27 Best Indoor Activities in Budapest You Need To Try [2024]

So you’ve planned your exciting, fun-filled trip to Budapest and then you arrive and it’s raining.

However, fear not because there are so many incredible things to do in the city whatever the weather!

From museums and art galleries to escape rooms and board game cafes, here are the 27 best indoor activities in Budapest.

1. Gellért Spa Bath

Address: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 466 6166

Firstly we have one of the most famous indoor activities in Budapest: Gellért Spa Bath!

Escape the rain outside and get soaking inside in one of the most famous thermal baths in the city.

With a stunning interior, featuring creative tiling and mosaics, this is a beautiful setting for relaxation.

Hot spring waters are the perfect remedy for stress relief and offer the chance to unwind amidst your hectic schedule of exploring.

Gellert Baths are also home to two beautiful restaurants, so if all that relaxation leaves you feeling peckish, you can enjoy a range of cuisines with a gorgeous riverfront view.

2. Great Market Hall

Address: Budapest, Vámház krt. 1-3, 1093 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 366 3300

Another iconic hotspot in Budapest, the Great Market Hall lies in the centre of the city.

With a one hundred and twenty-year history under its belt, the market is a stunning piece of architecture, with beautiful tiling and huge panoramic skylights.

Moreover, you’ll find a range of fresh, regional delicacies and get the opportunity to speak to expert local stall owners.

Explore the market and discover incredible souvenirs, including handmade crafts that make perfect gifts or treasures to take home and remind you of your trip.

3. Hospital in the Rock

Address: Budapest, Lovas út 4/c, 1012 Hungary

Phone number: +36 70 701 0101

Next up we have Hospital in the Rock.

These subterranean chambers originate from World War 2 and were originally built to act as a medical bunker.

The underground caverns now host evocative artefacts about the history of Hungary, making this the perfect chance to explore the darker side of the city’s history.

4. St Stephen’s Basilica

Address: Budapest, Szent István tér 1, 1051 Hungary

An absolute staple of the Budapest skyline, St Stephen’s Basilica has to be a part of your Budapest itinerary!

It features neo-Renaissance architecture and jaw-dropping interiors, including colourful paintings and stained glass.

Attend a service to get the full experience, or just wander around and take in the atmosphere.

The majestic building is a great option for a rainy day or evening, as it becomes even more hauntingly beautiful at night.

5. Great Synagogue

Address: Budapest, Dohány u. 2, 1074 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 413 1515

Another beautiful place of worship, the Great Synagogue is the world’s largest Jewish place of worship outside of New York City.

The complex architecture of the Synagogue makes it a true delight to visit.

Additionally, it’s also home to the Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives, which detail incredible elements of history.

6. Millennium Underground Railway Museum

Address: Budapest, Erzsébet tér 14, 1051 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 461 6500

A rainy day is a perfect excuse to visit continental Europe’s first metro line, nestled below the city.

Built in the nineteenth century, the underground line has its own museum, which is situated in a disused, abandoned section of the tracks.

This historic site has a variety of things to explore, including vintage carriages.

Moreover, you even have the chance to take a ride on the functioning part of the metro for the full experience.

7. Faust Wine Cellar

Address: Hilton Budapest, Hess András tér 1, 1014 Hungary

Phone number: +36 20 326 3503

Another underground marvel, Faust Wine Cellar is situated in a subterranean network of caves.

With a huge variety of different Hungarian wines to taste, you’ll be guided by an informative and experienced sommelier and learn the traditional ways to taste wine.

Above all, you’ll also gain an insight into the origin of the wines, the steps to create them and the nuances of their flavour.

One of the best things to do in Budapest at night, this cosy cellar is perfect for an intimate, personal experience.

8. Unicum Factory Tour

Address: Budapest, IX. District Dandár Street 1, Hungary

Phone number: +36 14 762 383

If you fancy something a bit stronger than wine, Unicum is another iconic Hungarian drink that packs a punch.

Unicum has a fascinating history, with its recipe guarded tightly and only known by the living members of the family who have been responsible for its production since its inception.

All that’s known is that the drink contains over forty herbs and spices from across the world, and you can learn about the process of how it’s created during a tour of the factory.

Enjoy samples, and maybe even treat yourself to a bottle to take home with you from the gift shop. Delicious!

9. Budapest Pinball Museum (Flippermúzeum)

Address: Budapest, Radnóti Miklós u. 18, 1137 Hungary

One of the more unique indoor activities in Budapest is a trip to the Pinball Museum.

This speciality site is perfect for gaming enthusiasts and houses all different types of machines, from original artefacts to more modern pieces.

