Hungary’s capital, Budapest, with a population of nearly 1.8 million, is also its largest city and the 9th largest metropolitan area in the European Union.
Budapest straddles the Danube River in the north-central part of the country and is divided into two parts, Buda and Pest.
Like many Eastern European cities, Budapest features an impressive blend of old and new, and is known for its hundreds of natural springs from which millions of gallons of water bubbling up every day.
The city is also known for its art, architecture, history, and vibrant food scene, all of which can be easily experienced through numerous tours.
1. 3-Hour Historical Walking Tour of Budapest City Center
Despite the hustle and bustle of downtown Budapest, it is very walkable.
For those who have just spent countless hours on a long flight, this 3-hour walking tour will be a great way to get a comprehensive overview of the city’s main sights while stretching cramped legs.
The tour begins at the historic Cossus Square, which includes the Capitol Building, the Holocaust Memorial, and the statue of the Catholic Cardinal who lived in the U.S. Embassy for over a decade during the Cold War.
The services of a knowledgeable local guide are included, but as this is a hike, guests are encouraged to wear appropriate shoes and clothing.
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2. Small Group Bike Tour
For active travelers, bicycles are a great way to explore new cities.
This half-day small-group tour visits many of the capital city’s most important sights, and unlike other tours, it focuses on interesting historical tidbits and anecdotes rather than obscure events and hard-to-remember dates.
It also offers the perfect blend of cycling and non-cycling time at attractions such as Freedom Square, the Hungarian Parliament and Europe’s largest synagogue, as well as stunning views of the city skyline and the Danube.
Tours gather in one convenient central location and include your guide, bike, helmet and fascinating historical stories along the way.
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3. Tour of St. Stephen’s Basilica with access to the tower
Famous for its impressive Renaissance architecture and the mummified hand of St. Stephen, Hungary’s first king, the cathedral that bears its name is one of the city’s must-see attractions.
This one-hour guided tour in English explores the cathedral’s stunningly ornate interior, decorated with authentic gilding, frescoes and sculptures.
The church’s massive tower and dome are also on the itinerary. These are accessible by elevator, which takes guests to a terrace with unobstructed panoramic views of the vast city below.
Tours are relatively cheap and there is plenty of time to visit other attractions.
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4. Hungarian Food Tasting Program
Almost everyone knows that goulash is a traditional Hungarian dish, but most first-time visitors will be pleasantly surprised by the country’s unique and vibrant cuisine with many regional and international influences.
After a brief meet and greet with their guide at a convenient location, tour participants will embark on a fun and educational tour that emphasizes history and culture in addition to food and drink.
Stops include markets, traditional and modern restaurants, street food vendors and coffee shops.
Expect to learn a lot and rub shoulders with the locals on everything from cured meats and fresh bread to local wines and sweets.
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5. Evening cruise with drinks and live music
Relatively short tours are all the rage these days because they allow more time for self-exploration without being tethered to traditional full-day excursions.
Cruise along the Danube tonight including drinks and live music. Meanwhile, as the sun disappears and the city becomes full of sunshine, guests can enjoy stunning views of the Hungarian capital.
Previous guests described the 90- to 120-minute tour as romantic and unforgettable. Highlights include the city’s famous bridges, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and the Freedom Monument.
Package options include a beer, wine or cocktail of your choice, as well as non-alcoholic beverages, water and a light meal.
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6. Rudas Spa Wellness and Dining Experience
While vacations are supposed to be about fun and relaxation, they’re also often stressful and hectic.
For those running around Budapest looking at the scenery, this spa, wellness and dining experience will be a great way to recharge a depleted battery.
It’s hard to understand, but the Rudas Spa and its thermal baths have been around for over 400 years and still attract visitors from near and far.
The water in the tub reaches a temperature of 42 degrees and is said to have various healing properties.
Spa excursions may also include a multi-course meal and beverages such as wine, coffee and champagne.
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7. Chocolate Museum Tour and Tasting
Hungarians and residents of Budapest have always been big fans of chocolate. For those interested in immersing themselves in the city’s chocolate culture, this two-hour afternoon tour might just be the ticket.
The tour includes the services of an English-speaking guide, admission to the museum, an introductory film, and participation in a chocolate-making show with a personalized gift at the end of the day.
The museum is also a treasure trove of many famous works of Hungarian art. Guests over 18 can choose to sample Hungarian liqueurs.
