Best Summer Experiences in Budapest

Summer is one of the best times to visit most parts of Hungary and Budapest is no exception. The whole social life spills out into the streets, with events, festivals, and markets being just about everywhere. But where should you go? We are here to help. This small list of the best things to do in Budapest in the summer should get you up to speed.

The Római park is more of a waterfront and river beach combined. Because it is pretty far away from the centre, it can take about an hour to get there by busses and trams, but the place is worth it. Enjoy sunning, swimming and the many bars and restaurants in the area. The park is also ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy sports as cyclists, runners, and even rowers go here to get some good exercise in beautiful surroundings. Here you’ll finally escape the noise of the city.

Budapest also has many other parks that you can enjoy. The City Park, for example, is situated close to the centre of the city, but even then it’s a beautiful and calm place to enjoy. Bring a blanket and dig into homemade yummies with friends. There is also Margarite Island which offers a unique experience of picnicking in a middle of a river. Its tranquillity is enhanced by watching the many squirrels who have made the island their home. Lastly, if you want to stay off the beaten path, make sure to check out Normafa. It’s an excellent place for hiking and enjoying the many romantic and scenic spots where you can spread your blanket and relax.

Just like ruin bars, rooftop bars are trendy in Budapest. There are many to choose from: in the summer, visit the High Note SkyBar, which is decorated as a large roof-garden where you can eat, get a drink, or even sunbathe. Next, in the Pest part of Budapest, there is the 360 Bar, which, as the name suggests, lets you enjoy a good drink while seeing the whole of Budapest around you. And for a great view of the river and its historic waterfront, visit Leo Budapest. The summer nights won’t ever be the same.

Népsziget is one of the many waterfronts that are lining the Danube. But unlike many cities, which leave their waterfronts mostly unused, Budapest often sees waterfront bars where you can enjoy a good drink and watch the calm flow of a river before you. One such place is a Kabin, an industrial-looking outdoor bar next to Budapest’s many bridges. Grab a drink in a reusable plastic cup, sit in one of the loungers, and drink in the atmosphere of a summer night by the river.

A38 is one of the unique bars in the whole of Budapest (and that’s saying something). The whole club is a large boat with a bar, a concert area, and more. Typically, this would be a year-round experience, but A38 also has a roof terrace, making it a perfect destination for summer drinking parties. Head down to A38 to have a memorable night.

Budapest is well-known for its countless spas, which have been created by natural springs that run under the city. But there are also many outdoor swimming pools which to enjoy. Try the MOM Sports Complex, Pesterzsébet Iodine Lido, or Dagály Fürdő for intense sports or relaxing baths. Either experience is guaranteed to make you healthier and happier.

The Zugliget chairlift in Budapest gives you a unique opportunity to see the city from a new perspective. It goes from the town to the Buda hills, where you can enjoy walks, picnics and countless scenic views. The fifteen minutes long ride only €3,40 (or €4,50 for a return ticket). Just make sure you skip this one if you are afraid of heights.

The Buda Hills are a large area west of the city. Next to the many beautiful photo opportunities with Budapest as a background and the many historic watchtowers lining the area, there is also nearly eternal nature, especially beautiful in the summer. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and stretch your legs simultaneously by going to the Buda Hills.