How to Plan Your Budapest Card Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Budapest, you may be wondering how to get around the city and see all the sights it has to offer. One excellent option is the Budapest Card, which provides discounts on tours, attractions, and transportation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of planning your Budapest Card tour so that you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful city.

What is the Budapest Card?

The Budapest Card is a travel card that provides discounts and free entry to attractions, museums, and tours in Budapest. The card can be purchased for 24, 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours, depending on the length of your stay. The card also provides unlimited use of public transportation during the duration of your stay, which is a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city.

How to Purchase a Budapest Card

The Budapest Card can be purchased online in advance or at various locations throughout the city, including airports, train stations, and tourism offices. It’s recommended to purchase the card in advance so that you can have it ready to go when you arrive in Budapest. You can purchase the Budapest Card online at the following link: book the tour here.

What’s Included with the Budapest Card

The Budapest Card includes many perks and benefits to help you make the most of your visit to Budapest. Here are some of the things that are included with the card:

Free admission to top attractions

The Budapest Card provides free entry to many of the top attractions in Budapest, including the Hungarian National Museum, the Budapest History Museum, and the Hungarian National Gallery. This can save you a lot of money and allow you to see some of the most popular sights in the city.

Two free walking tours

The Budapest Card includes two free walking tours, which are an excellent way to explore the city’s history and culture. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides and cover different areas of the city, so you can choose which one to take based on your interests.

Unlimited use of public transportation

The Budapest Card includes unlimited use of public transportation, which includes buses, trams, and metros. This is a great way to save money on transportation costs and allows you to get around the city quickly and conveniently.

Discounts on restaurants and spas

The Budapest Card includes discounts at many popular restaurants and spas throughout the city. This can help you save money on food and allow you to indulge in some relaxation during your visit.

Guidebook with helpful information

The Budapest Card comes with a guidebook that provides helpful information about the included services and attractions. This can help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your visit to Budapest.

Tips for Using Your Budapest Card

To get the most out of your Budapest Card, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Plan your itinerary in advance

Before you arrive in Budapest, take some time to plan out your itinerary and decide which attractions and tours you want to see. This will help you make the most of your time in the city and ensure that you don’t miss anything important.

Use public transportation

The Budapest Card includes unlimited use of public transportation, so be sure to take advantage of this perk. Public transportation is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city and see all the sights.

Take advantage of discounts

The Budapest Card includes discounts at many restaurants, spas, and shops, so be sure to take advantage of these perks. This can help you save money on your trip and allow you to enjoy more experiences.

Book Your Tour Now

The Budapest Card is an excellent way to explore and experience all that Budapest has to offer. With its many benefits and perks, the card can help you save money and make the most of your visit to this beautiful city. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can plan your Budapest Card tour with ease and have a memorable and enjoyable trip.

Frequently Asked Questions about Budapest

1. What is Budapest famous for?

Budapest is famous for its stunning architecture and rich history. The city is home to numerous landmarks and attractions such as the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Budapest is also known for its thermal baths like the Széchenyi and Gellért Baths, which are popular among tourists and locals alike.

2. What are the best things to do in Budapest?

There are plenty of things to do in Budapest, from sightseeing to enjoying its vibrant nightlife. Some of the top tourist attractions include visiting the Buda Castle, walking around the Fisherman’s Bastion, taking a dip in one of the thermal baths, and exploring the Hungarian Parliament Building. Additionally, Budapest has a great local food scene, with traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash and chimney cake that you must not miss!

3. What is the best time to visit Budapest?

The best time to visit Budapest is during late spring and early fall (from April to May and September to October). These months offer pleasant weather conditions and fewer crowds, making it easier to explore the city’s attractions without the rush of tourists. Additionally, Budapest hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Budapest Wine Festival, Budapest International Documentary Festival, and Budapest Christmas Fair.

4. What is the local currency in Budapest?

The local currency in Budapest is the Hungarian forint (HUF). It is advisable to exchange your currency to forints upon arrival to avoid any extra charges. ATMs are available throughout the city and major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted.

5. What is the best way to get around Budapest?

Budapest has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and metro lines. The metro lines have four lines, namely M1, M2, M3, and M4, which intersect at the city center. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are available in the city. However, if you want to see the sights, a walking tour is one of the best ways to explore the city.

6. What are the traditional foods of Budapest?

Traditional Hungarian cuisine features hearty and savory dishes like goulash, lángos, and chimney cake. Goulash is a stew made from beef or pork, vegetables, and paprika, while lángos is a deep-fried dough, usually topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic or onion. Chimney cake, on the other hand, is a sweet pastry made from spiral-shaped dough, which is coated with sugar and roasted on an open fire.

