15 Free (or Really Cheap!) Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary

There are tons of things to do in Budapest for free (or near-cheap). While Hungary is sought after as one of the best budget European destinations, its capital offers tremendous history, culture, and beauty without breaking the bank.

So what can you do in Budapest for free? Here I’m listing some of the best activities to do in the city without stretching your budget.

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IS BUDAPEST A CHEAP PLACE TO VISIT?

For the frugal traveler, Budapest is the ideal place to be. It has an abundance of free attractions, budget-friendly eateries, and very reasonably priced accommodations.

Of course the neighboring cities in Hungary and Eastern Europe can potentially offer more affordable experiences – Budapest is very touristy and hence perhaps a tad costlier than these. But it still doesn’t punch a hole in your wallet despite being a very hot European destination.

Did you know: Budapest is also called the ‘Pearl of the Danube’. The city, perched on the bank of the Danube river, beckons with its grand monuments, thermal baths, vibrant nightlife, and unique experiences.

FREE THINGS TO DO IN BUDAPEST

Budapest is a treasure trove of cultural experiences that won’t dent your budget. Here are some of the best activities you can enjoy in the city – for free (or almost)!

1. Take A Free Walking Tour in Budapest

Free walking tours are a fantastic way to explore Budapest’s landmarks and history without breaking the bank.

Starting from popular spots like Vörösmarty Square or St. Stephen’s Basilica, these guided tours cover the highlights, local legends, and Hungary’s fascinating past, including the Communist era and the 1956 Revolution. Some tours focus on specific themes, like Jewish heritage or street art.

Take a free tour at the start of your visit to get an overview of the city before you immerse in its exploration at your own pace.

Here are some cool free walking tours to try:

• Budapest Jewish Quarter Free Tour with a Historian
• Alternative Street Art Budapest 
• Budapest Free Walking Tour by Locals

2. Hike Gellért Hill for Panoramic Views

A stroll up to the Gellért Hill Citadel is a must to-do in Budapest, where you can take in the city’s majestic panorama without spending a dime.

The hike itself is an experience, with tree-lined paths and informational plaques highlighting the hill’s history. Take a moment to appreciate Liberty Statue next to the citadel, a monument to commemorate the lives lost in Budapest’s fight for independence.

The southern steps of the Citadel and the northern lookout by the parking lot offer equally stunning vantage points. You can spot the iconic Buda Castle in the distance, framed by the Danube river and the magnificent bridges that connect Buda and Pest.

3. Discover the Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall, Budapest’s largest and oldest indoor market, is a feast for the senses and totally free to explore.

Opened in 1897, this stunning neo-Gothic building contains myriad stalls packed with Hungarian delicacies, fresh produce, culinary varieties, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.

Wander through its lively atmosphere, admire the intricate architecture, or people-watch from the upper balcony. You can soak in Hungarian culture without spending a forint—though the tempting lángos might make you open your wallet!

4. Chill at Ervin Szabó Central Library

The Ervin Szabó Central Library offers a great mix of history and modern literary resources.

Accessing the library requires a small membership fee of 400 HUF (~€1) so, while not free, it comes close.

Housed in a 19th-century palace, the library’s ornate reading rooms with chandeliers and gilded details feel straight out of a period drama.

The beautiful Baroque architecture, intricate ceilings, and the cozy atmosphere offer a very welcoming setting. The interiors are impressive, as is the extensive collection of books.

You don’t have to be a bibliophile to check out a library. Sometimes, you visit for the architecture; on another day you run in for shelter from the rain 😉 Whatever the reason may be, Ervin Szabó is sure to surprise you!

5. Check Out the Roman Ruins in the City

Discover Budapest’s ancient Roman history at Aquincum, the site of a once-thriving Roman city.

The Roman province of Pannonia stretched across much of modern-day Hungary in around the 1st century AD, and Aquincum served as its capital. Today it’s an open air museum. Aquincum was an important military and civilian hub, home to both a Roman legion and a thriving civilian population.

Located in the Óbuda district in the northern part of the city, this archaeological site features baths, a military barracks, sophisticated underfloor heating systems, and an amphitheater.

Entry is for an affordable 1700 HUF (~€5).

P.S. It is believed that Marcus Aurelius wrote his famous book “Meditations” while at Aquincum.

6. Stroll through City Park

Take a leisurely walk through Budapest’s City Park (Városliget), a sprawling green space that’s free to explore and packed with charm.

The park’s entrance is through the majestic Heroes’ Square, and the fairytale Vajdahunyad Castle sits in the backdrop. A scenic lake completes the picture.

Don’t miss the quirky statues scattered around, like the unmissable hooded “Anonymus”, supposedly the sculpture of a 12th century monk.

Make a visit to City park for a jog, a picnic, or a peaceful escape from the city buzz – no ticket required!

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8. Visit Gül Baba’s Tomb

The appeal of Gül Baba’s tomb transcends faith. It welcomes the visitor to experience Ottoman history in Hungary a tad closer.

Located in the Rózsadomb (Rose Hill) district (which you should anyway visit when in Budapest), this site is the northernmost Islamic pilgrimage location in the world.

It honors Gül Baba, a Bektashi dervish and poet known as the “Father of Roses“.

