You’ve explored Budapest, checked out its ruin bars, enjoyed its thermal baths, and likely eaten a ton of goulash. But here’s the scoop: this amazing city is just the beginning when it comes to discovering Hungary and nearby countries. If you’re a solo traveler, a backpacker on a budget, or someone eager to make the most of your travel experiences, getting out of the capital for a day trip is a must.
Hungary is filled with beautiful landscapes, ancient castles, charming towns, and hidden gems, all easy to reach from Budapest. Forget about those long and costly trips. Many epic day trips are just a short train or bus ride away, perfect for a quick getaway that won’t drain your wallet. Ready to explore some exciting itineraries? Let’s go!
The Danube Bend is perhaps the most popular day trip from Budapest, and it’s easy to see why. This scenic stretch of the Danube River, where it makes a dramatic turn through the Visegrád Mountains, is home to three fantastic towns: Szentendre, Visegrád, and Esztergom. You can visit one, two, or even all three if you plan well, making it a flexible day out.
Photo by Richard Stachmann
If you love charming cobbled streets, lively art scenes, and a relaxed atmosphere, Szentendre is the place for you. This delightful Baroque town feels a world away from the busy city of Budapest, even though it’s just a short trip.
What’s the vibe? Szentendre is known for its artistic community, colorful houses, and Mediterranean feel. It’s easy to explore on foot, making it perfect for a leisurely half-day or full day trip. Picture quaint squares, narrow alleys, and plenty of local galleries and craft shops.
What to See and Do:
Getting There (Budget-Friendly!): The easiest and cheapest way to visit Szentendre is by HÉV (suburban train). Take the H5 line from Batthyány tér or Újpest-Városkapu in Budapest. The direct train ride takes about 40 minutes. It’s a quick trip, making it perfect for a half-day outing. You can use your Budapest travel pass if it covers the area or get a separate ticket.
Photo by Roland Barkóczi
Want amazing panoramic views and a dose of medieval history? Visegrád is calling you. Perched high above the Danube, this town offers breathtaking views and a peek into Hungary’s royal history.
What’s the vibe? Visegrád is all about the views and history. It’s a bit more rugged than Szentendre, with hills to climb and ancient ruins to discover. Perfect for those who love a bit of adventure and hiking.
What to See and Do:
Getting There (Easy Peasy): You can catch a direct bus from Újpest-Városkapu in Budapest to Visegrád, which takes about an hour. If you’re combining it with Szentendre, take a local bus or a scenic boat trip along the Danube River between the towns in warmer months. A full day is recommended if you want to thoroughly explore both the Citadel and the Royal Palace.
Photo by Minek Neked
Esztergom is home to Hungary’s largest basilica and was once the country’s capital. It offers a unique historical and spiritual experience.
What’s the vibe? Grand, imposing, and filled with history. Esztergom feels more like a city than a town, dominated by its magnificent basilica. It’s a must-see for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.
What to See and Do:
Getting There (Direct Train!): The best way to visit Esztergom is by direct train from Budapest Nyugati station. The trip takes about an hour and 20 minutes, making it an easy and enjoyable day trip. You can easily spend a full day here, especially if you want to explore the basilica and museum thoroughly.
While the Danube Bend is a classic, Hungary has so much more to offer just a short distance from Budapest. From vast lakes to historic wine regions and charming villages, these day trips promise unique experiences for every kind of traveler.
Photo by Krisztián Reischl
Picture a massive freshwater lake, often called the “Hungarian Sea,” surrounded by vineyards, lovely towns, and volcanic hills. That’s Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake, and it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip, especially in summer.
What’s the vibe? Chill, summery, and a bit like a resort, but filled with natural beauty and local charm. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the outdoors.
What to See and Do:
Getting There (Train is Best!): You can take a direct train from Budapest Nyugati station to various towns around Lake Balaton, such as Balatonfüred or Siófok. The journey typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a perfect full day trip. Buses are another option, but trains are usually more comfortable and scenic.
Photo by BĀBI
If you enjoy great wine, impressive castles, and relaxing thermal baths, a day trip to Eger is a no-brainer. This historic city in northern Hungary is famous for its “Bull’s Blood” wine (Egri Bikavér) and its heroic past.
