Budapest Day Trips

Title: Top Day Trips from Budapest, Hungary 🇭🇺

1. Szentendre (Saint Andrew) 🌆

  • Distance from Budapest: Approx. 30km north of Budapest
  • Time to travel: Around 45 minutes by car or train

Szentendre, a picturesque town on the Danube riverbank, is filled with Baroque, Rococo and Belle Époque buildings. It’s known for its museums, galleries, and charming cobbled streets lined with souvenir shops and quaint cafes. 🎨🍽️

Must-sees include the Open-Air Museum of Skanzen, Margit Kovács Ceramic Memorial Collection, and the Orthodox Synagogue and Museum.

2. Etyek Wine Region (Etyek borvidék) 🍷

  • Distance from Budapest: Approx. 45km southwest of Budapest
  • Time to travel: Around one hour by car or train

For wine lovers, a visit to the Etyek Wine Region is an absolute must. This region has over 30 wineries and offers excellent opportunities for wine tasting and cellar tours. Enjoy a day exploring vineyards, learning about Hungarian wines, and savoring some delicious local gastronomy. 🍇🥂

3. Visegrád (Visegrádi-hegyek) 🏯

  • Distance from Budapest: Approx. 50km north of Budapest
  • Time to travel: Around one hour by car or train

Visegrád is a historical town located on three hills along the Danube Bend, with stunning views over the river and valley below. It’s famous for its Castle Hill (Várhegy), which has several historical sites including the 13th-century citadel, the Royal Palace, and the Tower of Old King Matthias.

Don’t miss a visit to the Citadella, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Danube Bend. 🏯🌄

4. Gödöllő (Gödöllői-erdő) 🐃

  • Distance from Budapest: Approx. 30km northeast of Budapest
  • Time to travel: Around 30 minutes by car or train

Gödöllő is a popular destination for those who enjoy nature and history. The town is home to the beautiful Royal Palace, where Hungarian kings once resided. Stroll through the palace gardens, which include an English landscape park designed by Empress Elizabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi.

For lovers of horses, Gödöllő Royal Stud Farm offers guided tours and opportunities to observe Hungary’s magnificent Lipizzaner horses up close. 🐎🏡

5. Lake Balaton (Balatoni-tó) 🌊

  • Distance from Budapest: Approx. 150km southwest of Budapest
  • Time to travel: Around two hours by car or train, depending on your departure point

Lake Balaton is Hungary’s largest freshwater lake and a popular summer destination for locals and tourists alike. With its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and charming villages, it makes for an excellent day trip from Budapest. 🏖️🌞

Some popular towns to visit around the lake include Balatonfüred, Tihany, and Keszthely. Each town offers unique attractions, such as the Festival Center in Balatonfüred, the Peninsula Abbey in Tihany, and the Lake Museum and Helikon Castle in Keszthely.

No matter which day trip you choose from this list, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience exploring the beautiful sights and attractions around Budapest! 🎉🇭🇺