The Danube River runs through Hungary’s capital, splitting it into the two districts that give the city its name: Buda and Pest. The separate sides differ in personality and allure. Buda breathes historic grandeur from leafy, palace-topped hills, while Pest buzzes with boho ruin bars and gourmet go-tos. Cross ornate bridges to take in the two, stopping at Turkish-era thermal baths along the way.
Experience our Budapest tour packages
Visit Budapest: get started
Discover the magic of Budapest with our Flight & Hotel packages, or tours that include the best places to stay in Budapest. Things to do in Budapest include admiring the incredible Hungarian Parliament Building, the Buda Castle, and the Fisherman's Bastion. Immerse yourself in authentic local experiences like taking in the exciting Budapest nightlife, or seeking rejuvenation at historic spas, like the Gellért Baths or the popular Széchenyi Baths.
Budapest travel guide
Destination facts
Language
Hungarian
When to visit
May to September are great times to visit thanks to the pleasant weather and numerous festivals. Of course, December is when the city’s iconic Christmas markets appear. For fewer crowds, we recommend travel from January to March.
What to bring back
Hungarian paprika (there are eight grades!), handmade Ajka crystal objects, embroidered folk art (from blouses to tablecloths), Tokaji wine or a Hungarian fruit brandy called pálinka.
What to eat
Goulash, lángos (a classic street food: deep-fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream and cheese), palacsinta (Hungarian crepes), halászlé (paprika-spiced fish soup) and a lot of sausage and strudels.
Fun fact
Hungarians are a creative bunch—not only did they invent the Rubik’s Cube, but they repurposed abandoned buildings (often destroyed by WWII) to house fun, quirky pubs called “ruin bars.” Up there with visiting Buda Castle, a stop at these unique spaces is a Budapest must. Start at the iconic Szimpla Kert or the more laidback Csendes Létterem.
Important info
For more information on all necessary documents for travel to Hungary from Canada including visa, taxes and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
