17 hidden gems in Budapest you shouldn’t miss!

Are you looking for hidden gems in Budapest? Then you’ve come to the right place!

While I love Budapest, I’m not much of a big city person, so I always look for off-the-beaten-path places to explore to escape the crowds. Places where you can actually walk around without being poked with a selfie stick and not having to stand in line for photos.

While some of these unique things to do in Budapest are already favorites among locals, most tourists visiting the city for the first time don’t know about them.

So let’s take a look at the most beautiful hidden gems in and close to Budapest.

17 hidden gems in Budapest

I have included all these unique places in the map below for an easy overview. Be sure to also check out my photography guide for a complete list of things to do in Budapest.

1. Wekerletelep (Wekerle Estate)

I’m starting this list with one of my favorite hidden gems in Budapest called Wekerle, also known as Wekerle Estate. It is like a fairytale Medieval-looking city within the city.

Named after Sándor Wekerle, a former Hungarian Prime Minister, this area was designed in the early 20th century as a garden suburb for workers.

Characterized by its unique stamp-like shape, Wekerle offers a village atmosphere with housing, schools, a striking police station, and cultural venues, all centered around a lush square.

When I walked under the wooden gateways it felt like stepping back into Medieval times, reminiscent of a Transylvanian village or something out of the Czech movie Three Wishes for Cinderella. Definitely a cool hidden gem to explore while in Budapest.

Where: Southeast of Budapest city center.

How to get there: Take bus 99 from Blaha Lujza tér M (Népszínház utca) directly to Wekerletelep. It takes around 30 minutes.

2. Wine tasting tour to Etyek

While not technically in Budapest, Etyek is one of my favorite hidden gems close to the capital that tourists often miss. The Etyek wine region, located just a 30-minute drive away, is a must for wine lovers and those looking to escape the bustle of the city for a day.

Known for its crisp white wines and traditional Hungarian sparkling wines, Etyek boasts a cool climate and chalky soil that contribute to the unique terroir of the wines produced here. The lush rolling hills are dotted with vineyards and small family-run wineries. It is so beautiful!

The best way to visit Etyek from Budapest is on a guided tour. I recommend the highly-rated tour below that includes hotel pickup, round-trip transfers, cellar tours, wine tastings and a 3-course meal. It was so fun to taste wine straight from the barrel and learn about winemaking.

Where: 30 minutes west of Budapest city center.

How to get there: I highly recommend joining the guided tour below, or renting a car if you want more freedom to explore. You can also take bus 760.

3. Aquincum Museum

The Aquincum Museum is a historical treasure, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the remnants of the ancient city of Aquincum, which was once a significant Roman military base and town.

This museum offers a glimpse into the past with its extensive collection of artifacts, ruins, and interactive exhibits that bring the history of Roman-era Hungary to life.

As a history buff, I loved this museum, especially wandering around the Roman ruins outside. We got there around 10:30 am in February and had the place almost all to ourselves for hours.

Where: Aquincum Museum Szentendrei út 135, 1031 Budapest, Hungary

How to get there: To reach the Aquincum Museum, you can take public transportation from the city center. The most convenient options are:

• Rail: Lines S76, Z72 to Aquincum station.
• By train: Take the suburban railway (HÉV) line H5 to the Aquincum stop.
• By bus: Several bus lines, including 34, 106, and 134, stop near the museum.

Opening Hours: Aquincum Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm in the peak tourist season.

Entrance Fee: 1900 HUF / €5 for adults. You can also get a combined BHM+ ticket for 5500 HUF / €14, including all BHM institutions for 1 month.

4. Szentendre and the Marzipan Museum

Szentendre is a charming riverside town located just north of Budapest, known for its baroque architecture and cobblestone streets. The town’s unique atmosphere is a blend of Hungarian and Mediterranean influences, thanks to the Serbian traders who settled there in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Often referred to as an artist’s village due to its popularity amongst creatives, Szentendre boasts a variety of art galleries, craft shops, and quaint cafes.

But the sweetest attraction of them all has to be the Marzipan Museum. Founded by confectioner Károly Szabó, it is dedicated to the art of marzipan making, featuring an impressive collection of sculptures and figures made entirely out of this almond-based confection.

I know most people have a love or hate relationship with marzipan, but in Norway we love it so this was super fun to see and taste.

How to get there: Join a guided tour or take the suburban railway (HÉV) line H5 from the Aquincum stop to Szentendre.

Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

5. Visegrád and the Danube Bend

Okay, so Visegrád is the furthest away of the hidden gems I mention in this article, but I had to include it because I know my fellow history buffs will love it.

