As always, the usual bucket list was not enough for me, and I searched for ways to explore Budapest off the beaten path.
To share some of my favorite experiences, here’s an alternative guide that will take your trip to one of the best cities in Hungary to another level of awesomeness.
*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables. I share my personal experience and cannot guarantee yours.
*This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info, read my disclosure and disclaimer. This post may show pop-ups.
How to Explore Budapest off the Beaten Path
Planning a last-minute trip? Check out:
Highly-rated accommodations in Budapest:
1. GDE Rákóczi 27 Apartment (one of the places where I stayed)
2. Dama Suites Budapest (near the central Vörösmarty Square)
3. Grand Budapest Apartments (near the Jewish Quarter)
Highly-rated activities and offbeat activities in Budapest:
1. An evening Danube River sightseeing cruise (with unlimited sparkling wine)
2. Themed free walking tours of Budapest
3. Hungarian wine-tasting experience
4. Underground cave tour
5. Half-day wine tour to Etyek with lunch
Explore Budapest’s Underground Caves
Ready for a fun fact about Budapest? Fitting perfectly into the category of ‘hidden gems in Budapest’ are the 200+ natural caves found under the Buda side of the city.
To explore this subterranean world, you can either book a tour or visit some caves independently, like Palvolgyi Cave and Szemlő Mountain Cave.
Explore Castle Hill Beyond Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church
It was so funny to me seeing these two landmarks full of people and then walking in completely quiet streets only a minute away from them.
Don’t just take pretty pictures of the church and Fisherman’s Bastion and go back to the Pest side of the city. Instead, take your time and explore the colorful streets surrounding Castle Hill’s monuments.
Here are a few visit-worthy spots:
- Táncsics Mihály utca (utca = street): Apart from all the beautiful houses on this street, you’ll also spot an art gallery (Koller Gallery), a Lutheran church, and a door with a Menorah on it. This is the door of a medieval Jewish prayer house that is only open on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings.
- Bécsikapu tér: This square is home to some gorgeous houses and the building of the National Archives of Hungary, which is a stunning architectural gem.
- Fortuna utca.
- Uri utca.
- Tóth Árpád sétány: This lovely avenue provides you with some of the best views in Budapest.
Visit the Vasarely Museum
Budapest is home to some remarkable museums, like the Hungarian National Museum and Museum of Fine Arts, but what about a museum dedicated to Op art (art that uses optical illusions)?
The Hungarian artist, Victor Vasarely, was a master in Op art (and is even considered the leader of the movement), and you’ll find an impressive collection of his colorful work in the Vasarely Museum. Visiting it is definitely a non touristy thing to do in Budapest.
See the Most Colorful Public Toilet
Practically a mini pop art museum, Pop&Roll Art Toilet is a project founded by an artist named Kissmiklos, a super unique public toilet in the heart of Budapest. Each booth also has its own design, and altogether, it’s a gimmick I actually enjoyed and an easy addition to any Budapest itinerary.
It currently costs 1500 HUF (around 3.9 EUR), which is definitely too much for a public toilet but not too much for that vibrant, whimsical space.
Visit the Miksa Róth Memorial House
You might have never heard of Miksa Róth, but in the late 1900s, he was one of Hungary’s (and Europe’s) most prominent stained-glass artists and mosaicists.
While some of his works can be found in Budapest’s top landmarks, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Széchenyi Baths, you can also visit his house and workshop, which were turned into a museum.
Explore the City’s Roman Ruins
Did you know that in Budapest, you’ll find the ruins of the Roman city of Aquincum? Founded about 2000 years ago, its remains are now one of the biggest archeological sites in Hungary.
Apart from the impressive Aquincum Museum, you can also see the Roman amphitheater, the mosaics at Hercules Villa, and some Roman remains near Florian ter (Florian Square).
Discover Budapest’s Unique Buildings
To me, discovering beautiful buildings in a city (and I’m not even talking about landmarks) is just as fun and interesting as other activities. And let me tell you – Budapest is the perfect city to do exactly that.
I visited many stunning European cities, but I’ve never seen such an incredible mix of architectural styles, embellishments, and even colors in ‘simple’ residential buildings.
Each one is completely different from the other, and when you see them all next to each other, somehow it all makes sense.
You’ll probably just stumble upon quite a few that will catch your eye, but if you’re looking for specific recommendations, these include ResoArt Villa and Mai Mano House.
