More about: 16 Best Day Trips and Tours from Budapest
Budapest has history, corners and monuments to discover, and hiring a guided tour to visit every corner of the city is undoubtedly one of the essential things to do on your trip to Budapest. With round trip tours in the same day, you can get to know its surroundings, which have even more to offer to the visitor.
1. Three-hour guided tour of Budapest
Since I am a fan of city tours, this guided walking tour of Budapest is one of my favorites because, being longer than average (three hours as opposed to the usual two), it not only covers more areas of the city, but also covers a greater number of stories about the city and its customs.
This tour is ideal if you are looking for a complete overview of the main points of the city without focusing on any particular aspect.
What is included
- Guided bus tour of approximately 3 hours around Budapest.
- Air-conditioned vehicle.
- Live professional guide.
- Walking tour through the Buda Castle Quarter and Heroes' Square.
2. Budapest bus tour
A local guide will pick you up at your hotel to start this bus tour of Budapest with panoramic views. Throughout the tour the guide will show you the different points of interest of the city explaining the significance of each of them and will take advantage of the key locations to tell you about Hungarian customs.
This tour of Budapest by bus has a duration of two hours. There will be several stops along the way where you can get off the bus for a closer look at the site and take pictures. At the end of the tour the bus will drop you off at a central point and from there you will return to the hotel by your own means. This option is ideal to get a first overview of the city, including the places that are further away from the center, before visiting it at your own pace.
What's included
- 1, 2 or 3 day ticket to tour Budapest by sightseeing bus with free stops.
- Stops near the main attractions of the city.
- Pre-recorded commentary.
- Free Wifi on board.
3. Guided tour to Sissi's Gödöllo Palace
Gödöllo Palace is located in the hinterland of Budapest about half an hour away from the center. When you book this guided tour of the Gödöllo Palace and choose the day you want to take it, you will receive an email with information about the meeting point from where your air-conditioned vehicle will depart in the center of Budapest. There you will meet the driver, the rest of the group and an expert guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
The Gödöllo Palace tour lasts about three hours, is available in English, Spanish, French, German and Italian and, in addition to the transfer and the services of the guide, the entrance fees are included.
What is included
- Approximately 3-hour excursion to the Gödöllő Palace from Budapest.
- Entrance to the Royal Palace.
- Guided tour through the former summer residence of Sissi for about 75 minutes approx.
- Professional guide.
What will you see in the Gödöllo Palace?
Impressive manicured gardens and luxurious rooms decorated in the style of the Hungarian aristocracy of the 18th century, but more important than what you will see is what you will learn. This palace is known for being the favorite of the Queen of Hungary and Empress of Austria, Sissi. History has made this character reach our days surrounded by many anecdotes among which stand out her love for Hungary, her beauty or her desire for freedom, but there are many more.
During the tour of the Gödöllo Palace you will know that part of the history of Sissi that does not appear in period films: the tragedy that befell her with the death of her daughter, the fights with the mother of the emperor, the lovers of the marriage or her problems with food. If you do not yet know the story of this non-conformist empress, you will end this tour absolutely fascinated by her figure.
The best part of this tour is the stories you will learn about the Empress Sissi, considered one of the most important historical myths of Europe.
4. Budapest Jewish Quarter Tour
The Jewish tradition in this city is very strong and throughout the city there are different tributes to all the Jews who were killed during the Second World War. This walking tour through the Jewish quarter of Budapest, about two hours and a quarter, focuses on the history of this people.
In the Jewish quarter of Budapest you will see monuments such as the Great Synagogue (one of the largest in Europe) or the memorial The Tree of Life in whose silver leaves are written the names of the victims of the Holocaust. However, one of the most moving tributes to this people is not in this neighborhood but on the banks of the Danube; it is a long row of shoes carved in iron representing the murder of thousands of victims.
This tour is ideal if you are interested in the history of the Jewish people and the Second World War, because, beyond the tour itself, the real value of this tour is in the explanations of the guide.
What is included
- Walking tour of approximately two and a half hours through the Jewish Quarter of Budapest.
- Entrance to the Great Synagogue of Budapest and guided tour.
- Historian guide.
5. Guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament is a landmark in the city of Budapest. Located on the Pest bank of the Danube River, is the largest building in Hungary and also one of the most emblematic both for its impressive architecture and the meaning it has. This tour of Budapest with visit to the Parliament is focused on the visit to the Parliament (tickets included) and its surroundings.
The guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the entrance of the Parliament, where you can enjoy a guided tour of an hour and a half. In addition to information about the building itself, you will also learn details about Hungarian politics and be regaled with historical narratives that will make this city seem even more exciting. A must-see is the illuminated Parliament at some point during your trip.
The great thing about this tour is that it allows you to get close to a very important part of the city's history that would be difficult to get to know on your own.
What is included
- Private day tour to Vienna from Budapest.
- Expert local guide.
- Round trip transfer from the selected point.
- Lunch.
