If the question: How to get the most of Budapest without breaking the bank tortures you, I am here to deliver.
From useful tips to the best 3 or 4-day itinerary in the spellbinding city of Budapest along with eating and sleeping suggestions, as well as many insider tips, this post is the ultimate article on getting the best of Budapest on a budget.
Ladies and gentlemen, let the curtain rise!
Travel to Budapest! One of Europe’s gems, the Hungarian capital has it all. Spectacular buildings, majestic Danube, steamy thermal baths, vibrant nightlife, rich history or amazing food are some trademarks. Experience the supreme Budapest budget guide! This is my promise!
Taste Budapest’s langosh, goulash, paprikash, chimney cake or sip a shot of pálinka in a traditional place! Aiming to go local is always the best choice when traveling. Hungary’s cuisine tastes like red paprika, spices, bold, hearty and delicious food!
Feel Budapest! Walk, observe people, buy from local markets or eat where locals eat are just some hints. Feel electric Budapest, immerse yourself in its past or smell the flowers in one of the many parks!
Good to know
Best of Budapest on a budget – customisable itinerary up to 4 days
1. Perfect start: a free guided tour
2. Matthias Church, an immersion in multiculturalism
3. Fisherman’s Bastion, a castle-fortress in the city
4. Buda Castle district walking tour
5. Gellért Hill and a hike to the Liberty Statue
6. Budapest Opera House is a jewel
7. Stroll along Andrássy Avenue
8. Heroes’ Square for the hero within
9. City Park & co
10. Soak at the Baths
11. Hungarian Parliament, the ultimate landmark
12. Shoes on the Danube Bank
13. Saint Stephen basilica, a sight to behold
14. Liberty Square Interactive fountain
15. The outstanding Postal Savings Bank
16. Do not miss a cruise on the Danube
17. Mouth-watering Great Market Hall
18. The Great Synagogue (Dohány street), a connection to the past
19. The top notch Párisi Udvar (Parisian Court)
20. Ruin Pubs are a local must
21. Treasure hunt for Budapest’s tiny statues
More Budapest budget guide tips
Tips for eating cheap and yummy in Budapest
Where to sleep on a budget
Interactive map
Good to know
The name of the Hungarian capital dates to 1873 when the towns of Buda and Óbuda on the river’s right bank and the town of Pest on its left bank amalgamated.
Budapest is divided in two by the Danube. Buda is on Danube’s west bank (with rolling hills, famously known for the Castle District) and Pest on the east bank (more lively side; it shelters the Parliament building). The best of Budapest on a budget? Strolling in the Hungarian capital. Initially called Pestbuda, the authorities realized it sounded rather quirky and understood to change the order of the two names.
There is a total of 15 bridges over the Danube in Budapest, out of which the most famous are: the Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge and Elisabeth Bridge.
If you rent a car, avoid crossing Chain Bridge by car (there is a fine of 100 euros). You can only cross it as a pedestrian or by taxi/uber.
The Hungarian money is called (Hungarian) forint (HUF/Ft). It is not a strong currency. 10,000 HUF are about 24-25 euros.
Credit Cards (Visa and Master Card) are widely accepted.
If you prefer having cash, you can exchange money at the Correct Change offices or at Ibla Change close to the Deák Ferenc square.
Do not use Euronet or EUR HUF ATMs. Although they have a wide coverage, their fees are exorbitant. Instead, use official bank ATMs (OTP, ERSTE, CIB, CITYBANK, BUDAPEST BANK, RAIFFEISEN, etc.)
Do not flag a taxi on the street as some taxi drivers may take advantage of the visitors by driving around in the city and ripping them off money. It is better to call a cab or use an app to order one.
You can download Bolt or Uber in case you plan to use taxi services for more time.
Although Váci street is the most commercial street in Budapest, it has a very bad reputation in terms of restaurants. Due to numerous complaints, it is better to avoid Váci street restaurants.
