Expanding on my post about The Best Things to Do in Lisbon, it’s now time to dive into Budapest! I spent a little over three weeks there on a workation with a friend, and it was such a fantastic experience. Budapest has this perfect balance: it’s compact enough that everything important is walkable, especially if you’re staying in the city center, yet it’s packed with tasty food, fun activities, and a vibrant atmosphere.
What I loved most was how easy it was to work from Budapest without feeling overwhelmed by FOMO. The city feels like a buffet of experiences—you can pick and choose what excites you each day, making every moment feel fresh and enjoyable.
Here’s the breakdown of my Budapest recommendations, sorted into three categories: DO, EAT/DRINK, and COWORK. Within each, I’ve listed my top picks first, so you know where to start!
Best Things to DO in Budapest
1. Gellért Thermal Bath
Gellért Thermal Bath is stunning and relaxing—a must-visit (even if slightly expensive)! The Turkish bath is super hot and cozy, and the warm pools are as stylish as they are soothing. Don’t miss the outdoor pool; it’s an absolute highlight. (Bonus tip: after your soak, grab tacos at Arriba! Taqueria, just nearby.)
While Gellért is iconic, there are plenty of thermal baths around the city—definitely worth sampling them all to find your favorite. 😊
2. Szimpla Kert
No trip to Budapest is complete without a visit to the famous ruin bar Szimpla Kert. It’s the perfect hangout spot, whether you’re people-watching, enjoying live music, or just unwinding with friends—or even solo.
Pro tip: Friday and Saturday nights get insanely crowded, so it’s best to go earlier in the evening.
3. Free Walking Tour
Kick off your trip with a free walking tour to get a feel for the city’s history, culture, and layout. We picked a tour from Guru Walk (not sponsored) and loved it! A tour like this covers 80% of the central sights, giving you a solid foundation for the rest of your trip. Highly recommend starting here.
4. Working Out at 4% Fitness Corner
Staying fit on the road is easier than ever, and 4% Fitness Corner was my go-to gym. They offer daily, weekly and monthly passes which is convenient. It’s central, compact, and has everything you need for a solid workout—especially if you visit during non-peak hours.
I also worked with Aron, a personal trainer specializing in prehab, and he gave me great tips to improve my form and technique. If you’re interested, you can reach him via WhatsApp: +36 20 564 0714.
5. Escape Rooms
I tried an escape room for the first time, and it was such a blast! We did a pirate-themed escape at Locked.hu, but there are tons of options to choose from. Pick a theme that excites you and dive in—it’s a fun way to test your problem-solving skills and teamwork. If you’re with a friend, you’ll quickly find out how well you handle “life or death” situations under pressure. 😉
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