Budapest holidays

How to reach Budapest

Arriving in Budapest from the UK is convenient, with direct flights to Budapest taking around 2.5 hours. Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport serves as the gateway to the city, located about 16 km southeast of the city centre. Transfer options include:

• Public Transport: The 100E bus takes you directly to the city centre in about 30-40 minutes, costing approximately €3.

• Taxi: A taxi to the city centre can take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, with fares typically around €25-€30.

• Airport Shuttle: Various companies offer door-to-door services, with prices depending on the destination and number of passengers.

Best time to visit Budapest

Choosing the best time for your Budapest holiday depends on your expectations, as each season offers a unique experience:

• Spring (March to May) sees the city bloom, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 22°C. It's ideal for outdoor activities with fewer crowds.

• Summer (June to August) is warm and vibrant, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. This is the peak tourist season, perfect for festivals and outdoor dining.

• Autumn (September to November) offers mild weather (15°C to 25°C) and fewer tourists, making it a great time to explore the city's cultural offerings.

• Winter (December to February) is cold (0°C to 5°C) but magical, especially during the Christmas markets. Days are shorter, and there's a chance of snow.

Practical information for Budapest holidays

• Spoken Languages: Hungarian is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels.

• Local Habits and Customs: Greeting with a firm handshake is common. Tipping (10-15%) in restaurants and for services is expected.

• Tips: Carry some Hungarian Forints for places that don't accept cards. Drinking tap water is safe.

• Security: Budapest is generally safe, but like in any major city, keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious in crowded places.

• Health: No special vaccinations are needed. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) holders are entitled to state-provided medical care.

• Papers and Visa: UK citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A valid passport is required.

• Currency: The Hungarian Forint (HUF) is the currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places.

• Getting Around: Budapest has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and the metro. Consider purchasing a travel card for unlimited rides.

• Electricity/Plugs: The standard voltage is 230 V with type F plugs. UK visitors will need an adapter.

This practical information will help ensure your Budapest holiday is as enjoyable and smooth as possible, letting you focus on experiencing the stunning beauty and rich culture of Hungary's capital.

Budapest, nestled along the banks of the Danube and far from the sea, is not traditionally known for its beaches. However, the city offers several "beach-like" experiences along its riverbanks and at its famous thermal baths, providing unique ways to relax and enjoy the water during your holiday. For actual beach experiences, Lake Balaton, a short trip from Budapest, serves as Hungary's prime lakeside destination.

The best "beaches" in Budapest

While Budapest doesn't have traditional seaside beaches, it boasts several popular spots for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the outdoors.

• Public Beaches: Palatinus Strand, located on Margaret Island in the heart of the Danube, is the closest you'll get to a beach experience within the city. With open-air pools, slides, and sunbathing areas, it's a beloved summer spot.

• Private Beaches with Charges: The Lupa Beach, near Budapest, is a man-made lake with imported sand, offering a beach vibe with sunbeds, umbrellas, and various water sports. Entry fees apply, providing access to well-maintained facilities and clear waters.

• Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities: Római Part, on the northern outskirts of Budapest, offers a laid-back riverside beach experience with casual eateries, kayak rentals, and sunbathing spots. Although not a beach in the traditional sense, it captures a relaxed, holiday atmosphere.

Nearest beaches to Budapest

For those willing to venture a bit further, Lake Balaton, Central Europe's largest lake, is approximately an hour and a half drive from Budapest. It's known as the "Hungarian Sea," offering:

• Siófok: One of the most popular resort towns on Lake Balaton, known for its vibrant nightlife and sandy beaches, perfect for a youthful crowd.

• Balatonfüred: A more serene destination with lovely promenades, historical sites, and family-friendly beaches.

• Tihany: Famous for its picturesque abbey and lavender fields, Tihany also boasts small, secluded beaches with stunning views of the lake.

While Budapest itself might not offer the traditional beach holiday, its thermal baths and nearby Lake Balaton provide unique and enjoyable alternatives for water lovers visiting the Hungarian capital.

Local sports events during Budapest holidays

Immersing yourself in Budapest's local sports scene is a thrilling way to experience the city like a local. Catch a football match at the Puskás Aréna or experience the atmosphere at Groupama Aréna, home to Ferencvárosi TC, Hungary's most celebrated football club. For water sports enthusiasts, the Danube hosts exciting rowing and canoeing events, reflecting Budapest's strong connection to river sports.

Sports facilities for travellers in Budapest

Budapest offers a wealth of sports facilities that cater to travellers looking to maintain their fitness regime or try something new. The city is renowned for its historic thermal baths, such as Széchenyi and Gellért, which include swimming pools with varying temperatures. Modern gyms and studios across Budapest offer yoga, fitness classes, dancing, and tennis, providing ample options for active relaxation.