What’s the vibe? Historic, vibrant, and a bit boozy (in a good way!). Eger has a lively main square, a grand castle, and lots of wine cellars just waiting to be explored.
What to See and Do:
Getting There (Train or Bus): You can take a direct train from Budapest Keleti station to Eger, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Volánbusz also runs direct buses from Budapest Népliget bus station, taking the same time. It’s definitely a full day trip to enjoy the castle, wine cellars, and maybe a quick dip.
Photo by Linda Gerbec
For a quick and elegant half-day trip, visit Gödöllő to see the stunning Royal Palace, once a favorite residence of Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”) of Austria and Queen of Hungary.
What’s the vibe? Regal, historical, and surprisingly peaceful. It’s a chance to step back in time and imagine life as royalty.
What to See and Do:
Getting There (Super Easy!): Gödöllő is very easy to reach. Take the HÉV (suburban train) H8 line from Örs vezér tere in Budapest. The short journey takes about 30-40 minutes. It’s perfect for a half-day outing, leaving you enough time to explore Budapest in the afternoon.
Photo by @beres kepes
Want to experience traditional Hungarian village life? Hollókő is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a well-preserved Palóc village where time seems to have stood still. It’s a true hidden gem.
What’s the vibe? Authentic, traditional, and incredibly charming. It feels like stepping into a postcard, with whitewashed houses, wooden balconies, and a tranquil atmosphere.
What to See and Do:
Getting There (Bus is Best): Hollókő is a bit harder to reach by public transport, but totally doable. Take a Volánbusz from Budapest Stadion bus station. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s best to plan for a full day trip to fully soak up the village’s unique atmosphere.
Photo by Anna Spoljar
Book Hostels In Pécs
For a longer but rewarding day trip, consider heading south to Pécs. This vibrant city is known for its unique mix of cultures, rich history, and lively arts scene, particularly for its Zsolnay porcelain.
What’s the vibe? Mediterranean, artistic, and historically rich. Pécs has a relaxed, almost southern European feel, with a beautiful main square and interesting historical sites.
What to See and Do:
Getting There (Direct Train!): Pécs is a longer day trip, but easily reachable by direct train from Budapest Nyugati station. The ride takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. While it’s a longer journey, the city has enough to fill a full day and make the trip worthwhile. Start early to maximize your time!
“What countries can you visit by train from Budapest?” you might ask. A full multi-country tour may be too much for a day trip, but you can easily pop over to a neighbouring capital for a quick taste of another country. Common questions include, “Can you do a day trip to Bratislava from Budapest?” and “Can you do a day trip to Vienna from Budapest?” The answer is a definite YES, with a few conditions.
Photo by Michael Pointner
Book Hostels In Bratislava
Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is surprisingly close to Budapest and makes for a great cross-border day trip. It’s smaller and more compact than Budapest, which makes it easy to explore in a day.
What’s the vibe? Charming, a bit quirky, and relaxed. Bratislava features a lovely Old Town, a majestic castle, and a unique mix of history and modern art.
What to See and Do:
How to Go Bratislava from Budapest (Direct Train!): The best way to reach Bratislava from Budapest is by direct train. Trains depart regularly from Budapest Nyugati station, and the journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. It’s a comfortable ride, and you’ll arrive right in the city centre, ready to explore. Be sure to check train schedules for return journeys to make the most of your time.
Photo by Leyre
Book Hostels In Vienna
“Can you do a day trip to Vienna from Budapest?” Yes, but it’s a long one! Vienna, the magnificent capital of Austria, is known for its grand palaces, classical music, and elegant cafes. While you can’t see everything in a day, you can absolutely get a taste of its majestic atmosphere.
What’s the vibe? Elegant, grand, and culturally rich. Vienna is a classic Central European city, known for its history, art, and coffee house culture.
What to See and Do (Pick a Few!):
Getting There (Direct Train!): Like Bratislava, the best way to visit Vienna is by direct train from Budapest Nyugati station. The journey also takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. This trip will take up your whole day, so start early and be prepared for a late return. It’s a whirlwind, but definitely doable if you want to visit another capital.