There are over a hundred and thirty different games for you to play, and a bar with drinks and snacks!

10. Szamos Chocolate Museum

Address: Budapest, 1051, Kossuth Lajos tér 10, 1055 Hungary

Phone number: +36 30 746 6995

However, if your interests lie more in the edible department, Szamos Chocolate Museum is the place for you.

A trip to the museum will see you learning about the fascinating history of chocolate, including the variety of chocolate-based products available around the world.

Tours and talks are on offer, delivered by passionate staff, and there’s even the opportunity to sample different chocolate delicacies!

11. The Museum of Sweets and Selfies (Szelfimúzeum)

Address: Multiple locations

One of the best indoor activities in Budapest for those with a sweet tooth is the Museum of Sweets and Selfies.

This super kitsch spot has loads of fun, interactive exhibitions which all meet that much sought-after Instagrammable aesthetic.

For instance, think pools of sprinkles, banana swings and unicorns!

Basically, if you’re looking for that perfect photo op in Budapest, you’ve found it in these museums.

12. 3D Gallery Budapest

Address: Budapest, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út 17, 1065 Hungary

Phone number: +36 30 211 8863

Similarly, perhaps the most Instagrammable place in the city is the 3D Gallery.

This unique gallery features an eclectic mix of rooms, all with incredible props that have been designed for maximum photo impact.

The attraction is popular with tourists and locals alike, and is the perfect place to spend some time on a rainy day!

13. Kunsthalle Museum

Address: Budapest, Dózsa György út 37, 1146 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 460 7000

Next, we have Kunsthalle, one of the best indoor activities in Budapest for art lovers.

This impressive building houses contemporary visual art.

In fact, it only shows temporary exhibitions, meaning that you’re always guaranteed a fresh, unique experience.

The Kunsthalle’s mission is to promote both Hungarian and International visual arts, so you can enjoy checking out art from both near and afar!

14. Hungarian National Museum

Address: Budapest, Múzeum krt. 14-16, 1088 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 338 2122

Similarly, another spot to top up on your cultural currency is the Hungarian National Museum.

Located in Pest, the building is another key part of the city’s skyline.

Every element of the museum is regal beyond belief, with a highlight being the famous stairway.

Temporary as well as permanent exhibitions reside here, featuring a range of aspects of the history of the city.

15. Parliament Building

Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 441 4000

The neo-Gothic architecture of Budapest Parliament Building makes for a stunning visit.

On a rainy day, you can venture inside and enjoy the historical artefacts and famous artwork.

You’re more than welcome to wander around yourself.

However, I’d advise joining one of the daily tours to really make the most of the experience.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tours allow you to learn about the present-day Parliamentary activities that go on in the building.

16. Buda Castle

Address: Budapest, Szent György tér 2, 1014 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 458 3000

Another famous site in the city, Buda Castle is a key monument as well as an architectural marvel.

The building houses the Hungarian National Gallery, which is home to stunning artwork and a huge range of collections.

However, if historical exhibitions are more your cup of tea, you can visit the wing of the palace that houses the Budapest History Museum.

Whatever your interests, Buda Castle is a great option for a rainy day.

17. Pálvölgyi Cave

Address: Budapest, Szépvölgyi út 162, 1025 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 325 9505

For a truly unique adventure, Pálvölgyi Cave is an underground excursion that offers the chance to discover a variety of geological treasures.

Interconnected caverns, winding walkways and incredible geological features all make this an unmissable experience.

Most importantly, the caves are suitable for all abilities, with some very accessible and easy to move around, and others more of a challenge.

Perfect for adrenaline junkies!

18. Neverland Escape Room

Address: Budapest, Dohány u. 22-24, 1074 Hungary

Phone number: +36 20 406 6243

Speaking of adrenaline junkies, Neverland Escape Room is a fun, unique activity that’s ideal for groups and couples alike.

Neverland offers a range of themes, including Wild West and prison-themed escape rooms.

Every activity is guaranteed to be a theatrical, immersive experience where every detail has been considered.

Why not pop along to quickly whittle away an hour or two?

19. Board Game Café

Address: alagsor, Budapest, Ferenc krt. 17, 1094 Hungary

Phone number: +36 70 469 9474

For a slower-paced rainy-day activity, why not try Budapest’s Board Game Café?

Enter the cafe and you’ll soon be greeted by over six hundred different types of board games for you to dive into.

Enjoy lunch or a coffee either after or during your games, and meet locals or other travellers in this quaint, cosy spot.