The latter is a Neo-Renaissance building that was the home of the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s former photographer. Currently, it houses the Hungarian House of Photography and includes a gallery, a library, and even a cafe.
Follow the “Trail” of Kolodko’s Miny Statues
Scattered throughout the city, you can find small bronze statues by a Ukrainian-Hungarian sculptor named Mykhailo Kolodko, and it’s so much fun and exciting when you do, no matter how old you are.
They are actually tiny, so you do need to look for them because it’s easy to pass by them without noticing anything. Here I have the complete map with all the locations.
Stroll Through Margaret Island’s Japanese Gardens
If you happen to visit Margaret Island, take a short stroll in its small yet adorable and relaxing Japanese garden. From water lilies and Japanese maple trees to statues and Japanese-style bridges, it’s a great little place to unwind.
Visit a Museum That Will Make Your Instagram Dreams Come True
I find myself looking more and more for authenticity on Instagram. That said, I genuinely enjoyed visiting the Museum of Sweets & Selfies, which by the name of it I already knew was going to be Instagrammable as hell.
It’s all about enjoying yourself, taking fun pictures, and feeling like a kid in a complex that’s an explosion of bright colors (that’s why you have to visit it if you’re on a girls’ trip).
Take a Ride on Tram 2
No matter what your destination is, using public transportation is a must-have experience. So why not take a tram ride that is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe?
Now, if I’m being honest, it’s probably not going to blow your mind that much. However, it is a scenic ride, especially if you’re taking it at the right time of the day.
The yellow Tram 2 passes alongside the Danube River, so sunset is the best time to enjoy this ride. The Buda side of the city across the river, along with the orange-pink sky, is pretty picturesque, and everything seems soft and glowy.
Good to know: If you’re visiting Europe in winter, Tram 2 becomes one of Budapest’s Christmas trams in December, which means it’s decorated with dozens of twinkling lights.
Important to know: The tram’s full route begins at Jászai Mari Square, ends at Közvágóhíd station, and only takes about 20 minutes to complete. If you’re only interested in seeing this specific scenic part, get on the tram at the station next to Budapest’s Parliament and get off at Zsil Street (or vice versa).
Explore the Cutest Art & Stationery Shops
I LOVE stationery shops (I have more notebooks I bought abroad than I care to admit), especially the small, hidden ones that feel like stepping into a little wonderland. I was thrilled to find some in Budapest’s city center, including Bomo Art (which has 2 locations), Lúd Labor, and Pesti Kornél.
Bonus: If you love bookshops as much as I do, Bestsellers is an amazing one.
Visit the Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library
Housed in the 19th-century Wenckheim Palace, the main branch of the Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library is well worth a visit. Keep in mind that it is a functioning library, so it’s important to be respectful and quiet.
An individual tourist ticket will give access to the 4th floor, where you can wander through the enchanting palace and library rooms. You can also opt for a guided tour by registering via email (get all the details here).
Enjoy a Slow-Paced Morning at Cozy Lesser-Known Cafes
Literally hidden or just lesser-known, I love finding cafes that haven’t been repeatedly promoted on social media. It’s not that I don’t visit some of the hotspots too, at least the ones that seem worth it to me, but I definitely enjoy the cozy, quiet ones a little more.
Some of my favorites I recommend adding to your Budapest itinerary are Aranypinty, Kaptafa Brunch, and Blue Bird Roastery.
Visit a Few More Lesser-Known Museums
If you’re a museum lover and find yourself with some extra time (and don’t mind making the effort to get to some of these locations), check out Ráth György-Villa, Kiscelli Museum, and the Hungarian Money Museum (it’s free, but you need to reserve a spot).
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Please don‘t send tourists to the 8th district 😅. There might be PARTS where safe is but I‘m from Bp and I wouldn‘t go there. There‘s a huge ghetto and a lot of criminals and if a tourist walks in I‘m pretty sure they‘re gonna get robbed. The squares and museum you wrote is okay but the 8th district has the worst reputation among us and also not represents the (rest of the) city. I like your „off the beaten path“ idea though. But be safe!
Thank you for letting me know! I’m surprised because I went there after seeing recommendations online without any comment about safety issues. I was also there in the morning, and it was quiet and I didn’t feel unsafe at all. But since you know your city better, I’m definitely going to change some things in this post. Thanks 🙂
10EUR for that instagram museum looks fun and affordable! It seems like more cities are coming up with these types of photo places.
It was really fun! As long as it doesn’t get overly touristy and crowded, I totally recommend checking it out.