The Best Free Things to Do in Budapest

Cross the Margaret Bridge

One of the activities that I recommend you do is cross the famous Margaret Bridge from which you will have the opportunity to admire the majestic Hungarian Parliament on one side and the profile of Buda Castle on the other. Built in the 19th century, this bridge connects the river banks and Margaret Island, a beautiful park perfect for a break in nature.

Relax on Margaret Island

Margaret Island is a green oasis in the heart of the Danube, perfect for a relaxing walk among gardens, musical fountains and ancient medieval ruins. The island is accessible for free from Ponte Margherita and also offers jogging paths, swimming pools and picnic areas, making it ideal for a peaceful break surrounded by nature. I recommend you visit it especially in summer because, very often, they organize events there.

Walk along the Danube

Walking along the Danube allows you to admire some of Budapest's most iconic attractions, such as the Parliament and Buda Castle. Don't miss the Shoes on the Banks of the Danube, a moving memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Each view is totally different and will allow you to photograph the main monuments of Budapest from different angles. The ideal would be a morning run on the cycle/pedestrian path that runs along the river 🏃‍♂️😃.

Admire the view from Fisherman's Bastion

The Fisherman's Bastion offers one of the most spectacular views of Budapest, with a breathtaking panorama of the Danube, the Parliament and the city. Located in the Buda Castle district, it's a great place to take photos and enjoy the scenery, all for free.

Visit the Central Market

The Central Market Hall in Budapest is the largest and most famous covered market in the city, where you can discover authentic Hungarian flavours, such as paprika, salami and typical sweets. Explore its vibrant stalls of local and artisanal products.

Climb Gellért Hill and visit the Citadel

The Citadella is a fortress located on Gellért Hill, which offers one of the best panoramic views of Budapest, spanning from the Danube to the Parliament. Built in 1854, it is now a historic landmark and a perfect place to admire the cityscape.

Walk down Váci Utca, the main street of Budapest

Váci Utca is Budapest's most famous pedestrian street, known for its elegant shops, restaurants, cafes and galleries. Along the course, you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city, also discovering historic buildings and typical souvenir shops. I recommend stopping in the shops that sell kürtőskalács, the typical Hungarian dessert. One possible shop is Molnár's kürtőskalács.

Visit City Park and Heroes' Square

The City Park of Budapest (Városliget) is a large green space ideal for relaxing and discovering unmissable attractions such as the majestic Heroes' Square and the suggestive Vajdahunyad Castle. This castle, built for the Thousand Year Exhibition, combines several architectural styles and offers a perfect setting for walking and taking photos. If you have never been to Transylvania, it may be interesting to visit Vajdahunyad Castle to enjoy the gothic and medieval atmosphere typical of the region, without leaving Budapest.

Cross the Chain Bridge

Like the Margaret Bridge, this iconic suspension bridge connects Buda and Pest, offering spectacular views of the Danube and surrounding monuments, such as Buda Castle and the Parliament. At night, the illuminated bridge offers one of the most evocative views of the city.

Visit the Museums for free

Some museums are free on some days of the month. The Óbuda Museum offers free entry on the first Saturday of the month while the Vasarely Museum, the Museum of Applied Arts, the Aquincum Museum and the History Museum allow free entry on the third Saturday of the month. In addition to these, the National Museum, the Hungarian National Gallery and the Museum of Fine Arts also allow free entry on the third Saturday of the month but only for those under 26 (not yet turned).

Conclusions

Budapest is a city that fascinates with its history, breathtaking views and unique activities it offers, many of which are accessible for free. From walks along the Danube to spectacular views from bridges and hills, to green islands and traditional markets, there is always something to discover. Take advantage of free museum days to immerse yourself in Hungarian culture at no additional cost.

If you have any further questions or feedback, you can use the comments section below.

Thanks for reading,

Explorer's Tale.