8 Unforgettable Day Trips from Budapest: Explore More of Hungary in Just One Day

Budapest is a city that captivates with its historic charm, vibrant nightlife, and world-famous thermal baths. But once you've explored its every ruin pub and climbed both Buda and Pest hills, you might start wondering what lies just beyond. The good news? Hungary is packed with cultural gems, natural beauty, and historic towns that are easily accessible from Budapest in just a day. Whether you’re craving medieval castles, wine tastings, scenic hikes, or lakeside relaxation, there’s a perfect Hungarian escape just a short ride away.

Here are eight of the best day trips from Budapest that will make you fall even more in love with this Central European country.

1. Szentendre — Bohemian Charm on the Danube

Travel time: 40 minutes via suburban train (HÉV)

How to get there: Take HÉV suburban train line H5 from Batthyány tér station.

Szentendre is a picturesque town located just north of Budapest, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips. Known for its colorful Baroque houses, cobblestone streets, and a thriving art scene, Szentendre has long attracted painters, sculptors, and free spirits.

Highlights:

• Marzipan Museum (quirky and sweet)

• Serbian Orthodox Church and Museum

• Dozens of art galleries, craft shops, and riverside cafes

Why go: It’s like walking into a painting. Ideal for art lovers, souvenir hunters, and romantic wanderers.

Pro tip: Take the boat back to Budapest in warmer months for a scenic ride along the Danube.

2. Visegrád — Castle Views Over the Danube Bend

Travel time: ~1.5 hours by train + bus or direct bus

How to get there: Take a train from Nyugati Station to Nagymaros, then a short ferry or bus to Visegrád. Alternatively, take a direct Volánbusz from Újpest-Városkapu bus station.

Perched high above the Danube, Visegrád is a medieval town famous for its breathtaking panoramas and historical significance. Once a royal residence, its Citadel offers some of the most iconic views in Hungary.

Highlights:

• Visegrád Citadel (Fellegvár)

• Royal Palace ruins and King Matthias Museum

• Summer toboggan track (great for families)

Why go: History buffs and nature lovers alike will appreciate the blend of dramatic landscapes and ancient architecture.

Combine with: A longer Danube Bend trip including Esztergom or Szentendre.

3. Esztergom — Hungary’s Spiritual Heart

Travel time: 1.5 hours by train or bus

How to get there: Take a direct train from Nyugati Station or a Volánbusz from Újpest-Városkapu.

Esztergom is one of Hungary’s oldest cities and once served as the royal capital. Today, it’s most famous for its colossal basilica — the largest church in Hungary and a true architectural marvel.

Highlights:

• Esztergom Basilica (climb to the dome for panoramic views)

• Christian Museum with religious art collections

• Mária Valéria Bridge to Slovakia

Why go: A meaningful visit for those interested in religion, architecture, and cross-border exploration.

4. Etyek — A Taste of Hungarian Wine Country

Travel time: 30–40 minutes by bus or car

How to get there: Take Volánbusz #760 from Kelenföld bus station.

Etyek is Budapest’s closest wine region, sometimes referred to as the “Napa Valley of Hungary.” It’s a quiet countryside village dotted with family-run cellars and framed by rolling vineyards.

Highlights:

• Wine tasting at boutique wineries

• Etyeki Piknik gastro festivals (seasonal)

• Traditional Hungarian food pairings

Why go: A must for wine lovers and foodies looking for a relaxing escape.

Tip: Join an organized wine tour from Budapest to enjoy tastings without worrying about transport.

5. Gödöllő — Follow in the Footsteps of Empress Sisi

Travel time: 40–50 minutes via HÉV or train

How to get there: Take HÉV suburban train line H8 from Örs vezér tere or a MÁV train from Keleti Station.

Home to one of Hungary’s most elegant palaces, Gödöllő offers a royal day out. The Grassalkovich Palace was a favorite residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria ("Sisi"), who found peace here away from Vienna.

Highlights:

• Gödöllő Royal Palace and gardens

• Permanent exhibitions on Empress Sisi

• Concerts and cultural events in the ballroom

Why go: An easy and enriching destination for history lovers and those obsessed with royal Europe.

6. Normafa & János Hill — Nature Within the City Limits

Travel time: 30 minutes by tram + cogwheel railway or bus

How to get there: Take tram 60 (the Cogwheel Railway) from Városmajor or bus 21/21A from Széll Kálmán tér.

If you want to escape Budapest’s urban buzz without leaving city limits, head up to Normafa and János Hill. This forested area in the Buda Hills is a favorite among locals for hiking, sledding, and panoramic views.

Highlights:

• Elizabeth Lookout Tower

• Chairlift (Libegő) ride with city views

• Picnic spots and easy trails

Why go: Perfect for a breath of fresh air, especially in spring or autumn.

7. Lake Velence (Velencei-tó) — Mini Beach Escape

Travel time: 45 minutes by trainHow to get there: Take a MÁV train from Déli Station to Velence or Gárdony.

Hungary might be landlocked, but Lake Velence offers a sunny retreat with beaches, spas, and

nature trails. It’s the country’s third-largest lake and far less crowded than Balaton.

Highlights:

• Beach clubs and swimming areas

• Thermal spa in Velence town

• Cycling paths around the lake

Why go: Ideal for families or couples looking for summer relaxation without a long journey.

8. Tata — A Lakeside Town with Noble Roots

Travel time: 1.5 hours by trainHow to get there: Take a direct MÁV train from Déli Station to Tata.

Tata is a charming town built around the serene Öreg-tó (Old Lake), with a picturesque castle and beautifully landscaped English-style gardens.

Highlights:

• Lakeside Tata Castle

• Walks or bike rides around the lake

• Esterházy Palace and the English Garden

Why go: A romantic, laid-back option with a noble flair.

Final Thoughts

Hungary’s compact size means you can explore so much more than just Budapest without needing overnight stays or long travel days. Whether you want wine, history, castles, or countryside, these eight destinations prove that a single day is more than enough for a memorable adventure.

Pack your day bag, grab your travel card, and get ready to discover the Hungary that lies just beyond Budapest.