The Danube Bend, or ‘Dunakanyar’ in Hungarian, is a famously picturesque region where the Danube River dramatically changes course, turning sharply to flow southward after a serene journey through the western Carpathians.

Visegrád is a small castle town perfectly situated in the Danube Bend, about one hour north of Budapest. It is steeped in history and renowned for the remains of the Early Renaissance summer palace of King Matthias Corvinus and the medieval citadel.

The town not only boasts historical significance but also provides a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and even bobsledding. This area is one of my favorites in all of Hungary.

🌟 As mentioned above, Visegrad is included in this day tour from Budapest. Both Szentendre and Visegrad are also included in this popular private tour, which is a better choice if you are traveling solo or with one other person.

6. Vác

Vác is another charming town located just north of Budapest along the Danube River, often considered one of the hidden gems of Budapest. While not actually a part of the capital, its proximity makes it an ideal escape from the busy city.

One of the most unique attractions in Vác is the Memento Mori exhibition, which showcases a unique collection of naturally mummified bodies from the 18th century. Discovered in a forgotten crypt during a church renovation in 1994, the mummies provide an extraordinary glimpse into the past.

Apart from the mummies, I think the colorful town itself is worth a moment of your time. Just like Szentendre, Vac’s architecture predominantly stems from the Baroque period, with a majestic cathedral, peaceful squares, and a riverside promenade.

If you’re comfortable driving by yourself, you can easily visit all of these cities (Vác, Visegrád and Szentendre) in a day. It is very easy to rent a car in Budapest, especially if you go straight from the airport. Or sit back and relax on a guided day trip like the one below.

7. Hajógyári Sziget

I have already mentioned the K-Bridge to Hajógyári Sziget, also known as Óbuda Island, as one of the best photo spots in Budapest. But since it’s mostly locals who know about this place, I thought it deserved a spot as a hidden gem as well.

Easily accessible by public transport and connected to the city, Hajógyári Sziget is a popular destination for both relaxation and entertainment among locals.

It is famed for hosting one of Europe’s largest and most vibrant music festivals, the Sziget Festival. The tranquil island on the Danube River transforms into a hub of artistic and musical activity every August, drawing performers and attendees from all over the globe.

Outside of the festival season, Hajógyári Sziget offers a peaceful retreat with lush parklands, recreational facilities, and charming riverside walkways. The island’s history as a shipyard is still evident in some of its structures.

How to get there: Take the suburban railway (HÉV) line H5 to Filatorigát and walk for about 15 minutes.

8. Tomb of Gül Baba

The Tomb of Gül Baba is definitely a hidden gem and one of the last remnants of Hungary’s 150-year occupation by the Ottoman Empire in the 16th and 17th centuries.

This octagonal structure, nestled in the hills of Buda near the Margaret Bridge, is considered the northernmost Islamic pilgrimage site. It is often referred to as the “Rose Tomb” due to Gül Baba’s reputed fondness for roses. Today the site is beautifully restored and now includes a museum, a rose garden, and an exhibition hall.

Pro tip >> Walk up to nearby Mansfeld Péter Park to enjoy a beautiful panorama while most likely having the place all to yourself. The view is spectacular, you can see all the way to the Chain Bridge, the Parliament and the Danube Promenade.

Where: Budapest, Mecset u. 14, 1023 Hungary

How to get there: Take bus 9 from the city center to the “Bem József tér” stop. From there, it is a 10-minute walk with some uphill sections.

Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Entrance fee: FREE

9. The Children’s Railway

Another hidden gem in Budapest is the Children’s Railway, a picturesque 11 km journey through the Buda Hills, providing a delightful outing for the whole family.

This narrow-gauge railway, a remnant of the Soviet era, is uniquely staffed by children aged 10 and above. While adults are responsible for driving the trains, the young staff handles tasks such as ticketing, signaling, and passenger assistance, all taking pride in their roles.

The railway, which operates alongside regular schooling, allows children to experience various responsibilities in a real-world context. Most of the stations are easy to access by public transportation from Széll Kálmán tér metro station and Déli pályaudvar central station.

Opening hours: Trains run all year (including public holidays), except Mondays from the beginning of September to the end of April. 

Entrance fee: 1000 HUF / €3 one way (only cash)

10. Caving in Buda Hills

Budapest’s allure extends far beyond its majestic castles and impressive viewpoints; beneath the city’s bustling streets lies a realm of mystery in the form of caves and labyrinths.

