10 Things you can’t miss in Budapest
The 10 must-sees in Budapest: the Parliament, Fishermen's Bastion, Széchenyi Baths, Buda Castle and more.
Miriam5 min readVerified · June 2026
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a fascinating destination with endless places to discover. To help you plan your trip, here are 10 Things you can’t miss in Budapest.
Budapest at a glance
- How many days: 3-4 to see the essentials.
- Buda and Pest: the sights are split across both banks of the Danube.
- Best time: spring and autumn; the thermal baths, year-round.
- With kids: Margaret Island and the Palatinus pools, the baths and the Fishermen's Bastion.
- Don't miss: a thermal bath at Széchenyi and the panorama from the Fishermen's Bastion.
- Book ahead: the Parliament (limited places) and the baths.
1. The Hungarian Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament is undoubtedly the most emblematic building in the city and a must-see. Its impressive neo-Gothic architecture rises majestically on the banks of the Danube River. If you take a guided tour, you can explore its opulent halls, including the Dome Hall, where the Hungarian crown jewels are kept.
🎟️ Book your ticket for the Hungarian Parliament here
2. The Fishermen’s Bastion
This spectacular monument offers panoramic views of the Danube River and the Parliament. Its seven towers represent the founding tribes of Hungary, and its architecture looks like something out of a fairy tale. It is the perfect place to enjoy breathtaking views and take a million photos.
3. Széchenyi Thermal Baths
The Széchenyi Thermal Baths are one of the largest and most popular thermal complexes in Europe. With 18 thermal pools, both indoor and outdoor, this place is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the healing waters. They also offer a variety of treatments, such as massages, saunas, and steam baths.
🎟️ Book your ticket for the Széchenyi Thermal Baths here
4. Buda Castle
Located atop Buda Hill, this castle combines history, culture, and panoramic views. Inside, you will find the Budapest History Museum, the Hungarian National Gallery, and the National Library. Strolling through its courtyards is like taking a trip back in time.
🎟️ Book a tour of Buda Castle, including St. Stephen’s Hall or a visit to the Castle Caves, here.
5. Chain Bridge
This iconic bridge connects Buda and Pest and is one of the most recognizable symbols of Budapest. Walking across it allows you to enjoy spectacular views of the Danube River and the cityscape. At night, when illuminated, it is even more spectacular.
🎟️ The best view of the Chain Bridge is from the Danube. Book a Danube cruise here, and take the evening sailing if you can.
6. St. Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica, the largest church in Budapest, is an architectural gem. Its interior is breathtaking, featuring magnificent mosaics and altars. I recommend climbing the dome to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
🎟️ Book your ticket for St. Stephen’s Basilica here.
7. The Great Synagogue
The Great Synagogue of Budapest is the second-largest synagogue in the world and an important Jewish cultural center. Inside, you’ll find the Jewish Museum, the Heroes’ Temple, and the Holocaust Memorial, offering deep insight into Jewish history in Hungary.
🎟️ Book your guided tour of the Jewish Heritage, including entrance to the Synagogue, here.
🎟️ There is also a free tour of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter.
8. Central Market Hall
Budapest’s Central Market Hall is the perfect place to discover local flavors. Here, you will find a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, meats, fish, and souvenirs. It is also an ideal spot to taste Hungarian specialties such as lángos or kürtőskalács.
🎟️ Entrance to the market is free, but I recommend booking a food tour to learn more about Hungarian cuisine. This tour is guided in Spanish.
9. Hungarian State Opera House
The Hungarian State Opera House is one of the most beautiful opera houses in Europe. Attending a performance or taking a guided tour of this magnificent building is an unforgettable experience. The interior is spectacular, and the acoustics are excellent.
🎟️ Book your guided tour of the Hungarian Opera House here.
10. Margaret Island
Margaret Island, located in the middle of the Danube River, is an oasis of peace and tranquility. It is an idyllic place for a stroll, sports activities, or simply relaxing in its gardens. The island features swimming pools, a small zoo, and fountains. If you are visiting Budapest with children, I recommend spending a day at the Palatinus Baths and Pools, one of my daughters’ favorite places.
🎟️ Book your tickets for the Palatinus Baths and Pools here.
Is Budapest worth visiting?
Absolutely. It's one of the most beautiful and affordable capitals in Europe, and a great destination for families: spectacular monuments on both banks of the Danube, thermal baths for all ages, and delicious food. Three or four days will give you the essence… and you'll likely leave wanting to come back.
As you can see, Budapest is full of fascinating hidden gems and unforgettable experiences. These are just some of the must-visit spots, but the city has much more to offer. If you want more ideas and recommendations, don’t miss our other Budapest articles on the blog.
📖 Recommended reading: 7 Restaurants where to eat in Budapest
FAQ
How many days do I need to see Budapest?
Three or four days are enough to see the essentials without rushing, including time to relax in a thermal bath.
Which is the best thermal bath in Budapest?
The Széchenyi Baths are the largest and most famous, ideal for a first visit. The Gellért Baths are a bit more elegant and quiet.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, especially to visit the Parliament's interior (places are limited) and for the baths in high season.
What to see in Budapest with kids?
Margaret Island and the Palatinus pools, the thermal baths, the Fishermen's Bastion and the Central Market Hall to try lángos are all favourites with children.
Can you visit the Parliament inside?
Yes, on a guided tour through its halls, including the Dome Hall where the Hungarian crown jewels are kept.
Buda or Pest — where are the sights?
They're split across both banks of the Danube: the Castle and the Fishermen's Bastion are in Buda; the Parliament, the Basilica and the Opera are in Pest.