Photo by Dan Novac
Book Hostels In Budapest
To ensure your day trips from Budapest are amazing and budget-friendly, keep these tips in mind:
Photo by Linda Gerbec
Book Hostels In Budapest
Honestly, there’s no single “best” day trip from Budapest—it really depends on what you like!
Each day trip provides a unique glimpse of Hungary (or Central Europe), offering diverse and engaging experiences that will enhance your travel adventures.
Budapest is an amazing city, but don’t let it be your only Hungarian adventure. With plenty of incredible day trips just a train or bus ride away, you have a whole world of exploration at your fingertips. Grab your backpack, check those train times, and get ready to discover more of what Hungary has to offer! Happy travels!
The Danube Bend (Szentendre, Visegrád, and Esztergom) is the classic choice. It’s close, affordable, and offers a mix of art, history, and epic views.
Take the suburban HÉV train (H5 line) from Batthyány tér. The ride takes about 40 minutes and costs just a few euros—perfect for backpackers.
Yes! Many travelers combine Szentendre with Visegrád or Esztergom. In summer, you can even travel between them by scenic boat along the Danube.
Absolutely. Known as the “Hungarian Sea,” it’s great for swimming, sunbathing, or visiting the Tihany Peninsula. Trains from Budapest take 1.5–2 hours.
Eger is known for its historic castle, thermal baths, and wine—especially the bold red Egri Bikavér (“Bull’s Blood”). You can taste it in the Valley of the Beautiful Women wine cellars.
Gödöllő is perfect. Just 30–40 minutes by suburban train, it’s home to the beautiful Royal Palace, once a favorite residence of Queen Elisabeth (“Sisi”).
Yes! Direct trains run in about 2.5–3 hours. Bratislava’s compact Old Town and castle make it easy to explore in a single day.
It’s a long one, but doable. Trains take around 2.5–3 hours each way. You’ll only scratch the surface, but you can see Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or enjoy a Viennese coffeehouse in one day.
Hollókő, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living folk village with whitewashed houses, local crafts, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s like stepping back in time.
The best place is Hostelworld. Just choose your dates, pick Budapest as your city, and you’ll find the top hostels with reviews, ratings, and prices—perfect for solo travelers and backpackers.
The post Hidden Gems of Hungary: Day Trips from Budapest You’ll Love appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.
Hungary is filled with beautiful landscapes, ancient castles, charming towns, and hidden gems, all easy to reach from Budapest. Forget about those long and costly trips. Many epic day trips are just a short train or bus ride away, perfect for a quick getaway that won’t drain your wallet. Ready to explore some exciting itineraries? Let’s go!
The Iconic Danube Bend: A Trio of Hungarian Gems
The Danube Bend is perhaps the most popular day trip from Budapest, and it’s easy to see why. This scenic stretch of the Danube River, where it makes a dramatic turn through the Visegrád Mountains, is home to three fantastic towns: Szentendre, Visegrád, and Esztergom. You can visit one, two, or even all three if you plan well, making it a flexible day out.
Photo by Richard Stachmann
Szentendre: The Arty Riverside Escape
If you love charming cobbled streets, lively art scenes, and a relaxed atmosphere, Szentendre is the place for you. This delightful Baroque town feels a world away from the busy city of Budapest, even though it’s just a short trip.
What’s the vibe? Szentendre is known for its artistic community, colorful houses, and Mediterranean feel. It’s easy to explore on foot, making it perfect for a leisurely half-day or full day trip. Picture quaint squares, narrow alleys, and plenty of local galleries and craft shops.
What to See and Do:
- Wander the Streets: Just explore! Every turn has a new photo opportunity.
- Art Galleries: Visit the many galleries showcasing local artists.
- Marzipan Museum: Yes, it exists! Check out incredible marzipan sculptures and maybe enjoy a sweet treat.
- Szentendre Open-Air Ethnographic Museum (Skanzen): A bit further out, but if you are interested in traditional Hungarian village life, this open-air museum is fantastic. It’s a great dive into history.
- Danube Riverfront: Take a stroll along the river, grab a coffee, and watch the boats.
