25 Most Romantic Things to Do in Budapest for Couples [2024]

Looking for a romantic city break?

Then look no further than Budapest!

With world-famous sites and star-studded menus, Budapest is a great option for couples looking to ramp up the romance.

Whether it’s a relaxed stroll along the banks of the Danube River or a classy cocktail date on a rooftop bar, this city has something for every couple.

So if you’re pulling together a romantic Budapest itinerary, be sure to include some of these romantic things to do in Budapest!

1. Danube River Cruise

Let’s kick off this post with the perfect setting for a romantic date: the Danube River.

Cruising along the river allows you to take in Budapest’s beautiful skyline, and the countless castles and bridges that give the waterway its character.

Hop on board and make your way past the Parliament building and the Fisherman’s Bastion at a leisurely pace, while cuddled up to your loved one.

In addition to the beautiful views, one of the best things about this activity is that there’s something to suit every budget and timeframe.

Options range from hour-long expeditions to private day-trip experiences that last over eight hours.

After your cruise, you’ll quickly understand why Budapest is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe.

2. Dine on the Danube

If committing to a cruise isn’t your idea of romance (sea-sick is never a cute look), you could opt for a meal on the banks of the river instead.

Vogue Boat Café and Restaurant offers Hungarian and fusion cuisine, so you can treat yourself to a tantalisingly traditional feast, or experiment with something more modern and unique.

This spot offers gorgeous views of the river, so you can still appreciate the idyllic landscape without actually going anywhere.

However, if you prefer to keep your feet firmly on dry land, Corso is another option on the banks of the Danube.

It serves Hungarian cuisine and fish dishes, with a great drinks selection and impeccable service.

3. Music Fountain

Address: Budapest, 1138 Hungary

Phone number: +36 80 277 275

Sticking with water-based activities, this famous spectacle is a fun and romantic hotspot to slip into your itinerary.

Jets of water shoot artistically into the air, reaching up to thirty feet.

And in addition, an eclectic mix of colours and shapes is created by the fountains, all set to lovely music.

The mesmerising displays start every hour, so it’s an easy and stress-free addition to your plans, as well as being budget-friendly.

(Entrance is free!)

Why not visit in the evening to see the beautiful display at its full potential, and, of course, at its most romantic?

4. Margaret Bridge

Address: Budapest, 1138 Hungary

Linking the two sides of the city, Buda and Pest, Margaret Bridge is a beautiful spot above the Danube.

Usually bustling with tourists and locals alike, this scenic arched bridge offers incredible views of the city and is a lovely spot to steal a romantic moment.

5. Margaret Island

A tranquil escape at the heart of the city, Margaret Island is the perfect site for a romantic date.

Previously a royal hunting reserve, this small island is now a public park and is easily accessible via a walk-bridge or tram.

You could spend an entire day on Margaret Island, as there’s so much to see and do!

Among my favourite activities are the Art Nouveau Water Tower, which can be climbed and often hosts cultural exhibitions, and the beautiful gardens where you can embark on a romantic stroll.

For the slightly more active couples, Palatinus Strand Thermal Baths is Margaret Island’s answer to the city-wide thermal bath craze.

However, these baths offer a fun, modern twist on the traditional baths, with water slides and a wave pool!

6. Thermal Baths

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more traditional thermal bath experience, Budapest has many options to choose from.

Perhaps the most famous bath is Szechenyi, the biggest natural hot spring bath in Europe.

At over a century old, a trip to these baths is equally informative and relaxing; you’ll truly feel like you’re experiencing a historical part of the city.

Explore the labyrinth of eighteen thermal pools, both inside and outside, before treating yourselves to spa treatments afterwards.

However, if you’re looking for a slightly quieter option, Gellert Baths is another popular choice with stunning mosaic walls and floors.

The beautiful Art Nouveau architecture is the perfect backdrop for a romantic date.

And if you want to make your date night even more romantic, there’s even the option to book a private couple’s thermal pool!

7. Buda Hill

With its picturesque surroundings and stunning city vistas, no trip to Budapest is complete without a trip up Buda Hill.

An ornate funicular offers a relaxed ascent, and the perfect chance to take in the incredible views as you climb.

Buda Hill is the perfect spot for a romantic walk in all seasons, with stunning foliage that turns beautiful shades of orange in autumn.

And atop the hill lies Buda Castle, which is a great visit for history-loving couples.

