Where to Stay in Budapest?

The departure for the Hungarian capital is approaching and you want to find the best hotel to stay in Budapest? Well, look no further, just read this guide Here, you will know everything about the most interesting neighborhoods to stay in, not to mention my selection of the best budget accommodations in the city!

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, a legacy of Roman and Ottoman occupation, ideal for relaxing in mineral-rich waters while admiring the stunning surrounding architecture. But you'll also find plenty of other things to do, such as visiting Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament, or the Hungarian State Opera, which are just a few of the architectural and cultural treasures housed in the capital.

To find a place to stay in Budapest, know that the city is bordered by the Danube River, which divides it into two distinct parts: Buda, perched on hills offering breathtaking views, and Pest, the flatter part of the city housing most of its commercial and cultural activities. If you want to know which part of the city to choose and which neighborhoods to prioritize, I invite you to keep reading this article!

Perhaps you didn't know, but Budapest is a huge city! To give you an idea, multiply the surface area of Paris by five To find a hotel to stay in the Hungarian capital, it's best to do your research focusing on the most central neighborhoods possible, in order to avoid losing too much time in transport.

Indeed, the public transportation network is not very efficient yet. While you can use it for certain trips, opt for the practical solution: stay right in the downtown area. A whole bunch of neighborhoods allow quick access, whether on foot or via a tram or metro line

Of course, book your accommodation as early as possible to score good deals. Even though prices are generally lower in Hungary, Budapest remains a very touristy destination. In other words, it's best to plan ahead to secure the best hotel at a reasonable rate

If you're looking to save money, the Exe Budapest Center is a good compromise. It offers rooms right in the center starting at 61 € per night.

If you're going away as a couple, I recommend the Cortile Hotel, near the Great Synagogue. You'll enjoy a pool, a terrace, a bar, and beautiful accommodations starting at 122 € per night!

Another great option is the Metropolis Budapest, which offers comfortable and well-decorated rooms near the metro starting at 48 € per night.

Buda is one half of Budapest, nestled along the winding banks of the Danube. This part of the city, with its rich historical past and undeniable charm, attracts many people due to its unique character! It's also one of the best places to stay in Budapest, with a wide variety of accommodations available for every budget

Perched high, this neighborhood offers an unbeatable panoramic view of the city and the river that runs through it. Dominated by Buda Hill, this area is full of architectural gems, from the elegant Buda Castle to the Fisherman's Bastion, a lovely neo-Romanesque structure. The medieval atmosphere is enhanced by the cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and small churches, perfect for a complete disconnection!

The Buda Palace, a historic building par excellence, stands atop the hill. Its impressive architecture reflects Budapest's tumultuous history, ranging from the Renaissance to the Baroque era. The museums house artistic and historical treasures, while its gardens are perfect for relaxing during a stroll.

Feel free to take the Buda Funicular, an iconic attraction if you want to see the city from another angle. For nature lovers, the Buda Hill Park is a true green haven, where flora and fauna thrive freely

With its historic baths, cafes, and shops, understand that there will be plenty to do in the Buda neighborhood, so I highly recommend this area for your stay!

Radisson Hotel Budapest BudaPart: With its spacious, elegant, and comfortable rooms, this establishment features a restaurant, gym, bar, and shared lounge. You'll stay in an ideal setting for families, starting at 81 € per night.

Park Plaza Budapest: Situated on the banks of the Danube and close to the Chain Bridge and the Parliament, this 4-star establishment is a great place to stay in Budapest. You can enjoy the sauna, gym, and bar-restaurant of the hotel, and you'll be accommodated in spacious and bright rooms and suites, some with a stunning view of the river. Expect to pay a minimum of 94 € for a night.

Belváros, another district of Budapest, is recognized as the downtown due to its central location It is infused with its historical past, boasting remarkable architecture! Of course, this area is known for its incredible vibrancy, making it a perfect base if you're unsure where to stay in Budapest.

This neighborhood is marked by eclectic architecture, mixing Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau styles. The facades adorned with architectural details give Belváros a unique atmosphere and timeless charm. The iconic St. Stephen's Basilica, a symbol of Budapest, is among the most important monuments to discover, dominating the city with its imposing dome visible on the horizon.

Belváros is characterized by strong contrasts; on one side, you'll find elegant gourmet restaurants where you can savor Hungarian cuisine. On the other, the bustling markets and street stalls offer specialties such as goulash and kürtőskalács, pastries rolled in sugar

There are also the banks of the Danube, classified as UNESCO World Heritage, bordering Belváros and providing spectacular views of the illuminated Hungarian Parliament at night. You can stroll along the famous Chain Bridge, a feat of engineering from the 19th century, or enjoy a cruise to admire the modern bridges.

Finally, Belváros is a vibrant cultural center with museums, art galleries, and theaters. The Hungarian National Museum, located nearby, exhibits a vast collection of historical artifacts, while the Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art showcases contemporary artworks. You won't be bored here!

Hotel Vision: Ideally located in downtown Budapest, you'll be close to all the capital's points of interest. The rooms are very elegant and comfortable, the hotel has a gym, bike rental service, and airport transfers. Available from 155 € per night minimum.

Exe Budapest Center: Located less than a 3-minute walk from the National Museum, the Great Synagogue, and the Astoria subway station, this hotel is a great find! You'll stay close to everything, in a spacious and comfortable room, coupled with a calm setting. Expect to pay 61 € per night minimum, including breakfast.

