17 Truly Unusual Things to Do in Budapest (2024)

Budapest is known for its stunning architecture, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife. While you may already be planning to visit iconic locations like Buda Castle and the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, there’s also a host of unusual things to do in Budapest waiting to be discovered.

I’ve been to Budapest multiple times and on my last visit, I stayed for 2 weeks in Hungary’s capital, so I had plenty of time to discover alternative things to do in Budapest.

Most Unusual things to do in Budapest

1. See the hand of Hungry’s first king

Yes, you heard right, in Budapest, you can actually see the hand of the country’s first king. The hand of King Stephen is a relic inside the St. Stephen’s Basilica. 

I went inside the church because it’s one of the main attractions of the Hungarian capital and I had no idea that I would find a mummified hand inside!

To see the hand of a king is definitely one of the most quirky things to do in Budapest. 

Not that unusual, but very worth visiting: When you’re already at the basilica, I recommend going up the tower. The view from the top is amazing and it’s even worth it if you only visit Budapest on a day tour.

🤩 One of the crazy things to do in Budapest is to explore the city from a jeep!

2. Find forgotten statues at the Memento Park

Have you ever wondered what happens to old statues from political systems no longer in place? In Budapest, they go to the Memento Park. 

In the Memento Park, there are numerous statues from the communist rule in Hungary. 

The park is reachable by public transport. However, the statues have no explanations written next to them. So, if you want to not just see the statues but also learn about the history behind them, I recommend doing a tour. 

If you want to learn more about the communist regime of Budapest I recommend the museum, House of Terror, in Budapest. It shows that in Budapest the terror didn’t end after the occupation by Nazi German ended.

3. Relax in a lesser known thermal bath

Budapest is known for its hot springs and thermal baths. Most people, especially most tourists go to the biggest thermal bath, Széchenyi Thermal Baths.

Even though the architecture is amazing and the water temperature very inviting, I would not recommend going there, it’s just too crowded. 

Budapest has so many other thermal baths, just as beautiful and with fewer people. I tested out the 4 most popular thermal baths in Budapest and found my favourite.

Exploring the different indoor pools and soaking in a hot tub are some of my favorite things to do in Budapest.

And speaking of thermal water, Budapest even has some special drinkable thermal water which is supposed to be very healthy.

4. Read a book on the Liberty Bridge

There are a total of seven bridges connecting the Buda and the Pest side of Budapest in the city itself. The two most famous bridges are the Chain Bridge and the Liberty Bridge. 

Looking at and crossing over the bridges is quite a popular and usual thing to do which shouldn’t be missing from any Budapest itinerary.

However, one of the cool and unusual things to do in Budapest is to sit down on the Liberty Bridge and relax or even read a book. In summer, you probably won’t be the only person doing so either. 

Climbing the bridge is officially not allowed and it can be dangerous, so you might just want to stick to crossing the bridge to be safe. 

5. Relax in the park next to the Ferris Wheel

The little park next to the Ferris Wheel is a popular spot amongst locals. People meet there to relax in the grass, have a picnic or practice their skateboarding skills. 

So, it’s a great place to experience the lively atmosphere of this amazing European city. This lively atmosphere is one of the reasons why I love Budapest. 

One more thing, don’t forget to check out the tree which is surrounded by a fence covered in padlocks.

6. Have a drink in a ruin pub

Budapest is known for its unique Ruin Bars, which are old buildings transformed into trendy bars. If you spend 3 days in Budapest you should visit one of the ruin pubs at least once.

As you explore these bars, you’ll discover a mix of eclectic décor, art installations, and laid-back atmosphere. The most famous ruin bar is Szimpla Kert. The beer prices at the Budapest ruin bars are a bit higher than at other places because it’s so touristy.

The only downside to some ruin bars with outside sitting areas is that people are allowed to smoke there. And when we visited Szimpla Kert it smelled bad even though we technically sat outside in the courtyard.

🤩 A pub crawl is one of the fun things to do in Budapest!

7. Visit Gelert Hill Cave Church

As the name suggests this church is inside a cave on Gellert Hill near the famous Gellért baths. For a small entrance fee, you can visit this cave church with an audio guide. 

