In 2024, Budapest Airport handled over 17.5 million passengers - so if you’re one of them, there’s a good chance you might find yourself with a layover in Hungary’s lively capital. A long layover in Budapest isn’t a setback - it’s a gift. Even with just half a day, Hungary’s capital offers plenty of chances to soak in its grandeur, history, and atmosphere.  You can see a surprising amount of the city in just 4 to 6 hours of free time.

Getting from the airport to the city
Budapest's main airport, Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is located about 20 kilometers from the city center, and thankfully, getting into town is both simple and affordable. See our detailed guide on how to get from he aiport to the city.

The 100E Airport Express Bus is the most convenient public option, running every 7 to 10 minutes and taking you directly to Deák Ferenc tér, the beating heart and transport hub of Budapest, where three of the four metro lines meet. The journey takes about 40 to 45 minutes, and tickets cost 2,200 HUF (about €5.5), purchasable at the purple machines just outside of the airport or via the BudapestGO app.

If time is tight or you're traveling with luggage, a Bolt or official Főtaxi ride is a faster and still reasonably priced alternative. Expect a 25–35 minute drive and a fare of around 8,000 to 12,000 HUF (€20–30) each direction.

If your layover allows for a few hours in the city, here are five ways to spend that time, depending on your mood and interests. You can store your luggage at countless locker locations downtown, so you don't have to carry them with you on your walks.

#1: A Walk Through Budapest’s Iconic Heart
If it’s your first time in Budapest, this is the itinerary that delivers the greatest impact in the shortest time. Start your stroll at Deák Ferenc tér, then head toward St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. Its opulent interior is worth a peek, and if you're feeling energetic, you can climb to the dome for one of the best panoramic views of Budapest. Note that entrance to the church is not free.

From there, make your way towards the Danube to the Chain Bridge, perhaps the city's most famous crossing over the river. Cross on foot to the Buda side, where a short uphill walk—or a quick ride on the historic funicular—will bring you to Buda Castle. This area isn’t just about royal buildings; it’s a whole district of cobbled streets, charming cafés, and grand views. Don’t miss Fisherman’s Bastion, whose fairytale turrets and sweeping vistas over Parliament and the river are an Instagram favorite for good reason. Yes, this is the most instagrammable spot in the city with probably the most well known panorama of Budapest.

#2: Soak and Stroll in the City Park
If your journey’s been long and your muscles are begging for relief, then there’s only one place to go: the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. Located in the grand City Park (Városliget), this neo-Baroque bathing complex is an oasis of warm, mineral-rich waters, steam chambers, and whirlpools. Open all year, it’s just as magical in winter as it is in summer. You'll experience why Budapest is famous for it's thermal baths.

After your soak, take a light walk through the park, where you’ll find Vajdahunyad Castle (a romantic architectural mashup) and the stately Heroes’ Square, with its massive colonnade of Hungarian leaders. (pictured on the cover photo)

Grab a snack from a food stall or café at the park -a lángos with sour cream and cheese, perhaps- and you'll feel completely refreshed for your return to the airport.

#3: A Riverside Stroll to Parliament
For a more contemplative experience, spend your layover exploring the grand boulevards and historic waterside of Pest. From Deák Ferenc tér, wander down the elegant Váci utca, a pedestrian street filled with shops and cafés, until you reach the Danube Promenade. Here, you’ll find sweeping views of Buda across the river, and plenty of benches if you'd like to sit and watch the boats drift by.

Head north along the water toward the monumental Hungarian Parliament Building, a gothic-revival masterpiece that is the hallmark of the cityscape. Just a short walk away is the poignant Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial—dozens of cast-iron shoes placed on the edge of the river, in remembrance of Hungarian Jews murdered during World War II.

Kossuth Square, located in front of the Hungarian Parliament Building, is one of Budapest’s most important and symbolic public spaces, it is sometimes called the main square of the country. Dominated by the towering neo-Gothic Parliament—one of Europe’s grandest legislative buildings—the square is also home to several significant statues, including those of Count Gyula Andrássy, István Tisza, Lajos Kossuth and other Hungarian statesmen. 

From here you can make your way towards Liberty Square (Szabadság tér) and admire one of Budapest’s grandest and most architecturally eclectic plazas. Lined with stately trees and elegant facades, the square blends history, politics, and green space in a uniquely Budapest way. Across the park stands the National Bank of Hungary, a striking neo-Renaissance structure, and nearby is the former Hungarian Television headquarters, now mostly empty but still impressive in form. In the center of the square, visitors find the Memorial to the Victims of the German Occupation, as well as a Soviet war memorial, both of which reflect the complex layers of Hungary’s 20th-century history. Despite its political weight, Szabadság tér is also a peaceful place to rest, with fountains, benches, and one of the best playgrounds in the city—making it a favorite for both locals and curious visitors.

The Hold Street Market Hall is just one block away from Liberty Square, this upscale food market offers a curated selection of Hungarian specialties—cheeses, sausages, wines, and bistro-style lunches in a stylish setting. Ideal for travelers short on time who still want a quality taste of Hungary.

#4: Cruise the Danube in Style
Want to see a lot without doing much walking? A Danube river cruise is a relaxing, scenic way to take in Budapest’s best-known landmarks. Boats depart regularly from docks near Vigadó tér or Elizabeth Bridge, and most offer hourly daytime cruises with optional drinks or audio guides.

From the comfort of your seat, you'll glide past Parliament, the Castle District, Gellért Hill, and the city’s ornate bridges. The perspective from the water is unbeatable, especially when sunlight reflects off the domes and rooftops. If the weather’s good, sit on the upper deck and enjoy the breeze; if not, there’s usually an indoor lounge area.

The entire experience takes just about an hour, making this a stress-free option that still ticks off most of the city’s highlights.

#5: A Taste of Hungary at the Market

If you're more interested in flavors than facades, head straight to the Great Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok) near Kálvin tér. This enormous indoor market is a feast for the senses—bright produce, colorful paprika stands, butcher stalls, and souvenir vendors fill the lower level, while the upper gallery houses food counters and eateries.

The upper level of the market offers a variety of hot dishes, snacks, and drinks—perfect for a quick introduction to Hungarian flavors. You’ll find hearty soups, grilled meats, fresh pastries, and street food-style options, ideal for grabbing a bite between sightseeing. If you’d rather not navigate the food counters, just find a table and enjoy the bustling atmosphere from above. 

Afterward, if time allows, walk across the Liberty Bridge to Gellért tér and the historic Gellért Baths complex, and for a great view, you can climb Gellért Hill and the Chapel in the Rock.

It’s tempting to get lost in Budapest’s charm, but be sure to return to the airport in time. The 100E bus returns from Deák Ferenc tér via Kálvin tér just as frequently, but during rush hour or in summer, leave extra time for traffic or queues. So next time you pass through Hungary’s capital, don’t just sit at the airport!