Each participant will also have the opportunity to make their own chocolate – a huge hit for all ages.
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8. 45-minute guided tour of the Budapest Parliament
Budapest’s Reichstag is one of the city’s premier historical attractions, and it’s worth a visit even for those with less than an hour.
This 45-minute guided tour will explore impressive buildings built in Gothic Revival style by famous Hungarian architects.
British tourists often notice its resemblance to the Palace of Westminster – the building it was designed to imitate.
Located on the Pest side of the Danube, the Reichstag is famous for its iconic central staircase and vaulted ceilings, as well as the Hungarian Crown Jewels on display.
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9.MonsteRoller Electric Scooter Tour
History and culture buffs might spend a few days in Budapest without seeing everything the city has to offer.
Having said that, if they’re being honest, many tourists would rather take a break and hit the streets on a large honking e-bike with very wide tires similar to those typically only found on motocross bikes .
If that sounds like you and your travel buddies, check out this MonsterRoller E-Scooter tour.
Tours include a local guide and five different route options, ranging from one and a half to three hours.
You’ll still see and experience many of the city’s top attractions, and you’ll enjoy yourself along the way.
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10. History and Mythology Evening Walking Tour
There was almost unanimous agreement that a guide dressed in authentic Gothic clothing would make for a more memorable experience.
Fortunately, this two-hour night hike includes the services of such a guide. It explores many of the city’s most fascinating historical and mysterious places.
Highlights include Buda Castle, and the eerie and gruesome tales of Prince Vlad Dracula and Hungary’s bloody Countess Elisabeth Bathory, who are said to have been among the city’s massive vampire residents long ago.
These tours may not be suitable for young children and people who are prone to distractions.
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11. Generation Pub Crawls
Long after the sun has set, older tourists are already firmly seated in their comfy hotel beds, and young revelers of all kinds take to Budapest’s trendy party scene.
This 5-hour pub crawl is often ranked as the craziest in the city. It includes some of Budapest’s trendiest nightclubs, dirtiest backstreet bars and traditional pubs popular with locals and tourists alike.
Tours are wheelchair accessible and begin at 10:00pm and meet at a convenient central location.
After a brief overview of the night’s activities, everyone will set off to fully experience the city’s nightlife.
Hangover is free.
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12. Land and water bus tour
According to legend, Budapest is such a magical city that even tourist buses float in the air.
interested?
If so, then seriously consider signing up for this unique water and land floating bus tour.
Let’s be honest, tour buses aren’t magical. They are simply amphibious vehicles designed to traverse land and water, providing a truly fun and exhilarating experience for those looking for something different.
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and includes both the city and river sections, from which guests can view many of Budapest’s most iconic sights from the comfort of their own.
If you’ll be visiting in summer, consider wearing clothes, sunglasses, and a good hat.
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13. 1 ½ hour Segway Sightseeing Tour
Although Segways were the exclusive domain of obese mall cops and overly authoritarian airport security guards for the past few years, Segways are now becoming a safe and fun way to travel.
This 90-minute urban Segway tour begins with a quick training session for those who have never used this unique two-wheeled vehicle.
It will soon catch up, after which participants will travel to many important sights such as the Hungarian Parliament, Chain Bridge, Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle.
Along the way, you’ll hear captivating and humorous stories, stop for photos and selfies, and enjoy an all-around uplifting and engaging time.
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14. 48-hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Package
For many tourists, visiting Budapest at their own pace is far better than taking a long, traditional tour with a fixed itinerary.
If that sounds like you, then hop-on hop-off tours are probably the way to go, as they allow you to take the time to see what you want without worrying about other people.
This two-day tour option includes stops at sights such as the State Opera House, Buda Castle, and several churches, cathedrals, and museums. There’s even a cruise option for those who want to get into the water.
There is too much to list, so click the link below for more details before booking.
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15. 1-hour sightseeing cruise with welcome drink
A visit to Budapest’s impressive sights and skyline along the Danube is one of the activities not to be missed, even for those with limited time.
This 1-hour tour includes a refreshing welcome drink that changes according to the season, and views of classic city attractions such as the National Parliament, Buda Castle, Vigado Concert Hall and the many bridges that span the river.
Unlike other river tours, this river tour doesn’t offer live commentary or audio guides, but that’s where the charm lies.
Instead of being uttered by their ears, participants will unwind with their thoughts in the pleasant café-like atmosphere of the ship.
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