It’s not as imposing as the stunning Matthias Church but a church completely carved out of stone has a certain charm to it. And it’s definitely one of the amazing unusual things to do in Budapest. 

This unique place of worship offers a quiet retreat where you can take a moment to breathe and admire the fascinating architecture.

8. Ride the oldest metro in mainland Europe 

It’s widely known that the oldest metro in the world was built in London. It’s not so much known that the first metro in continental Europe was built in Budapest. 

Line 1 of Budapest’s metro system maintained its art nouveau-style stations. So, you can experience the original charm of the metro while travelling through the city in a convenient way.

I really liked the ticket offices inside the station, they are so much more entertaining than the modern machines on other metro lines.

9. Go for a walk on top of the Ethnography Museum 

For a different perspective of Budapest, enjoy a walk on top of the Ethnography Museum, which is kind of shaped like a half pipe.

On our way to the City Park we by chance stumbled upon this museum and it looks so cool. It’s completely overgrown with grass and other plants on the roof and you can go for a walk on top of the roof without having to enter the museum.

From the top of the museum, you have a nice view of the park and the surrounding area. When we went up to the rooftop we saw multiple hot air balloons set off in the park.

10. Admire Vajdahunyad Castle

My favourite structure in Budapest City Park is the Vajdahunyad Castle. In my opinion, it’s so much prettier than the Budapest Castle.

This fairytale-like castle showcases a diverse range of architectural styles and offers a beautiful backdrop for photos.

Going for a walk in the City Park and having a look at Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the best things you can do in Budapest for free.

11. Visit the Hospital in the Rock

Another hidden gem in Budapest is the Hospital in the Rock, a former secret emergency hospital and nuclear bunker built during World War II.

This fascinating attraction offers guided tours, where you can learn about Hungary’s war history and the role this underground facility played.

12. Explore the underground caves

For a bit of adventure, dive into Budapest’s vast underground cave system. With over 200 caves beneath the city, you can join tours that take you through tight spaces and beautiful natural formations.

The Budapest Castle Cave is one of the most fun things to do in Budapest. It was once the prison of Vlad Tepes, the real-life inspiration for Count Dracula.

13. Go for a stroll on Margaret Island

Margaret Island is one of the best places to spend a sunny day in Budapest in. It’s an island on the River Danube which is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so it’s very easy to get to Margaret Island.

I was surprised by how big Margaret Island is, I walked the whole length of the island and had to take the bus back because I was so exhausted. So, I think the best way to explore Margaret Island is by renting a bike.

There are many bars, restaurants, a thermal pool, a cinema, a Japanese garden and many more things on Margaret Island. Just take enough time to explore the island on a sunny day in Budapest.

14. Visit Dohány Street Synagogue

With so many incredible sights in Budapest, the Dohány Street Synagogue gets sometimes overlooked.

But this great synagogue is worth a visit. It’s the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world.

The architecture is stunning and very unique. It’s inspired by the Moorish style of Andalusia in Spain.

I really enjoyed the free guided tour inside, it was held by a member of the Jewish community and it was very informative. They have guided tours in many different languages.

Adjacent to the synagogue, you’ll find the Jewish Quarter. This historic district has undergone a renaissance in recent years, with vibrant street art, innovative gastronomy, and buzzing ruin bars.

Right next to the synagogue is a Budapest vegan restaurant, it’s a great place for a small snack in between sightseeing.

🤩 Learn about the synagogue and find hidden things to do in Budapest!

15. Discover street art

Budapest’s vibrant street art scene is an off-the-beaten-path gem that you shouldn’t miss. Explore neighbourhoods such as the Jewish Quarter, where colourful murals and creative graffiti decorate the walls.

You can either wander around on your own or join a street art tour to learn more about the city’s urban art culture and the stories behind some of the most impressive pieces.

Discovering this side of Budapest is sure to add an exciting, artistic flair to your itinerary. And who knows you might find the perfect photo spot in Budapest.

🤩 I love this street art tour since it’s one of the cool things to do in Budapest!

