29 Day Trips from Budapest
Cradling centuries-old thermal baths, fairytale-fuelled castles and edgy ruin bars, Budapest is blessed with a bounty of pursuits. And there’s a lot more where that came from. Get your walking boots on, here are the 29 Best Day Trips from Budapest.
Hungary is hemmed in by a huge haul of history-ridden ruins, stately architecture and drool-worthy cuisine.
Whether you want to waltz around quaint cobbled towns or disconnect in the lyrical landscapes, this country crowns with a surprising slew of pursuits.
The surrounding countryside is etched with enthralling experiences, from the verdant vineyards and eerie castles to the rolling rivers and sweeping mountain tops.
Roam in the rapture of the countryside, or ignite the spirit of exploration as you uncover neighbouring countries like Austria and Slovakia. If you’re planning a trip to Hungary’s capital, save this guide on the Top Day Trips from Budapest.
Complete Guide: Best Day Trips from Budapest, Hungary
Whether you want to splash around in Velence Lake or be bewildered by Baradla Cave, Budapest sits on the cusp of many captivating day trips. Here’s a breakdown of the myriad must-see destinations:
29. Hévíz
28. Szeged
27. Koszeg
26. Mátrafüred
25. Rám-szakadék
24. Tata
23. Puszta Great Plains
22. Nagytétény Castle
21. Danube Bend
20. Egerszalók
19. Pannonhalma Archabbey
18. Debrecen
17. Hortobágy National Park
16. Velence Lake
15. Bratislava, Slovakia
14. Gödöllo Palace
13. Hollóko
12. Lake Balaton
11. Gyor
10. Esztergom
9. Etyek Wine Region
8. Kecskemét
7. Szentendre
6. Miskolc & Castle of Diósgyor
5. Eger
4. Pécs
3. Visegrád
2. Aggtelek National Park & Baradla Cave
1. Vienna, Austria
29. Hévíz
Touted as Hungary’s most happening spa town, Hévíz is heavy on wellness pursuits.
Take a dip in Europe’s biggest thermal lake, Gyógy-tó, relish in the flavours of the gastronomy scene and hit the heights on a hiking trail. Shake things up with some water sports, peruse the picturesque period architecture and soak in the serenity of this off-the-beaten-track town.
How to get from Budapest to Hévíz:
28. Szeged
Adorned by its rich architectural heritage, Szeged is saturated with enchanting museums, galleries and monuments.
Bask in the beauty of the perfectly-manicured parks and gardens, soak in the spectacular baths and peer up at St. Demetrius Tower.
See the neo-Baroque architecture in the Szeged National Theatre, step inside the impressive Móra Ferenc Museum and watch city life unfold from Széchenyi Square.
For an array of activities and outdoor experiences, Szeged is one of the top day trips from Budapest by train.
How to get from Budapest to Szeged:
27. Koszeg
Uncover the undisturbed beauty of Hungary’s western corner with a trip to Koszeg.
Scattered with an ancient Old Town, bustling squares and time-worn architecture, this city will take you back in time. See the Church of St. James, visit the Jurisics Castle and don’t miss the Hétforrás.
How to get from Budapest to Koszeg:
26. Mátrafüred
Located in Heves, Mátrafüred sits at the southern end of the Mátra mountain range.
This quaint village offers a handful of humble finds, with only a handful of attractions. This day trip from Budapest is ideal for those looking to disconnect from city life. Take a scenic walk in the forest-fringed mountains and taste the mouth-watering flavours on a Mátra Hills wine tour.
How to get from Budapest to Mátrafüred:
25. Rám-szakadék
Situated just outside the village of Dömös, Rám-szakadék is dotted with volcanic rock walls, thundering waterfalls and hefty hiking trails.
Climb through the caves, listen to the sounds of Mother Nature and lose yourself in the sublime scenery. Be warned, this destination is not for the faint-hearted. If adrenaline-fuelled adventure is your calling, then you don't want to miss this.
How to get from Budapest to Rám-szakadék:
24. Tata
Embracing an eventful history, Tata is teeming with Baroque buildings, large lakes and verdant parks.
Among the huge haul of historic edifices, the Renaissance fortress and open-air geological museum are undoubtedly a highlight. Soak up the summer sun, see a colourful festival and embark on a mix of breezy outdoor activities. For an outdoor escape, Tata is one of the best day trips from Budapest.
How to get from Budapest to Tata:
23. Puszta Great Plains
Etched in the eastern end of Budapest, the Puszta Great Plains are home to verdant, vast grasslands.
