Visiting Budapest helped me realise that true travel experiences aren’t found in grand plazas or crowded museums but in quiet parks and late-night conversations with strangers. Central and Eastern Europe flirt with each other in this impressive city along the Danube (I’ll admit, I’m not even too sure what part of Europe to consider it).
Within hours of arriving, I could feel the city was a strong mix of old-world Europe with modern and youthful vibes. Think ancient thermal baths, a historic underground transport system, and bars oozing so with character you’ll think you’ve entered onto the set of Mad Max 2, only a dash less sandy in the nooks and crannies!
It’s a city of juxtapositions, where strong coffee meets gritty street art. But like most cities, the real magic lies well off the beaten path. The city really comes to life in its hidden corners and alleyways, abandoned stations, and underground treasures waiting to be explored by those willing to search.
For those who resonate with this, I’ve compiled a list of the best hidden gems in Budapest, from attractions worthy of being plastered on the pages of travel magazines to those you would expect to hear about from the owner of a local underground pub.
Read on for the most worthwhile secret spots in this magnificent city.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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What is Budapest Like?
Budapest is like stepping into a Wes Anderson film but with a whole lot more thermal baths and strudel thrown into the mix (Although, spoiler, you won’t find the real Grand Budapest Hotel here). It has a quirky elegance, where you can stare up at fresco ceilings one moment and sip beer in a bar that looks like it’s about to fall apart the next.
Before I travelled to Budapest, I wasn’t aware that the city is split in two by the Danube River: Buda, the hilly part, and Pest, the flat section where most of the nightlife and shopping are located.
Imagine if Berlin and Paris had a rebellious kid who spent their weekends between gallery halls and dingy nightclubs. This child would be called Budapest, and it would be a beautiful mess of history, culture, and off-the-charts delicious goulash soup.
Some of the most magical places to visit in Budapest include the Buda Castle and the Szechenyi Thermal Baths. The Fisherman’s Bastion monument offers the best view of the city from Buda.
Just when you think you’ve put your finger on the pulse, it surprises you with a grand hotel lobby that will leave you snapping so many photos that you’ll leave with a full camera roll (and maybe a maxed-out credit card). This article is about all those hidden gems – old and new – that make the city the laid-back yet elegant place that it is
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Every time I stay in Budapest, I leave with yet another favourite place in the city. There is always a new restaurant or an old church to uncover here. I’ve rounded up all my top hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems that make me go back to visit year after year.
1. Explore The Architectural Grandeur of St. Stephen’s Hall
Walking through St. Stephens Hall in Buda Castle feels like stepping into a dream fit for royalty. When I talk about Budapest’s grand side, this is what I’m picturing. It is pure opulence, with stunning mosaics, gilded details, and stained-glass windows that will have you Instagramming every angle.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
When it was commissioned in 1897, it was one of the most significant rooms in the Buda Castle. Although it has recently been revamped, it’s been done in a way that reflects the original grandeur of the room. From the grand fireplace to the walnut panelling to the bespoke furnishings to the portraits, every part of this room is thanks to the efforts of the greatest artists and craftsmen of the time.
If you’re looking for a tour of St Stephen’s Hall that includes entrance fees and a tour guide, this is it.
- Cost: $11 for an adult entrance ticket with a tablet tour (discounts for EEA citizens available)
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: An extravagant example of European grandeur. Worth visiting at the same time as the Buda Castle
2. Watch a Classical Music Concert at St. Michael’s Church
For a unique evening of culture, get your hands on some tickets to a classical music concert at St. Michaels Church. The acoustics here are divine (mind the pun), and the intimate setting makes the experience feel personal – even if you do not know the difference between Bach and Beethoven.
The church alone is worth the ticket price. This secret spot in Budapest is located in the city centre and was built in a Baroque style in the 1700s. Concerts usually last an hour and a half to two hours, and prices range from $45 to $65.
- Cost: Tickets start at $45
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: One of the most romantic activities in the city, even if you go solo. Even if you’re just in Budapest for a weekend, it should be on your hit list.
3. Wallow in the Gellert Baths
If Szechenyi is the mother of all thermal baths in Budapest, Gellert Baths is her elegant sister. Tucked away within a famous Gellert Hotel, these Art Nouveau baths offer a more intimate bathing experience than the more popular baths.
The baths are surrounded by marble columns, mosaics, and stained glass windows that will make you feel like the Queen of Dragons herself.
Plan to spend at least three hours to a full day at the baths, exploring the ten indoor and outdoor pools and even stopping off at the wave pool (yes, there is a wave pool).
- Cost: €29 for entrance fee if purchased online
- Rating: 4/5
- Personal Opinion: I preferred these baths to the Szechenyi, mainly because they were less crowded.