6. Day trip to Szentendre, a village of artists
Many times we visit a big city and we wonder what the surroundings of the country are like, what the Hungarian landscape is really like and the way of life of the inhabitants who do not live in the capital. With an excursion to Szentendre you will discover all this and I assure you that the result will not leave you indifferent.
Why this village and not another one? Szentendre is one of the most visited villages of Budapest and is known for the craftsmen who make and sell their products there. Certainly the center of the village is set up for visitors, but if you go a little further you can discover a beautiful lake, mountain scenery and traditional Hungarian houses.
If you go in winter you will be surprised how few people there are in the streets, something that is due to the low temperatures. Do not miss the opportunity to talk to the artisans and merchants; most of them understand English and are extremely friendly. The best part of this excursion is the intimate contact you will be able to establish with the local artisans, especially if you go in winter when there are fewer tourists on the streets.
What is included
- A professional guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
- Tasting of the famous Lángos, or Hungarian fried bread.
- River cruise if you take this tour between May and September
- Visits to the ruins of an ancient Roman city
7. Day trip to Balaton lake
Lake Balaton is one of the most beautiful landscapes of Hungary. Located to two hours approximately in car of Budapest, the tour is worth the trouble. Both the lake and its surroundings are a real fairytale landscape and, therefore, this excursion to Lake Balaton is one of the best options to appreciate the beauty of the country apart from its cities and buildings.
Lunch is on your own and is not included in the 65 euros that the excursion costs; you can take it in any restaurant in Balaton or take a picnic to eat it while you contemplate the lake. The languages in which this excursion is available are Spanish, French, English, German and Italian. The best of this excursion is the contrast that supposes a landscape as hallucinating as the one of the Lake Balaton in relation to the stately streets of the city of Budapest.
What is included
- Pick up from your hotel in Budapest (the return will be from a central point in the center of Budapest).
- The transfer in a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle.
- A visit to the Herend Porcelain Factory where you will learn how traditional Hungarian porcelain is made and, if you wish, make purchases
- A coffee on a terrace in Herend
- A professional guide who will accompany you throughout the tour to tell you about the main points of interest you will see during the tour, as well as the local customs of the country and its inhabitants.
8. Excursion to Puszta with horse show
Surely during your trip to Budapest you have seen monuments that have left you speechless and you have discovered legends that have led you to want to know more about this city and its culture. In this case, this excursion to the Puszta with equestrian show in the area of the Great Hungarian Plains is the perfect option to learn that extra lesson about Hungarian life and customs. How? Knowing closely one of its main traditions: the equestrian exhibitions.
During all these activities a professional guide will accompany you on your one day excursion to the Great Hungarian Plains or Puszta Plains from the meeting point in the center of Budapest (you will be informed by mail once you make your reservation). The total price of this experience is 65 euros. The best thing about this tour is that it is an optimal way to have a closer contact with the traditions of Hungary and with the people who still maintain them today.
What is included
- Equestrian acrobatics show.
- A visit to the city of Kecskemet including its tourist points of interest such as its synagogue or its art nouveau town hall.
- A visit to a traditional Hungarian farm where you will taste the typical welcome drink known as "apricot brandy".
- A carriage ride.
- A three-course lunch including goulash soup with live music.
9. Private day trip to Brastislava
Three hours away from Budapest is the city of Bratislava, capital of Slovakia. This is a city of orange roofs, cobblestone streets and huge castles, which, for its size, is manageable during a day trip to Bratislava and back from Budapest. You won't regret getting to know it with this private tour to Bratislava, which also includes a private local guide who will show you the secrets of the city.
On the other hand, you will have free time to explore the city at your leisure before returning to Budapest and visiting the historic center while listening to street musicians or having a drink in one of its outdoor terraces. The best of this tour is the personalized treatment of the guide (I advise you to ask him everything you want and "make the most" of it) and the possibility of getting to know a different city and country in a comfortable private transfer.
What is included
- A private local guide who will be available on an exclusive basis for you and your travel companions.
- The private transfer to and from Bratistlava with pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Budapest
- The guided city tour of Bratislava
- Lunch
10. Evening tour with folklore show
Hungary is a country of great traditions, and folklore is one of them. With this night tour, you will enjoy a traditional show accompanied by a dinner with typical Hungarian dishes. In addition, you will tour the main illuminated monuments of Budapest in a panoramic vehicle.
This tour is a unique way to immerse yourself in Hungarian culture and gastronomy while enjoying the magic of the city by night. If you are looking for an authentic experience, this dinner and show tour is an excellent choice.
What is included
- Panoramic night tour of Budapest
- Traditional three-course dinner with drink
- Folklore show in a typical restaurant
- Expert guide in English
11. City tour through the Buda part of the city
Budapest is divided into two parts separated by the Danube: Buda and Pest. This walking tour focuses exclusively on the Buda side, the more historic and quiet part of the city, allowing you to explore it in more detail and depth.
