Short Breaks to Budapest
Little wonder that Budapest is such a popular destination. Straddling the Danube with all its romantic connotations, this charming city is virtually split in two with Buda on one side and Pest on the other.
Architecturally stunning, there is a happy mixture of neo-classical, baroque and art nouveau buildings. Some of the gems that make it a UNESCO World Heritage site are Andrassy Avenue, the banks of the Danube, Buda Castle quarter and the Millennium Underground Railway (the oldest in the world).
That is not to say everything about Budapest belongs in the past. The city enjoys one of the liveliest nightlife scenes in Europe, as well as excellent restaurants, legendary dive bars and vibrant clubs - giving the city a real party feel. Food, drink and transport are cheap in Budapest, so a few days break can be great value for money.
During the summer months, life is lived outdoors, while in winter, Budapest looks incredibly beautiful as the Danube often freezes over and the city takes on a mantle of snow like an ermine cloak. Open-air thermal pools give a special winter bath experience. This is also the time to visit a Budapest Christmas market, where you can savour the scent of traditional honey cookies, cinnamon and fir, sip some mulled wine and soak up the festive atmosphere. A jewel in central Europe, Budapest is the most magical and loveliest of cities, no matter what time of year you visit.
Budapest's subway line is the oldest in mainland Europe
400,000 people visit Budapest each August for Sziget Music Festival
It's home to the 2nd largest synagogue in the world
- Budapest’s Impressive Architecture
- Budapest's Food & Drink
- The local culture
Budapest’s Impressive Architecture
Parliament Building: The Gothic Revival designed building is spectacular both inside and out. To see it in all its glory, head over to the other side of the Danube. This building is home to hundreds of parliamentary offices. Watch the changing of the Guards and be sure to head inside for a tour!
Castle District: The Castle district is full of awe-inspiring historic buildings, perfect for a stroll around. Take part in a free walking tour or discover the area on your own. It’s also particularly beautiful when all lit up at dawn.
St. Stephens Basilica: As one of Budapest’s tallest buildings, the St. Stephens Basilica offers spectacular city views from its panoramic viewing tower. The church was built in a neoclassical style, and the interior features marvellous marble and gold.
The Fisherman’s Bastion: The impressive building influenced by neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque styles is located on the Buda side of the river. It used to be a lookout, but now the seven towers are a perfect spot for incredible views of the city, and of course, for a photo-op.
Budapest's Food & Drink
Great Market Hall: The market is situated inside an impressive historic building! Browse stands of fresh local produce, cuts of meat, artisanal crafts, and memorabilia. Enjoy wandering around and exploring what’s for sale!
New York Palace Café: The New York Palace Café was once chosen as the most beautiful café in the world and also served as the meeting point for famous writers and intellectuals. Located east of the Danube, this café is definitely not to be missed!
Ruin Pubs: Ruin pubs are pubs that are located in a cellar or the ground floor of ruins which have not been renovated or refurbished. They are truly unique places to spend a night out. You’re likely to find live music, charming décor, and an extraordinary atmosphere.
Eat with the stars: No holiday would be complete without exploring the local cuisine of your destination. If you’re a foodie, try taking a cooking class while in Budapest! If you’d rather be served, go to one of the three Michelin Star restaurants: Costes, Onyx or Borkonyha.
The local culture
City of Spas: The Gellért Baths are among the most famous of Budapest’s luxurious Hungarian Baths. Recently renovated, it features an open-air pool, a Finnish sauna, and more. Check it out to rest and rejuvenate!
Pest’s District VII: The party district of Budapest is the perfect place to spend a night out. Discover Hungary’s amazing wine culture, go dancing, or eat out. If you go to a wine bar, be sure to ask for the staff’s personal recommendations.
Airport: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
BUS
You can get the 100E bus from outside the airport direct to the city, which departs approx. every 30mins. It takes approx. 35mins and costs €3 per journey.
BUS + METRO
You can get the 200E bus from outside the airport to Kőbánya-Kispest metro terminal. It’s approx. €1 per journey to the Metro.
PRIVATE TRANSFER
You can also get your own private transfer which takes approx. 40mins and costs approx. €26pp return based on 2 people sharing.
* Prices and times for transport from the airport are subject to change
Average temperature
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
| high | 1 | 4 | 10 | 15 | 21 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 22 | 16 | 7 | 3 |
| low | -3 | -2 | 2 | 6 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 7 | 2 | -1 |