Budapest is no exception; as with most European cities, staying in the center is the best way to fully experience the city. In this article, we’ll share with you the best hotels in Budapest and the top neighborhoods for your stay.
The unique layout of Budapest’s center spans multiple districts, divided by the Danube River into two main areas.
If you’re visiting Budapest, you’ll quickly notice the city’s two distinct parts: Buda and Pest. Each lies on one of the banks of the Danube and comprises 23 districts, generally arranged in a clockwise direction.
Where to Stay on a Budget in Budapest?
The most recommended areas are District I (Varnegyed) on the Buda side, and Districts V (Belváros and Lipótváros), VI (Terézváros), VII (Erzsébetvaros), and parts of District VIII (Józsefváros) in Pest.
If you’re looking for a central reference point, Deák Ferenc tér is the most central spot.
The edges of the city center are roughly marked by the Margit Bridge to the north and the Erzsébet Bridge to the south, with about a 30-minute walk from one end to the other.
What Activities Can I Do in the City?
Here are some activities we tried and can highly recommend:
- Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
- Skip-the-Line Entry to the Great Synagogue
- Full-Day Ticket to the Gellért Thermal Baths
- Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise
Where to Stay: Buda or Pest?
Buda is considered the birthplace of the city, with a medieval neighborhood and key attractions like the Royal Palace and Fisherman’s Bastion. Pest, on the other hand, is the more modern, commercial, and vibrant side of the city.
While Buda offers charm and historic landmarks, it may be quieter at night. Pest is ideal for evening activities, dining, and nightlife. Both sides are connected by bridges, and you can easily cross between them by walking or using public transportation like the metro.
Recommended Areas to Stay
Top areas include Belváros and Lipótváros, as well as the Terézváros district, near the Opera and Oktogon Square.
Although this area tends to be pricier than others, it’s worth noting that hotel prices in Budapest are generally reasonable.
Buda: The main area to stay here is District I, where you’ll find medieval monuments and other major tourist attractions.
Lipótváros and Belváros (District V)
This is the liveliest, most central area of the city, featuring Budapest’s main streets, restaurants, and nightlife spots. Belváros is the heart of the city, home to Váci Street, where you’ll find many hotel options.
The location is unbeatable, allowing you to walk to most of Budapest’s main attractions.
Lipótváros has a similar appeal to Belváros, with popular spots for drinks and dining, including restaurants, bars, and wine cellars. In this area, you’ll find the Parliament building and St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Terézváros (District VI)
Another recommended neighborhood, stretching along the famous Andrássy Avenue, one of the city’s main boulevards leading to Heroes’ Square. This culturally rich area is among the city’s most significant.
Erzsébetváros (District VII)
Located south of Terézváros, this is Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, an alternative neighborhood with attractions such as the Great Synagogue, making it popular with tourists.
Hotels in Budapest
The hotels in Budapest are quite affordable compared to other European capitals. The value for money is excellent, with decent rooms in central areas available for around 50 euros per night or even less.
If you’re willing to spend over 70 euros a night, the quality significantly improves, making Budapest an affordable destination if you book in advance.
In general, hotel prices in Budapest are about one-third cheaper than in nearby European countries like Austria or Germany.
Recommended Hotels
- Hotel Palazzo Zichy: A beautiful building from Budapest’s golden age in the late 19th century. It’s not a luxury hotel, but a restored palace with reasonably priced rooms and close to the city center.
- K+K Opera Budapest: Modern and comfortable, located near Franz Liszt Square, a great spot for moderately priced meals. Close to the Opera House, with a good breakfast and Spanish-speaking receptionists.
- Hotel NH: Located on the Grand Boulevard, near the Parliament and close to bars. Spanish is spoken here as well.
- Boutique Hotel Zara: Centrally located, a short walk from the Central Market and Váci Street. The reception staff speaks basic Spanish.
- Best Western Parlament: Very central, just a 5-minute walk from the Parliament and 10 minutes from the Opera House.
- Hotel Mercure Museum: Meets the standards of this well-known French chain and is close to the National Museum.
Budget Accommodation in Budapest
Budapest offers a wide range of budget accommodations.
In central areas, youth hostels and guesthouses offer beds in shared dorms at prices ranging from 10 to 15 euros.
In outlying areas, you can find beds starting from 6 euros.
Renting an Apartment in Budapest
Staying in an apartment in Budapest can be an excellent choice. There are many affordable apartments in Budapest that make it easy to find budget-friendly accommodations.
This option is recommended for those seeking more privacy and space at very competitive prices, especially if traveling with a tight budget or in a larger group.
We hope this guide has clarified the available options in the Hungarian capital if you’re planning to spend a few days exploring.
You’ll benefit from very reasonable prices, and from a Spanish perspective, you can save quite a bit in one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals. We wish you a fantastic trip and hope you find one of the best hotels in central Budapest. Enjoy!