Getting There (Budget-Friendly!): The easiest and cheapest way to visit Szentendre is by HÉV (suburban train). Take the H5 line from Batthyány tér or Újpest-Városkapu in Budapest. The direct train ride takes about 40 minutes. It’s a quick trip, making it perfect for a half-day outing. You can use your Budapest travel pass if it covers the area or get a separate ticket.
Photo by Roland Barkóczi
Visegrád: Castles, Views & Royal History
Want amazing panoramic views and a dose of medieval history? Visegrád is calling you. Perched high above the Danube, this town offers breathtaking views and a peek into Hungary’s royal history.
What’s the vibe? Visegrád is all about the views and history. It’s a bit more rugged than Szentendre, with hills to climb and ancient ruins to discover. Perfect for those who love a bit of adventure and hiking.
What to See and Do:
- Visegrád Citadel (Fellegvár): This is the main attraction. The medieval fortress provides stunning panoramic views of the Danube Bend. It’s a bit of a climb (or take a bus/taxi), but absolutely worth it for the pictures.
- Royal Palace: Explore the ruins of the former Royal Palace, once a grand home for Hungarian kings.
- Summer Bobsled Track: For some excitement, try the bobsled track near the Citadel. It’s a blast!
Getting There (Easy Peasy): You can catch a direct bus from Újpest-Városkapu in Budapest to Visegrád, which takes about an hour. If you’re combining it with Szentendre, take a local bus or a scenic boat trip along the Danube River between the towns in warmer months. A full day is recommended if you want to thoroughly explore both the Citadel and the Royal Palace.
Photo by Minek Neked
Esztergom: Hungary’s Spiritual Heart
Esztergom is home to Hungary’s largest basilica and was once the country’s capital. It offers a unique historical and spiritual experience.
What’s the vibe? Grand, imposing, and filled with history. Esztergom feels more like a city than a town, dominated by its magnificent basilica. It’s a must-see for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.
What to See and Do:
- Esztergom Basilica: This monumental basilica is the largest church in Hungary and one of the largest in Europe. Climb to the dome for stunning views of the Danube and beyond into Slovakia. The interior is just as impressive.
- Christian Museum: Located in the Primate’s Palace, this museum has a significant collection of Hungarian and European art.
- Castle Museum: Explore the remnants of the medieval Royal Palace and castle for more historical insights.
- Maria Valeria Bridge: Walk across this bridge to Štúrovo in Slovakia for a quick cross-border experience and a different view of the basilica.
Getting There (Direct Train!): The best way to visit Esztergom is by direct train from Budapest Nyugati station. The trip takes about an hour and 20 minutes, making it an easy and enjoyable day trip. You can easily spend a full day here, especially if you want to explore the basilica and museum thoroughly.
Beyond the Bend: More Hungarian Adventures
While the Danube Bend is a classic, Hungary has so much more to offer just a short distance from Budapest. From vast lakes to historic wine regions and charming villages, these day trips promise unique experiences for every kind of traveler.
Photo by Krisztián Reischl
Lake Balaton: Hungary’s Inland Sea
Picture a massive freshwater lake, often called the “Hungarian Sea,” surrounded by vineyards, lovely towns, and volcanic hills. That’s Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake, and it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip, especially in summer.
What’s the vibe? Chill, summery, and a bit like a resort, but filled with natural beauty and local charm. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the outdoors.
What to See and Do:
- Swim and Sunbathe: Find a beach (many are free!) and relax by the water.
- Balatonfüred: An elegant town on the northern shore, known for its promenade, historic villas, and thermal baths. It’s a great base for exploring.
- Tihany Peninsula: This beautiful peninsula is a must-see. Visit the Tihany Abbey, enjoy the lavender fields (especially stunning in June), and take in the incredible panoramic views of the lake. It’s a truly picturesque location.
- Wine Tasting: The area around Lake Balaton is a significant wine region. Look for local wineries offering tastings of delicious Hungarian wines.
Getting There (Train is Best!): You can take a direct train from Budapest Nyugati station to various towns around Lake Balaton, such as Balatonfüred or Siófok. The journey typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a perfect full day trip. Buses are another option, but trains are usually more comfortable and scenic.