However, there are also plenty of other tourist attractions nearby too like squares and markets, so why not head on a romantic stroll?

8. St Stephens Basilica

Address: Budapest, Szent István tér 1, 1051 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 311 0839

This neoclassical cathedral is an integral part of Budapest’s landscape, so it’s definitely a must-visit during your trip.

Its outside appearance is stunning enough, but if you venture inside you can climb Cupolo Tower and take in the stunning vistas of the city.

I really can’t think of a more romantic experience than delving into the rich history of this world-famous site.

9. Gellért Hill Cave

Address: Budapest, 1118 Hungary

Built into the rocks and caves of Gellert Hill, Budapest Cave Church is an equally spiritual and romantic spot.

Inspired by the famous ‘Our Lady of Lourdes’ site in France, this church has its fair share of visiting pilgrims and has hosted worship throughout history.

Beautifully simple and tranquil, this is a lovely spot to visit.

10. Hungarian State Opera House

Address: Budapest, Andrássy út 22, 1061 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 814 7100

Another piece of history, the Hungarian State Opera House is a leading cultural institution in the country and across the world.

Home to a variety of different artists and genres, the HSO regularly hosts orchestra performances and ballets.

This is the perfect romantic date idea for opera aficionados or those looking to do something a little different.

Dinner followed by a show? Sounds like the perfect date night to me!

11. Museums of Budapest

A museum tour of Budapest is one of the most romantic things to do in Budapest for culture-hungry couples.

Budapest is home to a huge range of museums and galleries with exhibitions on everything from the history of the city to Houdini!

The Hungarian National Gallery is a stunning visit, made even more incredible by its location inside of Buda Castle.

Additionally, The Budapest History Museum is also inside the castle, so you could spend a whole day here!

12. Chocolate Museum

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

Phone number: +36 30 746 6995

If I had to pick my ideal date, this one would be right up there.

With its beautiful setting, Budapest’s Chocolate Museum offers an informative and tasty date option.

Take a journey through the different uses of chocolate around the world, and learn all about how it’s made, all while enjoying a huge variety of samples.

Ideal if your date has a sweet tooth!

13. 3D Gallery Budapest

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

Phone number: +36 30 211 8863

Okay, so this recommendation might seem a little less romantic but hear me out…

For a cool, contemporary date idea, visit this totally interactive gallery where you can touch and move about every prop.

If you’re into Instagram, this gallery is well worth a visit, as you can use the incredible props to compose an unforgettable photo.

This is definitely one of the trendiest date ideas, and a really fun chance to show your creative side. Give it a try, why don’t you?

14. Budapest Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 6-12, 1146 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 273 4901

Zoos are famously one of the most popular date ideas, so of course, this list of the most romantic things to do in Budapest would be incomplete without mentioning one!

One of the oldest zoos in Europe, Budapest Zoo dates back to the 19^th century.

A visit here offers the chance to see animals like hippopotamus and lions, and of course, spend some quality time with your loved one.

My personal highlight is the elephants, who inhabit a stunning Art Deco house.

Beyond the zoo, there are also lovely gardens to explore, with botanical wonders including a Japanese Bonsai display.

A great opportunity to escape the bustling city, these gardens make for a relaxing wander.

15. Botanical Garden of ELTE

Address: Budapest, Illés u. 25, 1083 Hungary

Phone number: +36 1 314 0535

For even more gorgeous gardens, you can take a trip outside of the city centre and visit the Fuveszkert Botanical Garden of ELTE.

With stunning greenhouses, sprawling lawns, and beautiful water features, these gardens are a great site for a relaxing walk.

The picturesque architecture gives an insight into the olden days of the Empire, and there’s plenty of staff on hand to answer any questions.

This is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in Budapest if you grow tired of the mainstream attractions of the city.

16. Tropicarium

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

Phone number: +36 1 424 3053

Another recommendation for nature-loving couples!

Budapest is home to a gorgeous Tropicarium, with an immersive tropical rainforest and aquarium.

This spot is known for its shark tunnel, which allows you to wander through the habitat of these incredible animals.

Featuring an international cast of wildlife, this is great for an adventurous couple who wants to see tropical birds and monkeys, as well as an aquatic array.

17. Szimpla Farmer’s Market

Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 14, 1075 Hungary

Visit Szimpla Sunday Farmer’s Market in the heart of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter for an incredible insight into local culture.

