church, ceiling, dome-8099175.jpg

Excursions to pre book

Where to stay

Budapest offers a variety of Danube boat trip options, so booking the perfect one depends on your preferences. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:

Choose Your Experience:

  • Sightseeing Cruise: These classic cruises offer panoramic views of the city’s landmarks like the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Chain Bridge. They typically last 1-2 hours and come with daytime or evening options.
  • Dinner Cruise: Enjoy a delicious meal while cruising along the Danube for a romantic or celebratory experience. Dinner cruises usually last longer than sightseeing cruises (2-3 hours) and offer a variety of cuisines.
  • Themed Cruise: Budapest also offers special cruises with themes like Hungarian folklore evenings or live music performances.
  • Private Cruise: For a more exclusive experience, consider a private boat trip with a customizable itinerary and catering options.

Booking Methods:

  • Online Booking Platforms: Several online platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, and Budapest River Cruise (https://budapestrivercruise.com/) allow you to compare prices, read reviews, and book cruises directly.
  • Company Websites: Many Danube boat trip companies have their own websites where you can book tickets and find detailed information about their offerings.
  • Ticket Booths: You can also find ticket booths for Danube cruises near the major piers along the Danube, particularly around the Chain Bridge and the Parliament Building.

Tips for Booking:

  • Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (spring and summer), popular cruises can sell out quickly. Consider booking online a few days or weeks in advance to secure your spot.
  • Compare Prices and Options: Different companies offer varying itineraries, durations, and prices. Research and compare to find the best fit for your budget and interests.
  • Check Inclusions and Exclusions: Make sure you understand what’s included in your ticket price (e.g., food, drinks, live music) and any additional costs.
  • Consider Cancellation Policy: Review the cancellation policy before booking, especially if you’re unsure of your travel plans.

By following these steps, you can easily book a memorable Danube boat trip that enhances your Budapest experience.

  • he Széchenyi Baths website (https://www.szechenyibath.hu/) offers online booking with various ticket options. You can choose from basic entry tickets, cabin rentals, spa treatments, and even combo packages that include towels, bathrobes, and refreshments. They accept multiple currencies for payment.

  • Online Booking Platforms: Several online platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, and even Booking.com (https://www.booking.com/attractions/hu/pr6qg9nmh5c9-budapest-szechenyi-thermal-bath.html) offer tickets to Budapest thermal baths, including Széchenyi Baths. These platforms can be convenient for comparing prices and reading reviews from other travelers.

Benefits of Online Booking:

  • Convenience: Book your tickets from the comfort of your home and skip the queues at the entrance, especially during peak season.
  • Planning: Secure your spot in advance, particularly if you have a specific date or time in mind.
  • Potential Discounts: Online platforms might offer occasional discounts or promotions.

Booking at the Baths:

  • Ticket Booths: Ticket booths are located at the entrance of most thermal baths, including Széchenyi Baths. This option offers flexibility if you haven’t planned your visit in advance.

  • Benefits: No need to book beforehand, suitable for spontaneous trips.

Things to Consider:

  • Type of Ticket: Choose a ticket that suits your needs. Basic entry offers access to the baths, while other options include cabin rentals, towels, or spa treatments.
  • Peak Season: Budapest experiences high tourist influxes during spring and summer. Booking online in advance is recommended to avoid sold-out slots.

Additional Tips:

  • Opening Hours: Check the opening hours of the thermal bath you plan to visit, as they might vary depending on the day or season.
  • What to Bring: Pack a swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, and a swim cap (mandatory in some baths). Lockers and changing rooms are available on-site.
  • Lockers and Valuables: Consider renting a locker to secure your belongings.

By following these tips and choosing the booking method that best suits you, you can ensure a relaxing and enjoyable experience at Budapest’s renowned thermal baths.

Budapest’s outdoor rinks typically operate from November to February when the weather is cold enough for the ice to remain frozen.

However, you can plan ahead for your future trip! Here’s some information to help you book ice skating in Budapest during the winter season:

Popular Outdoor Rink:

  • City Park Ice Rink (Városligeti Műjégpálya): This is the largest outdoor ice rink in Europe, offering a charming atmosphere with Vajdahunyad Castle and Heroes’ Square as a backdrop. They have a website, but currently (May 2024) it doesn’t have online booking available. It’s likely they’ll open online booking closer to the opening date in November..

Here’s some additional helpful information:

  • Opening Hours: Opening hours for the City Park Ice Rink typically vary depending on the weekday or weekend, so it’s best to check their website closer to the season.
  • Admission Fees: There’s usually an entrance fee for the rink, and skate rentals are available for an additional cost.
  • Website Updates: Keep an eye on the City Park Ice Rink website (https://mujegpalya.hu/en/home-en/) around November for updates on the opening date, booking options, and pricing.

By planning ahead and checking for booking options closer to winter, you can secure your spot on the ice and enjoy a delightful ice skating experience in Budapest!

Here are some of the top-rated hotels in Budapest according to Google Search:

  • Eurostars Palazzo Zichy – Modern quarters in a 19th-century palace-turned-upmarket hotel with a sauna & a bar. 4-star hotel with a user rating of 4.7 for £117 per night.
  • Stories Boutique Hotel Budapest – Stylish boutique hotel offering chic, clubby suites, some with whirlpool tubs or sleeping lofts. User rating of 4.5 for £116 per night.
  • Metropolis Budapest – Laid-back guesthouse offering 8 warmly decorated rooms, plus a courtyard & a quaint lounge. User rating of 4.9 for £102 per night.

These are just a few options, and the best hotel for you will depend on your budget, preferences, and travel style. Here are some additional things to consider when choosing a hotel in Budapest:

  • Location: Budapest is a walkable city, but if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, you may want to consider staying in the city center. The Buda Castle District and the Pest side around the Parliament Building are both popular choices.
  • Amenities: Some hotels offer amenities like a spa, fitness center, or pool. Decide which amenities are important to you and choose a hotel that offers them.
  • Price: Hotels in Budapest range in price from budget-friendly to luxury. Decide how much you are willing to spend on a hotel before you start your search.