Where to Stay in Budapest: A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Stay

Considering a European excursion and wondering where to reside in Budapest? You’ve come to the perfect place!

Budapest is one of the most historically rich cities in Europe, and while its popularity is growing each year, Budapest remains largely undiscovered. If you love to travel, it is certainly worth visiting soon. It appears to be becoming more prominent on the map with each passing day.

My initial journey to Budapest was in 2014 with my family, and I made it back again in 2018 to dedicate more time exploring. I cherish Budapest – it’s one of my favorite cities in Europe – and I found myself wondering what it would be like to reside there someday.

Spectacularly beautiful, this historic city embraces the mighty Danube River with Pest to the west with its leafy hills and natural spas and Buda’s pretty fin-de-siecle boulevards and the Jewish quarter on the eastern bank. There is so much to experience: awe-inspiring architecture, grand spas, stunning parks, fascinating museums, and a vibrant nightlife with a surprisingly diverse selection of restaurants. I know – you’re going to have an amazing time!”

You will also learn why you should visit these neighborhoods and proposals for what to see and do there. So let’s delve into where to stay in Budapest for a trip you’ll never forget!

If you’re traveling to Budapest, you won’t want to miss my other travel guides for the Hungarian capital. Like this detailed 4 day Budapest plan. Or this guide to traveling to Budapest gluten free diet.

Click here to view our carefully selected list of the finest Airbnbs in Budapest to locate the perfect accommodation for your trip

a large building with a clock on top of it

Where to Stay in Budapest: A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Stay 

Before discussing the top areas for accommodation in Budapest, allow me to explain my process and philosophy behind selecting a place to stay.

There are two primary methods for choosing where to remain in a given city – selecting the best hotel, regardless of the area, or picking the best area then finding lodging that fits one`s style and budget.

I prefer the latter approach. I greatly enjoy exploring on foot and believe it`s integral to any itinerary, so choosing accommodations in the best location is important.

When I am researching the best neighborhoods, I’m looking for three criteria.

  1. Initially, a central location with public transportation connections. You don’t want to spend half an hour getting to the main sights in Budapest.
  2. Second, the culinary and drinking scene. Because enjoying food is something I appreciate, and you likely do too.
  3. Last, but certainly not least, the general atmosphere for lack of a better word. Is it full of tourists? I prefer staying in neighborhoods where locals truly reside to experience local life, even if that means I’m not residing right in the center of the city.

Now that you understand how I chose these neighborhoods, let’s get to finding a place to stay in Budapest that you’ll really like!

Click here to see a curated set of Budapest’s 14 best Airbnb Stays

The Best Places to Stay in Budapest: The 4 Best Areas for First-Timers

Being central is invariably a good choice if you`re unfamiliar with a city, although one of the great things about Budapest is that it is compact. Budapest is only about 1⁄3 the area of Central London.

With an efficient and low-cost public transportation network readily available, travel time in Budapest is not as much of an issue as it can be in other cities, but let’s begin in the center of the city since we’ll all be heading there for at least part of our trip.

a large stone building with a clock on it

Belváros or Inner City (District V): Best Place to Stay in Budapest Overall

If I could opt for one region of this delightful city to reside in, it would have to be Belváros, the heart of Pest situated on the eastern bank of the Danube. It possesses everything – superb baroque architecture, chic luxury stores, museums, fine dining restaurants, and some of my favorite cafés.

The northern and southern zones of District V, roughly from Parliament to the Basilica and Ferenciek Tere to Kálvin Tér are the quietest and most restful. The mid-zone is busier and contains Váci Utca, the notable shopping street that’s deserving of a visit even if you don’t intend to make a purchase for yourself.

The entire neighborhood is sprinkled with historic buildings overlooking the tree-lined streets, like the Hungarian Parliament building, the largest in Europe, where you can see the Crown Jewels.

All four metro lines converge on Deák Ferenc Square, so it’s well-connected and easy to get to and from.