I have to admit that I’m afraid of both the dark and enclosed spaces, but I had to check two of them out for myself. Here’s an overview of the different caves and systems:

Pálvölgyi Cave: Pálvölgyi Cave, part of the extensive Duna-Ipoly National Park in Budapest, is at 32 kilometers one of the longest cave systems in Hungary. Discovered in the early 20th century, it is renowned for its glittering calcite crystals and striking stalactite and stalagmite formations. Entrance to the cave is included in the Budapest Card.

🌟 I booked an easy cave tour including both Pálvölgyi Cave and Szemlőhegyi Cave, meaning it was paved and with good lighting. Together with a knowledgeable guide, I got access to some parts of the caves that most tourists can’t enter. It was such a treat to do this as a private experience.

Mátyáshegyi Caves: These caves, which are connected to Pálvölgyi Cave, were only discovered at the turn of the millennium and have since been left raw. So if you want to tour them both, you have to climb on walls and crawl through narrow passages. Because of my claustrophobia, I didn’t dare to do this one, but I so wish I did. You can book a guided tour of both caves here.

Szemlőhegyi Cave: Szemlőhegyi Cave, discovered in 1930, is often referred to as the “underground flower garden” due to its rich array of crystal formations that resemble blooming flowers. This environmentally protected cave features well-lit pathways and a constant temperature, making it easily accessible and comfortable for visitors year-round.

Buda Castle Labyrinth: The labyrinth beneath Castle Hill is where Count Dracula was held captive and tortured for 14 years, starting in 1463. It is about 1000 meters long and can be walked in 30 minutes. Parts of the labyrinth are well lit, while other parts are completely black and you have to hold on to a rope. It is still a hidden gem right in the center of the most touristy part of Budapest. 

Gellért Hill Cave: Gellért Hill Cave, also known as Saint Ivan’s Cave, is a natural cavern on the slopes of Gellért Hill in Budapest, famous for its chapel that was once inhabited by a hermit monk who used the thermal waters for healing. Carved out by thermal springs, the cave is now part of a church complex, the Cave Church, which was sealed during the Communist era and later reopened as a place of worship and historical interest.

11. Memento Park

Memento Park in Budapest is an open-air museum that serves as a poignant reminder of Hungary’s communist era, showcasing an eclectic collection of statues, busts, and plaques from the country’s socialist period.

Situated on the outskirts of the city, the park is home to monumental relics of Soviet iconography, including figures of Lenin, Marx, and Engels, as well as Hungarian leaders and socialist-themed artworks.

Created after the fall of the Iron Curtain, Memento Park provides a historical context and reflection on the ideologies of the past.

Is Memento Park worth it? Yes, I think so. It was a unique experience looking at all those imposing statues and thinking about what it must have been like to live in Budapest (and Eastern Europe) during that period.

Where: Budapest, Balatoni út – Szabadkai utca sarok, 1222 Hungary

How to get there: Take Bus 150 from “Kelenföld vasútállomás” (Kelenföld railway station), which is accessible by Metro line M4 (green line). It will take you directly to Memento Park’s entrance. Or join the guided tour below.

Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Entrance fee: 3000 HUF / €7.5 for adults.

12. Rudas Baths

It’s no secret that Budapest is known for its hot springs and thermal baths. And most tourists follow the crowd and head to the biggest and most famous bath, Széchenyi Thermal Baths.

While Széchenyi is beautiful with the turquoise pools set against the grand yellow building, it is way too crowded. So my advice is to head to one of the lesser-known baths.

My personal favorite of the thermal baths in Budapest is Rudas Baths, primarily because it offers a more relaxed experience. This historical bathing complex, dating back to the 16th century and Ottoman rule, provides a unique blend of traditional Turkish and modern spa culture.

Where: Rudas Baths Döbrentei tér 9, Budapest, Hungary, 1013

How to get there: The nearest tram stop is “Döbrentei tér,” which is served by tram lines 19 and 41. Alternatively, you can take several buses to “Szent Gellért tér” and walk a short distance to the baths.

Opening hours: Daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm. It also opens for night bathing on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 pm to 3:00 am.

Entrance fee: From 9 300 HUF / €23 for all zones.

13. Hidden mini statues

What do Dracula and a murdered squirrel have in common? Nothing you say, well in Budapest they do. They are all the result of the brilliant mind of Mihály Kolodko, a guerilla sculptor and Ukrainian citizen with Hungarian origins.

These pint-sized sculptures, discreetly placed throughout the city, offer whimsical tributes to cultural icons, historical figures, and fictional characters, encouraging you to engage in a playful urban treasure hunt.

