Best things to do in Hungary

21.07.2023 - 07:36 / roughguides.com

Hungary is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine and relaxing thermal baths. The capital, Budapest, is often referred to as the 'Paris of the East' for its beautiful boulevards, grand architecture and rich cultural heritage. Here's our pick of the best things to do in Hungary.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget , your essential guide for visiting Europe.

With a wealth of culture, splendid architecture and sumptuous coffee houses, Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube, is an ever-changing city that demands repeated visits. The most obvious place to start is Budapest, which embraces all manner of architectural forms and styles, from the ostentatious neo-Gothic Parliament building and Moorish-Revival Great Synagogue to the city’s Ottoman-era bath houses.

The central dome of Hungary’s Parliament is designed by Imre Steindl and completed in 1904. This neo-Gothic edifice is immense: 268 metres/yds long and 116 metres/ yds at its widest point, with some 20km (12 miles) of staircases inside. The exterior walls feature 233 statues, and the numerous frescoes were executed by some of Hungary’s most notable artists, such as Mihály Munkácsy and the indefatigable Károly Lotz.

Keen to explore three of Europe's capital cities but are short on time? This tailor-made three-country trip to the Danube capitals allows you to visit Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, three remarkable capital cities with a wealth of history and culture at your fingertips.

Parliament in Budapest, Hungary © Shutterstock

Foreigners who want to become acquainted with the Hungarian way of life should visit a thermal spa at least once during their stay in Hungary. Whether it’s a traditional bath house in the Turkish style or the more elaborate type of establishment in the style of Gellért in Budapest — relaxing in thermal baths is one of the best things to do in Hungary.

The Gellért is justifiably popular with wealthy Hungarians and foreign visitors. Staying at the hotel is great fun. You can don your complimentary robe and slippers and descend to the baths in a private lift. The facilities consist of beautifully tiled pools and a range of baths and treatments, although finding your way around is something of a challenge if you speak no Hungarian.

From the spas of Budapest to Lake Bled with its castle and further, on to Croatia — this tailor-made trip to the gems of Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia will take you across 3 countries, with a special focus on Slovenia's lake area and the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

Relaxing in thermal baths is one of the most satisfying things to do in Hungary © momente/Shutterstock

You literally can’t miss this: the heart of the historic Buda side of