Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is bisected by the River Danube. Its 19th-century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest. A funicular runs up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times onward. The city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Renowned for its remarkable architecture, relaxing thermal baths, and flavorful cuisine, Budapest never ceases to astonish visitors. A popular tourist destination, Hungary and Budapest is also known as one of the safest cities in the world.

Be sure to get out and explore some of the most historical sites in Budapest during your free time! Below you can find more details about some of the top attractions!

The Danube Promenade is one of the most popular attractions in Budapest. Offering stunning views of the river and the city, it's the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy some time outdoors as there are plenty of things to see and do along this stretch of paved pedestrian path. 

There are many famed thermal baths throughout Budapest, which offer a unique and relaxing experience. Two of the best known thermal bath options in the city are Széchenyi Baths and Gellért Baths. Both locations offer a wide range of pools, saunas, massages, and other treatments to help you unwind after a long day of sightseeing. They’re also situated in a beautiful setting, surrounded by trees and parkland. The baths have a rich history and attract visitors from all over the world. All of these factors make Széchenyi and Gellért Thermal Baths a must-visit destination for anyone looking to relax and rejuvenate in Budapest.

Enjoy a walk along the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a walk that makes it easy to imagine yourself walking through Budapest’s past and connecting the city across its history. Constructed in 1849, the bridge was one of the world’s most impressive modern engineering feats at that time. Not only did the structure serve as a vital connection between Buda and Pest, but it also helped to establish an important trade route between Hungary and Austria-Hungary.

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, the largest building in Hungary, and one of the tallest in Europe. Take a guided tour of the building, which includes the main hall, the famous stairs, and the crown of St. Stephen – the symbol of Hungarian statehood. The parliament building is also a popular spot for photography, with its impressive facade and stunning views of the Danube River.

The Buda Castle is a historic palace that sits atop Castle Hill. The castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and serves as one of Budapest's premiere attractions. Whether you're interested in its rich history or just want to admire the architecture and scenery, there's something for everyone at this iconic attraction. Heroes' Square is a monumental square that features statues of some of the city's most important historical figures. Surrounded by museums and other attractions, Heroes' Square is one of the top destinations in Budapest for visitors who want to experience the history and culture of this fascinating city.

Explore the Vajdahunyad Castle, known for its unique architectural style, which combines elements from different periods in Hungarian history. It was originally constructed as a temporary building, but its popularity led to it being made a permanent structure. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction and a popular venue for events and concerts. It features a range of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, making it a fascinating and unique place to visit.

A large neo-classical church, St. Stephen's Basilica is named after the first king of Hungary, who is also the country's patron saint. The basilica is known for its tall dome – one of the tallest in Budapest – and its beautiful interior, which features a mix of architectural styles. Inside, visitors can see a number of notable features, including a stunning fresco on the ceiling of the main dome, a marble altar, and the holy right hand of St. Stephen – one of the most important religious relics in Hungary. 

For those looking to take a load off you get a break from walking around the city, Budapest offers several additional unique ways to get around the city and add to your overall experience!

From railways to tuk tuks, to a 'floating bus', you can adventure around the city in style. Check out more transportation options here.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: In May, the average daily temperature is around 72°F (23°C), which is very pleasant but tends to drop to night so we recommend bringing a light jacket or warmer clothes for the evenings.
  • The Hungarian forint is the official currency of Hungary. However, shops and restaurants in the city center commonly accept EUR and US Dollar, but typically at a higher exchange rate, so you end up paying more than you would in local currency.
  • Hungarian is the official language spoken in Budapest, however English is widely spoken in Budapest, especially among younger generations.
  • All travel should be booked to/from the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD).
  • A valid passport is required for both you and your guest. Each passport MUST be valid for six months from your departure date from Budapest (six months from May 6, 2025 is November 6, 2025). Please note that you are responsible to understand the travel requirements to travel to and from your home country. *This is NOT the responsibility of Executive Group Travel.*
  • Keep in mind maid and bellman gratuities have already been paid!
  • The trip from the airport to the hotels will take approximately 25-30 minutes each way.