My personal recommendation for you is to locate a stylish Airbnb in Belváros to serve as your home base for exploring Budapest. Lucky for you, there’s an abundance of amazing options for you in this part of the city. I tend to stay in Airbnb Plus listings as frequently as I can, which are the highest quality in terms of style and customer experience.

Click here to find the ideal place to remain in Belváros

a city street filled with lots of tall buildings

There are nearly too many locations to visit in Belváros! In addition to Parliament, there is St. Stephen’s Basilica, the largest church in the city, the Footwear on the Danube, a touching memorial to those killed by the Hungarian Arrow Cross (a brief fascist ruling party toward the end of WWII), the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the first bridge connecting Buda and Pest in 1849, among many others.

In addition to remarkable architecture, you must pay a visit to the various eateries, coffeehouses and bars the locale has to offer:

  • Grab a beverage at Csendes Vintage Bar & Café, which features tall ceilings, eccentric decor, and a relaxed vibe. Enjoy your drink on their outdoor patio on pleasant evenings.
  • Budapest offers exceptional coffee options, and coffee lovers must visit these cafés:

a man sitting at a table with a cup of coffee

  • If Spanish appetizers are to your liking, try Pata Negra Pest, which is exceptionally well done with outdoor seating and several gluten-free choices.
  • Stroll through the Károlyi-kert park (just around the corner from Csendes) and enjoy the atmosphere and indulge in some people observing.
  • Take a guided excursion to get your bearings with the assistance of a local guide.

Best Places to Stay in Belváros

As mentioned earlier, Budapest offers a wide selection of Airbnbs that are both exceptionally great and affordable options. If it were my choice, I would select an Airbnb.

If hotels and hostels are more your style, I’ve included options for those as well – keep reading!

Airbnb in Belváros

Cozy Downtown Loft

My spouse and I stayed at this stylishly designed and centrally located Airbnb during our last visit to Budapest, and it is the perfect place to base yourself for exploring all areas of the city. Brand new in 2016, this loft-like apartment accommodates up to four people with two beds, and is on the second floor of a lovely building opposite the entrance to Karolyi garden – very convenient for Csendes Vintage Bar & Café!

I recommend booking the visit to the Vault in advance. The Vault is an underground storage area where one hundred years of vehicle history is explained.

Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability

Want to see what else is available? Here are more fantastic options in the neighborhood.

For Couples / Two People:

For Families & Groups:

Hostels & Hotels in Belváros

If you prefer quality lodging at a hotel, or are looking for inexpensive accommodation at a hostel in central Budapest, here are your best options.

Affordable Style: Maverick Hostel & Ensuites

This restored royal residence is situated in a prime central location with a magnificent baroque facade and bright, pleasant rooms. It provides typical hostel accommodations – kitchens, laundry facilities, wi-fi, etc. for a cozy visit. The private en suite rooms rival a hotel`s, equipped with cable TV, and if you are open to sharing space, the dorm rates are extremely affordable.

They regularly arrange social events, can provide bicycle rental, and they offer free walking tours. A supermarket is just across the street, too.

Maverick is far more improved than the old backpackers’ hostels of past years; it’s clean, well kept and inviting!

Click here to find the ideal place to stay along the Waterfront

An Incredible Serviced Apartment: Loft Astoria

Situated on the eastern edge of the neighborhood, the Loft Astoria lacks the antiquated allure of the Maverick, nevertheless the rooms within are extremely modern and well arranged. For example, their Deluxe Loft apartment can accommodate four people, possesses soundproof doors and windows for an undisturbed night’s rest and tasteful décor. It incorporates a living room, air conditioning, wi-fi, TV, fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious bathroom.

The staff pay close attention and it has everything one needs to make your stay in Budapest a time to commemorate. Restaurants are all around, and the metro station is only a few steps away, so Loft Astoria is the perfect location to base yourself in Budapest.