Budapest is a safe city both at day and night. However, there can be pickpockets, especially in crowded areas, so you should put the bag in front of you.
To navigate the city on the go, download the BKK (Budapest Közlekedési Központ) app, issued by the city’s official public transport agency, or CityMapper.
A single transportation ticket costs HUF 450 (= 1.10 euros). If you stay longer, it is worth purchasing a 24 hours ticket (HUF 2500 = 6 euros)/72 hours (HUF 5500 = 13.30 euros) ticket, which is totally affordable.
In this case, download Budapest Go app. All you have to do is open the app, scan the QR code on the outside of the bus/metro/tram before entering the vehicle and enjoy the ride!
Best of Budapest on a budget – customizable itinerary up to 5 days
The attractions are ordered on a proximity base, meaning that you can take advantage of the order presented. Suggestions 1-5 are for one full day in Buda; 6-9/10 can be explored in one amazing day in Pest; 11-16 delve into the history of Hungary and suggest a perfect end of the day, while 17-21 are a combination of reflective past and playful modern times. It would be a pity to miss a day at the spa, since the offer is so generous.
These 21 attractions are on my best of Budapest on a budget list!
Suit yourself: mix and match attractions at will.
1. Perfect start: a free guided tour
Cost: up to you
The first suggestion is to take a free guided tour (I do that a lot). They deliver an impeccable quality. Why? Because this is a tip-based activity, and you choose the amount of money to pay. However, make sure to tip correctly! I usually opt for Guruwalk, but there’s also Freetour or Free Walking Tour.
To take advantage of best of Budapest on a budget, we took a Free Essential Budapest Tour which immersed us in the history and language of Hungarians along with learning about amazing buildings. Besides, such tours usually come with useful info on pubs and restaurants, so I recommend them warmly.
Insider tip!: Like tours also cover more niche topics, such as street art, Jewish quarter or Communist history. Book ahead as sometimes the desired time slots fill out rapidly!
2. Matthias Church, an immersion in multiculturalism
Cost: 2900 HUF (7 euros)/4500 HUF audioguide included (11 euros)
This church has probably the most privileged position in Budapest. Besides, its outside gives away part of the intricate history and legacy. Originally built in the 13th century in Gothic style, the church got the name from Hungary’s king Matthias Corvinus (15th century), whose both weddings were held there. He was one of Hungary’s favorite kings, son of John Hunyadi.
The church then became a mosque for over 150 years by the Ottoman Turks, was owned by Franciscans and Jesuits, each adding their fingerprint to the actual Catholic place of worship. The graceful architecture and stunningly rich, all-embracing wall paintings of the majestic building will leave you speechless.
Insider tip!: If you only have budget for one church in Budapest, be it Matthias Church! With its multicultural past and colourful inside, it has a lot to offer!
3. Fisherman’s Bastion, a castle-fortress in the city
Cost: free
A picture of the Fisherman’s Bastion instantly wires electrical circuits in your brain, and you suddenly realize you’ve seen it before when looking at pictures of Budapest. Having a splendid location and spectacular view over the Danube and Pest side, this mock fortification looks like a fairytale castle. It is one of the most distinctive landmarks of Budapest with its many historical statues. The 7 towers represent the 7 Magyar (Hungarian) tribes. Inside the Fisherman’s Bastion, there’s a beautiful statue of Hungary’s first king, Stephen.
The lower sections of the Fisherman’s Bastion are free to visit and part of Budapest budget guide, offering some of the best views in the city. However, there is a fee to enter some of the towers and terraces.
Insider tip!: The most convenient way to get to the Bastion is walk or take a bus to Matthias Church. After visiting the whole area (Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Castle District), you may want to take the stairs down for a great perspective of the Chain Bridge.
4. Buda Castle district walking tour
Cost: free/ up to you
The Castle District covers a large area, therefore is hard to see the important points without getting the right explanations. Take the free amazing Legends, Secrets and History of the Castle tour which showcases interesting things about the Castle area: legends of kings, secrets, stories of buildings and people, as well as Hungarian folklore. You’ll also find out more on the Royal Palace, Hilton Hotel, Sándor Palace – the official residence of the President, and the best panorama spots.