With over thirty local farmers selling their delicacies, you can enjoy the bustling community atmosphere and stock up on some delicious treats.

Pop on over and enjoy a market brunch while taking in the live music.

And the best bit is that you can do so knowing that you’re supporting those in need, as every week a different charity cooks and takes donations.

18. Gouba Art Market

Address: Budapest, Király u. 13, 1068 Hungary

If you fancy a more craft-focused market experience, Gouba Art Market is a hidden gem filled with unique treasures.

Supported by an array of pubs, restaurants and shops, this is a great date option for art lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

This spot offers an amazing taste of local culture and is the perfect way to fill an hour in your day.

19. Tram tour

Budapest is a city that’s famous for its extensive tram network, which stretches across the city and beyond.

It’s a great way to both get around the city and take in the local culture, so much so that National Geographic even chose this network as one of the ten most beautiful tram journeys in the world.

‘Tram Number 2’ is a famous sightseeing tram that runs through the heart of the city.

It offers stunning views of Parliament and the Danube, and is a great option to begin your romantic tram tour!

20. Faust Wine Cellar

Address: Hilton Budapest, Hess András tér 1, 1014

Phone number: +36 20 326 3503

For wine lovers, Faust Wine Cellar is a must-visit date site.

Situated underneath the Dominican Cloister, a UNESCO world heritage site, this wine cellar offers eighty different types of Hungarian wine.

You can enjoy a variety of tasting packages, guided by an experienced sommelier, and learn more about the city as well as its drink.

The wine cellar is close to other famous city sights like the Fisherman’s Bastion, so it’s an easy and accessible option for a romantic date.

21. Wine and tapas

A well-respected pastime in Budapest is settling down in a cosy spot for some tapas and wine.

I challenge you to find a better date night than this!

If you get sick of traditional Hungarian food, Vicky Barcelona offers Latin tapas with an incredible atmosphere and creative dishes.

Alternatively, for an international take on tapas, Tapassio has rave reviews thanks to its great range of food and wine.

This is one of the best things to do in Budapest at night, offering the opportunity to reflect on your incredible day of sightseeing or kick off an evening of partying!

22. Cocktail bars

If your idea of a perfect date is filled with fruity drinks and fancy glasses, Budapest is a great city for cocktail bar-hopping!

Firstly, Jardín is one of the most well-known spots, with an incredible range of cocktails and amazing service.

However, if you fancy more of an exclusive feel, High Note SkyBar offers amazing views of the city.

And even better, it can only be accessed through the lobby of a luxurious boutique hotel, making it feel even fancier.

Or for a real treat, Brody Club is a members-only bar that has special events that are open to the public, including their ‘alchemist’ nights, which centre around different cocktail themes.

No matter what style of drink or bar you’re into, you’re sure to find your perfect fit in this city!

23. Budapest Eye

Address: Erzsébet tér 1051, 1051

Phone number: +36 70 636 0629

A trip around the Budapest Eye might be a bit of a romance cliché, but trust me when I say that it offers unmatched views of the bustling centre of the city.

With panoramic scenes and a fairy-tale feel, this ferris wheel is the largest in Europe, standing sixty-five metres tall!

This is one of the most romantic things to do in Budapest because it allows you to enjoy some privacy while taking in the city.

And who can say no to a bit of one-on-one time, right?

24. Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

With a huge range of bus tours on offer, joining a Hop On Hop Off tour is a fun and affordable way to travel around Budapest and take in the sights.

This is a great romantic date, with a little bit of fun and adventure as you plan your route around the city.

Alternatively, you can embrace your spontaneity and hop off wherever takes your fancy, seeing different corners of the city at a moment’s notice!

25. Wander around the city

Finally, we have the simplest but most timeless option of these romantic things to do in Budapest: just walking around the city!

Take in all the sights in your own time, with your partner’s hand in yours.

Romantic, right?

Whether it’s the grand and expansive Hungarian Parliament building or the turreted fortress of the Fisherman’s Bastion, there are so many romantic sights to see.

Additionally, walking around the city not only gives you the chance to explore at your own pace but also stumble across hidden gems that you otherwise might not have noticed!

This is without a doubt the most romantic way to experience any city and a truly unforgettable date experience.

So there you have it: the 25 most romantic things to do in Budapest!

Which of these romantic things to do in Budapest that you and your partner will love most?

Please let me know in the comments below!