Click here to view prices, reviews, and availability

Modern Elegance: The Three Corners Lifestyle Hotel

This recently built hotel provides guests with all expected modern amenities, such as brightly lit airy rooms with stylish contemporary decor, multiple ports for conveniently charging devices, and spacious luxurious bathrooms. Services include air conditioning, large televisions, free wireless internet, an elegant bar, sauna and fitness cabin. The walk-in showers are a treat.

It is situated at the quieter, southern region of the area and receives outstanding reviews.

Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability

Erzsébetváros (District VII): Best Area to Stay in Budapest for Nightlife

When considering where to stay in Budapest, District VII should be high on your list of considerations. Erzsébetváros lies just east of Belváros and offers a similarly advantageous location for exploring Budapest.

It is a diverse neighborhood with a rich Jewish history and a modern, edgy vibe full of young, hip people and street art intermixed with kosher shops and the Grand Synagogue, which is the largest in Europe.

Importantly, it is also home to cafés, restaurants and eateries of various kinds and is the center of the ruin pubs phenomenon, so there is a great party atmosphere. If you want affordable food and drink, as well as fun, Erzsebetvaros is the place to go!

Click here to find the perfect lodging in Erzsebetvaros

a yellow and blue train traveling down train tracks

Here are some things not to miss in the area.

  • Visiting the ruin pubs is a must-do activity. They are built within the remains of abandoned structures throughout Erzsébetváros and play a significant role in the district`s culture. Two of my favorites are Koleves Kert and Szimpla Kert.
  • Hungarian wine has become quite praiseworthy and the ideal spot to sample its delights is Doblo Wine Bar, where you can also try palinka, the traditional fruit brand.
  • Visit Free!, my favored gluten-free bakery in Hungary.
  • Head to My Little Melbourne for a cup of coffee at an Australian-style coffee shop.
  • Simply explore the streets and check out the street art!
  • Take a guided tour and immerse yourself in Budapest’s fascinating Jewish history.

a person sitting at a table with a dog

Best Places to Stay in Erzsébetváros

Short-term rentals in Erzsébetváros

If you’re looking for an Airbnb, there appears to be almost too many options in this part of the city.

Listed below are five apartment options that captivated me during my research into lodging alternatives in Budapest.

Click here to view further incredible Airbnb choices in Erzsébetváros

Style on a Budget (Part 2): Maverick City Lodge

The Maverick undoubtedly deserves to get two mentions, considering it has two well-situated, stylish, and affordable hostels. If you want to base yourself in the heart of Budapest, the Maverick City Lodge should be on your list. There are few other places that offer the same combination of style and affordability. It’s the best place to stay in Budapest on a budget.

Click here to examine costs, reviews, and availability

The Best Erzsébetváros Hotel: Roombach Hotel Budapest Center

Beautiful colors and dynamic furnishings typify this exciting hotel. Their contemporary rooms offer style and comfort with wi-fi, air conditioning, smart TV, and a laptop-sized safe, so it’s a great base for enjoying Budapest and District VII in particular.

Click here to view prices, reviews, and availability

The Top-Rated Apartment Hotel: Vagabond Broadway

The best choice if you’d like to have the option of looking after yourself is Vagabond Broadway. They offer completely self-contained apartments, fully equipped kitchen areas, great décor and are very comfortable. Also kid-friendly too!

With a nearby beach, historic windmill and hip cafes and eateries like Trouble Coffee within easy reach, this spot is ideal for a city break.

a city at night with a large clock tower

Castle District (District I): Best for Peace & Quiet and Families

Just across the Danube from Belváros, the Castle District (also called Budavár) is close enough to allow sightseeing without difficulty yet is somewhat calmer and more relaxed. It comprises Castle Hill (Várhegy) and riverside Watertown (Viziváros) and hosts many excellent museums along with restaurants. It represents the Buda center.

From Castle Hill, spectacular city views emerge, but turning around reveals the splendors of the sprawling Buda Castle.