Photo by BĀBI
Eger: Wine, Castles & Thermal Bliss
If you enjoy great wine, impressive castles, and relaxing thermal baths, a day trip to Eger is a no-brainer. This historic city in northern Hungary is famous for its “Bull’s Blood” wine (Egri Bikavér) and its heroic past.
What’s the vibe? Historic, vibrant, and a bit boozy (in a good way!). Eger has a lively main square, a grand castle, and lots of wine cellars just waiting to be explored.
What to See and Do:
- Eger Castle: This impressive fortress played a crucial role in defending Hungary against the Ottomans. Explore its walls, museums, and enjoy views over the city.
- Valley of the Beautiful Women (Szépasszony-völgy): This is where the fun happens! A valley full of hundreds of wine cellars carved into the tuff rock. You can hop from cellar to cellar, tasting different wines, including the famous Egri Bikavér. It’s a unique experience.
- Eger Thermal Baths: After all that exploring (and wine tasting), unwind at the local thermal baths.
- Eger Minaret: Climb the Ottoman minaret for a different view of the city.
Getting There (Train or Bus): You can take a direct train from Budapest Keleti station to Eger, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Volánbusz also runs direct buses from Budapest Népliget bus station, taking the same time. It’s definitely a full day trip to enjoy the castle, wine cellars, and maybe a quick dip.
Photo by Linda Gerbec
Gödöllő: Royal Palace Grandeur
For a quick and elegant half-day trip, visit Gödöllő to see the stunning Royal Palace, once a favorite residence of Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”) of Austria and Queen of Hungary.
What’s the vibe? Regal, historical, and surprisingly peaceful. It’s a chance to step back in time and imagine life as royalty.
What to See and Do:
- Gödöllő Royal Palace: Explore the beautifully restored Baroque palace and learn about Sisi’s life and the history of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The lavish interiors and lovely garden are great for a stroll.
- Palace Gardens: Walk through the extensive park and gardens surrounding the palace.
Getting There (Super Easy!): Gödöllő is very easy to reach. Take the HÉV (suburban train) H8 line from Örs vezér tere in Budapest. The short journey takes about 30-40 minutes. It’s perfect for a half-day outing, leaving you enough time to explore Budapest in the afternoon.
Photo by @beres kepes
Hollókő: A Living UNESCO Village
Want to experience traditional Hungarian village life? Hollókő is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a well-preserved Palóc village where time seems to have stood still. It’s a true hidden gem.
What’s the vibe? Authentic, traditional, and incredibly charming. It feels like stepping into a postcard, with whitewashed houses, wooden balconies, and a tranquil atmosphere.
What to See and Do:
- Explore the Old Village: Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the traditional Palóc houses, and visit the village church.
- Hollókő Castle: Hike up to the ruins of the 13th-century castle for amazing views of the countryside.
- Local Crafts: Check out small museums and workshops showcasing traditional crafts and folk art.
- Cultural Events: If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional festival or event, especially around Easter.
Getting There (Bus is Best): Hollókő is a bit harder to reach by public transport, but totally doable. Take a Volánbusz from Budapest Stadion bus station. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s best to plan for a full day trip to fully soak up the village’s unique atmosphere.
Photo by Anna Spoljar
Book Hostels In Pécs
Pécs: Southern Charm & Zsolnay Art
For a longer but rewarding day trip, consider heading south to Pécs. This vibrant city is known for its unique mix of cultures, rich history, and lively arts scene, particularly for its Zsolnay porcelain.
What’s the vibe? Mediterranean, artistic, and historically rich. Pécs has a relaxed, almost southern European feel, with a beautiful main square and interesting historical sites.
What to See and Do:
- Early Christian Necropolis (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Explore the underground burial chambers and chapels from the 4th century. It’s a truly special historical site.
- Mosque of Pasha Qasim: A former mosque turned church, showcasing the city’s Ottoman past.
- Zsolnay Cultural Quarter: A must for art and design lovers. It’s a revived factory complex with museums, galleries, workshops, and cafes, all celebrating Zsolnay porcelain.