If you want to explore at your own pace, stroll along the peaceful cobbled alleys and get lost in the frenzy of the popular streets. It is good to know that the Castle houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the National Library along with other attractions. If you feel tired, find yourself a cozy spot for lunch before you continue the exploration.
Insider tip!: the Castle District area was under reconstruction in August 2024 and it would probably last two more years.
5. Gellért Hill and a hike to the Liberty Statue
Cost: free
Looking for the best of Budapest on a budget?
235 m above the Danube, Gellért Hill offers stunning views of Budapest, especially at sunset. Gellért Hill can be reached by foot via several paths and stairways leading up from various points around the hill. But there are public transportation options as well. The Citadel was built in the mid-19th century by the Habsburgs, intended as a fortress, but never used in battles. From the St. Gerard Sagredo Statue (surrounded by colonnades) you have amazing views of the city.
The hidden Cave Church, once a secret place of worship, is an unusual place of adoration. Operated by the Pauline Order, it provides a unique and serene setting for prayer and reflection. Near the top of Gellért Hill you’ll admire the Liberty Statue, perched atop a pedestal. It was erected to commemorate the Soviet liberation of Hungary from Nazi occupation during World War II.
Insider tip!: Needless to say, if you look for the best scenic spots of Budapest, this is one of the best places!
6. Budapest Opera House is a jewel
Cost: 9000 HUF (22 euros), but you can admire the outside and foyer for free
The Budapest Opera is such a stunning piece of culture and architecture, that it would be a pity not to admire its foyer (at least). When Budapest became co-capital of the Habsburg Empire, the Hungarians wanted to put it on the map, consequently, decided to build an Opera House. Emperor Franz Josef agreed on one condition: to be smaller than the one in Vienna. Smaller it is, but it is more beautiful.
Initially opened to the public in 1884, and completely restored in 2022, the Opera is a UNESCO monument shaped by the creative mind of Miklos Ybl, one of Budapest’s prodigy architects. The foyer has marble columns, and the vaulted ceiling is covered in murals depicting the nine Muses. The sweeping staircase is majestic, just as the horseshoe-shaped auditorium. If you aim to test the third best acoustics in Europe, you’ll have to buy a ticket and enjoy your night at the Opera.
7. Stroll along Andrássy Avenue
Cost: free
One of the oldest and most beautiful boulevards in Budapest, Andrássy Avenue is aging in style. Part of Budapest budget guide, it is a long avenue that connects Erzsébet Square to the City Park. Lined with spectacular Neo-renaissance villas and townhouses showcasing pretty facades and interiors, the boulevard is one of Budapest’s main shopping streets. You can just take a walk and enjoy (watching) the restaurants, cafés, theatres, and luxury boutiques, or check out some of the notable spots it has to offer. The two most important are The Opera House (6) and the House of Terror, a memorable building that commemorates the victims of the two main oppressive regimes in Hungary, fascism and communism.
Insider tip!: Gyula Andrássy was Hungary’s Prime Minister as well as an urban planner who came with the revolutionary idea of the boulevard. However, many Hungarians know him for his alleged relationship with Empress Sissi, with whom he is believed to have a daughter – the little Hungarian Princess.
8. Heroes’ Square for the hero within
Cost: free
Heroes’ Square, at the end of the imposing Andrássy Avenue, situated close to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art, is a lesson of history. And part of best of Budapest on a budget.
The construction started in 1896 to commemorate a thousand years since the foundation of the Hungarian state (896) under the leadership of Arpád. It was part of a much larger project which also included the expansion of Andrássy Avenue and the construction of the first metro line in Budapest.
The impressive open square concentrates in the centre the seven Magyar chieftains who led the Hungarian people into the Carpathian basin. On top of the column there’s Archangel Gabriel holding the Holy Crown and the apostolic double cross in his hand. On the sides, the colonnades span like huge wings featuring other major figures of Hungarian history.