I made it my mission to find as many as possible, I think I ended up with 7, yet I didn’t get a photo of a single one. Haha, bad travel creator. I have marked the ones I found with a yellow star in the Budapest hidden gems map.

If you want some help finding them, you can now sign up for the walking tour below. It’s a fun and unique way to explore Budapest for first-timers because you’ll find many of the statues near the main attractions.

14. Hungarian Railway Museum

While the Railway Museum might not sound like the most exciting place to visit in Budapest, I really enjoyed it. The museum is more like a park, covering a vast 70,000 m2 area, with over 100 full-size railroad vehicles on display.

You can explore the extensive outdoor grounds, climb aboard historic carriages, and even take a ride on a heritage railway or turntable. Interactive exhibits, model railways, and a range of family-friendly activities add to the appeal, ensuring a fun day out for the whole family.

The museum not only preserves and showcases the evolution of train travel in Hungary but also provides a hands-on journey through time, making it a worthy addition to any Budapest itinerary.

Where: Budapest, Tatai u. 95, 1142 Hungary

How to get there: Take the Metro M3 line (blue line) to “Újpest-Városkapu” station. From here you can take bus numbers 30, 30A, 120 or 230.

Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Closed on Mondays and in winter.

Entrance fee: 2 400 HUF / €6 for adults.

15. Szabó Ervin Library

Tucked away in the heart of Budapest, the Szabó Ervin Library is popular amongst locals but still a hidden gem for most tourists.

Housed in the Wenckheim Palace, which was originally constructed in the late 19th century, the library’s interior is a feast for the eyes, featuring ornate wood paneling, soaring ceilings, and intricate frescoes. I absolutely love this opulent Gilded Age decor that you’ll also find in the New York Café.

The palace on the 4th floor and the reading rooms are incredibly beautiful. If you are a reader I recommend you bring your current obsession and sit down in one of the comfy armchairs and just enjoy.

Where: Budapest, Szabó Ervin tér 1, 1088 Hungary

How to get there: The library is within easy walking distance of the city center, close to the Hungarian National Museum. The nearest bus stop is “Szentkirályi Utca”.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 am to 8:00. Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Sunday closed.

Entrance fee: If you want to visit the palace floor the fee is 1800 HUF / 4.5€.

16. Zugliget Chairlift and Elizabeth Lookout

The Zugliget Chairlift, known locally as the “Libegő,” offers a unique and scenic route to the Buda hills. The ride, which spans over a kilometer, takes you to the top of János Hill, Budapest’s highest point.

At the summit of János Hill, you’ll find the Elisabeth Lookout Tower, built in the early 20th century and named after Empress Elisabeth of Austria-Hungary, affectionately known as “Sisi.”

The tower, designed in a fairy-tale-like Neo-Romanesque style, offers 360-degree panoramic views of Budapest and beyond, stretching as far as the eye can see.

Where: Budapest, Zugligeti út 97, 1121 Hungary

How to get there: Take tram 56 or 56A to ‘Városmajor’. Then take bus 158 to ‘Libegő’, right at the Zugliget Chairlift’s lower station. Or you can join the guided tour below.

Opening hours: Opens at 10:00 am and closes at 7:00 pm in summer (differs throughout the year).

Entrance fee: 3000 HUF / €7.5 for a roundtrip on the chairlift.

17. House of Unicum

Hungary is known for its liqueurs, but few know the story behind its most famous export, Unicum. The traditional bitter liqueur, produced by the Zwack family for over two centuries, is crafted from a blend of over forty herbs and spices.

In the original Unicum factory, you can explore the distillery’s old cellars, view the vast collection of herbs and spices used in the secret recipe, and learn about the Zwack family business that survived two world wars and endured the nationalization of the company during the communist era.

The premium tour also includes a tasting, where you can sample the distinctive bitter flavor of Unicum Riserva and Unicum Barista.

Where: Budapest, Dandár u. 1, 1095 Hungary

How to get there: Take trams 2, 23 or Bus 23, 54, 55 to the Haller utca / Soroksári út stop.

Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Entrance fee: Tickets start at 3300 HUF / €8 for adults.

Plan your stay in Budapest

Here is a quick guide to what you need to know for the best possible stay in Budapest.

Best time to visit Budapest

The best time to visit Budapest is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the weather is comfortable, and the city isn’t overwhelmed by tourists.

Spring (April to June): Spring is my favorite time to visit Budapest, late May in particular. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures rising gradually, and the city’s parks are in full bloom.

