Beyond Budapest: 5 incredible day trips from Hungary's capital

While Budapest is undeniably beautiful, Hungary offers much more than just its well-known capital.

You could easily spend days exploring Budapest, but if time allows, it’s well worth venturing beyond the city by train, boat, or bus to experience more of this charming country.

Here are five destinations outside Budapest that should be on your list during your trip to Hungary:

Esztergom

Just across the river from Slovakia, the city of Esztergom is a perfect day trip, especially for its magnificent Basilica, the largest in Hungary, perched on a rocky hill overlooking the Danube.

The breathtaking 360-degree views of the river, town, and neighboring Slovakia make the climb up the narrow, winding staircases to the top of the dome well worth the effort and cost.

You can reach Esztergom by train from Budapest in about 90 minutes, or by bus, but the most scenic way to travel there — or back — is by boat along the river.

The Hydrofoil trip takes about 90 minutes. However, if you'd like to truly enjoy the scenery, consider the slower boat ride, which takes approximately four hours to return to the city.

Not only will you enjoy the best views of the Basilica as you depart, but you'll also pass by the citadel at Visegrád, sail through the marshy Danube islands, and continue on to Szentendre before heading back to Budapest. It's a leisurely way to experience the countryside.

Restaurant suggestion: For a taste of traditional Hungarian dining, head to Prímás Pince, a neo-Gothic style restaurant tucked beneath the Basilica in a vaulted cellar. Even if you're not hungry, it's worth stopping by for some fine Hungarian wines and perhaps a cheese platter.

Prímás Pince, Esztergom, Szent István tér 4, 2500 Hungary; +36 33 541 965

Szentendre

A mere hour on the suburban train from Budapest gets you to Szentendre, making it a favorite day trip for both locals and visitors alike.

This quaint town features narrow streets lined with vibrant houses in shades of wine red, terracotta, and soft blues, leading to cobblestone squares and whitewashed churches.

Traces of Szentendre's former Serbian community can still be seen in the iconic Blagovestenska Church and the Serbian Orthodox Museum.

A major attraction of this charming destination is its array of art galleries and studios, housed in historic villas and repurposed mills.

In the 1920s, Szentendre became home to an art colony, which has since evolved into a vibrant arts scene, with numerous studios and painters often creating on the streets.

During the summer months, visitors can take a scenic boat ride to Szentendre, with the journey lasting about an hour from the heart of Budapest to the town's central dock.

Restaurant recommendation:

The Aranysárkány Vendéglő (Golden Dragon), a cozy tavern in downtown, is a must-visit for those craving a mix of traditional Hungarian and Balkan cuisine.

Aranysárkány Vendéglő, Szentendre, Alkotmány u. 1/a, 2000 Hungary; +36 26 301 479

Visegrád

The Danube Bend, where the majestic river makes a dramatic southward turn, is considered one of the most picturesque regions of Hungary, as it winds its way towards Serbia and Croatia.

The sharpest bend of the Danube River is found near the charming castle town of Visegrád, which also marks the only point where the river flows north before turning south again.

Visegrád's awe-inspiring 13th-century citadel, constructed by King Béla IV, provides incredible views of the Danube Bend and is an essential stop when visiting the town.

Though perched atop a 350-meter hill, visitors can either take a taxi to the upper castle or tackle the steep hiking trail that winds through the surrounding forest.

Whichever route you choose, the effort will be worth it as you walk along the ancient, wind-swept castle walls.

Inside the castle, you’ll find an armory and a waxwork museum, but the true highlight is walking along the battlements, where you can admire the stunning views of the river and the rolling hills and valleys beyond.

At the foot of the hill, the town of Visegrád itself has much to offer.

You can explore the ruins of the Renaissance palace, which once served as a summer residence for Hungary’s King Matthias Corvinus, located by the riverside. Alternatively, visit the Zugfozde Palinka Museum, dedicated to the renowned Hungarian fruit brandy.

Restaurant tip: Located within the Hotel Silvanus, the Panorama Restaurant offers a lunch menu featuring local delicacies, including Visegrád wild ragout soup, while providing stunning views of the Danube Bend.

Panorama Restaurant, Hotel Silvanus, 2025 Visegrád, Fekete-hegy; +36 26 398 311

Balatonfüred

Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe, also known as the Hungarian Sea, is just under two hours from Budapest by car.

The lake boasts expansive stretches of turquoise water, often dotted with yachts and boats during the summer, while the beaches attract locals looking for a refreshing dip in the shallow waters.

Though there are many places to explore around the lake, Balatonfüred stands out as a prime destination.

As one of the oldest resort towns by Lake Balaton, Balatonfüred blends historic charm with a waterfront vibe, featuring grand neo-classical hotels, museums, and charming cafés along the shore.

The town also stands out as a vibrant food scene, with trendy bars and restaurants offering everything from craft burgers to fresh, locally sourced fish, often enjoyed under strings of fairy lights.

After a stroll through the town and a meal, take a walk along the jetty and board a boat to explore the picturesque lake.

For those looking to venture further, you can hop on a bus to the nearby Tihany Peninsula, adding just half an hour to your journey, where you can visit the Baroque abbey and enjoy panoramic views of the lake from the twin extinct volcanoes that shape the peninsula.

Restaurant recommendation: Halászkert, operating since the 1940s (though the original building was destroyed in the 1960s), specializes in fresh, locally caught fish dishes.

Halászkert Restaurant, Balatonfüred, Zákonyi Ferenc u. 3, 8230 Hungary; +36 87 581 055

Gödöllő

For a taste of Habsburg luxury, take a short train ride from Budapest to Gödöllő, a charming town located just outside the capital.

The star attraction here is the Royal Palace of Gödöllő, a former summer retreat of Emperor Franz Josef and his beloved wife, Elizabeth, affectionately known as “Sisi.”

This petite Baroque chateau might not rival the splendor of Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, but it still boasts rooms adorned with gold leaf, silk damask upholstery, and sparkling crystal chandeliers.

Be sure to explore the extensive grounds, featuring an arboretum, elegant statues, botanical gardens, and the Horthy Bunker – built for Hungarian Admiral Miklós Horthy, and accessible via a guided tour.

The Baroque Theater, one of the oldest functioning theaters in Central Europe, is another must-see in Gödöllő.

Restaurant tip: For a cozy stop, head to Caravella in Gödöllő, known for its delicious cakes, specialty coffees, and warm, welcoming ambiance.

Caravella Café, Gödöllő, Szilhát u. 40, 2100 Hungary; +36 28 746 297