Best Day Trips from Budapest, Hungary

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top day trip destinations around Budapest, Hungary. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, there’s something for everyone within a convenient day trip radius.

1. Eszterházy Palace and Szentendre (Eszterháza Kastély és Szentendre)

Szentendre is a picturesque town located on the Danube Bend, approximately a one-hour drive from Budapest. The town is known for its charming cobblestone streets, colorful Baroque buildings, and numerous art galleries and museums. One of the main attractions in the area is the Eszterháza Palace, the former residence of the Prince of Esterházy and a stunning example of Baroque architecture.

2. Visegrád (Visegrádi várak)

Located about an hour’s drive from Budapest, Visegrád is a historic town with two castles: the Lower Castle (Also known as the Royal Palace) and the Upper Castle (Szilas-hegy Vára). The Lower Castle was the residence of King Matthias Corvinus during the 15th century, while the Upper Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the Danube Bend. Don’t miss the Citadel Funicular, which connects the town with the Upper Castle and provides a unique transportation experience.

3. Lake Balaton (Balaton)

Known as the “Hungarian Sea,” Lake Balaton is Hungary’s largest freshwater lake and a popular summer destination for locals and tourists alike. The lake offers various water activities such as swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. There are also several charming towns along the shoreline, including Tihany, Balatonalmadi, and Balatonfüred, each with its unique character and attractions.

4. Szentendre and the Danube Bend Boat Tour (Duna-börzsönyi kőszoros hajózás)

If you’d like to explore the Danube Bend from a different perspective, consider taking a boat tour. The tour departs from Budapest and takes you through the picturesque towns of Visegrád, Eskerháza Palace, and Szentendre, showcasing their unique architectural and historical charm.

5. Göllöri Hill (Göllöri-hegy)

Located just a short drive from Budapest, Göllöri Hill is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking. The hill offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, as well as several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. Make sure to visit the Géza Spring (Gézai forrás) at the foot of the hill, which is known for its therapeutic properties.