Summer (July to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Budapest, offering warm, sunny days perfect for cruising on the Danube, visiting the famous thermal baths, and exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds. Summer also features various cultural events, including the popular Sziget Festival.

Fall (September to November): Fall brings cooler temperatures, beautiful autumn foliage, and fewer tourists, making it a great time for those looking to explore the city in a more relaxed setting. It’s also a good season for enjoying the city’s culinary offerings, including the Budapest Wine Festival.

Winter (December to February): Winter can be cold and snowy, but Budapest turns into a festive wonderland, especially around Christmas when the markets are in full swing. I have been to Budapest several times in February, and the weather was nice and mild compared to Norway.

Budapest Airport to the city center

Getting from Budapest Airport to the city center is easy and should only take 20-40 minutes. Here are four options:

1. Bus no. 200E which takes you to Kőbánya-Kispest metro station, where you can change to metro line M3 and get to the center. Public transport is included in the Budapest Card.

2. You can also use the direct airport shuttle bus 100E which runs around the clock. You need a special ticket for this one that costs 2,200 HUF/€5.5.

3. The easiest way to get to the city center is via shared airport shuttle, which costs €12+ and will drop you off at your accommodation. You can check the current price and availability below. This is included in the Budapest 72-hours Plus card.

4. You also have the option to book a private transfer in a luxury Mercedes or Audi vehicle from Budapest airport to your accommodation in the city.

How to get around in Budapest

Most of the main attractions in Budapest are within walking distance of each other. The city is also known for being pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and pedestrian zones.

However, to get the most out of your time, I also recommend taking advantage of the comprehensive and efficient public transportation system.

1. Metro: Budapest’s metro system is the oldest electrified underground railway system in continental Europe, and it’s a quick way to travel to different parts of the city. There are four lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4) that connect major areas and attractions.
2. Buses: The bus network is extensive, with many lines running throughout the city, including night buses that operate after the metro has closed.
3. Trams: Trams are a scenic and convenient way to see the city, with several lines running along the Danube and reaching major tourist destinations.
4. Trolleybuses: These electric buses operate on several routes, primarily on the Pest side of the city.
5. Suburban Railway (HÉV): These trains connect Budapest with suburban areas and are useful for reaching destinations like Szentendre or the Roman ruins in Aquincum.
6. Biking: Budapest has made strides in becoming more bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs like MOL Bubi.
7. Walking: Many of Budapest’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center, making walking a pleasant and viable option.
8. Boat: Public transport boats operate on the Danube and can be a scenic way to travel between certain points in the city. There are also many sightseeing and dinner cruises to choose from.
9. Taxi: Taxis are available and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or ordered through various apps. Make sure to use licensed taxi services to avoid being overcharged. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are not operating in Budapest.

Tickets and passes for public transportation can be purchased at metro stations, newsstands, and sometimes on the vehicle itself (with a surcharge). Remember to validate your ticket or pass before starting your journey to avoid fines.

I got the Budapest City Pass, and I’m so happy I did. I think it roughly saved us €50 and got me to explore parts of the city I wouldn’t have seen on my own.

Where to stay in Budapest

As you may know, I’m a huge lover of old-world architecture. Nothing makes me happier than intricate stone carvings, tall ceilings, rosettes and herringbone parquet flooring.

So while I normally like to stay in smaller boutique hotels, in Budapest I have to say that my favorites are W Budapest, Anantara New York Palace Hotel and Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace.

🌟 W Budapest Hotel is a remarkable fusion of historical grandeur and 60s shapes and colors, set within the illustrious walls of the Drechsler Palace. This architectural gem, located in the heart of Budapest, is a stunning example of neo-Renaissance design, originally constructed at the turn of the 20th century.

🌟 Anantara New York Palace Hotel is set in the same building as the famous New York Café. This iconic landmark, constructed in the late 19th century, showcases the opulence of the era with its ornate façade, exquisite Italian Renaissance-style architecture, and lavishly decorated interior.

🌟 The Four Seasons Hotel in Budapest is a true architectural masterpiece, a beacon of luxury set within the stunning Gresham Palace. This Art Nouveau landmark, built in the early 20th century, was originally constructed as an opulent office and apartment building for the Gresham Life Assurance Company of London.

It has since been meticulously restored to its former glory and now serves as one of the city’s most prestigious hotels. The hotel’s prime location at the foot of the iconic Chain Bridge offers guests breathtaking views of the Danube River and the hills of Buda.

If you prefer a more affordable option, I can also recommend the popular T62 Hotel where I stayed during my first time in Budapest.

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