20 Best Day Trips From Budapest

Szentendre montage1-by SNRTZ-Wikimedia Commons

20 Best Day Trips From Budapest

Most visitors begin their exploration of Hungary in Budapest, its magnificent capital city. It’s simple to understand why, given that the city’s impressive architecture, hot spas, and ruin bars all draw different kinds of travelers, guaranteeing that there is never a shortage of things to do for tourists. However, this nation in central Europe is far larger than just this one city. You should take at least one day trip from Budapest while you are there to explore different areas of Hungary and learn more about what makes it so fascinating. The greatest day trips from Budapest showcase everything that Hungary has to offer, from other cities and towns to lakes and the outdoors. Here are some of the best day trips from Budapest.

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1. Lake Balaton

Balaton Hungary Landscape-by txd-Wikimedia Commons

One of the nicest sites to visit in Hungary is Lake Balaton, which is especially well-liked in the summer. This is Hungary’s equivalent of the coastline because the country is landlocked. The spa town of Balatonfüred, which is renowned for its hot springs and the 18th-century villas that line its avenues, is where many tourists begin their journey. The Tihany Peninsula follows, which is shared by a nature preserve and the tiny settlement of Tihany that protrudes into the lake. Most people know the area for the stunning Tihany Benedictine Abbey, which dates back to 1055. There are some decent views of Lake Balaton as well. If you have extra time, think about visiting the Szigliget Fortress on a nearby hill in the town of Szigliget.

How to get there: The ease of using public transportation will depend on where you choose to go on Lake Balaton. The quickest way to get there, which takes about two hours, is usually to take a bus or rail to Balatonfüred. A more carefree strategy is to go on a tour with a guide.

2. Szentendre

One of the most well-known day trips from Budapest is to the adorable village of Szentendre. The town, which is situated along the Danube River just north of Budapest, is renowned for its creative flair. The ideal way to explore the city is to simply wander through its winding pathways while taking in all the vibrant Baroque homes and postcard-perfect cobblestone lanes. As you go around, you’ll come across innumerable galleries and artisan businesses that have sustained Szentendre and given it the moniker “The Artists’ Village.” Don’t forget to see its lovely promenade along the Danube, which further enhances the picturesque surroundings of the town. Szentendre is a great place to go if you’re looking for inspiration because it so brilliantly depicts the bohemian attitude of the 18th and 19th centuries.

How to get there: Buses and trains go frequently between Budapest and Szentendre, making the journey quick. Buses typically take 25 minutes, compared to 40 minutes for trains. Of course, you should join a guided tour if you want to be shown around.

3. Gödöllő Palace

Park of Royal Palace, Gödöllő-by Christo-Wikimedia Commons

One of the most charming locations among the many sights to explore in Hungary outside of Budapest is Gödöll Palace. The revered Empress Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately known as “Sissi,” formerly made this Baroque chateau her vacation home. It is actually the second largest of its sort in the entire world. You can now see the opulent interior as it was in the 19th century thanks to restoration efforts. You can then wander outside into the serene park that surrounds the chateau’s grounds after viewing the opulent halls, rooms, and staircases. The royal stables and gardens are both located there.

How to get there: Local buses and trains frequently travel to Gödöll Palace, which is located just outside of Budapest. Trains take just under an hour, while buses take 30 minutes. A guided tour is another option for learning more about the palace and “Sissi.”

practical information

address:Gödöllő, Grassalkovich-kastély 5852, 2100 Hungary

hours:mon-sun; 10 am-6 pm

phone:+36 30 427 3535

website: Royal Palace of Gödöllő (Gödöllői Királyi Kastély)

4. Esztergom

Another well-liked day trip from Budapest is to the picturesque city of Esztergom, which is right next to the Slovakian border. Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest cities, is located along the Danube and once served as the nation’s capital. Start your tour at the magnificent neoclassical Esztergom Basilica, which serves as the seat of the Hungarian Catholic Church and is also the tallest structure in the nation. A museum is presently housed in the former Royal Palace at Esztergom Castle, which is nearby the basilica. The city’s Christian Museum, which houses a noteworthy collection of medieval religious art, is also close by.

How to get there: Take a conventional bus or train, any of which will take you from Budapest to Esztergom in about an hour. However, a guided tour of the area is the most convenient method to include other destinations like Szentendre and Visegrád.