4. Meander Through the Buda Castle Caves
Below the grand Buda Castle lies an underground network of caves and labyrinths that are so eerie they will quickly make you feel like you’ve stepped into your favourite thriller. They’re much less polished than the attractions in the castle above ground, which really adds to the spooky atmosphere.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
It’s hard to believe that this Budapest hideaway was once used as storage cellars and bomb shelters. The caves are layered with remnants of Medieval history and the Cold War. If you’re claustrophobic, rather join the classic tour of the Buda Castle with Matthias Church Entry above ground level.
- Cost: €17 for adults, €14 for students and seniors for a one-hour cave tour
- Rating: 3/5
- Personal Opinion: Epic for fans of all things spooky, a nightmare for the claustrophobic
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View on Osprey View on REI5. Join an Evening Cruise Along the Danube
The skyline across this historic city is mesmerizing by day, but it’s even more magical once the sun sets and the city lights up. An evening cruise along the Danube River is one of the best ways to admire the skyline from a moving POV. Evening cruises usually operate during sunset, which makes for the most epic lighting and views.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
You’ll be able to soak up views of the main parliament building, the famous Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle. Cruises last between an hour and an hour and a half and even include options for drinks or dinners. I recommend going all out and booking a dinner cruise with live music. This evening river cruise is set up with a candlelit dinner for an extra romantic vibe.
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 4/5
- Personal Opinion: A bit touristy, but great for views of the city
6. Enjoy Some Peace and Quiet at the Japanese Garden on Margaret Island
I don’t know about you, but one of my favourite things to do in any city is to visit the top gardens and parks. One of the top hidden gems in Budapest was the Japanese Garden on Margeret Island.
Photo: @taya.travels
The gardens are the perfect setting for a little respite from the urban scene, with a small lake, river, and landscaped gardens inspired by Japanese culture. It’s a pretty new garden, founded in the 1970s. It’s open 24 hours a day, and entry is free. The best way to get to the park is via boat or a sightseeing cruise, which departs just about every 15 minutes from the city’s central dock on Vigado Square and costs €15 per adult.
Bring a light jacket and a camera to capture the postcard-perfect riverbank views.
- Cost: $
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: A beautiful and well-maintained garden. Well worth the boat trip (it’s all part of the adventure)
7. Taste The Teas of the World at Sirius Teahaz
Sirius Teahaz is one of those places I could visit day after day. It’s an eclectic tea house where you can browse a menu of 80 delicious tea blends.
The interior is like a maze, with different loft sections, alcoves, and corners, each decorated uniquely with its own quirky charm. The bookshelves are stacked with books and adult games, making this a great place for a cosy afternoon with your travel companion(s).
It’s also light on the wallet, with a pot of tea costing less than $5.
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: Authentic, cosy, and warm. I could spend hours here.
8. Go Adventure Caving at The Danube-Ipoly National Park
WARNING: This secret spot in Budapest is not for claustrophobic travellers. By now, we all know about Budapest’s incredible hot springs and thermal baths, but have you ever wondered where this hot gushing water comes from?
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Well, you can climb and crawl through one of the city’s longest cave systems to uncover the source of these springs and admire how these powerful springs have created limestone mountains and rivers under the city itself.
Tickets to the National Park are pricey but include cave entrance fees, a caving guide, a helmet, a lamp, and protective overalls.
- Cost: $$$
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: If you’ve never crawled through caves, this is an epic place to start, but it’s not for everyone. Hard work but a great accomplished feeling at the end. If you’re feeling adventurous, this one to add to your Budapest itinerary.
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View on REI Read Our Review9. Take Your Pick of Street Food Cuisine at Karavan Budapest
There is no better way to experience a new city than by dining at one of its local street food markets. Consider Karavan Budapest, the city’s equivalent of Time Out Market. Set in an outdoor warehouse alongside one of the city’s most lively party streets, Karavan is bustling with vendors selling everything from goulash to strudel to burgers.
It offers a mix of local and global flavours, with something for every palette. Some restaurants offer dine-in seating, while you’ll have to grab your spot at a picnic table for others. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up for a night out in Szimpla.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Cost: $
- Rating: 4/5
- Personal Opinion: Top-notch authentic Hungarian cuisine
10. Take a Leisurely Walk Through District VIII
Once upon a time, District 8 (otherwise known as Jozsefvaros) was considered a rough part of Budapest. Today, it blends gritty charm with artistic flair and is buzzing with trendy bars, hidden cafes, and street art.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Wandering through the narrow streets in this Budapest hideaway will unveil plenty of old squares, like Mikszath Kalman Square, and quarters (the Palace Quarter being the most famous), dotted with stunning 19th-century mansions and hidden courtyards.
