Dorka’s Budapest

Born and raised in Budapest, my love for this city has only grown over the years. Living in different neighborhoods has given me a deeper appreciation for the city’s charm, from the grand landmarks to the little-known spots that make it truly special.

Budapest has an incredible food scene that never stops surprising me; whether it’s a cozy café tucked away on a quiet street or a lively market full of local flavors.

Every district has its own character, and exploring them all has only made me fall for this city even more. Let me show you Budapest as I’ve grown to know it.

Top 5 Things To See & Do in Budapest

1. Watch The Sunset From Salkaházi Sára rkp.

Although there are many beautiful spots in the city where you can watch the sun go down, my recommendation is the embankment or Salkahazi Sara rkp., next to Fovam ter. It’s truly magical.

2. Mingle With Locals at Budapest Garden

Budapest Garden is a lively outdoor venue along the Danube River. During the warmer months, it’s full of locals enjoying a cold beer, watching a movie at its free open-air cinema, or cooking over a campfire.

3. Take a Stroll Along Bartók Béla Boulevard

Bartok Bela Boulevard will forever have my heart. It’s got this perfect mix of culture, history, and a buzzing café scene that makes it a favorite among those of us who know the city well.

Whether you’re grabbing a specialty coffee at Kelet, browsing an indie bookstore, or checking out an art exhibition, there’s always something happening.

4. Visit The Szabó Ervin Library

This library is one of those places in Budapest that feels almost magical, especially if you love books and history. Hidden inside a grand old palace, it’s more than just a library; it’s like stepping into another era.

The reading rooms have high ceilings, wooden bookshelves, and elegant chandeliers, making it the perfect spot to get lost in a book or just soak in the atmosphere. Many of us come here not just to study or work, but to escape the city’s buzz for a little while.

5. Spend a Day on Margaret Island

Margaret Island is where we go when we need a break from the city’s fast pace. The musical fountain is always a fun stop, especially in the summer when it puts on a show, and the open-air thermal baths are perfect for unwinding.

There’s something nostalgic about biking around the island or grabbing a langos at one of the food stands. It’s one of those places that never gets old, no matter how many times you go.

Local Food & Drink

When it comes to food, Budapest offers an incredible variety, whether you’re in the mood for classic Hungarian flavors or international cuisine. From cozy Italian trattorias to top-tier Japanese restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

If you want to try traditional Hungarian dishes, start with langos, a deep-fried flatbread often topped with sour cream and cheese, or a rich bowl of gulyas (goulash), Hungary’s famous paprika-spiced beef soup. Another must-try is vadas, a delicious slow-cooked meat dish with a creamy, slightly sweet sauce.

For an authentic experience, head to Retek Bisztro or Getto Gulyas, both known for their outstanding takes on Hungarian classics.

Hungary is also known for its incredible wines. A glass of Tokaji Aszu, the famous golden-hued sweet wine, is a must, but don’t skip the bold reds from Eger, like Egri Bikaver (Bull’s Blood) or Kadarka, which pair beautifully with Hungarian cuisine.

Budapest’s coffee and bar culture is just as impressive. For specialty coffee, Espresso Embassy is a local favorite, while Coffee Stand (both Dob and Gutenberg locations) serves some of the best brews in town.

Unique Cultural Experiences in Budapest

Budapest is a city bursting with culture, art, and music at every turn. If you’re into modern and contemporary art, Kunsthalle (Mucsarnok) is a must-visit, showcasing bold exhibitions from both Hungarian and international artists in a stunning neoclassical building.

But art isn’t just confined to galleries. The city’s street art scene is thriving, with incredible murals in the Jewish Quarter and beyond. For a deeper dive, take a stroll through Szines Varos (Colorful City) Murals or explore Gallery 2B, which often features edgy, experimental works.

Music lovers are spoiled for choice here. For an intimate jazz experience, Opus Jazz Club is a fantastic spot, offering world-class performances in a sleek, modern setting.

If you’re into classical music, the House of Music Hungary is a must-visit not only for its concerts, but also for its breathtaking contemporary architecture and interactive exhibitions on Hungarian music history.

For bigger live shows, Akvarium Klub hosts everything from indie to electronic to rock, while Budapest Park is the go-to venue for large-scale outdoor concerts, bringing in major international and local artists during the warmer months.