Insider tip!: In the proximity of the square lies the City Park (Városliget), an excellent place to relax, as well as the Széchényi Thermal Baths, another opportunity to let off steam.
9. City Park & co
Cost: free
Since you already walked till Heroes’ Square, loosen up! In your best of Budapest on a budget, find activities according to your whim: sit and watch passers-by, read a book or let the sun caress you! This is your time to unwind and energize for the upcoming experience! You can also have a picnic under the leafy trees!
However, if your legs are impatient to prospect more, City Park district has on display several options. The lake can be explored by hiring a rowing boat or skating, depending on season. The area is home to the Budapest Zoo (very nice, by the way), the Széchényi thermal bath and Vajdahunyad Castle. The Castle was initially made from wood for the Millennial Exhibition in 1896. Being one of the favourite attractions, it was rebuilt from stone. It has a striking resemblance with Corvin Castle from Transylvania, being a copy of the latter.
10. Soak at the Baths
Cost: depends – tips inside
Welcome to the capital of World Spa! Hungary doesn’t have sea or ocean, but surely does have a lot of spas! Each with its own vibe and attitude! And price, of course! It would be a pity to miss half day at one of Budapest’s iconic spas! Hungary’s thermal springs are as old as Roman times, but bathing only became an integral part of life in Hungary during the Ottoman Occupation in the 16th and 17th centuries.
You can still find today Ottoman hammam-style baths at Rudas Baths (around 15 euros; not far from St. Gerard Sagredo Statue (15) ). The Turkish bath section at Rudas holds single-sex days on weekdays, has an amazing rooftop hot bath and is open at night, too.
Gellért thermal baths (around 25 euros; not far from the Cave Church (15)) are some of the most spectacular in Hungary with the lavishly decorated Art Nouveau interior. Széchényi baths (around 20 euros; in the City Park (9)) are one of the biggest and most popular baths in Europe with the sunflower yellow walls and steaming pools.
No need to worry, there are also budget options if you dream to soak at a thermal bath. Try Dandár Baths in the XIth District; they are no-frills and affordable. If you plan to save more, take a bath after 5 p.m (6 euros instead of 8 euros). The same is valid for Lukács Baths after 5 p.m. when tickets cost 8 euros (instead of 11.50 euros).
11. Hungarian Parliament, the ultimate landmark
Cost: 6500 HUF (16 euros)
Every city has its own landmark. For Budapest, it is the Hungarian Parliament. Enjoying a preferential position on the Danube, this is not just the headquarters for the country’s decisions, but also the most iconic building in the country. The Neo-Gothic intricate marvel is echoed in the ornate corridors and chambers, allowing you to witness the grandeur of Hungarian democracy and history. You’ll observe the Grand Stairway, walk through historic rooms and inspect the Holy Crown – these are some highlights of the tour.
Insider tip!: If you can, make this building a priority. I promise, you won’t be disappointed. Make sure to book well ahead from the official site. A ticket for EU citizens is 16 euros. All other sites sell more expensive tickets.
Insider tip!: The tour is 45 minutes long and the price includes a very good and comprehensive audio guide.
12. Shoes on the Danube Bank
Cost: free
This is a powerful composition created to honour the Jews massacred by country’s fascist, antisemitic Arrow Cross Party during the Second World War. The memorial showcases many shoe statues belonging to men, women and children. To Jews, in fact. They were ordered to take off their shoes and were then shot next to the Danube, so that their bodies fell into the river and were carried away.
Shoes were a valuable commodity that militia could easily sell. Besides, such a mundane thing as shoes can leave a strong fingerprint on a visitor’s mind by the imminence of their representation. By their positioning – as if they have only just been flung from the wearer’s feet – they have the power to take you back in time. No wonder many are filled with flowers and stones.
