Budapest is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, where history, nightlife and culture blend seamlessly. Whether you are wandering along the Danube, soaking in thermal baths with a drink in hand, or partying until sunrise, there’s something in the city for everyone. If you are staying with us at The Hive Party Hostel, you’re already in the heart of it all: close to the hottest attractions and surrounded by fellow travellers who just want to have fun, like you. If you’re still looking for the best ideas, here’s our list of the top 10 things to do in Budapest that you absolutely must try yourself!
1. Take a Danube river cruise
A sightseeing tour is great but doing it by boat is straight up magical. You’ll float past landmarks like Buda Castle, the Fisherman’s Bastion or the Parliament. Do it by daylight, or even better, choose a nighttime booze cruise with unlimited drinks included in your ticket! Just ask someone from our staff and we will point you towards the best options!
2. Marvel at the Hungarian Parliament building
The Hungarian Parliament is among the most beautiful ones in the world, so you definitely can’t miss it! Sitting along the Danube, it’s massive, ornate and looks even better after sunset! Whether you book a guided tour or admire it across the river, from a regular tram stop, this building will make your jaw drop! It definitely earned its position on our list – and the photos you will be able to take are guaranteed to be hits on Instagram.
3. Party at a thermal bath
Hungary is famous for its thermal baths, and Széchenyi is the most iconic in Budapest. With its grand neo-baroque building and amazing hot pools, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long night out. Do you want something even more unique? Széchenyi hosts great sparty events where they combine spa time with a fun electronic music party. Definitely one of the top 10 things to do in Budapest if you’re looking for interesting ideas!
4. Party at the party district
The party district is at the centre of the legendary Budapest nightlife scene. Imagine multiple clubs, themed rooms and various DJs within the walking distance to each other – basically a mini-festival every single night. And the best part? It’s right around the corner from The Hive! Whether you’re a backpacker or a party animal visiting Budapest, you must experience it at least once during your stay!
5. Get lost in ruin bars
No trip to Budapest is complete without a night in the ruin bars. These quirky bars are built in abandoned buildings, they are filled with mismatched furniture, edgy art installations and have a truly unique atmosphere. Our ultimate pub crawl will introduce you to a few of them but you can go wandering around the city on your own and discover for yourself as well. Trust us, ruin bars might be just the most memorable parts of our list of the top 10 things to do in Budapest!
6. Climb Gellért Hill for the view
If you want the best panorama of Budapest, get your comfy shoes on and climb Gellért Hill. Believe us, the little hike is totally worth it for the amazing views of the Danube, the bridges, the city skyline. And the best part? You don’t have to worry about the timing, as this is an amazing option of the top 10 things to do in Budapest both at night or day, during winter, summer, spring or autumn!
7. Explore Buda Castle and the Castle Hill
Starting from the Pest side, cross the Chain Bridge and head up to Buda Castle for another beautiful viewpoint of the city. The cobbled streets of Castle Hill are lined with cute cafes, little museums and of course: stunning architecture. Complete your medieval fairytale dreams and spend a day wandering around this part of the city. Fisherman’s Bastion in particular looks like something out of a fiction novel!
8. Stroll along Andrássy Avenue and Heroes’ Square
If you’re looking for a mixture of culture and elegance, take a walk along Andrássy Avenue, the Hungarian version of the Champs-Élysées. At its end, you’ll find Heroes’ Square with its impressive statues and monuments. If you’re feeling extra curious that day, try to find out a thing or two about each figure! Then turn towards the nearby City Park and you have your perfect outdoor day. Now you have nothing to feel guilty about if you spend another night partying!
9. Wander through the Central Market Hall
Getting a bit hungry after all the sightseeing around the city? Head to the Central Market Hall, a massive market where above the traditional fruit and vegetable stalls, you can also try Hungarian dishes upstairs. Lángos, goulash and chimney cake are just a few of the amazing foods you can get! Once you’re full, head back down and grab some souvenirs! This mini-town is undeniably one of the top 10 things to do in Budapest!
10. Take a night out with your Hive mates
Exploring the Budapest nightlife scene on your own is fun and liberating – but why not join your new mates? Start your night with some pre-gaming at the rooftop bar. Whether you’re choosing a self-organised pub crawl afterwards, some hostel activities or a chill night in a nice terrace along the Danube, staying at The Hive means that you will never have to party alone! With our private rooms and the best dorms in Budapest, we will give you the perfect base for making new friends and having unforgettable experiences.
Budapest is the kind of city where every street holds something new and exciting, from steamy spas to ruin bars, from hilltop views to boat parties. This is our list of the top 10 Budapest attractions – but if you come up to us while staying at the Hive, we can give you even more ideas. Book your stay with us today and join the buzz!
