I’m back in Budapest! This marks my third time visiting this city, and this trip is set to be the longest, so I’m eager to establish a base here for some time. The capital of Hungary boasts breathtaking architecture, a deep-rooted history, and a lively cultural atmosphere. Moreover, it offers reasonably priced beer and ranks among the world’s best-value wine spots, which always delights me upon arrival.
Divided by the majestic Danube River into Buda and Pest (pronounced “pescht” for accuracy), this jewel of Europe is brimming with character, and you could spend weeks sight-seeing without running out of things to do. It’s also a fantastic place for leisurely strolls and admiring the architectural embellishments. Remember to look upwards!
Famous for its thermal baths, historical sites, and diverse cuisine, Budapest attracts tourists from all corners of the world. Thankfully, you don’t need a hefty 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 started my exploration this time around, I’m pleased to report that prices outside the main tourist areas remain quite reasonable.
## Getting Around in Budapest
The public transportation system in Budapest is efficient, well-connected, and budget-friendly. With trams, buses, and the oldest metro line in mainland Europe, you can navigate the city comfortably and economically. Here are some tips for saving money:
– Purchase a Travel Card: Think about buying a 24-hour, 72-hour, or weekly travel card. This pass gives you unlimited access to public transport. Since we’ll be in the city for over two weeks, we opted for a monthly pass with unrestricted rides, costing us just the equivalent of $23 each. Check the options in English on the [BKK Budapest site](https://bkk.hu/en/visiting-budapest/tickets-and-passes/). Alternatively, get one of the Budapest tourist cards which include admission to attractions along with transportation.
– Utilize Trams for Sightseeing. These charming, retro-style trains operate on electricity and often provide lovely views through the windows. Tram 2, in particular, offers beautiful scenery along the Danube and passes key attractions, making it a superb budget-friendly sightseeing choice.
– Walk. Many attractions in Buda and Pest are close to one another, particularly if you mix some public transport in between the longer stretches. While Buda has some hills, Pest is completely flat.
– Rent a city bike. Budapest has a solid public bike-sharing program, featuring durable bicycles that you can take from one station and return to another later. The MOL Bubi bikes require an app to access, and you can’t buy a pass unless you’re a local, but you can rent them for 40 Hungarian forint per minute, translating to just $6.40 for an hour, or half of that for half an hour.
## Discover Free and Low-Cost Attractions
Budapest is packed with attractions that are budget-friendly. Here’s a list of must-visit sites 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 an excellent local guide, gaining a solid understanding of troubled Hungarian history and the current political landscape. (Hungarians have not been lucky with their leaders for centuries.) This tour covers significant landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Chain Bridge, and the Parliament Building, making it perfect for first-time visitors like my wife.
– Buda Castle and Castle Hill: Take a stroll around the Buda Castle complex and the historic Castle Hill. While some sections of the castle require an admission fee, wandering the grounds, courtyards, and scenic viewpoints is free.
– Fisherman’s Bastion: A whimsical structure offering breathtaking views of the city, the Fisherman’s Bastion can be accessed for free at the lower levels where Instagram enthusiasts take their photos, providing fantastic photo ops of the Parliament building and the Danube.
– Hero’s Square: As one of Budapest’s most recognizable squares, Hero’s Square is adorned with impressive statues, monuments, and nearby museums. It’s an excellent stop for history enthusiasts, and the outdoor features can be admired without charge.
Free walking tours represent a brilliant opportunity to delve into Budapest’s history and culture while gaining better insight into what you’re observing. Just keep in mind that the term can be a bit misleading. It’s more of a “Pay what you feel is appropriate” tour since guides rely on tips for compensation. That doesn’t quite have the same appeal, though.
Other affordable tour options include:
– Jewish Quarter Tour: Explore the rich heritage of Budapest’s Jewish community, including a visit to the Dohány Street Synagogue (the