Moreover, the cafe also regularly host events, including board game tournaments, so be sure to try and catch one during your visit!

20. Anantara New York Palace Hotel

Address: Budapest, Erzsébet krt. 9, 1073 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 886 6111

Another popular cafe in the city, New York Palace is a must-visit for lovers of interior design.

This palatial wonder is the epitome of luxury and houses a gorgeous five-star hotel, as well as one of the most beautiful cafes in the world.

Pop in and take in the stunning interior, or stay a bit longer to enjoy a coffee and a cake.

Whether you take the time to soak up your surroundings or make it a flying visit, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with the hotel.

21. Budapest Makery

Address: Budapest, Dob u. 38, 1072 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 622 7391

For one of the most interactive indoor activities in Budapest, head on over to Budapest Makery, the first DIY restaurant in the world!

This unique concept involves picking a dish from the restaurant’s menu and then cooking it yourself, with the help of a professional chef.

The experience will give you a literal taste of culinary art, and an opportunity to learn about Hungarian cuisine in a fun, lively environment!

22. Tropicarium

Address: Budapest, Nagytétényi út 37-43, 1222 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 424 3053

For an educational activity, marvel at the range of wildlife at Budapest’s Tropicarium.

From tropical birds to alligators, the Tropicarium houses a huge variety of animals.

Tropical fish fill the exhibition halls, and an incredible shark tunnel offers a really immersive experience.

However, my favourite thing about this place is the ray-petting sessions, where you can feed and pet real Sting Rays!

And if you’re visiting Budapest with your partner, a trip here is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in Budapest.

23. Palace of Wonders

Address: Budapest, Bécsi út 38-44, 1036 Hungary

Phone number: +36 30 210 5569

This scientific-themed museum may have been originally aimed at children, but there’s something for people of all ages to enjoy here.

The site aims to bring the beauty of science and technology to the general public and offers a huge range of activities from interactive exhibitions to escape rooms.

A highlight for me is the 9D cinema, which includes moving seats, 3D graphics and simulations with water spray!

24. House of Terror Museum

Address: Attila F. Kovács, Kálmán Újszászy, János Sándor

Phone number: +36 1 374 2600

On the other end of the spectrum, the House of Terror Museum is definitely not for everyone.

However, it’s an interesting museum that’s a great, educational option for a rainy day.

This museum offers a sobering take on the history of Hungary and explores the historical terror regimes and practices that the country has experienced.

You’ll find tributes to the victims of this history in the museum, and their stories are brought to life before your eyes.

25. Budapest Shooting

Address: Budapest, Nagymező u. 37-39, 1065 Hungary

Phone number: +36 30 712 3259

Budapest Shooting is a popular indoor shooting range.

With almost a hundred and fifty different types of weapons, the site has knowledgeable and friendly instructors who can support people of all shooting abilities.

This is a great activity if you need a break from the many cultural sites of the city!

26. Spa day

What better way to spend a rainy day than a good old spa day?

If you agree, my top pick would be the 5 Elements Balinese Day Spa, located in Buda.

Inspired by the traditional treatments of Bali, there’s a range of massages available and they deliver each with the utmost attention to detail.

From Balinese Oil treatments to seaweed body peels, you’ll feel like you’ve had a tropical escape after a day spa package here.

Alternatively, another great option for a spa day is Mandala Day Spa, a luxurious, exclusive spot that is way more than just a spa.

Relax in a custom-created Teahouse before and after your treatments, taking in the candlelit atmosphere and choosing from a range of delicious herbal teas.

Inspired by oriental bliss, the treatments on offer include a blend of East and West.

Expect Japanese Shiatsu, Swedish massage and aromatherapy techniques.

27. Massolit Bookstore and Cafe

Address: Budapest, Nagy Diófa u. 30, 1072 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 788 5292

I absolutely adore an old-fashioned bookstore, and we all know how important it is to support physical book shops in a time where every book in the world can be bought online!

Massolit is a cosy little treasure, located in a part of town with lots of beautiful architecture.

The laid back atmosphere makes this the perfect place to relax with a coffee and a cake, and enjoy reading one of the hundreds of books stocked here.

And above all, vintage furniture and a lovely little garden space at the back of the cafe make it a great spot for any day, rain or shine.

Because let’s be honest, it doesn’t need to be raining for you to enjoy this gem!

So there you have it: the 27 best indoor activities in Budapest that are perfect for a rainy day!

It’s safe to say that if the weather’s not on your side when you visit the city, you’ll not be lacking in things to do.

But which of these indoor activities in Budapest are you most desperate to try out?

Please let me know in the comments below!