Hungary’s capital is replete with incredible attractions. From Buda Castle to our Parliament Buildings, the Danube River and St. Stephen’s Basilica, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights. But there’s more to Budapest than meets the eye…
If you’re looking to go beyond the typical tourist attractions, E-Magine Tours has got your back. Our local team knows every corner of this city, having led our popular Budapest E-Scooter Tours for years!
We’ve put together our list of 10 awesome hidden gems in Budapest for you to find. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information on our sightseeing tours. We can’t wait for you to experience our city!
1. Visit the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum
Beneath the Buda Castle district, you’ll find a fascinating hospital built in the rock. First constructed in World War II using an existing cave system, the hospital was crucial during the Siege of Budapest when hundreds of patients were treated here.
When Cold War tensions were on the rise, the hospital was repurposed as a nuclear bunker. In recent years, it’s been transformed into the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum. On a guided tour, you can explore exhibits on everything from military medical tools to the impact of an atomic bomb. Over 200 waxworks bring the past to life, making this one of the most immersive museums in Budapest.
2. Hitch a Ride on The Budapest Children’s Railway
Would you travel along a railway run entirely by children? At the Budapest Children’s Railway, kids take charge of a rail route spanning 11 kilometres. Elementary school pupils will sell you your tickets and even switch the lines – they just don’t drive the trains.
Along the route, you’ll pass through the Buda Hills and see sights like Normafa and the Elizabeth Lookout. You can also hop off at certain stops for a hike or half-day trip. Visit the interactive museum to learn more about the original Pioneer’s Railway, which followed a tradition of child-run railways during the Soviet era.
3. Chill Out in the Thermal Beer Spa
While Budapest’s thermal spas draw visitors from far and wide, there’s another type of hot tub you can experience. The Thermal Beer Spa allows you to soak in the ingredients of beer, including malt, hops, and yeast. These elements have therapeutic properties believed to aid stress and rejuvenate the skin. While you’re relaxing, use the tap beside your bath to pull a delicious beer!
You can find the Thermal Beer Spa at the Lukács Thermal Spa and the Széchenyi Thermal Spa. After your hopsy submersion, spend the rest of the day at these spas for a truly restorative experience.
4. Have a Drink at the Zwack Unicum Museum
You can’t experience Budapest without a taste of our Hungarian liqueur, Unicum. Its bitter taste may take some getting used to, but it’s earned its reputation as a national drink since it was produced in 1790.
Unicum was first created by Doctor Zwack and given to the King of Hungary to aid indigestion. Now, it’s a part of our culture! Made from a secret family recipe of over 40 herbs and spices, the drink has survived world wars and communism. At the Zwack Unicum Museum, you’ll learn more about the extraordinary story of the Zwack family and have the opportunity to tour the old distillery. Top it all off with a Unicum tasting. Egészségedre!
5. Be Awed at the Light Art Museum
Located at the Hold Street Market Hall, the Light Art Museum has transformed part of this historic building into a spectacle of visual art. Artists from around the world exhibit light shows here that expand visitors’ understanding of topics such as technology, black holes, and the northern lights. Visiting the Light Art Museum is an immersive experience that will not only take your breath away but expand your mind!
6. Make Your Mark at the For Sale Pub
If you’re looking for a unique place to have a drink in Budapest, the For Sale Pub is a hit with visitors and locals. The walls and ceilings are covered in messages left by former patrons, and there are pens and paper on your table so you can leave your mark too!
Dine on hearty Hungarian fare such as goulash and breaded cheese. If you’re feeling snacky while waiting for your food, there are plenty of peanuts around the restaurant. Grab them as you need and simply leave the casings on the floor. No surface is left untouched here!
7. Discover Art at Epreskert Garden
Named after the strawberries that once grew here, the Epreskert Garden is a true hidden gem in Budapest. This garden was once a former artists’ colony and is littered with life-sized sculptures, creating an uncanny atmosphere that is both eerie and romantic. Today, it is a part of the University of Fine Arts and is only open to the public at certain times of the year. However, it’s well worth the visit for a peek inside Budapest’s historic arts scene.
8. Catch a Show on the A38 Ship
At first glance, the A38 ship may appear like any other boat on the River Danube. But as you get closer, it becomes clear that this former ship is now one of the most unique venues in the city! Once known as the ‘Tripolie’, the Ukrainian barge is a hub for live music, bars, and restaurants.
Over the years, A38 has hosted festivals, events, and DJs, becoming the centre of culture in Budapest. They even have a bistro and concerts on weekdays starting from as early as 4pm, making this a great place to be at any time of day. Check out the lineup and book your tickets for a party on the Danube unlike any other!
9. Search for Kolodko’s Mini Statues
Across Budapest, tiny statues have been making an appearance in obscure locations. They are the work of guerilla sculptor Mihály Kolodko, who conveys monumental ideas through his mini statues. These statues have become so popular you can even find them on Google Maps!
Go on a scavenger hunt through the city to find his numerous creations, ranging from a frog and a worm to famous figures such as Hannah Szenes and King Franz Joseph. Keep your eyes peeled, as some of them may be hard to spot!
10. Find Tranquillity at Gellért Hill Cave Church
If you’re looking for some peace outside of the bustling city, step inside the Gellért Hill Cave Church. Called Sziklatemplom, meaning “Cave Church”, this Catholic church is the home of Pauline Monks and hosts mass every day except Saturdays. Discover this unusual place of worship using an audio guide which will explain some of the church’s attractions, from wood carvings to sacred statues.
Are you still looking for more quirky locations to visit in our city? Read our blog on cool and unusual things to do in Budapest for even more ideas! Otherwise, our team at E-Magine are more than happy to help you see the best of the Hungarian capital on a scooter tour. If you want to follow your own itinerary, you can make use of our Budapest E-Scooter Rentals. For more details on our tours and rides, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