- Pécs Cathedral: An impressive Romanesque cathedral with a rich history.
- Main Square (Széchenyi tér): Relax in the bustling square, grab a coffee, and soak in the atmosphere.
Getting There (Direct Train!): Pécs is a longer day trip, but easily reachable by direct train from Budapest Nyugati station. The ride takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. While it’s a longer journey, the city has enough to fill a full day and make the trip worthwhile. Start early to maximize your time!
Cross-Border Adventures: Day Trips to Neighbouring Capitals
“What countries can you visit by train from Budapest?” you might ask. A full multi-country tour may be too much for a day trip, but you can easily pop over to a neighbouring capital for a quick taste of another country. Common questions include, “Can you do a day trip to Bratislava from Budapest?” and “Can you do a day trip to Vienna from Budapest?” The answer is a definite YES, with a few conditions.
Photo by Michael Pointner
Book Hostels In Bratislava
Bratislava, Slovakia: Compact & Quirky
Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is surprisingly close to Budapest and makes for a great cross-border day trip. It’s smaller and more compact than Budapest, which makes it easy to explore in a day.
What’s the vibe? Charming, a bit quirky, and relaxed. Bratislava features a lovely Old Town, a majestic castle, and a unique mix of history and modern art.
What to See and Do:
- Bratislava Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking the Danube, the castle offers fantastic views of the city and beyond.
- Old Town: Stroll through the pedestrianised Old Town, discover quirky statues (like Man at Work), and enjoy the colourful buildings.
- Martin’s Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic cathedral where Hungarian kings were crowned.
- UFO Bridge: For something a bit different, walk across the SNP Bridge (UFO Bridge) for panoramic views from its observation deck.
How to Go Bratislava from Budapest (Direct Train!): The best way to reach Bratislava from Budapest is by direct train. Trains depart regularly from Budapest Nyugati station, and the journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. It’s a comfortable ride, and you’ll arrive right in the city centre, ready to explore. Be sure to check train schedules for return journeys to make the most of your time.
Photo by Leyre
Book Hostels In Vienna
Vienna, Austria: Imperial Grandeur (A Long Day Trip!)
“Can you do a day trip to Vienna from Budapest?” Yes, but it’s a long one! Vienna, the magnificent capital of Austria, is known for its grand palaces, classical music, and elegant cafes. While you can’t see everything in a day, you can absolutely get a taste of its majestic atmosphere.
What’s the vibe? Elegant, grand, and culturally rich. Vienna is a classic Central European city, known for its history, art, and coffee house culture.
What to See and Do (Pick a Few!):
- Schönbrunn Palace: The former imperial summer residence is a must-see. Focus on the palace interiors and the glorious gardens.
- Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom): An iconic Gothic cathedral in the heart of the city.
- Hofburg Palace: The former imperial palace, now home to several museums.
- Coffee House Culture: Grab a traditional Viennese coffee and a slice of Sachertorte.
Getting There (Direct Train!): Like Bratislava, the best way to visit Vienna is by direct train from Budapest Nyugati station. The journey also takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. This trip will take up your whole day, so start early and be prepared for a late return. It’s a whirlwind, but definitely doable if you want to visit another capital.
Photo by Dan Novac
Book Hostels In Budapest
Practical Tips for Your Budapest Day Trips
To ensure your day trips from Budapest are amazing and budget-friendly, keep these tips in mind:
Transport is Key:
- Trains: Often the most comfortable and scenic option for longer trips. Budapest Nyugati station and Keleti station are your main hubs. Look for direct train services.
- Buses (Volánbusz): Usually cheaper than trains for some routes and may offer more direct options to smaller towns like Hollókő.
- HÉV (Suburban Train): Ideal for closer destinations like Szentendre and Gödöllő.
- Tickets: Buy tickets at the station or online in advance, especially for international trips. Consider a Budapest Card if you plan to use public transport a lot within the city and on some HÉV lines.
Budgeting Like a Boss:
- Pack Snacks: Save money by bringing your own water and snacks.
- Free Activities: Many attractions have free areas (e.g., walking around a castle exterior, exploring a town’s main square).
- Student Discounts: Always ask if you have an ISIC card!
