Budapest is divided into 23 districts. No matter where you are in the city, you will come across great spots to explore. Some areas have become known for their street art and hip bars, while others are more classical with historical buildings. Here is a shortlist of our favorite Budapest neighborhoods:
Buda Castle
Located on the top of the hill overlooking the Danube, the Castle District is a must for history buffs. Cobblestoned streets with horse carriages, historic buildings and churches, great museums and amazing viewpoints can be found here.
The Jewish District
It is one of the most lively and cool areas of the city that has a lot of history. Many synagogues and Jewish institutions are located here, including one of the world’s largest temples. Enjoy hip spots, cool restaurants, amazing street art. It is also home to many of the city’s famous ruined bars.
City Park
A grand park with a lot of entertainment and outdoor venues. Go for a walk in this green oasis. Enjoy a picnic, the zoo or relax at one of the largest thermal baths in Europe. Check out the historical castle or explore contemporary buildings, including the House of Music and the new Ethnographical Museum. Take a pedal boat on the lake in the summer or ice skate during the winter.
The Palace District
Located in downtown Pest, you’ll find wonderful palaces that house cultural institutions, libraries and university faculties. The district was the home of artists, musicians, writers and bohemians. You’ll find hip bars and grand cafés that were the second home to many famous figures of Hungarian literature. District 8 has been traditionally home to Roma musicians and has a great cultural vitality. The opening of new apartment buildings and shopping centers show the transformation of this district.
Bartók Boulevard
This up and coming area along the river on the Buda side has a lot of cute cafés, restaurants and art galleries. Located in the 11th district of the city, the area is nestled between the grand Gellert bath and a “bottomless” lake. Climb to the top of Gellert hill for a sunrise hike and enjoy wonderful views over the city.
Újlipótváros
Situated close to the river on the Pest side, the area in district 13 is also nicknamed little Tel Aviv. It offers great coffee shops, family-run bakeries and restaurants, ice cream parlors and one-of-a-kind stores that sell books, delicatessens and vintage gifts. The area has some fine Bauhaus buildings and locals are often seen walking their dogs in the nearby park.
Old Buda
Óbuda, as the locals call it, is located in district 3 in the northern part of Buda. It may be a bit away from the main touristic areas, but it’s worth checking out for the Roman Empire’s cultural heritage. Besides the ancient rocks and the military amphitheater, you will find a cobbled Mediterranean-style main square with exciting museums. The former gasworks area is being transformed to a new culture hub. There are public lidos and pools and you can also dip your toes in the river at the small islands that have great spots to enjoy a sunset drink. Sziget music festival is taking place at one of these islands during the summer.
Margaret island
Located between Buda and Pest, this green island is the breathing lungs of the city. No cars are allowed here besides public transport buses. The island is a favorite spot in all seasons for jogging and biking. There is an Olympic-size swimming pool, an outdoor lido and thermal bath. The musical fountain and the petting zoo mostly attract families. You can get to the island by boat and also rent a bike.
