I’m back in Budapest! This marks my third visit and my longest stay so far, so I’m excited to have a base here for a bit. The capital of Hungary is a city with breathtaking architecture, a deep history, and a lively cultural atmosphere. It also boasts reasonably priced beer and is recognized as one of the globe’s top wine-value destinations, so I feel thrilled every time I arrive.
Divided by the magnificent Danube River into two areas – Buda and Pest (pronounced “pescht” if you wish to pronounce it correctly) – this European jewel is full of charm and you could spend weeks exploring without running out of things to see. It’s also a perfect place for walking and taking in the decorative architecture. Be sure to look up!
Famous for its thermal baths, historic sites, and unique cuisine, Budapest attracts visitors from all over the world. Luckily, you don’t need a large budget to enjoy everything this city has to offer. It has been included in all five editions of my book The World’s Cheapest Destinations and even though I’ve just begun my exploration this time, I’m pleased to report that prices outside the main tourist areas remain quite reasonable.
## Getting Around in Budapest
Budapest’s public transport network is efficient, well-connected, and inexpensive. With trams, buses, and the oldest metro line in mainland Europe, you can navigate the city comfortably and affordably. Here are some tips to save money:
– Buy a Travel Card: Think about getting a 24-hour, 72-hour, or weekly travel card. This pass offers unlimited access to public transport. Since we will be in the city for more than two weeks, we opted for a monthly card with unlimited rides, costing us only about $23 each. Check options in English on the [BKK Budapest site](https://bkk.hu/en/visiting-budapest/tickets-and-passes/). Alternatively, you can select one of the Budapest tourist cards, which includes entry to attractions and transportation.
– Use Trams for Sightseeing. These nostalgic, narrow trains run on electric power and sometimes provide lovely views out the window. Tram 2, in particular, features picturesque vistas along the Danube River and passes by key attractions, making it a budget-friendly choice for sightseeing.
– Use your feet. Most attractions in Buda and Pest are within walking distance of one another, especially if you mix in some public transport for longer stretches occasionally. There are hills in Buda, but Pest is completely flat.
– Rent a city bike. Budapest offers a solid public city bike scheme, with durable bikes that you can take from a rack and return later. These MOL Bubi bikes need an app download and you can’t purchase a pass unless you’re a local, but you can rent them for 40 Hungarian forint per minute, which totals about $6.40 for an hour, half that for half an hour.
## Explore Free and Low-Cost Attractions
Budapest is brimming with attractions that won’t deplete your wallet. Here are a few essential spots during a [free tour in Budapest](https://www.freetour.com/budapest/):
– Central Pest and the Parliament building. I spent two and a half hours on this tour with a fantastic local guide and gained insightful knowledge about Hungary’s regrettable history and current political situation. (Hungarians have faced difficulties with their leaders for centuries.) Covering significant sites like St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Chain Bridge, and the Parliament Building, this tour is perfect for first-time visitors like my wife.
– Buda Castle and Castle Hill: Stroll around the Buda Castle complex and the historic Castle Hill. While some areas of the castle require admission, exploring the grounds, courtyards, and scenic outlooks is free.
– Fisherman’s Bastion: A whimsical structure offering sweeping views of the city, the Fisherman’s Bastion is partially free. The lower tiers, where Instagram enthusiasts take their photos, are accessible to everyone, providing stunning photography opportunities of the Parliament building and the Danube.
– Hero’s Square: One of Budapest’s most recognizable squares, Hero’s Square features striking statues, monuments, and nearby museums. It’s a perfect stop for history enthusiasts, and the outdoor attractions are free to enjoy.
Free walking tours are an excellent way to delve into Budapest’s history and culture while gaining a better understanding of what you’re witnessing. Just keep in mind that the name can be a bit misleading. It’s more of a “Pay what you feel is appropriate” tour since the guides don’t earn anything if you don’t leave a tip. That doesn’t quite have the same appeal though.
Other budget-friendly tour options include:
– Jewish Quarter Tour: Learn about the rich history of Budapest’s Jewish community, including a visit to the Dohány Street Synagogue (the