Watch a traditional horse show, take a deep dive into the history of Hungarian shepherds and taste the flavours of authentic Hungarian cuisine. Enjoy lunch, a show and the scenery as you see it all on this Puszta full-day tour from Budapest.
How to get from Budapest to Puszta Great Plains:
22. Nagytétény Castle
Anchoring the south of the city centre, Nagytétény Castle makes for one of the quickest day trips from Budapest.
Tucked in the 22nd District, this breathtaking Baroque-style palace dates back to the 18th century. Home to the Museum of Applied Arts, you can uncover Hungarian and German furniture, luxury clocks and watches from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
How to get from Budapest to Nagytétény Castle:
21. Danube Bend
Nestled in the north of Budapest, the Danube Bend is dowsed with postcard-worthy panoramas from every angle.
Backed by the misty Transdanubian Mountains, you can appreciate the landscape’s effortless curve. For a memorable view, hit the heights of the Prédikálószék Lookout. Kick the fuss of transport and bask in the beautiful surroundings on the all-inclusive day tour from Budapest.
Take a step back in time to see the largest basilica in Hungary, Esztergom, and swing past quaint towns like Visegrad and Szentendre. Step foot on the 750-year-old stones in the formal Royal Residence, learn about the country’s history and make your way around the Danube Bend.
How to get from Budapest to Danube Bend:
20. Egerszalók
With thermal baths and spas serving as a backdrop, Egerszalók is one of Hungary’s most raved-about villages.
Perched on the 412-meter-high Salt Hill, the trickling waters of the thermal springs trail along the limestone formations. For unreal natural splendour, Egerszalók is hard to beat. Take things to the next level at the Salaris Resort Spa, and take your pick between the 17 indoor and outdoor pools.
How to get from Budapest to Egerszalók:
19. Pannonhalma Archabbey
The show-stopping Abbey of St. Martin, also known as the Territorial Abbey of Pannonhalma, is the major focal point for many travellers that come to Pannonhalma.
The monastery, in combination with the Calvary, the Lady Chapel and the region is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hugging the hills of the Márton-hegy (Mount of St. Martin), the area is hemmed in by a history that dates back to the 10th century. For something unique, the Pannonhalma Archabbey is one of the top day trips from Budapest.
Kick back and enjoy this inclusive day tour from Budapest. You’ll travel to Pannonhalma and stop at other Hungarian destinations like Gyor and Lébény. Wander around the well-preserved buildings, feel the enchantment of the Old Town and get off the typical tourist trail.
How to get from Budapest to Pannonhalma Abbey:
18. Debrecen
Highlighted as Hungary’s second biggest city, Debrecen is dowsed with fewer crowds than you'd expect.
Despite its significant role in Hungary's history, the city has remained fairly unfrequented compared to Budapest. Take a deep dive into the extensive history at the Déri Museum, get immersed in nature in the Great Forest Parkand and hang out in the heart of the city at Kossuth Tér.
Don’t miss the Reformed Great Church of Debrecen and the Millenniumi Szökokút Fountain and mix up the sightseeing in the MODEM Centre for Modern and Contemporary Arts.
If art, history and escaping the crowds sounds good to you, Debrecen is one of the top day trips from Budapest by train.
How to get from Budapest to Debrecen:
17. Hortobágy National Park
Hungary is home to humble towns, heart-warming locals and hilltop-hugging escapes.
The countryside, although often overlooked by day trippers, comes with a wealth of whimsical experiences. From grassy plains and damp wetlands, the Hortobágy National Park offers nature lover's the ultimate escape.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park embraces elements of traditional Hungarian culture. Listen to the symphonies of gipsy musicians, get gobsmacked by a puszta horse show and come face to face with the region’s wealth of wildlife.
How to get from Budapest to Hortobágy National Park:
16. Velence Lake
Although Velence is often overlooked for the lyrical landscapes of Lake Balaton, it still makes for one of the best day trips from Budapest.
Framed with fewer crowds and quiet beaches, this gem is an absolute hideaway. Pop into the nearby town of Gárdony, cycle or walk around the lake and discover birdlife in the Dinnyés Marshes Nature Reserve.
How to get from Budapest to Velence Lake:
15. Bratislava, Slovakia
Slovakia’s capital city is fringed with fairytale-like castles, a terracotta-tiled Old Town and grandiose architecture.
With a world of whimsical finds and world-class attractions, Bratislava makes for a fantastic foray.
Pop into the Primatial Palace and see the trickling fountain of St. George, visit the notorious Michael’s Gate and see the vibrant roof of the Old Town Hall.