16. Take a bus tour in a river

A great way to see Budapest from a different perspective is from a boat. But since a normal boat isn’t unusual enough, you can take a bus tour on the river!

Yes, you read right, there’s a special bus that takes you along the streets of Budapest as well as along the Danube River. And how often do you get the chance to take a coach bus on the water? It’s a truly unique thing to do in Budapest.

🤩 I love this floating bus tour for being so unique!

17. Segway Tours

Looking for a more laid-back yet unconventional way to explore the city? Try Segway tours in Budapest. These self-balancing vehicles allow you to smoothly glide through the city’s charming streets, parks, and squares.

Segway tours are a fun and eco-friendly alternative to traditional sightseeing, and they make for a great conversation starter with fellow tourists and locals alike.

🤩 Explore the top sights and hidden gems Budapest has to offer on a Segway!

Off the Beaten Path Excursions

Szentendre

Szentendre is a charming artistic town located just outside Budapest. It’s the perfect day trip to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

With its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and numerous galleries, this riverside town offers a unique experience for visitors.

Take a stroll along the quaint streets, and make sure to visit some of the art galleries and museums, such as the Marzipan Museum.

The picturesque town is also home to a number of delightful cafes and restaurants where you can experience Hungarian cuisine.

Visegrád

For those interested in history and stunning panoramas, Visegrád is an ideal destination. The town, situated on the majestic Danube Bend, boasts a medieval fortress and a 14th-century royal palace.

The Visegrád Castle offers a fascinating insight into medieval life, and from its hilltop location, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Danube River and surrounding countryside. Don’t forget to also explore the Royal Palace and its beautiful gardens during your visit.

Unusual places to stay in Budapest

While in Budapest, there are some unique and quirky accommodations that will surely enhance your travel experience. Here are a few places where you can reside in style and enjoy a distinctive stay.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hotel Clark Budapest

Hotel Clark Budapest is an adult-only hotel with a stunning rooftop bar and a fitness studio. Most rooms have a great view either of the Danube River or the Budapest Castle Hill. The most impressive feature is the bathtub with a city view some rooms have.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hotel Moments Budapest

Hotel Monuments is a chic and classy boutique hotel located on the iconic Andrassy Avenue. From the outside, you’d never guess how chic and modern the hotel is on the inside!

⭐️⭐️⭐️ T62 Hotel

T62 Hotel is the perfect place to stay if you love art. The public areas are decorated with really cool street art on the walls. Inside the rooms beautiful black-and-white pictures of Budapest give the rooms a unique look.

Final thoughts: Unique things to do in Budapest

There’s so much more to discover in this beautiful city besides the stunning Hungarian Parliament Building and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Don’t be afraid to experience some weird things to do in Budapest, it’s going to be fun and memorable!

My favourite things are walking up to the top of the Ethnography Museum and discovering the lost statues at the Memento Park.

But I also really enjoyed just strolling through this beautiful city and keeping my eyes open in Budapest hidden gems hide around many corners. Maybe you’ll manage to find even more than I did.

🤩 Explore Budapest off the beaten path on a jeep tour!

Read more about Budapest:

• 20 Absolute Best Things to Do in Budapest Hungary
• 17 Unbelievable Free Things to Do in Budapest
• 17 Truly Unusual Things to Do in Budapest
• 3 Days in Budapest Itinerary: What to See & Do
• I tried the 4 Best Thermal Baths Budapest
• 10 Best Fully Vegan Restaurants in Budapest
• 3 Best Budapest Tours from Vienna
• Is Budapest Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons Why I Love It
• Best Souvenirs from Budapest to Remember Your Trip
• 15 Best Budapest Instagram Spots to Capture Your Trip
• How to Get to Margaret Island Budapest: Easy Ways
• Ultimate Thai Massage Budapest Guide
• New York Café in Budapest: Is It Really Worth It?
• Can You Drink Tap Water in Budapest? Absolutely!
• Is Budapest Cheap? Yes, But Not as Much as It Once Was
• Belgrade to Budapest by Bus: The WORST Journey
• Hungary

Pin it for later: