Budapest is one of the most popular city-break destinations in Europe, particularly among students. With its fascinating history, compelling culture and affordable lifestyle, Hungary’s capital is teaming with experiences, opportunities and things to do.
With monuments such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle and St. Stepehen’s Basilica just an arm’s length away from one another, the city’s architectural beauty is immersive.
In this vast and vibrant city, deciding what to explore can quickly feel overwhelming. With the average city break lasting between 2 – 4 days, it’s important to make the most of your time, visit those famous landmarks and tick one of the most popular cities off your bucket list.
Get Prepared Before You Go
Before travelling, acquiring suitable travel insurance is a must. The government offers guidance on purchasing the correct travel insurance, ensuring you don’t incur any unexpected and expensive medical costs. Following government travel advice is also a necessity before travelling to your destination. Here, you will have the chance to sign up for travel alerts for specific countries and regions.
Keeping documentation on your person throughout your trip is vital and it’s advised that you keep digital and printed copies, as well as leaving a printed copy with someone at home. Such documentation will support you in the event of stolen technology and misplaced or stolen luggage. These actions ensure that if something does happen whilst you’re travelling, someone back home has proof that you took out insurance beforehand, serving as evidence for compensation.
Budapest’s Top Attractions
As an avid traveller and person that has personally explored the delights of Budapest, allow me to navigate you through the city’s tourist hotspots and how you can get the most out of your Hungarian city break…
1. Buda Castle
Offering stunning views of the city, Buda Castle is a must-visit landmark. Regardless of whether you have accommodation on the Buda or Pest side of the city, the castle’s distance provides a scenic walk where you will have time to soak up the city’s great vibes and culture. With historical significance and poignant architecture, the castle plays host to an array of museums, including the Budapest History Museum.
2. Danube River Cruise
The Danube provides a partition between both sides of the city, where amazing views of many attractions, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion and Chain Bridge can be admired.
Many cruises last between one and two hours and offer luxuries of champagne, dining and all-inclusive drinks, at added prices. Such additions compliment the wonderful views you will consume.
Whilst the river cruises operate during the day and at night, nighttime cruises are far more popular as the illuminated buildings add to the experience.
3. Jewish Quarter and Shoes on the Danube Bank
The Jewish Quarter is a very moving section of the city, with the Great Synagogue tributing the many Jewish lives lost throughout Europe’s antisemitic history. Whilst an incredibly emotional experience, the Jewish Quarter couples with the monument of the Shoes on the Danube Bank.
Here, you can take some time to pay respects to the Jewish faith and the lives lost back in 1945. Surrounding the Jewish Quarter and along the bank of the River Danube are several cafes and street art which offer respites for emotional tourism.
4. St. Stephen’s Basilica
A classic example of ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’, St Stephen’s Basilica is utterly beautiful, with Roman-Catholic influences, it is the largest church in Budapest.
Whilst expensive to enter the building, this neoclassical monument features a dome of over 300-feet tall. You will also have the chance to climb to the top and see more panoramic views from the cupola.
If you’re on a tighter budget, you are welcomed to marvel at the cathedral from outside, with plenty of photo opportunities and enough stunning architectural detailing to keep you occupied, without breaking the bank.
5. Széchenyi Thermal Baths
A truly relaxing excursion and one of the most famous European attractions, the Széchenyi Baths are comprised of thermal pools, dry saunas, steam rooms, ice machines, whirlpools and spa treatments, at your disposal.
With plenty of greenery surrounding the Thermal Baths, tranquil vibes are easily achieved. If you’re looking for a more affordable or quieter thermal baths, there are similar ones throughout the city which you can enjoy for a lower price which also tend to be less busy.
6. Hungarian Parliament Building
Located on the Pest side of the city, the Parliament Building is truly breathtaking. You can pay for a 45-minute tour of its interior; however, the best part of this neo-Gothic building is its exterior. Many argue that the best way to enjoy the sights of the Parliament Building is to combine it with a walk along the Danube Bank. With an array of restaurants and eateries in the city, make sure to stop along the way for some authentic Hungarian food.
7. Fisherman’s Bastion
A venue frequently used for weddings and concerts; the Fisherman’s Bastion is one of Budapest’s most iconic buildings. Situated on Castle Hill and providing fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding city, this landmark is deeply rooted in Budapest’s history. The Bastion represents a city which played a large part in the fish market industry. Now open to the public, the Fisherman’s Bastion represents working class European history.
Plan a City Break to Budapest
Budapest is one of the most popular budget European city destinations for students and a great time is guaranteed. No matter how many attractions and landmarks you fit into your trip, just make sure you enjoy yourself. Remember to purchase travel insurance that is catered to you and don’t forget to sign up for government alerts for Hungary or the destination you’ve booked. Now book your trip to Hungary and enjoy your city break in Budapest!
This guide was written by Georgia Pearson, a Student Brand Ambassador for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.