Get lost in the maze of streets in the Old Town, stroll past the Blue Church and don’t miss Presidential Palace.
Put the cherry on top with a trip up to the hilltop-hugging Bratislava Castle and dabble in the dazzling views of the rolling Danube River.
How to get from Budapest to Bratislava:
14. Gödöllo Palace
Sitting in the northeastern end of Budapest, Gödöllo Palace offers meticulously-manicured gardens, resplendent features and plenty of guided tours.
As the second-largest Baroque chateau in the world, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Wander through the cream-coloured hallways, step foot in the royal suites and imagine yourself sinking into the sumptuous furniture. Keep things conundrum-free on this Gödöllo day trip from Budapest. Follow your guide through the royal residence and learn about the former summer home of Queen Elisabeth.
How to get from Budapest to Gödöllo Palace:
13. Hollóko
Hemmed in the flower-fringed streets, petite abodes and myriad museums, Hollóko hones in on how Hungary used to be.
Over the centuries, this traditional town has maintained its roots, from the architecture and food to the festivities and houses. Hollóko is a prime example of how Hungarians lived back in the 18th and 19th centuries, offering visitors a type of open-air museum experience.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site oozes charm and authenticity, so if conscious travel is on the cards, Hollóko is the place to see. See the 13th-century Hollóko Castle, step inside the Doll Museum and witness the traditional costumes during the easter festivities.
How to get from Budapest to Hollóko:
12. Lake Balaton
Proudly pinned as Central Europe’s largest lake, Lake Balaton is the country’s ultimate summertime sojourn.
Brimming with beaches, wild water sports activities and quaint villages, this panoramic place is well worth the trip. Kick things off in the town of Balatonfüred, where villa-lined streets and thermal spas dominate the scene.
If you’re hiring a car, swing by personality-packed towns like Siófok and Tihany. In Tihany, there’s a clashing contrast between the verdant nature reserve and the small village. Topped with a Benedictine Abbey that dates back to 1055, this town is worth the stop.
For a frenzy-free foray, hop aboard this Lake Balaton tour from Budapest. Sail on a ship in Balatonfüred, meander through the nature reserve and soak up all the scenic lake views.
How to get from Budapest to Balatonfüred:
11. Gyor
Residing on the route towards neighbouring capitals like Austria and Vienna, Gyor is one of the country’s biggest cities.
Boasting a bounty of Baroque architecture, lively squares and river-perched palaces, this town makes for one of the best day trips from Budapest by train.
People-watch in Széchenyi Square, marvel at the 17th-century Carmelite Church and walk around Vienna Gate Square.
Peer up at Bishop's Castle and Episcopal Palace and close things up with a trip inside the 11th-century Basilica of Gyor.
How to get from Budapest to Gyor:
10. Esztergom
Burrowed on the border with Slovakia, history-etched Esztergom was once the country’s capital city.
This historic heart of Hungary is home to the tallest building in the country, the neoclassical Esztergom Basilica. Take a step back in time in the Esztergom Castle and peep at medieval religious art in the Christian Museum. Replete with a riveting history, Esztergom is one of the most popular day trips from Budapest.
How to get from Budapest to Esztergom:
9. Etyek Wine Region
You can’t go wrong with a day trip to a winery! For a graped-up escape from the godsend, head to the Etyek Wine Region.
Woven with a long-standing tradition of winemaking, the region sits just a stone’s throw away from Budapest. Renowned for its white wines, there are an array of grapes cultivated throughout.
Sample the aromatic flavours as you pick and choose between the family-run wineries, see beyond the cellars and learn about the production process. Stop by the quaint village of Etyek, soak up all the countryside charm and savour the flavours in the local restaurant scene.
Kick back on this half-day Etyek wine tour from Budapest. Taste the rich tapestry of wines, connect with local Hungarian winemakers and enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal.
How to get from Budapest to Etyek Wine Region:
8. Kecskemét
Tucked in the heart of central Hungary, Kecskemét is carved with eye-catching landmarks.
Begin your day dabbling in the historic city centre and the main square. Swing by the Art Nouveau-style City Hall, pop into the nearby churches and discover the downtown’s bounty of Baroque architecture. Take a step outside the city bounds and learn about traditional farms and horsemen in Puszta or Pannonian Steppe.
How to get from Budapest to Kecskemét:
7. Szentendre
Hugging the Danube River, character-packed Szentendre is home to a patchwork of pursuits.
Stroll along the cobblestone streets, admire the fine work in the art galleries and keep your eyes peeled for well-preserved medieval architecture. Among the myriad finds, squeeze in some time to see the Szentendre Skanzen Village Museum, the country’s largest open-air museum.
This half-day tour from Budapest winds you through the seaside sojourn of Szentendre. Get inspired by the ‘Artists Village’ on the Danube Bend, meander through Marzipan Museum and see the series of candy-coloured homes.
How to get from Budapest to Szentendre:
6. Miskolc & Diósgyor Castle
As one of the lesser-known day trips from Budapest, Miskolc is seriously underrated.
Nestled in the northeast, this destination is dowsed in countless churches and postcard-worthy sights. The real wonder, however, lies just outside the village's bounds. Anchoring the southwest of Miskolc, step inside the cave walls and dip inside the ancient thermal bath in the Cave Bath. Head out west of the city centre and endeavour into Diósgyor Castle, a medieval masterpiece that’s meddled with history.
How to get from Budapest to Miskolc:
5. Eger
Nestled in the northeast of Budapest, Eger is magnified by medieval streets, local cuisine and renowned red wine.
The heaving hilltops are carved with a wealth of wine cellars, each offering wine tastings and insight into the cultivation process. Wander around the wood-clad Archdiocesan Library, hop into the historic Lyceum and don't miss the crowd favourite, Eger Castle.
Save yourself the hassle of transport and enjoy this all-inclusive day trip to Eger. Peer up at the northernmost Turkish minaret tower, take a dip in the thermal baths in Egerszalók and lock lips with Hungarian red wine in the Szépasszony-völgy Valley. Could it get any better?!
How to get from Budapest to Eger:
4. Pécs
Sitting in the southwest of Hungary, Pécs was founded way back in ancient Roman times.
Harbouring a not-so-humble mix of cultural influences, this city is crisscrossed with a cocktail of religious buildings. See the stately Pécs Cathedral, visit the Hassan Jakovali Mosque and stand in awe at the Ottoman Empire's Mosque of Pasha Gazi Kasim.
Mosey through the city's former medieval marketplace, Széchenyi Square, and stumble through the sublime art displays in the Victor Vasarely Museum. To see the interplay of Hungary’s harmonious handful of clashing cultural influences, Pécs is one of the top day trips from Budapest by train.
How to get from Budapest to Pécs:
3. Visegrád
Cemented along the Danube Bend, the historic town of Visegrád is one of Hungary’s top destinations.
Home to a huge haul of castles, towers and palaces that are steeped deep in history, Visegrád is a history buff's haven. Traverse the verdant riverfront, see the Renaissance Royal Palace and step inside the museum to see well-preserved, 15th-century finds.
Reach the summit of the 13th-century Solomon Tower and stroll along the ramparts for remarkable views.
How to get from Budapest to Visegrad:
2. Aggtelek National Park & Baradla Cave
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aggtelek National Park is arrayed with adventure and awe-inspiring natural splendour.
Burrowed along the border with Slovakia, this national park poses a panoply of walking trails, limestone caves and wildlife. Head deep underground to the Baradla Cave, an intricate cave system that is carved into Slovakia. Running for over 25 km, the caves are packed with perplexing rock formations and dripping stones. With a full front of nonpareil natural wonder, Aggtelek National Park and Baradla Cave are one of the best day trips from Budapest.
How to get from Budapest to Aggtelek National Park:
1. Vienna, Austria
Austria’s capital city poses a patchwork of colourful streets, captivating architecture and enviable experiences.
Vienna is one of the best day trips from Budapest, and although it may be hard to see it all in one day, you can certainly scratch the surface. Get the ball rolling in St. Stephen’s Cathedral, strut your stuff down Graben Promenade and roam around the resplendent Hofburg Palace. Navigate the narrow streets as you make your way to the neo-Gothic City Hall, get a dose of greenery in Volksgarten and visit the neoclassical Austrian Parliament.
Swing by the Vienna State Opera, see the nearby Karlskirche dome and walk past the opulent Schönbrunn Palace. Don’t forget to relish in the flavours of local cuisine at a restaurant, or better yet, at the Naschmarkt.
How to get from Budapest to Vienna:
Best Time to Visit Budapest
In the off-season, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), you can expect mild weather with a few showers.
If you’re interested in hiking, sightseeing and dipping in the city’s notorious thermal baths, the shoulder seasons are an ideal fit. With far fewer crowds and more affordable prices, this is the best time to visit Budapest.
The summer season, June to August, boasts temperatures that can soar up to 30 °C. During this time, you’ll get to witness the wealth of parks, terraces and lakes light up. The atmosphere is cheery and the days are long, with daylight lasting up to 16 hours.
The winter season, December to February, offers chilly weather, budget-friendly prices and a unique side of the landscape. Straddling sub-zero temperatures, you can expect snow-dusted attractions, ice rinks aplenty and Christmas markets running full boar.
Things to do in Budapest
Scattered with steaming outdoor spas, ramshackle-ruin bars and awe-inspiring architectural gems, Budapest is steeped deep in splendour. Home to a huge haul of activities and attractions, the humble Hungarian capital is pretty hard to beat.
Here are some of the best things to do in Budapest:
Take a dip in the Széchenyi Spa
See the shimmering lights on a nighttime sightseeing cruise
Cruise down the Danube River with dinner & live music
Get active on a standup paddleboarding tour
Relish your tastebuds with a wine, cheese & charcuterie tasting
See the sights on an e-bike to Castle Hill
Learn about the history of Buda Castle
Take a step back in time in Memento Park
Get around Budapest on a Jeep tour
Watch a folk show on a dinner cruise with an operetta
How to Get Around Budapest
Budapest boasts an extensive transport network, with buses, trams, boats and trains running frequently. Although the city is highly walkable, you can rely on public transport if you need to get somewhere quickly.
The city’s official transportation, Budapest Közlekedési Központ (BKK) has a convenient, easy-to-use app for getting around. With maps, routes, timetables and planning features available, navigating Budapest is hassle-free.
Keep things budget-friendly with the Budapest Card. With discounts on attractions and unlimited free public transport, you can essentially see more for less. If you’re visiting the city for one, two or three days, you could also opt for the hop-on hop-off bus.
To get from Budapest Airport to the city centre, you can catch the efficient 100E Airport Express Bus. This option costs around €2.40 and takes about 45 minutes. Otherwise, you can consider sharing an airport shuttle bus or opting for a private transfer.
FAQs
What countries are best to visit from Budapest?
Tucked in the heart of Central Europe, Hungary is enclosed by countries like Slovakia, Austria, Slovenia, Serbia, Romania and Croatia. The most popular countries to visit for a day trip are Austria, Slovakia and Croatia.
How many days are enough to see Budapest?
Two days is an ideal time to see some of the city’s major attractions, whereas four to five days will give you a chance to fully dive in. To see the capital city and do at least one day trip, consider spending three days in Budapest.
What other cities are near Budapest?
Within Hungary, the closest cities are Györ, Debrecen, Pécs and Szeged. The closest foreign city is Vienna in Austria.
Where can I go by train from Budapest?
Thanks to its central location, Budapest is well-connected with three train stations and a network that covers 7,606 km. Here are some of the best train routes and the travel time involved:
Budapest to Munich, Germany: 6hr55m
Budapest to Prague, Czech Republic: 6hr45m
Budapest to Vienna, Austria: 2hr45m
Budapest to Warsaw, Poland: 9hr45m
Budapest to Zagreb, Croatia: 6hr20m
Budapest to Ljubljana, Slovenia: 9hr5m
Budapest to Bucharest, Romania: 16hr (overnight train)
Budapest to Bratislava, Slovakia: 2hr40m
3 Week Central Europe Itinerary
Budapest is brimming with bewildering pursuits, from the centuries-old castles to the trickling blue lakes.
If you're planning a trip to Hungary, spice things up with an itinerary around Central Europe! With countries like Slovakia, Poland, Austria, Czech Republic and Germany just a stone’s throw away, exploring further couldn’t be easier or more economical.
This Central Europe Itinerary for 3 Weeks kicks off in Germany's capital city. Navigate the nuances in Berlin, before hopping on a high-speed train down to Bavaria’s hearty capital, Munich. Head into the Czech Republic and spend a few days frolicking around the artsy capital city of Prague. From there, make your way into postcard-worthy Poland and tick off the bucket list sites in big cities like Krakow and Warsaw.
Cross the border into Slovakia and keep things on a high note in the capital, Bratislava. Get immersed in greenery in the High Tatras, before boarding a train into Hungary’s hot spot, Budapest. Then, after a few days of fumbling over the enchanting scenery, bring the trip to a close in Austria's capital city, Vienna.
Why Visit Budapest?
Slewed with spinetingling history, stunning scenery and sumptuous architecture, Budapest is a bucket list destination. With delectable cuisine, endless events year-round and tonnes of free activities, Hungary’s capital city is home to a huge haul of pursuits. Before you embark on the trip of a lifetime, save this guide on the Top Day Trips from Budapest.
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