13. Saint Stephen basilica, a sight to behold
Cost: 2300 HUF church only (under 6 euros)/6000 HUF church+treasury+panoramic terrace (about 15 euros)
Baroque on the inside and neoclassic on the outside, this catholic church is the biggest in Hungary. The basilica is spectacular: marble, paintings and statues, but is most famous for a relic – it contains the Holy Right behind the main altar. Saint Stephen died in 1038 and later, when Christians exhumated his body found his upper right arm mummified.
Insider tip!: As a fun fact, the king of Hungarian football, Puskás Ferenc is buried in the basilica.
14. Liberty Square Interactive fountain
Cost: free
What’s not to love about a fountain you can play with?
But there’s more to it. The monument is very controversial. In the back there are two main elements: archangel Gabriel representing Hungary, and an eagle with a ring engraved 1944, the year Hungary was invaded by Germany. The monument says: For the victims of the German invasion. The main controversy comes from this duality and should be understood as a memorial not only of the German invasion victims, but also the victims of the ignorant behaviour of the Hungarians meanwhile 450.000 innocent Jewish people were deported to Auschwitz.
Read in this meaningful approach, the fountain is a deeply disturbing monument. The key to understanding it lies in the fact that only if we are brave enough and work together in the same direction will we succeed.
Of course, you can test your braveness and persuasion power on the fountain.
15. The outstanding Postal Savings Bank
Cost: free
Highly recommended on my best of Budapest on a budget, I first saw the picture of this building while I was researching for the most iconic constructions in the Hungarian capital, and I was instantly blown away by its splendour.
The building that did not satisfy the authorities back in the day (1901) has become one of the most beautiful and admired constructions in Budapest. Built by Ödön Lechner in a proud and pure Hungarian Art Nouveau, the Postal Savings Bank is decorated with colorful tiles and folk motifs. Hundreds of lucrative bees climbing to hives, flowers and dragon roof ornaments are part of the architect’s devotion to create a Hungarian folk language. The stunning glazed green roof is made of Zsolnay ceramic.
Insider tip!: Even if the building shelters offices and cannot be visited, there’s a slight chance to see it if you are in Budapest in September during the European Heritage Days.
Insider tip!: Take a distance and go to Hotel President’s rooftop terrace (Intermezzo) to fully embrace the building with your eyes. They are used to visitors and have a special place designated to just marvel at.
16. Do not miss a cruise on the Danube
Cost: from 750 HUF (1.80 euros)
No doubt about it, Budapest enjoys a privileged position. Well, savour that by getting to view the capital’s highlights from a Danube cruise without spending big. Just like Venice, Budapest’s local transport authority operates boats that are much more affordable than any cruise. A trip on one of these boats costs HUF 750 (1.80 euros). Boat services operate in summer only, so check on the BKK website for departure times. The D2 crossing ship carries passengers at one of the most spectacular points of the capital, in the city center.
If you wish for more, there are however lots of options to sail the Danube. You can choose anything from cruise with live piano to cruise with 7-course dinner and folklore show (prices start at 10 euros for one hour). It’s your call!
17. Mouth-watering Great Market Hall
Cost: visiting is free
This is Budapest’s oldest and largest food market. The building boasts beautiful neo-Gothic architecture and a patterned tiled roof. On the ground floor you’ll find lots of Hungarian traditional produce: fish, meat, cured meats, kolbasz (a Hungarian sausage), spices, such as paprika or dairy products. On the floor, there are some eateries where you can have traditional dishes, such as Goulash or paprikas (meat and dumplings with sauce).
Insider tip!: Visiting the Market Hall is free, but buying Hungarian souvenirs here is quite pricey. Instead, a lunch is quite affordable. A dish (meat+ side dish) is around 11 euros. We ate at Fakanal and it was good value for money.