5. Bratislava

Bratislava Panorama R01-by Marc Ryckaert (MJJR)-Wikimedia Commons

Slovakia is not far from Budapest, therefore one of the finest side trips from Budapest is to go there and explore its capital city, Bratislava. Bratislava may be explored extensively in a single day. To fully appreciate the majestic architecture of the city, particularly the Old Town Hall’s vibrant tile roof, start in the Old Town and the city’s central square. Next, go to the neighboring Primatial Palace to see the imaginative St. George fountain, then ascend to Michael’s Gate, a Bratislava landmark. The stunning Blue Church is located not far from the old district. The Presidential Palace is a grand structure to the north of the Old Town that has a fascinating fountain in front of it. Last but not least is Bratislava Castle, a fortress with white walls that overlooks the city and the Danube River from a hilltop.

How to get there: Take one of the regularly scheduled trains from Budapest to Bratislava which takes 2.5 hours to get there.

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6. Kecskemét

You probably won’t be familiar with the name Kecskemét, but this city in central Hungary is one you won’t quickly forget. Start in the historic district’s central square, where you’ll be immediately encircled by notable landmarks. You may view the unquestionably stunning City Hall nearby, which features an elaborate art nouveau structure. After seeing the two nearby churches, spend some time wandering through the city’s central district to discover its magnificent Baroque structures. Then travel to the Puszta or Pannonian Steppe, which is populated by horsemen and traditional farms. There, you may take a ride and watch the horses in action while also sampling some of the regional fares.

How to get there: Budapest to Kecskemét train service is available every hour and takes slightly under 1.5 hours. However, you should take a guided tour if you want to see more of the neighborhood.

7. Visegrád

Visegrád castle-by Vid Pogacnik-Wikimedia Commons

The medieval town of Visegrád is one of the finest Hungary attractions tucked away along the so-called Danube Bend. Visegrád’s array of castles, towers, and palaces, which have given the city such historical significance over the years, are the principal attractions of the city. Stop by the former Renaissance Royal Palace that King Matthias Corvinus constructed. The palace is currently a museum with authentically preserved royal suites and apartments from the fifteenth century. After that, continue to the Solomon Tower, a fortress from the 13th century that has a tiny museum on the history of the town. The impressive Visegrád Citadel, a 13th-century fortification that offers breathtaking vistas as you stroll around its ramparts, sits high above all of this.

How to get there: It takes about 40 minutes to get by train from Budapest to Visegrád. Buses run on a similar schedule but are a little slower, taking about 50 minutes. But taking a planned cruise excursion is unquestionably the best way to get there.

8. Vienna

Even if Vienna is difficult to explore in a single day, there is still a lot to see. Start with St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which has a lovely roof pattern. To get to the Hofburg Palace, continue down the Graben promenade through the historic district. You may observe the neoclassical Austrian Parliament and the neo-Gothic City Hall by passing through the orderly Volksgarten. As you move through the city, pass the Vienna State Opera on your way to the stately Karlskirche’s enormous dome. Before visiting the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, which features luxurious royal rooms and views of the Gloriette, fuel up at a Vienna coffee shop or a stand in the Naschmarkt market.

How to get there: Regular trains run between Budapest and Vienna, and the journey takes about 2.5 hours.

9. Etyeki Manor Vineyard

Dvorák Guesthouse, 2019 Etyek-by Globetrotter19-Wikimedia Commons

The place is the ideal destination for a day spent visiting wineries. This undeveloped wine region, located just outside of Budapest, has a long history of producing wine. Due to the temperature and soil, the area is primarily recognized for its white wines, but other grape varieties are grown here. This indicates that there is a wonderful selection of wines to taste as you visit different family-owned wineries. Along with the tasting, you’ll be taken on a tour of the vineyards and their cellars while learning about the regional production method. Visitors to the area frequently pause at the village of Etyek to experience its peaceful rural beauty.

How to get there: Buses run frequently and reach the village of Etyek in roughly 35 minutes. However, it’s advisable to take a wine tour of the area if you want to quickly access multiple wineries.

