them to enable you to truly own your experience. This means that some trip elements are not included in the initial cost and may require additional budgeting. 

Flights to and from your starting and ending points are not included in the cost of your trip. These can be added on during the booking process either online or via our contact center or booked independently by you.

Each trip contains the right amount of free time for you to explore or indulge your travel desires. We offer Free Time Add-Ons, which are additional experiences that are not included in the overall price. These add ons are highlighted on the specific trip page. Your Trip Manager will highlight these to you and organise their booking on trip. Exceptions may apply where pre booking is required but this will be made known to you in your pre departure information.

A number of meal times are left open for you to explore a region and its foodie offerings in greater detail, so budgeting for your taste in non-catered meals is important. 

Travel insurance and visas are also not included in the cost of your trip, and should be booked separately.

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Travel comes with responsibilities. That’s why we’re determined to travel sustainably and consciously, and that’s why we’re willing to take a stand on issues closest to our hearts. Find out more details here . With the help of our four-point Climate Action Plan, we're now on a journey to Net Zero - committing to carbon reductions and evolving to support the transition to a low-carbon future. Find out more details here .

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Yes! It’s a requirement of traveling with Contiki that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses, personal liability & loss of personal property and Covid related expenses before you travel with us. It’s also super important to check that your insurance covers all of the activities you’ll be trying out, particularly any adventure activities (for all you adrenaline junkies). For more information check out our full travel insurance FAQs.

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Yes and yes! You can add pre- and post-trip accommodation to your booking in one of three ways:

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In certain cities, you may even be able to secure a preferential rate for you pre- or post-trip accommodation.

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