Budapest Holiday Packages 2026

Top Things to Do in Budapest 

Budapest is a stunning city with a mix of history, culture, and exciting activities. Whether you're visiting for a weekend break or a longer stay, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are some of the best things to do in Budapest for UK travellers. 

• Relax in Thermal Baths – Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, with Széchenyi and Gellért Baths being the most popular. These natural hot springs are perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. 

• Take a Danube River Cruise – A boat ride on the Danube offers breathtaking views of the city’s landmarks, especially in the evening when Budapest lights up. 

• Explore Buda Castle & Fisherman’s Bastion – Visit the historic Buda Castle for a dose of history and enjoy panoramic views from Fisherman’s Bastion, one of the most scenic spots in the city. 

• Visit the Hungarian Parliament – One of the most beautiful buildings in Europe, the Parliament is a must-see with its grand architecture and stunning interiors. 

• Walk Across the Chain Bridge – This iconic bridge connects Buda and Pest, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a great way to explore both sides of the city. 

• Discover the Ruin Bars – Budapest’s ruin bars, like Szimpla Kert, are set in abandoned buildings and have a unique, quirky atmosphere, making them perfect for a night out. 

• Stroll Through Heroes’ Square & City Park – One of the city’s most famous landmarks, Heroes’ Square leads into City Park, home to Vajdahunyad Castle and the Budapest Zoo. 

• Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica – This impressive church offers stunning views from its dome, and inside, you’ll find beautiful artwork and history. 

• Try Hungarian Food – Don’t leave without tasting local dishes like goulash, chimney cake, and langos, a delicious deep-fried flatbread. 

Budapest is a fantastic destination with something for everyone, whether you're looking for history, relaxation, or exciting nightlife. 

History, Culture, and Nightlife in Budapest 

History: Budapest has a fascinating history that stretches back over a thousand years. Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the city is filled with grand architecture that reflects its royal past. Iconic landmarks like Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Hungarian Parliament showcase Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical influences. The city also played a key role in World War II and the Cold War, with sites like the House of Terror Museum offering deep insights into its turbulent past. Walking through Budapest feels like stepping into history, with its elegant bridges, historic squares, and medieval streets revealing stories of its past. 

Culture: Culture thrives in Budapest, making it a haven for art, music, and theatre lovers. The city is home to renowned museums like the Hungarian National Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts, which hold treasures from Hungary’s rich past. Traditional cafés such as Gerbeaud Café are perfect for experiencing Budapest’s coffee culture, while the Hungarian State Opera House hosts breathtaking performances. Folk music and dance are also an essential part of Hungarian heritage, and visitors can enjoy authentic shows at venues across the city. 

Nightlife: When it comes to nightlife, Budapest is one of Europe’s most exciting destinations. The city is famous for its ruin bars, unique pubs set in abandoned buildings, with Szimpla Kert being the most famous. For those looking for a stylish night out, rooftop bars offer stunning views of the Danube, while jazz clubs and live music venues provide a relaxed atmosphere. Nightclubs and boat parties along the river keep the energy going until dawn, making Budapest the perfect place for both casual drinks and all-night partying.