18. The Great Synagogue (Dohány street), a connection to the past
Cost: 10.800 HUF (28 euros)
Europe’s biggest synagogue and the second largest in the world did not impress me by size. However, it surprised me by the mixture of bright colours and styles: a peculiar combination of Moorish and Romanesque architecture mainly. The inside has three decorated wide aisles, two balconies, and an organ. Women used to occupy the upper galleries on the sides, while men the ground floor seats. The wooden door is decorated with various Torah scrolls, taken from other synagogues destroyed during the Holocaust.
Jewish tradition in Hungary has a say in terms of understanding how it shaped life.
The ticket buys you an entrance to the complex consisting of the Heroes’ Temple, the cemetery, the Memorial and the Jewish Museum. Everything is clearly presented, from traditional Jewish objects to the cemetery and Jewish ghetto.
Insider tip!: Appropriate dress-code is required!
19. The top notch Párisi Udvar (Parisian Court)
Cost: free
In terms of bars and cafés, social media really did great service to promote New York Café to the top of the list. And despite its gorgeous look, it’s not the only worth mentioning.
Why not marvel at a place that you can admire without being forced to buy an expensive drink? Such a place is Párisi Udvar, a luxurious mall 2 centuries ago, luxury hotel today. Here you can easily get a glimpse of the inside by walking in the impressive café.
The exterior is quite unusual including Venetian Gothic and Renaissance, being decorated with Art Nouveau and Oriental elements. It is adorned with green Majolica tiles and the statues protruding from the third floor (some of them grotesque) add to the element of surprise. Entering from the street or the lobby, visitors to the hotel’s restaurants and cafés will see its original Central Savings Bank mascot, the honeybee.
Insider tip!: Despite being a luxury hotel, the staff was very friendly and let us get a glimpse of the monumental building. Try it!
20. Ruin Pubs are a local must
Cost: free/ up to you
When I recall my first visits in Budapest, ruin bars weren’t even close to my ears, but now it would be a pity to visit Budapest without experiencing at least one ruin pub.
But what are these pubs? It all started with some people who decided that they had a lot of unnecessary stuff and opened the first “ruin” pub named Szimpla, aimed at offering affordable drinks for the artistic people of Budapest. The creative place is a bohemian hub with grandma’s furniture, graffiti and lots of mismatched objects, creating a crazy-vintage vibe. And the rest is history…
Of course, prices are not like back in the day, but you can do things differently. Go to Szimpla Kert Farmers’ Market on a Sunday morning to inspect the hundreds of jars with local produce of the purest quality, while also visiting the pub.
The ruin pubs can all be found in the Jewish Quarter in District 7. The most famous for their set-up and atmosphere are: Instant-Fogas, Füge Udvar, Doboz, UdvarROM or Kőleves.
Insider tip!: Instant-Fogas is the place where the party starts…
Insider tip!: Also in the area, head for Mazel Tov if you want less extravagant atmosphere and palatable food.
21. Treasure hunt for Budapest’s tiny statues
Cost: free
If you feel playful, look for some of the tiny statues spread around Budapest. Made by the Ukrainian sculptor, Mihály Kolodko, they flood the downtown of the capital, making it an interesting best of Budapest on a budget experience. These sculptures bear the name guerrilla sculptures, meaning that they are mainly focused on cause and effect. They definitely do the job! With roots from cartoons, pop culture, communist and Jewish references, inspired by famous people or politics, the statues are truly challenging! For instance, look for Queen Elizabeth on a submarine, Chuck Norris, the Trabant car or Franz Joseph in a hammock!
Insider tip!: For a complete map of the statues, click here!
More Budapest budget guide tips
Still not having enough of Budapest? Well, let’s plunge deeper into exploration!
In the following there are some further tips for best of Budapest on a budget and not only!
Museums
Bank holidays (March 15th, August 20th, and October 23rd) mean free entry to Budapest’s museums for everyone. There are many opportunities to visit for free if you are under 26. Check here when!
The Money Museum is super entertaining and interactive. Although it is free of charge, due to high demand, registration is necessary.
House of Terror is the former headquarters of the secret police. If you want to take advantage of the free entry to the museum (EU citizens), you need to visit on the first Sunday of each month.
