Where to Walk Among the Locals in Budapest

People Watch in Hungary's Capital

Sep 18, 2008 Katherine Kocisky

Budapest is a city with several historical sites, but instead of rushing around to see everything, take time to enjoy a few places that capture this city's true spirit.

Located in post-communist Hungary, this idyllic Central European capital is a hub for travelers coming from any of the seven countries (Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia) sharing its border. While it’s easy to get carried off in swarms of tourists and go several hours without seeing a native, there are places for tourists and locals alike in Budapest. Whether you’re just passing through for a day or cooling your heels for longer, you’ll be happy you paid these gems a visit.

Budapest's Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Situated in City Park near Hero's Square, it's difficult to miss this bright yellow building, home to one of Budapest's favorite spots to soak. The biggest thermal bath in the city, it boasts both indoor and outdoor pools inviting visitors and regulars year round.

It's easy to lose time steaming in the thermal waters admiring the Baroque architecture, watching Hungarian men play chess in the water, or being swept away in the current pools. Experience the sauna and baths of varying temperatures. Leave a little early, and depending on time of arrival, get some money back.

Terror Museum in Pest

Located along the famous Andrássy út, the Terror Museum is a serious but necessary experience when visiting the capital. Meeting the ghosts of Hungary's past is a great way to understand its recent history and what its people suffered under both Soviet and German occupation.

Pick up an audio guide in English or German and learn more about Hungary's violent history detailed incredibly throughout each room. Afterwards, stop at a cafe for a slice of the country's delicious Eszterházy cake or simply window shop along Andrássy, a boulevard offering many boutiques, cafes, and beautiful architecture.

Take a Ride on the Children's Communist Railway

When it’s time for some fresh air and a short escape from the busy city streets, head to the Red Metro line and get off at Moskva tér (Moscow square). From there, find the yellow 56 tram. Stay on until the very last stop and head up the stairs to the Children’s Railway Station. Not only for children, this railroad, almost exclusively run by children aged 10-14, takes visitors on a shady and peaceful journey through the forested Buda Hills.

Busiest in early summer, families and school trips can make trains full. Tickets are cheap and at the János Hill station, a clearly marked trail leads to a chair lift, allowing visitors to sail above and sometimes through the trees, providing breathtaking views of a miniature Budapest. A museum of the Railway and its history is found at the final station.

Budapest's Margaret Island (Margit Sziget)

To get to Hungary’s version of Central Park, cross Margaret Bridge and discover a relaxing yet sporty recluse in the middle of the Danube River. Stroll along many of the island’s shady paths passing snack stands bursting with Hungarian specialties, discover the Japanese garden, visit a small animal park, and rent individual or even tandem bikes to see the island.

And for those up for a workout, a thin, red jogging path circles the park’s perimeter. Later at night during the summer, try Hungary’s local spirit, Unicum, under the stars at an open-air bar near the musical fountain at the entrance of the island.

While it's important to see historical monuments and sometimes go the tourist route, it's even more important to walk where the locals walk and simply observe.

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Parliament in Budapest near the Danube River

Japanese Garden on Margaret Island, Budapest

Children's Communist Railway, Budapest