Click here to locate the perfect place to stay in the Castle District

a large building with a clock on it`s side

The Best Things to Do in the Castle District

  • Food enthusiasts interested in cooking will enjoy a Hungarian Farm to Table cooking class, where participants will learn to prepare an organic three-course Hungarian menu while sampling locally-produced wine and spirits.
  • Explore Buda Castle`s history on a guided walk with insights from a local historian.
  • Take in THAT spectacular Budapest vista from Gellert Hill as the sun sinks low.
  • Stroll along the Danube to behold up close that magnificent Parliament building from this vantage point.

a large clock tower towering over a city at night

Best Places to Stay in Budapest’s Castle District

If You’re on a Budget: Santico Art Hotel and Hostel

Within a 15 minute walk from Castle Garden, Santico Art Hotel and Hostel offers a variety of accommodation to meet everyone`s needs. With Studios, Quadruple Rooms, and Family Studios, you’ll find lodging suitable for you and anyone you’re traveling with.

Clicking here allows checking prices, reviews, and availability

If you’re looking for a boutique hotel in La Candelaria, check out the Candelaria House Boutique.

A restored 17th century monastery, this relaxed hotel contains 47 basic yet well-furnished and stylishly designed rooms equipped with modern amenities within a historic setting. Family rooms can be requested. Guests are also able to dine casually at the informal restaurant or socialize in the welcoming bar space.

Click here to check prices, reviews, and accessibility

a large building with a clock on the top of it

Terézváros (District VI): Best for Those on a Budget

Terézváros lies just north of Belváros and is home to the Hungarian State Opera and Budapest’s theatre district. It is another trendy area in this fascinating city, with food vendors and quirky shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Not far away are the ruin pubs, and it is also near the Parliament and St Stephen’s Basilica. The entire 300-acre Városliget city park is a brief stroll away

Click here to find the ideal place to stay in Terézváros

people walking down a street with umbrellas

The Best Things to Do in Terézváros

  • You should visit the House of Terror, where you can become familiarized with Budapest’s turbulent history during the Soviet occupation. This location is incredibly meaningful to visit, and is a time period not widely known – the reason I feel such a strong connection with Budapest is that my grandmother escaped from the city during this era, fleeing to New York.
  • You must spend some time exploring Budapest’s Central Park, Városliget, and, specifically, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. They ought to be at the top of the list for any visitor to Budapest.

a swimming pool filled with lots of people

a restaurant with a sign on the side of the building

Best places to stay in Terézváros

A Budget-Friendly Option: Activity Hostel

Just 200 metres from Saint Stephen`s Basilica, Activity Hostel offers three earthy mixed-gender and female-only dormitories with bright, airy rooms, a shared kitchen and lounge area. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and the hostel is within a short walk of some of the most beautiful sights Budapest has to offer.

Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability

The Best Hotel: T62 Hotel

Close to the Budapest-Nyugati train station, T62 offers contemporary and trendy decor in an elegant historic building. It has 142 rooms and “urban art” is featured throughout the atrium, lobby lounge and bar. It is an excellent choice for those interested in exploring this unique city.

Details about room rates, reviews, and availability can be found here

The Best Airbnb: Studio On Broadway

Another thoughtfully designed, bright and airy Airbnb accommodating three located in the heart of the city. The hosts are Superhosts with 500+ reviews, and they are dedicated to offering quality lodging for visitors. Speaking of reviews, they nearly all mention the kindness of the hosts, who will provide you all the advice you need to make the most of your time in Budapest.

This hyperlink will provide pricing details, traveler reviews, and accessible dates for lodging

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide to where to stay in Budapest helps you to choose your very own “best area to stay in Budapest”.

Budapest is a remarkable city to explore. You`ll find a satisfying blend of history, both aged and contemporary, with a trendy edge that makes it a fascinating place to investigate. Let me know your accommodations!”

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In search of additional travel motivation, guides, and recommendations for touring places found in Europe? Check out my latest blog posts focused on the region.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

Join us on our journey!

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