Practical information

address:Etyek, Báthori u 21, 2091 Hungary

hours:tue-sat;10 am-5 pm/Fri; 10 am-6 pm/sat; 11 am-7 pm/sun;11 am-6 pm

phone:+36 22 920 992

website: Etyeki Manor Vineyard

10. Eger

Eger, a very small city in northern Hungary, has a surprising assortment of attractions that make a trip there worthwhile. Eger Castle, a significant medieval stronghold that repulsed the Ottoman invasion in 1522, is a great place to start your trip. Along with its defenses, the castle has a history museum, the István Dobó Castle Museum. The city’s Ottoman minaret, which is the northernmost in the globe and offers breathtaking city views, is located just downhill from the castle. You can find a wide variety of exquisite baroque structures in the town’s center across the river, including the enormous Eger Basilica. There are many other attractions in the city, such as many hot baths, but if you have a car, you shouldn’t skip the adjacent Valley of Beautiful Women wine region.

How to get there: Budapest to Eger bus service is frequent. The rail and bus each take about two hours, respectively.

11. Győr

Győr stér-by Civertan-Wikimedia Commons

Gyor, which is located between Budapest and the major cities of Vienna and Bratislava, is more frequently passed through than stopped, but it rewards visitors who give it a chance. It’s one of Hungary’s biggest cities and has a collection of Baroque buildings. Start your visit in this elegantly landscaped square called Széchenyi. Keep on until you reach Vienna Gate Square, where the 17th-century Carmelite Church is located. The enormously significant Bishop’s Castle and Episcopal Palace, which has a tower from the 14th century, is located close to the riverbank. The Basilica of Gyor, built in the 11th century by Saint Stephen, is right next door.

How to get there: Gyr and Budapest are connected by both regular buses and more frequent trains. Both typically take one and a half hours.

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12. Hollókő

Step back in time to the village of Hollók and experience Hungary as it once was. In order to maintain the rural way of life that prevailed there in the 18th and 19th centuries, this ethnographic community has been purposefully left unaltered. During a visit, you can witness Hollók’s medieval streets and homes, which contributed to the village’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is home to a number of museums that focus on various facets of village life, including the doll museum. The 13th-century Hollók Castle is situated on the outskirts of the city.

How to get there: There is no public transportation to get you to Hollók because of its isolation. So, the only practical way for you to get here is by car.

13. Pécs

Pécs Montage-by Imoti95-Wikimedia Commons

The city of Pécs, located in southwest Hungary, is one of the country’s more significant tourist destinations. The Romans founded Pécs, and many different civilizations have subsequently left their marks on the city. Several religions are represented in the city’s religious structures, including the impressive Pécs Cathedral, the Hassan Jakovali Mosque, and the Great Synagogue. There is also Pasha Gazi Kasim Mosque, which was constructed by the Ottomans and is currently a Catholic church. Additionally, Pécs appreciates the Hungarian history of majestic architecture, which is shown in large part at Széchenyi Square, the city’s former medieval market. Visit the Victor Vasarely Museum to see pieces by this well-known local 20th-century artist for a taste of the area’s art scene.

How to get there: From Budapest to Pécs, trains travel approximately every two hours and take 2.5 hours.

14. Miskolc

The northeastern Hungarian city of Miskolc is another significant city that few people are familiar with. Churches of various Christian religions make up a large portion of this city’s attractions. You should not overlook the iconostasis in the Greek Orthodox Church. However, a lot of the top attractions in Miskolc may actually be found in the vicinity of the city. First off, to the southwest lies the magnificent Cave Spa, which is a thermal bath inside of a cave. Although the front appearance may resemble a typical bathhouse, once inside you’ll actually be hovering between cave walls. Diósgyr Castle, located directly west of the city center which was totally restored in 2014, is another well-known landmark nearby.

How to get there: Budapest to Miskolc travel time is two hours, and trains run hourly.

15. Hortobágy National Park

Hortobágy National Park kz06-by Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz-Wikimedia Commons

Discovering Hungary requires more than simply traveling to its cities and towns. You should also experience the countryside at places like Hortobágy National Park. Even though it is a national park with grasslands and wetlands, the culture of the locals is what has given this location a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The settlement of Hortobágy, located in the center of the national park, is still home to aspects of the local culture, such as charming old inns and gypsy musicians performing live music. When you go inside Hortobágy National Park, you can view a lot of animals, especially birds, as well as customary puszta horse exhibitions.