Other interesting attractions
Margaret Island is a recreational island shaped by the Danube. Filled with quiet walkways, romantic ruins and flowers, the island is most famous for its musical fountain. It is highly appreciated especially at night and is free.
If you are in the Castle District, check out the Royal Palace, Saint Stephen’s Hall. It showcases a great insight into Buda Castle, although this is a reconstruction. Tickets here!
Always dreamt of traveling back in time? You can go back in time, underground, exploring the labyrinth located in the depths of the Castle Hill. Tickets can only be purchased with cash!
Hospital in the Rock is an interesting attraction. It was built to house an air raid hospital, then it was transformed into a nuclear bunker. Today, the hospital shelters one of the biggest Hungarian waxwork exhibitions and numerous original machinery and furniture that are still in working conditions.
Gül Baba Tomb and Rose Garden is a unique site. Gül Baba was a dervish who escorted the Ottoman army during the reign of Mohamed II. The memorial aims to preserve unique cultural values and is free of charge.
Visiting Budapest with kids? Try CSOPA! This Center of Scientific Wonders is the type of place to visit with the entire family, play, learn about science and natural phenomena in an entertaining manner and do experiments! You can buy tickets from their site.
In the same spirit, Children’s Railway is a special treat for families, highlighting the connection with nature in a capital. The railway is run by children. The 11-km long route has lookout towers, forest playgrounds, places of pilgrimage and other.
Tips for eating cheap and yummy in Budapest
All my tips involving cheap eats focus on traditional dishes. In Hungary, if you eat local, you’ll never get up hungry from the table. Their dishes are packed with a lot of flavour, spices (paprika, cumin) and hearty dairy (mainly sour cream or cream cheese).
So, without further ado, here are some of the most typical Hungarian dishes.
A travel to Hungary has to include:
- Goulash Soup (Gulyásleves) – a hearty beef soup with paprika and vegetables.
- Fisherman’s Soup (Halászlé) – a spicy fish soup made with freshwater fish and paprika.
- Chicken Paprikash (Csirkepaprikás) – a creamy chicken stew with sour cream. Served with dumplings.
- Stuffed cabbage rolls (Töltött Káposzta) – sour cabbage rolls with minced meat and sour cream, of course.
- Langosh (Lángos ) – a deep-fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese. Or other variations.
- Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács) – a sweet pastry baked around a wooden spindle.
- Dobos – a multi-layered chocolate sponge cake topped with caramel icing.
- Pálinka -very strong fruit brandy, made from a variety of fruits; mainly plums.
- Unicum -herbal liqueur, made of herbs and spices. It has a bitter taste and is often served as a digestive.
- Tokaji – Hungary’s most famous wine, usually sweet and concentrated.
Wanna test the best of Budapest on a budget? Here are some suggestions!
But before, I need to tell you to book ahead, especially if you visit in full season!
In the Jewish district, Eggi Café specialises in delicious sandwiches based on eggs, layered richly and beautifully with fillings. Vegetarian options included. Not far from them, there’s Mazel Tov, a spectacular Mediterranean inspired Hungarian restaurant. Everything we had was delicious, while the service and vibe terrific.
Chimney cake can be bought in many places of the Hungarian capital, under the innovative umbrella of different fillings. However, the original, coated in nuts or cinnamon is an evergreen. We found the cheapest at Oktogon, at the crossroads of Andrassy Avenue with Terez krt. Not far, there’s Bite Bakery Café, excellent place for a coffee and sandwich or a cinnamon roll. Their products are exquisite.
Édes Mackó makes the already world-famous chimney cake, but unlike others, they still make it over the fire. Their kürtőskalács comes with new-wave fillings. The place is close to the Budapest Zoo.
If you stroll in the City Park, you must have lunch or cake at Gundel. The restaurant offers an elegant dining experience in a stunning venue and a charming oasis. Their slogan says Gundel is for everyone, thus aiming to offer an affordable menu that doesn’t compromise on quality. Highly recommended!