Of course, no exploration of Budapest’s artsy side is complete without a stop at the iconic ruin bars. Szimpla Kert, the most famous of them all, isn’t just about drinks. It’s a creative hub, often hosting pop-up art exhibitions, street performances, and live music.

Best Relaxation Spots in Budapest

If you’re looking for relaxation, Budapest has plenty of spots to unwind. For a more local experience, Szent Lukacs Gyogyfurdo is a hidden gem. This spa complex is less touristy, but it has healing thermal waters that have been popular for centuries.

For a peaceful retreat in nature, Margaret Island is the perfect escape. Rent a bike, take a leisurely stroll through its beautiful flower gardens, or relax by the musical fountain.

If you prefer a riverside setting, Nehru Park is a laid-back green space along the Danube, ideal for a picnic or just lounging in the sun.

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Romai Part, a charming riverside stretch where locals go to enjoy the Danube in a more relaxed, casual setting. Grab a fried fish plate at one of the waterfront food stalls, sip on a spritzer at a riverside bar, or just take in the scenery from a kayak or canoe.

Shopping in Budapest

For authentic Hungarian spices, cured meats, and traditional crafts, I recommend the Great Market Hall at Fovam Square. For gourmet ingredients and international delicacies, Culinaris is a fantastic spot to browse specialty foods you won’t find elsewhere.

If you’re looking for unique, locally designed pieces, skip the touristy shops and head to Rododendron, a boutique filled with stylish, contemporary Hungarian fashion and accessories.

Another great find is Valamini, which specializes in adorable, handcrafted miniature jewelry and design items, perfect for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

For wine lovers, Bortarsasag is a go-to shop for a carefully curated selection of Hungarian wines. If you’re into craft spirits, WhiskyNet offers an impressive range of whiskies, palinka, and other premium liquors.

Nightlife & Bars

Budapest has a thriving nightlife scene, offering everything from rooftop bars to underground ruin pubs and high-energy nightclubs.

For a relaxed evening with stunning views, Liz & Chain, perched on top of the Marriott Hotel, serves expertly crafted cocktails with a breathtaking skyline backdrop.

Another fantastic rooftop spot is High Note Sky Bar, where you can sip a drink while taking in panoramic views of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, Elesztohaz is a must-visit, offering an impressive selection of Hungarian brews on tap. Another great option is Teto by Mad Scientist, a rooftop bar by one of Hungary’s best-known craft breweries, serving innovative beers in a cool, laid-back setting.

For a unique cocktail experience, Hotsy Totsy is a hidden gem, known for its house-made gin and speakeasy atmosphere.

And if you’re in the mood for a lively night out, the famous ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter, like Szimpla Kert, each have their own quirky charm.

For those who want to dance until dawn, Budapest has plenty of great clubs. Heaven Club is a popular choice for those looking for a high-energy atmosphere, while Instant-Fogas is the city’s biggest ruin bar and nightclub hybrid, offering multiple dance floors with different music styles.

Akvarium Klub, located in the heart of the city, is perfect for live concerts and late-night DJ sets.

Seasonal Highlights

If you’re visiting Budapest in December, don’t miss the Christmas Market in Obuda. This charming, less touristy market offers a magical atmosphere with twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and plenty of forralt bor (mulled wine) to keep you warm.

In general, Budapest boasts some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, filling the city with festive cheer, delicious seasonal treats like chimney cake (kurtoskalacs), and the scent of roasted chestnuts.

In spring, the Budapest Spring Festival brings the city to life with incredible music, dance, and theater performances. If you’re visiting in summer, the iconic Sziget Festival is a must for music lovers, featuring world-class artists across multiple genres.

Beer lovers shouldn’t miss Beer Week in Budapest, an international craft beer festival showcasing some of the best brews from Hungary and beyond.

For wine enthusiasts, the Budapest Wine Festival (Borfesztival) in early autumn is the perfect opportunity to sample the best Hungarian wines against the stunning backdrop of Buda Castle.

For culture lovers, Muzeumok EjszakAja (Night of The Museums) offers a rare chance to explore Budapest’s museums and galleries after dark, with special programs and exhibitions.

No matter the season, Budapest always has something special to offer!