The tomb is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden, and has free admission.  A quaint cafe on-site provides a serene setting for reflection.

7. Escape to Margaret Island

Even though Margaret Island (Margit-sziget) is in the heart of Budapest, it feels like you’re in a different world. Replete with greenery and a serene waterfront, here is a little space of tranquility.

The island is located in the Danube and spans merely 2.5 kilometers, which means it’s the perfect size to get around on foot.

Margaret Island offers plenty to see and do – and all for free! Stroll through the beautifully landscaped Japanese Garden, marvel at the Art Nouveau Water Tower, or enjoy the choreographed Musical Fountain (especially magical after sunset). Explore the 13th-century ruins of the Dominican Convent, once home to St. Margaret (a princess-turned nun whom the island gets its name from).

There’s also a mini zoo for sighting and petting local animals, a cool activity for families with young children.

10. Be a Local at a Weekend Farmers’ Market

I’m a big fan of farmers’ markets, and the ones in Budapest are all sorts of wonderful.

Not only do these give you a slice of local life in the city, you can also sample fresh produce and discover artisanal gems. Best of all, visiting them is completely free!

Especially worth visiting is Szimpla Farmers’ Market. Every Sunday, Szimpla Kert — Budapest’s most famous ruin bar — transforms into a lively market packed with stalls offering all things from homemade jams to lángos and kolbász. There are also live music performances and workshops.

Other cool free markets worth checking out are Közös Piac and Belvárosi Piac.

11. Grab Serene Views at Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion offers the iconic Budapest view that you’ll probably see everytime you google the city.

The Danube river flows unhurriedly below, and the Parliament Building can be seen on the other side of the river.

Located in the Buda Castle District, this neo-Gothic terrace was built in the late 19th century and named after the fishermen who defended the area in medieval times. The seven towers that hold it up symbolize Hungary’s founding tribes.

Best part: Access to most areas of the Fisherman’s Bastion, including the terraces, is completely free, though there’s a small fee for the upper turrets. Matthias Church next door is just as beautiful.

Fisherman’s Bastion is an especially popular spot to visit at sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking setting.

9. Enjoy the Silence at Budapest’s Unique Cemeteries

Budapest’s cemeteries are over-the-top. And that’s exactly why they warrant a visit. The ornate tombstones and beautiful architecture that adorn these burial grounds are reflective of the city’s varied cultural influences.

Head to Kerepesi Cemetery, one of Europe’s largest burial grounds, where elaborate mausoleums honor Hungary’s greatest artists, politicians, and thinkers.

The modern sculptures and Art Nouveau tombs at Farkasréti Cemetery show a different side of the city, honoring famous Hungarian actors, composers, and scientists. Salgotarjani Jewish Cemetery is a hauntingly beautiful site with ornate tombs blending Moorish, Art Deco, and Classical styles.

Budapest’s Cemeteries aren’t super touristy, nonetheless worthy of a visit. Each cemetery is a peaceful, free cultural journey through the city.

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12. Admire the Splendor of Andrássy Avenue

Andrássy Avenue is Budapest’s Champs-Élysées – a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site lined with neo-Renaissance mansions, luxury boutiques, and grand cafes.

Stretching from downtown to Heroes’ Square, this 2.5-kilometer boulevard offers a free exhibition of the city’s architectural wealth.

It is lined with some of the country’s key landmarks like the Hungarian State Opera House and the House of Terror Museum (which is SO worth taking a tour).

Stroll through neat sidewalks, stop by to watch a street performer, and soak in the beautifully restored facades.

13. Walk around Heroes’ Square

Another iconic Hungarian landmark, which is free to visit in Budapest, is Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere).

Situated at the end of Andrássy Avenue, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the towering Millennium Monument, crowned by Archangel Gabriel, and surrounded by statues of Hungary’s legendary leaders and kings. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Kunsthalle are other important buildings in the square.

Heroes’ Square is perfect for an afternoon jaunt, as you relish the Lángos you picked up for the corner shop.

Bonus: it’s just steps from the lush City Park and Széchenyi Thermal Bath.

14. Visit a Ruin Bar

You can’t visit Budapest and not see a Ruin Bar.

These quirky, eclectic spots offer a one-of-a-kind experience that’s free to enjoy—if you don’t mind skipping the drink.

Housed in abandoned buildings, Budapest’s ruin bars like Szimpla Kert and Instant are a unique blend of history, art, and a freewheeling, today-is-all-we-have vibe.

Wander through their offbeat decor – think mismatched furniture and curious street art.

Visiting a Ruin Bar in Budapest is how you experience the city’s alternative culture. It’s one of the best things to do, and even better it’s free!

15. Experience the Great Outdoors in the Buda Hills

If you like hiking, Budapest’s Buda Hills are a perfect escape. This lush area, just a short tram or bus ride from the city center, offers countless trails for all hikes and walks. The pathways are verdant and offer an instant connection with nature.

Start at Normafa for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, or tackle the trail to János Hill, Budapest’s highest point. You can also take the Zugliget Chairlift to János Hill.

Needless to say, these natural wonders are completely free to enjoy. So when in Budapest, head to the great outdoors!

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