If you’re interested in staying in this edgy part of the city, I can recommend this Disctict VIII Penthouse with a Rooftop Terrace.
- Cost: $
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: Genuine local spot. There is always something new to see here
11. Visit the Sunday Szimpla Farmer’s Market
Every Sunday between 9 am and 2 pm, Budapest’s most loved pub (Szimpla) transforms into a busy farmers market. The edgy ruin bar overflows with artisanal bread, homemade preserves, and local cheeses. There are also plenty of food vendors serving everything from traditional Hungarian dishes to French pastries.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
It’s a little bit touristy but also very popular with locals, which means it’s a great way to dive into local Hungarian culture (and food). Most produce is reasonably priced—you could grab a meal for $5.
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: Delicious food but some long lines if you plan to get coffee or breakfast
12. Look Up in the Romanesque Hall at the Museum of Fine Arts
Budapest’s Museum of Fine Arts houses some of the best art collections in Central Europe. Any art appreciator would enjoy spending a day wandering the halls and galleries. But the real hidden gem is its Romanesque Hall.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Recently restored to show off its original grandeur, this hall is a stunning example of medieval architecture. Gaze up at the soaring high ceilings decorated with detailed murals and arches, and you’ll be transported into another era.
- Cost: $16 for an adult entrance ticket (half price for EEA citizens)
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: Worth every penny to see the architecture and art.
13. Marvel at the Fairytale Vajdahunyad Castle
Budapest has its fair share of castles, and Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the most beautiful. Although it might look much older, this magical place was only built in 1896 as part of the Millenial Exhibition to celebrate the birth of the Hungarian state.
It borrows elements from Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture. The small museum inside is free, and you can wander through the gorgeous gardens for free. It’s centrally located in the City Park, which means you can visit the Fisherman’s Bastion and Heroes’ Square in one go.
- Cost: $
- Rating: 3/5
- Personal Opinion: Shows the evolution of architecture in Central Europe
14. Take a Break from the City at the ELTE Botanical Garden
The ELTE Botanical Garden (Füvészkert) is a lush and peaceful garden with more than seven thousand plant species. If the city sounds and sights get a bit much for you, this place will quickly bring you back to reality. You can stroll through greenhouses filled with tropical plants or wander around the open-air gardens.
I recommend visiting during spring and setting aside around two hours to appreciate the garden fully.
- Cost: $
- Rating: 4/5
- Personal Opinion: A great place even if you’re not interested in plants
15. Indulge in a High Tea at the Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel
If there is one Budapest activity I recommend to anyone with an appreciation for the finer things in life, it would be booking an afternoon tea at the Anatara New York Palace Budapest Hotel. Housed in one of the city’s most gorgeous buildings this grand cafe is dripping in chandeliers and marble.
As if the setting in this Budapest hideaway wasn’t beautiful enough, they serve an indulgent high tea that is a real celebration of sweet treats and savoury snacks. It’s pricey, at €47 per head, but is so filling you could consider dinner accounted for.
If you have it in the budget to splurge, staying at the Anantara New York Palace Budapest is a five-star experience. Go ahead and book me a room while you’re at it!
- Cost: $$$$
- Rating: 5/5
- Personal Opinion: Expensive but worth the price
16. Browse Through Antiques at the Grand Ecseri Flea Market and Falk Miksa Street
The Grand Ecseri Flea Market has everything you could expect from a flea market – antiques, paintings, old cameras, typewriters, household equipment – you name it, they have it. This is one of the coolest hidden gems in Budapest to pick up some quirky souvenirs or vintage curios.
Falk Miksa Street is another market street with more elegant galleries and antique shops. This is better suited for those who know exactly what they’re hunting for. Prices are higher, but you can find museum-quality items and artefacts here.
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 3/5
- Personal Opinion: Not as many open vendors as I would have hoped for
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If you have any further burning questions then hopefully I can answer those here. So, let’s have a little look then.
A trip to Budapest is like wandering through its very own flea market. It’s a bit like stumbling upon an unpolished gem while rummaging through bins at an old antique store—full of surprises and more exciting the deeper you dig.
But beyond the famous castles and thermal baths, the hidden gems in Budapest will take up the bulk of your camera roll. Exploring these spots isn’t about ticking things off the list; it’s about slowing down and uncovering the secrets behind every old door and through every cobblestone street.
If you discover any more hidden gems during your time in Budapest, please let me know in the comments. Otherwise, I hope you have the best time exploring the city!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our Backpacking Budapest guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our where to stay in Budapest guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Our in-depth backpacking packing list has all the info you’ll need for your trip.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in Budapest too.
- Sort your international SIM card for Europe out to avoid unnecessary hassle
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