Hey Lykkers! Have you ever wanted to explore a city that blends history, culture, and relaxation? That’s Budapest for us! Hungary’s capital sits along the Danube River, with around 1.7 million residents in the city proper and over 3 million in the metropolitan area.

Known as the "Pearl of the Danube," Budapest is famous for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and lively streets. In this guide, we’ll give you all the practical details to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

Historic Landmarks and Tickets

Budapest is full of must-see attractions:

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

- Tickets: $15 adults, $7 students/seniors.

- Opening hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy panoramic views.

Fisherman’s Bastion:

- Free to explore; tower access costs $3.

- Open 24/7; tower open 9:00 AM–7:00 PM.

Tip: The view of Parliament from here is spectacular.

Hungarian Parliament Building:

- Guided tours cost $25 per person.

- Open 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, closed on national holidays.

Booking online is recommended.

St. Stephen’s Basilica:

- Entry is free; dome access $5.

- Open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Tip: Sunset views from the dome are breathtaking.

Heroes’ Square:

- Free and open all day.

- Perfect for photos and learning about Hungary’s history.

Matthias Cathedral:

- Tickets $12 adults, $6 children.

- Open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Tip: Check for concerts or events—they’re magical.

Thermal Baths and Wellness

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths:

- Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, massages. Tickets $25 adults, $10 children. Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM. Tip: Bring flip-flops and a towel; lockers cost extra if not included.

- Gellért Baths: Art Nouveau style with indoor/outdoor pools. Tickets $20–$30 depending on services. Open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM. Tip: Early mornings are quieter.

- Lukács Baths: a popular spa that features both indoor and outdoor thermal pools, wellness services, and a spacious garden area. It is known for its relaxing environment and variety of treatments. Ticket prices range from $15 to $25, depending on the time of day and selected services. The baths are open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Tip: Visit during the week for a quieter experience and try the medicinal waters, which are said to have health benefits.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Budapest is easy and affordable:

- Public transport: Metro, tram, and bus. 24-hour pass: $7, 72-hour pass: $18. Tickets can be bought at stations or via mobile apps.

- Taxis and rideshares: Start at $3 + $1/km. Use Bolt or Főtaxi for safety.

- Walking and cycling: Downtown is compact. Bike rentals ~$15/day.

- Airport transfer: Bus 100E costs $4 to reach city center; taxi ~$25–$30.

We usually combine walking and public transport—it’s convenient and lets us see the city up close.

Accommodation Options

- Budget: Hostels $25–$50/night, great for short stays.

- Mid-range: Boutique hotels $60–$120/night in the city center.

- Luxury: 4–5 star hotels $180–$250/night near the Danube.

Tip: Staying near the Danube gives easy access to attractions and stunning night views.

Food and Dining

- Local meals: Lunch or dinner at cafés $10–$20. Try Lángos, Dobos Torte, Palacsinta (Crepe).

- Street food: Markets like Great Market Hall offer pastries and snacks $2–$5.

- Cafés: Famous cafés like Gerbeaud charge $5–$10 for coffee and dessert.

We love exploring both cafés and markets to enjoy local flavors without spending too much.

Best Time to Visit

- Spring (March–May) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal: mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful views.

- Summer is busy but full of festivals.

- Winter is charming but very cold.

Tip: Always carry a light jacket in spring or autumn; weather can change quickly.

Extra Travel Tips

- Comfortable shoes are a must—cobblestone streets everywhere.

- Book major attractions online to save time.

- Thermal baths require swimwear and flip-flops.

- Learn a few Hungarian phrases—locals appreciate the effort.

- Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafés and squares.

Why We Love Budapest

Budapest combines history, culture, and relaxation perfectly. From castle views to thermal baths, every experience feels unique. For us, it’s a city full of surprises, where every corner invites exploration and every moment becomes a memory.

See You in Budapest!

So, Lykkers, are you ready to explore Budapest with us? Stunning architecture, soothing thermal baths, and delicious local food await. Let’s discover this amazing city together, making memories that will last a lifetime!