During two hours, you will visit some of the most emblematic points of this part of the city, such as the Fisherman's Bastion, the Matthias Church and the Buda Castle. If you want to get to know this area in depth, I recommend this guided tour of Buda, an ideal experience for those who enjoy exploring on foot.
What is included
- Walking tour of the Buda area
- Expert guide on local history
- Visit to the main monuments on Buda Hill
- Explanations about the history and culture of the city
12. Budapest walking and boat tour
This tour combines the best of both worlds: a walking tour through the center of Budapest and a cruise on the Danube. It is the ideal way to see the main sights of the city from different perspectives.
The tour includes stops at landmarks such as the Parliament, St. Stephen's Basilica and Buda Castle, and the boat ride offers spectacular views of the city from the river. For those who are short on time and want to see it all, this combined tour of Budapest is a perfect option.
What's included
- Walking tour of the main monuments of Budapest
- Boat trip on the Danube
- English speaking guide with detailed explanations
- Panoramic views from the river
13. Budapest night tour
When night falls, Budapest is transformed. Its illuminated monuments create a magical atmosphere that is worth seeing at leisure. On this night walking tour, an expert guide will take you to the most impressive sights of the city while you learn about its history and curiosities.
From the Parliament to the Chain Bridge to the State Opera House, this tour will allow you to admire the city at its most spectacular. If you are looking for a different experience, I recommend this night tour of Budapest, ideal to see the city in a different light.
What is included
- Night tour of the main monuments
- English speaking guide with historical explanations
- Tour of the alternative bars of the city
- Views of the illuminated buildings
14. Guided tour of the Gödöllo Palace and horse show
With this tour you can visit the Gödöllo Palace, the former residence of Empress Sissi, and enjoy an impressive horse show that pays tribute to the Hungarian tradition of horsemanship.
In addition to the palace tour, the experience includes a visit to a traditional farm, where you can see superbly trained horses up close and taste local snacks. If you are passionate about Hungarian history and culture, this horse show tour is a must-do experience.
What's included
- Entrance to Gödöllo Palace with guided tour
- Equestrian show at a traditional farm
- Regional snacks and drinks included
- Round trip transportation from Budapest
15. Excursion to the cities of the Danube Bend
If you want to discover the surroundings of Budapest, this day trip will take you to three historic towns along the Danube Bend: Esztergom, Visegrád and Szentendre. Each has its own charm, from the grand basilica in Esztergom to the panoramic views from the citadel in Visegrád.
During the tour, you will walk through these beautiful Hungarian landscapes with an expert guide who will explain the history and culture of the region. In addition, if you travel between May and September, you can enjoy a boat ride on the Danube back to Budapest. For a complete experience, I recommend this excursion to the Danube Bend, ideal to get to know more than just the capital.
What's included
- Guided tour to Esztergom, Visegrád and Szentendre
- Entrance to the basilica of Esztergom
- Boat trip on the Danube (between May and September)
- Round trip transportation from Budapest
16. Private Danube Bend Excursion
If you prefer a more exclusive tour, this private Danube Bend tour is the best choice. Accompanied by a personal guide, you will visit Esztergom, Visegrád and Szentendre at your own pace, with the flexibility to stop at the points that interest you most.
In addition to private transportation and lunch included, if you take the tour between May and September, you can enjoy a boat ride on the Danube. For those looking for comfort and a personalized experience, this private excursion to the Danube Bend is the best alternative.
What is included
- Exclusive private guide
- Visit to Esztergom, Visegrád and Szentendre
- Lunch included
- Boat trip on the Danube (between May and September)
- Pick up and return to the hotel by private vehicle
Organize your excursion or tour in Budapest
What to bring
Although you visit Budapest in summer, the temperatures are usually low and most of the tours of the city are on foot. In addition to wearing comfortable shoes, I recommend you to bring a good coat so you will not be tempted to abandon the tour in the middle of the tour in order to take refuge in a cafe for a hot chocolate.
Always hire official guides
In central locations of Budapest, it is common to find city tours offered by locals. A local person can give you interesting tips about your visit, but keep in mind that many of them are not specialized guides who can put you in the historical context of the city. In addition, some are not fluent in other languages and there comes a point in the tour when this can become frustrating. It is best to make sure you book your tour in advance.
Enjoy the gastronomy
Finally, I advise you to ask your guide for recommendations especially in gastronomic matters. In Budapest it is very cheap to eat well, but the names of the dishes are not exactly intuitive; the guide will be happy to recommend you according to your tastes, something you will be very grateful for when you sit down to eat in a restaurant. Also in the city, dealing with street names can be an arduous task even with Google Maps. And, of course, get to know all the customs before your trip.
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To know the surroundings of the city of Budapest is an optimal plan for when you have squeezed to the maximum the Hungarian capital, but have you done it? Don't forget to plan excursions during your visit, but don't forget that Budapest has much more than meets the eye. Know all the essential things to do in your trip to Budapest.
If you also want to complete your trip with the most iconic experience of Budapest, which is also super relaxing, I recommend you to visit the Spas of Budapest.