For those looking for nightlife and parties in Budapest, know that Erzsébetváros embodies the very essence of it. The neighborhood also has a rich cultural and architectural diversity, with a wide range of accommodations ranging from hotels to apartment rentals.

Erzsébetváros, formerly known as the Jewish Quarter, has traversed the centuries while maintaining its unique character. The streets lined with colorful buildings testify to the city's architectural heritage and the Art Nouveau buildings rival the Neoclassical structures, so expect a very varied landscape!

The neighborhood also houses some of the most iconic cultural institutions in Budapest. The Hungarian Jewish Museum, with its collection of historical artifacts, provides a glimpse into the history of the Jewish community in Hungary. Additionally, the Madách Theatre and the Erkel Theatre are quite interesting if you want to catch dance performances or concerts to spice up your evenings in Budapest!

To treat yourself, know that the streets of Erzsébetváros are filled with restaurants, cafes, and bistros, offering a wide culinary palette ranging from traditional Hungarian specialties to international dishes. Epicureans can enjoy spicy goulash and Austrian schnitzels

This area also offers plenty of spaces for relaxation. Erzsébet Park is a nice refuge in the hustle and bustle of the city. Known for its well-kept gardens, children's playgrounds, and shaded benches, the park is an ideal spot for families to walk around!

The Park&Art Boutique Suites is a Bed&Breakfast offering pretty rooms with private bathrooms, and access to a communal kitchen with everything you need. It's ideal if you're looking to save on meals during your stay. Expect around 73 € per night for a double room!

Bo33 Hotel Family & Suites: This establishment is ideally located for easy access to the city center and popular sites. You'll stay in a quiet area, just 300 meters from a subway station, not to mention the comfort and modernity of the rooms. Budget 98 € per night with breakfast included

Metropolis Budapest: This uniquely decorated establishment is among the best addresses in Budapest! The rooms are comfortable and cozy, and the hotel is close to the center, the House of Terror, and a metro station. Expect around 48 € per night!

Located in the heart of Budapest, Józsefváros is a neighborhood that is rich in cultural and historical wealth, yet it's also the ideal place for those on a budget. It has many rental apartments and small budget establishments. However, in general, you will truly find a bit of everything and at all price points!

This neighborhood is imbued with a historical atmosphere reflected in its architecture. You will find buildings in Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles. However, the charm of Józsefváros also lies in its cultural diversity. You will encounter a true mosaic of cultures, particularly through a variety of cuisines ranging from traditional Hungarian to flavors from around the world. Local markets are also a perfect meeting point to discover fresh produce and more exotic dishes

Independent art galleries, local artist studios, cultural festivals, and artistic events regularly enliven the neighborhood, along with its many squares. You can also visit the Károlyi Museum, which traces Hungary's past, or visit St. Elizabeth's Church for its Gothic architecture.

Bo18 Hotel Superior: Offering spacious, modern, and comfortable rooms, this establishment provides a truly ideal location. You'll be steps away from all the popular sites, with a subway station nearby, and a jacuzzi for end-of-day relaxation. Expect approximately 84 € per night, including breakfast.

Eurostars Palazzo Zichy: This hotel is located in the historic Palace District in downtown Budapest, just 180 meters from the Grand Boulevard. The rooms feature very elegant and refined decor along with comfort. Expect to pay starting from 56 € per night, with breakfast available for an additional charge.

With its charm and cosmopolitan atmosphere, this neighborhood is a top choice for travelers seeking authenticity and history. Terézváros, also known as Leopoldstadt, named after Empress Maria Theresa of Austria, is the perfect place to experience a stay in tranquility.

The architecture of Terézváros offers a mix of styles, from Neo-Renaissance to Neo-Baroque to Neoclassicism, much like everywhere within Budapest.

The streets evoke an old-world energy, while the building facades testify to the former splendor of this neighborhood. You can discover buildings such as the Hungarian State Opera, a masterpiece of architecture and a must-see!

Of course, you won't overlook the neighborhood's restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as the local markets. Plenty of walks and green spaces occupy the neighborhood, especially if you need to recharge, stroll, or have a picnic if you're traveling with children.

Finally, the nightlife in Terézváros is quite vibrant and interesting, with many trendy bars and nightclubs where you can dance until dawn!

Cortile Hotel - Adults Only: Ideal for a romantic stay in Budapest, this establishment offers beautiful modern accommodations. You'll have access to the bar, pool, and terrace, all while being close to places like the Great Synagogue of Budapest and the basilica. Expect to pay 122 € per night, breakfast included.

Up Hotel Budapest: Although this establishment is just a short walk from downtown, you'll stay in a very quiet setting. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with a lovely view from the terrace. It's an excellent place to explore the city, starting at 106 €, breakfast included.

Spring and autumn are the two best seasons to visit Hungary With lower tourist crowds, pleasant temperatures, and better rates, you'll have everything to gain! Besides, spring is really great for enjoying the thermal baths and historical sites while avoiding the crowds.

As for the summer season, it's nice if you love the heat. It's also favorable for music festivals, but the tourist crowd is truly considerable, not to mention the price increases! And if you're considering winter, Budapest is lovely for its Christmas markets and festive atmosphere, despite the cold

That's all for this article! I hope you enjoyed it and that you now have some ideas on where to sleep in Budapest during your next stay. If you're looking for more places to go for a romantic weekend, you can check out my dedicated article!