In the same area (but closer to the Széchényi Baths), feel free to inspect Ligeti Lángos. Contrary to the classic recipe, they serve feather-light lángos, both with traditional toppings and modern ingredients.
Retro Lángos may not be the cheapest lángos on the market, but one of the very best. We tested it and it was truly hearty and delicious. If lángos is your thing, try Krumplis Lángos (Váci utca); they serve some very good fried flatbread in a downtown fast-food location. Or, if you walk next to the Opera House, try UFO Langos.
Fecske Presszo is a budget-friendly college bar which serves an affordable two-course lunch. It is situated between Ervin Szabo Library and Hungary’s National Museum, in case you wanna take a look.
Great Market Hall comes with affordable options. On the floor, you’ll find lots of eateries with Hungarian specials. Do expect crowds especially around lunchtime (the building closes around 5 p.m.) and no-frills atmosphere.
Parasztkonyha is close to the main shopping street, and despite being quite commercial, their goal is to create Hungarian dishes in a traditional rustic atmosphere. Hungaricum Bistro (close to the Parliament) is very much recommended if you want to eat in a traditional Hungarian restaurant. Highly appreciated by tourists, the bistro is a must if you aim to eat local. In the same area, there’s Séf Asztala, titled Deli, Café, Bakery. They come with some classic delectable dishes revisited, with a twist, but you can also enjoy the splendid panorama from their terrace. Or take some bakery on the go.
Gozsdu udvar courtyard is a collection of heterogenous eateries, pubs and bars, popular among locals and tourists alike, situated in the 7th district. This is the place if you want to eat international. But we opted for Spiler and their authentic dishes, which are part of the Budapest budget guide; the atmosphere is so crazy-good and the prices reasonable. Gozsdu udvar courtyard is also a weekend quality art market.
Restaurant 26 (same street as Gozsdu) is an exotic and elegant jungle in the city with dishes mainly based on the European and Mediterranean concept. The restaurant’s concept is special, with lots of plants and outstanding dishes and service. Booking is mandatory!
Where to sleep on a budget
The offer of hotels, hostels and Airbnb in Budapest is plentiful. Considering that Budapest has a really good public transportation system, it is best to book your hotel close to the metro or a tram line.
Aurora Apartments are on Buda side and have a wonderful location (it is halfway on the hill though). Close to Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion, the modest yet good apartment is very wallet friendly.
Exe Budapest Center is close to the metro, airport express bus, as well as sites and restaurants. Real 4-star service and plentiful breakfast. Lion Prémium Hotel also comes with an excellent location on the famous Váci Promenade and a short walk away from Great Market Hall. Paulay Downtown Apartments have a fabulous downtown location and a metro station nearby. Their apartments are clean and have a very good price-quality rapport. If you plan to spend a lot of time at Széchényi Baths or explore the zoo, WestSide Garden Apartments by UrbanRent is perfect for you! Situated in a new building, the apartment is exquisite and affordable! Spatious rooms and everything modern.
Netizen Budapest Centre is one of those hostels that exceeds your expectations. Well-positioned, close to a grocery store and metro, the place is super clean, modern and comfortable. Also great if you aim to party a lot, as it is in the Jewish district. Adagio Hostel Basilica is on Andrássy avenue, close to Saint Stephen’s Basilica. They also offer great services and kitchen facilities. Boomerang Hostel, only 300 metres from the basilica offers dormitories, private rooms and apartments with free Wi-Fi and a common kitchen.
Interactive map
Wanna see best of Budapest on a budget? Check out the interactive map with all the attractions, restaurants and hotels!
With red you can see the main 21 suggestions to visit. With green you have other best of Budapest on a budget suggestions. The restaurants are represented in black, while the pubs/ruin bars come in yellow. The best hotels/hostels are colored with orange.
Have you been to Budapest before? How did you like it? Do you have any further visiting tips or suggestions? I look forward to reading your experiences!