How to get there: Hortobágy National Park may be reached by train from Budapest in about four hours, however, there are few connections available. Driving on your own is the safer choice.

practical information

address: Hungary

phone:+36 52 589 000

website: Hortobágyi National Park

16. Velence Lake

Despite being much smaller than Lake Balaton, Lake Velence is a good choice for a tranquil day excursion. It is frequently quieter than the perennially popular Balaton, which might be sufficient justification to choose it. There are some excellent places down along the southern shore of the lake, close to the town of Gárdony, for people who want to spend some time at the beach. However, swimming isn’t the only activity available here; a lot of guests prefer to cycle or walk about the lake instead. You may locate the Dinnyés Marshes Nature Reserve, a wetlands area that is home to a wide variety of bird species, past the lake’s westernmost point. The Velence Bird Reserve, which is located back on the lake, has towers for birdwatching.

How to get there: Regular trains run to the village of Velence, which takes about 40 minutes to complete the journey.

17. Aggtelek National Park and the Baradla Cave

Aggtelek National Park and the Baradla Cave-by Skatya86-Wikimedia Commons

Aggtelek National Park is the only natural site that Hungary currently has on its short list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This national park, which runs along the northern border with Slovakia, is better known for its underground features than its surface features. The magnificent Baradla Cave, a massive cave network that extends into Slovakia, is located in Aggtelek. There are several tunnels in the caves that are up to 8 meters high, and they extend for a little over 25 kilometers. The shortest cave trip takes you 1 km deep and is full of fascinating rock formations, including dripping stone, while lengthier tours are also offered. There are numerous walking trails above ground that might assist you to pass the time.

How to get there: The only choice is to hire a car for the day due to its secluded position near the Slovak border.

practical information

address: Hungary

phone:+36 48 506 000

website: Aggtelek National Park

18. Debrecen

Debrecen, the second-largest city in Hungary, is another choice for a day trip from the capital. Despite its enormous historical significance, Debrecen is significantly less well-known to foreign tourists than Budapest. Begin your visit to the Kossuth Tér, the city’s central square. Here, you can admire the Millennium Szökkt fountain’s grandeur and the Reformed Great Church of Debrecen’s magnificent architecture. Next, use the Déri Museum and its extensive collection of exhibits to delve into Debrecen’s cultural legacy. The Great Forest Park, a magnificent green area, and the Debrecen Zoo and Amusement Park, which offers fun activities for families with young children, are both located up in the city’s north.

How to get there: Debrecen can be reached by regular trains from Budapest in 2.5 hours.

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19. Egerszalók

Egerszalók, Hungary-by Palickap-Wikimedia Commons

Tourists eagerly anticipate visiting Budapest’s thermal baths and spas, but many probably aren’t aware that the same facilities can be found all across the nation. The spa town of Egerszalók is a prime illustration. Water from the thermal spring flows through the stunning limestone terraces that have formed as a result, which are located on the 410-meter-high Salt Hill. The Solaris Resort Spa and Hotel, which is close by and has at least 17 indoor and outdoor pools, including one specifically for naturists, provides access to the spa. You most definitely won’t find this spa experience in Budapest.

How to get there: You’re best off taking a car because Egerszalók isn’t conveniently accessible by public transportation from Budapest.

20. Nagytétény Castle and the Museum of Applied Arts

You can visit Nagytétény Castle on a day trip without leaving Budapest if you don’t want to go very far. This historic Baroque palace, which can be found in the 22nd District south of the city center, was built in the 18th century. The Museum of Applied Arts, which emphasizes the history of art and design via furniture, is housed in this majestic old structure in addition to being another one. Though it is a fairly specialized museum, the proper kind of tourist can find the exhibits to be rather engaging. From the 15th through the 19th century, collections of German and Hungarian furniture are available. A collection of priceless clocks and watches from the 17th to 19th centuries that previously belonged to clock restorer Ferenc Radvánszky is also on display permanently.

How to get there: Nagytétény Castle is easily accessible from the city center. With buses leaving every 15 minutes, it takes just 15 minutes by train and 35 minutes by bus to get there.

practical information

address: Budapest, Kastélypark u. 11, 1225 Hungary

website: Nagytétény Castle

If you want to experience more of Hungary, consider taking a day trip out into the countryside, where wine cellars, cobblestone country towns, and historic, arty outposts by the Danube await. Here is a selection of the top day trips from Budapest.