Timing is Everything:
- Start Early: This is especially important for longer trips like Pécs, Eger, or cross-border adventures. Make the most of your day!
- Check Opening Hours: Verify opening times for attractions, especially outside peak season.
What to Pack:
- Comfy Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking!
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated.
- Power Bank: Keep your phone charged for maps and photos.
- Layers: Weather can change, especially in Central Europe.
Solo Travel Savvy:
- Safety First: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially on public transport.
- Hostel Meetups: Many hostels organise day trips or have notice boards where you can find travel buddies.
Taste the Local Flavours:
- Street Food: Look for lángos (fried dough with toppings) or kürtőskalács (chimney cake).
- Pálinka: If you’re of age, try a shot of pálinka (Hungarian fruit brandy) – but responsibly, it’s strong!
Photo by Linda Gerbec
Book Hostels In Budapest
So, What’s the Best Day Trip from Budapest?
Honestly, there’s no single “best” day trip from Budapest—it really depends on what you like!
- For art and chill vibes: Szentendre is your go-to.
- For epic views and history: Visegrád will blow you away.
- For grand architecture and spiritual history: Esztergom is a must-visit.
- For summer relaxation and lake life: Lake Balaton is calling.
- For wine, castles, and thermal baths: Eger offers the perfect combo.
- For a quick royal fix: Gödöllő is super easy.
- For an authentic cultural immersion: Hollókő is a unique hidden gem.
- For a taste of another country (and you’re short on time): Bratislava is compact and charming.
- For imperial grandeur (if you don’t mind a long day): Vienna is iconic.
Each day trip provides a unique glimpse of Hungary (or Central Europe), offering diverse and engaging experiences that will enhance your travel adventures.
Ready to Roll?
Budapest is an amazing city, but don’t let it be your only Hungarian adventure. With plenty of incredible day trips just a train or bus ride away, you have a whole world of exploration at your fingertips. Grab your backpack, check those train times, and get ready to discover more of what Hungary has to offer! Happy travels!
Download the Hostelworld app to start booking now
FAQs: Day Trips from Budapest
What is the most popular day trip from Budapest?
The Danube Bend (Szentendre, Visegrád, and Esztergom) is the classic choice. It’s close, affordable, and offers a mix of art, history, and epic views.
How do you get to Szentendre from Budapest on a budget?
Take the suburban HÉV train (H5 line) from Batthyány tér. The ride takes about 40 minutes and costs just a few euros—perfect for backpackers.
Can you visit more than one Danube Bend town in a day?
Yes! Many travelers combine Szentendre with Visegrád or Esztergom. In summer, you can even travel between them by scenic boat along the Danube.
Is Lake Balaton worth a day trip from Budapest?
Absolutely. Known as the “Hungarian Sea,” it’s great for swimming, sunbathing, or visiting the Tihany Peninsula. Trains from Budapest take 1.5–2 hours.
What is Eger famous for?
Eger is known for its historic castle, thermal baths, and wine—especially the bold red Egri Bikavér (“Bull’s Blood”). You can taste it in the Valley of the Beautiful Women wine cellars.
What is the easiest half-day trip from Budapest?
Gödöllő is perfect. Just 30–40 minutes by suburban train, it’s home to the beautiful Royal Palace, once a favorite residence of Queen Elisabeth (“Sisi”).
Can you do a day trip to Bratislava from Budapest?
Yes! Direct trains run in about 2.5–3 hours. Bratislava’s compact Old Town and castle make it easy to explore in a single day.
What about a day trip to Vienna from Budapest?
It’s a long one, but doable. Trains take around 2.5–3 hours each way. You’ll only scratch the surface, but you can see Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or enjoy a Viennese coffeehouse in one day.
What is the most traditional Hungarian village to visit?
Hollókő, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living folk village with whitewashed houses, local crafts, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s like stepping back in time.
Where can I book budget hostels in Budapest?
The best place is Hostelworld. Just choose your dates, pick Budapest as your city, and you’ll find the top hostels with reviews, ratings, and prices—perfect for solo travelers and backpackers.
The post Hidden Gems of Hungary: Day Trips from Budapest You’ll Love appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.