7. What is the dress code in Budapest?

Budapest is a modern and cosmopolitan city, and there are no strict dress codes. However, when visiting religious sites such as St. Stephen’s Basilica or Dohány Street Synagogue, it’s advisable to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.

8. What are the must-visit landmarks in Budapest?

Budapest is home to several iconic landmarks and attractions, including: – Buda Castle: A historic castle complex on Castle Hill in the Buda district of Budapest. – Fisherman’s Bastion: A neo-Gothic terrace on the Buda bank of the Danube River, offering stunning views of the city. – Hungarian Parliament Building: An iconic building on the banks of the Danube River, featuring neo-Gothic architecture – St. Stephen’s Basilica: A neo-Classical Roman Catholic basilica in central Budapest.

9. Is Budapest safe for tourists?

Budapest is generally a safe city with a low crime rate, and incidents of violent crime are extremely rare. However, as with any city, it’s best to take some precautions, such as avoiding unlit or secluded areas at night and keeping your belongings safe and secure. Additionally, be wary of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas such as metros and tourist attractions.

10. What is the local language in Budapest?

The official language of Budapest is Hungarian, but English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations and those working in the tourism industry. Additionally, German and Russian are also spoken by some locals. It’s always good to learn some basic Hungarian phrases, such as köszönöm (thank you) and szia (hello), to communicate with the locals.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Budapest

As the capital city of Hungary, Budapest is a popular tourist destination known for its rich culture, intricate architecture, and hot springs. If you’re planning a trip to Budapest, you’re in for a treat. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Budapest.

1. Visit the Parliament Building (Országház)

If you’re going to see just one landmark in Budapest, it should be the Parliament Building. It’s one of the most stunning buildings in Europe with its neo-gothic design and 88-meter-high central dome. You can take a 45-minute guided tour, which is offered in multiple languages. The tour will take you through the grand halls and chambers of the building.

2. Explore the Castle District (Várnegyed)

The Castle District is a must-see for any tourist visiting Budapest. This historic neighborhood is located on the Buda side of the city and is known for its medieval streets, impressive architecture, and breathtaking views. Some of the top attractions in the Castle District include the Royal Palace, Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Hospital in the Rock Museum.

3. Relax in the Thermal Baths

Budapest is famous for its hot springs, which have been used for therapeutic purposes since Roman times. Some of the most popular thermal baths include Gellért Baths, Széchenyi Baths, and Rudas Baths. These baths offer various hot and cold pools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas.

4. Visit the Great Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok)

Budapest’s Great Market Hall is a paradise for foodies, souvenir hunters, and anybody who loves to shop. This indoor market is located at the southern end of Váci Street and has three floors of goods, including fresh produce, meats, cheeses, souvenirs, and traditional Hungarian snacks.

5. Take a Danube River Cruise

One of the best ways to see Budapest is by boat. Take a Danube River cruise to enjoy stunning views of the city’s landmarks, including the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. There are various cruises available, ranging from short sightseeing tours to romantic dinner cruises.

6. Visit Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere)

Heroes’ Square is one of Budapest’s most visited landmarks and is located at the end of Andrássy Avenue. With its impressive statues and monuments, this large square is dedicated to Hungary’s national heroes and is a great spot for taking photos.

7. Take a Stroll Along the Danube Promenade

The Danube Promenade is a scenic pedestrian walkway that runs along the Danube River on the Pest side of the city. This promenade offers stunning views of the river, the Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. There are plenty of outdoor cafes, bars, and restaurants along the way where you can enjoy a drink or a meal.

8. See a Show at the Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház)

If you’re a music lover, the Hungarian State Opera House is a must-visit attraction. This magnificent building is one of the finest examples of neo-Renaissance architecture in Europe and offers a wide range of operas, ballets, and concerts.

9. Explore Budapest’s Ruin Bars (Romkocsma)

Budapest’s Ruin Bars are a unique attraction that you won’t find in any other city. These bars are located in abandoned buildings and courtyards, and they’re known for their vibrant atmosphere, cheap drinks, and eclectic décor. Some of the top Ruin Bars in Budapest include Szimpla Kert, Instant, and Fogas Ház.

10. Try Traditional Hungarian Food

No trip to Budapest is complete without trying some traditional Hungarian dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include goulash soup, chimney cake, lángos (deep-fried dough), and stuffed cabbage rolls. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and street vendors where you can try these dishes.

Book Your Tour Now

Budapest is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or relaxation, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. Make sure to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time in Budapest.