Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and one of the most beautiful cities we have had the pleasure of exploring across the world. Remember when planning your trip to Budapest to pay attention to the weather and any local holidays that can impact your vacation. This complete practical guide covers everything that you should know before visiting Budapest.
Where to stay in Budapest
We stayed at the Art’Otel in the Buda side of the city. It is perfectly located just few blocks from the Buda Complex and the Chain Bridge, and a short walk to metro and bus stop. The best part of the hotel is the view from the bedroom as you can overlook either the Fisherman Bastion or the Hungarian Parliament.
If you want to stay in the Pest side, we recommend the Eurostars Danube Budapest, in the heart of the Jewish Neighborhood. It is close to the most famous ruin bar, szimpla, the Jewish synagogues and Deak Ferenc Ter.
Hotel prices in Budapest are quite reasonable. The two hotels we recommend are super affordable considering they are 4-star hotels, with a great location and new rooms. The room rate varies from 60 to 80 euros a night depending on the season and when you book your reservation.
Important information for your visit to Budapest
Transportation: The best way to move around Budapest is by foot or public transportation. If you rather using a taxi, keep in mind that they do not have Uber anymore so you will have to download their local app, Taxify.
Currency: In Hungary you can pay pretty much everything with your credit card, although it is always good to carry cash just in case. Their local currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). 1 Euro equals 390 Hungarian forint and 1 USD equals 35- Hungarian Forint as of January 2024. The best way to look for the current exchange rate is on Google.
Attractions: The Budapest Card includes public transportation, entrance to a handful of museums and up to 50% discount on other famous attractions and restaurants.
How to get from the Airport to Pest side?
Depending on where you go in Pest, but if you go to the Jewish Neighborhood the easiest way is to take the bus 100E towards Deak Ferenc Ter. The bus leaves every half an hour and it goes straight from the airport to Deak Ferenc Square. The cost for the bus is 900 HUF and it runs from 4AM to 12:30 AM.
How to get from the Airport to the Buda side?
It will be the same as to the Pest side but then from Deak Ferenc Square you have to take the metro M2 towards Deli Palayaudvar M.
The best means of transportation really depends on where in Budapest you want to go. The easiest way to find out is using Google Maps to search from the airport to your hotel and it will give you the information you need to get to the right place.
Where to leave your luggage?
It is quite common to have extra time when you arrive before check in or on the day you are leaving after check out to continue to explore Budapest. It is best if you do not have to drag your luggage around the city with you. If you are staying at a hotel, that would be your best option as it is cheaper, if not free and safe. If you are staying at an Airbnb or hostel than Luggage Storage Budapest can be an excellent option.
What you should see in Budapest?
Budapest has many attractions that are not to be missed during your visit. Its highlights include the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, historic Jewish Quarter, and the Hungarian Parliament. For a complete list of things to do in Budapest check out our complete walking guide to Budapest.
⇟ More articles from Budapest that might interest you:
➳ Read More: The Complete Walking Guide of Budapest: The Best Things To Do in Buda and Pest
➳ Read More: Boutique Hotel Review: Art’Otel Budapest, Hungary
➳ Read More: The Ultimate Photography Guide with the best Instagram Spots in Budapest
➳ Read More: What to do and see in Budapest: 5 day Budapest Itinerary
➳ Read More: Guide of Jewish sites in Budapest
➳ Read More: Practical Travel Information Guide for your trip to Budapest