Cycling in Budapest

Exploring Budapest by bike offers a unique perspective of the city's stunning architecture and scenic beauty. Numerous bike rental services make it easy to embark on a cycling adventure along the Danube or through the city's leafy parks. Popular cycling routes include the path along the Danube River, offering picturesque views of Buda and Pest, and the circuit around Margaret Island, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Hiking around Budapest

Budapest is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Buda Hills providing a perfect backdrop for hiking enthusiasts. Trails of varying difficulty lead to panoramic views over the city. Normafa is a popular starting point for many hikes, offering routes that cater to all levels and showcasing the lush landscape that defines the region.

Water sports in Budapest

The Danube River and surrounding lakes offer numerous opportunities for water sports, from kayaking and canoeing in the heart of Budapest to more tranquil pursuits like stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Balaton, a short journey from the city. These activities offer a refreshing escape from the urban environment and a different angle from which to appreciate Hungary's natural beauty.

Winter sports in Budapest

While Budapest itself may not be known for traditional winter sports, the city transforms several of its parks into ice skating rinks during the colder months, with the rink in City Park being one of the largest and most picturesque in Europe. For skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, the nearby Mátra and Börzsöny mountains offer slopes suitable for a day trip.

Golf courses in Budapest

Golfing is a growing sport in Hungary, with several courses around Budapest catering to all skill levels. The Budapest Highland Golf Club & Academy is conveniently located, offering a challenging course with stunning views of the city, while the Pannonia Golf & Country Club provides a more extensive golfing experience amidst rolling hills and beautiful natural surroundings.

Seasonal events during Budapest holidays

Budapest's calendar is rich with seasonal festivities that offer visitors a unique way to experience the city's vibrant culture and traditions.

• New Year: Budapest rings in the New Year with grand fireworks over the Danube and lively celebrations in bars and public squares.

• Christmas Shopping & Markets: The festive season transforms Budapest into a winter wonderland, with the Christmas market at Vörösmarty Square being a highlight for both shopping and traditional Hungarian holiday treats.

• Easter: Easter in Budapest is celebrated with traditional crafts, foods, and folk dancing, particularly noticeable at the Castle District, where Hungarian Easter traditions come to life.

• Gay Events: Budapest Pride, taking place in July, is a colourful and vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring a parade and various cultural events.

• Carnival: While not as famous as its counterparts in other countries, the Farsang (Carnival season) in Budapest is marked by costume balls and traditional Hungarian festivities leading up to Lent.

Festivals in Budapest

Budapest's festival scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, with an array of events celebrating culture, music, food, and more throughout the year.

• Budapest Spring Festival: A major cultural event in April, showcasing classical music, opera, ballet, and theatre performances across the city.

• Sziget Festival: One of Europe's largest music and cultural festivals, taking place on Óbudai Island in August, drawing international acts and festival-goers from around the globe.

• Budapest Wine Festival: Held in September in the Buda Castle, a celebration of Hungarian wines and winemaking, complete with tastings and culinary delights.

• Budapest International Documentary Festival: Offering a platform for innovative and thought-provoking documentaries from around the world.

• Danube Carnival: Mid-June sees a mix of traditional and contemporary dance performances, culminating in a grand parade.

• Jewish Cultural Festival: Celebrating Jewish culture, music, and food, this festival highlights Budapest's rich Jewish heritage.

• Budapest Christmas Market and Winter Festival: Starting in late November, the city centre glows with festive lights, stalls, and ice skating rinks, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.

These seasonal events and festivals are key highlights of Budapest holidays, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the city's festive spirit and rich cultural tapestry.

Explore the past

Budapest has a rich and complex history. Explore the fall of the communist regime at Memento Park, an open-air museum built to remember Hungary’s communist period, featuring many statues torn down at the end of the regime. Meanwhile, impressive architecture can be found in the intricate decorations of St Stephen’s Basilica or the majestic beauty of the Great Synagogue.

Unwind in the present

The city boasts plenty of natural hot springs which have been converted into thermal baths, so be sure to take advantage of them on your holiday to Budapest. Take a dip at Szechenyi; with 15 pools of varying size and temperature, there’s plenty of space for you to relax. It’s a distinctly social experience as well; you may even see people playing chess while they soak! For something more adventurous, the Rudas Baths run a spa party that combines music, drinks, dancing, and of course, a dip in the thermal bath.

Explore Hungarian culture

After soaking in the baths it’s time to soak up some culture and the Hungarian National Museum is an ideal place to start. The dedicated collection stretches back thousands of years and will surely leave a good impression. Art lovers will flock to the Hungarian National Gallery, housed in the baroque Buda Castle, where you’ll enjoy examples of Hungarian artwork stretching back to the medieval period.

Dig for a bargain

If your cash is burning a hole in your pocket, having saved on a cheap holiday to Budapest, the Central Market Hall is the ideal place to spend your spare cash. Wander around the gothic revival building to browse stalls filled with local crafts, souvenirs and quality clothing.

A taste of Budapest

Snack on Lángos, a deep fried pastry that comes with a variety of toppings, while shopping in the market, or maybe find some Hungarian black pudding. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Fatal Restaurant serves a delicious goulash, along with a selection of other Hungarian specialties in a charmingly rustic setting.