A complete guide to where to stay in Budapest (+ the best areas for first-timers with hand-picked hotels with spa and apartments).
Budapest, Hungary’s capital and largest city, lies right at the heart of Central Europe. The Danube River runs through it, splitting the city into two unique sides. Buda is where you’ll find stunning castles and incredible views, while Pest is home to grand boulevards and charming cafés.
Where you stay in Budapest really depends on the kind of trip you want. Whether you’re after the main sights, the best nightlife, or exploring the famous Christmas markets, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll share the best areas to stay in based on what you’re looking for, along with some excellent hotel and apartment recommendations.
Where I stayed in Budapest
I’ve been to Budapest several times, it’s one of my favourite cities in Europe. My last trip was all about the Christmas markets, but no matter why I’m visiting, I always stay in Belváros (District 5). It’s just so convenient and easy to get around. I love how easy it is to walk to all the main attractions, plus the area is packed with fantastic restaurants.
My favourite place to stay in Budapest: Hotel Moments
Why: excellent location, 5min walk to St. Stephen’s Basilica and a metro station
What I like: quiet spacious rooms, great sauna, fantastic breakfast
I stayed at this hotel on my last trip to Budapest and loved the location. It was right around the corner from St. Stephen’s Basilica, so I could walk to the Christmas markets and main sights in just a few minutes. Plus, Deák Ferenc tér was close by, making it really easy to get around or catch the airport shuttle. Since I was there during Christmas, they had free mulled wine and traditional Hungarian roll cakes in the lounge every afternoon!
Most popular hotel in Budapest
Looking for a nice hotel with excellent facilities and a great location? Then check out Barceló Hotel – with over 5,000 reviews, it is one of the most popular hotels in Budapest.
Barceló Hotel – Most popular hotel
Perfect location for first-timers, just a 5-minute walk to Deák Ferenc tér, and 10 minutes to Chain Bridge and St. Stephen’s Basilica. From Deák Ferenc tér, you can catch the 100E bus to the airport, and all three metro lines cross here. The best part? There’s a fantastic rooftop bar with amazing views of the city.
Where to stay in Budapest (for first time)
- District 5 (Belváros) – best area for first-timers (Stories Boutique Hotel – best hotel in Belváros)
- Chain Bridge – for sightseeing (Three Corners Downtown – best hotel near Chain Bridge)
- Best hotel in Budapest with spa – Kempinski Hotel Corvinus
- Erzsébet Square – for Christmas markets (Emerald Hotel – best hotel near Erzsébet Square)
- Best hotel near Budapest Keleti Station – IntercityHotel
- Erzsébetváros – for nightlife (Ambra Hotel – best hotel in Erzsébetváros district)
- Best hotel in Budapest Airport – ibis Styles
Tips for booking a hotel in Budapest
Public transport proximity – you’ll likely explore most of the landmarks on the Pest side on foot. However, for places like Buda Castle or Széchenyi Thermal Bath, you might want to use the metro. That’s why I’d recommend staying near a metro station, ideally close to the M2 (red line) or M1 (yellow line) for the easiest access.
Visiting Budapest for the first time? Then check out my complete itinerary for 3 days in Budapest, which includes all must-see tourist sights, a map and my favourite restaurants.
Cheap hotels – Budapest is more affordable than other major cities in Central Europe. So, before booking, consider looking at a hotel that’s one star above your usual choice. You might find a great deal and end up with a better place to stay for a price you wouldn’t expect.
Don’t stay on the Buda side – I’d suggest avoiding staying on the Buda side, even though it’s home to some of the city’s most iconic attractions. The area is quite hilly, and getting to your hotel can be a bit of a challenge.
Belváros – where to stay in Budapest first time
Budapest was once three separate cities, Buda, Óbuda, and Pest, that merged in 1873 to form the capital of Hungary. Buda and Óbuda are on the hilly western side of the Danube, while Pest lies on the flat eastern side. As a visitor, you’ll likely spend most of your time exploring both Buda and Pest. The two sides are connected by several bridges, but the Chain Bridge is the most famous one.
Budapest has 23 districts in total, but from a tourist’s perspective, only a few are great choices to stay in. The main tourist areas are Castle District (I) on the Buda side, and Belváros (V) and the western part of Erzsébetváros (VII) on the Pest side. These districts are where you’ll find most of the city’s top attractions.
For your first time in Budapest, I’d say Belváros (District 5) is the best place to stay. It’s right in the heart of the city, on the Pest side of the Danube, so you’re close to everything. You’ll be just a short walk from landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Danube Promenade, with the Chain Bridge offering easy access to the Buda side.
Moreover, the area is a major transport hub, with three metro lines connecting at Deák Ferenc tér. Also, the 100E bus to the airport stops here, making it super easy to get to and from the city. With this in mind, I’d recommend choosing a hotel near Deák Ferenc tér when staying in Belváros. It’s a large district, and this is the most convenient location.
District 5 is officially called Belváros-Lipótváros. It’s actually made up of two historic neighbourhoods – Belváros (Inner City) and Lipótváros (Leopold Town). Most people, though, just call it Belváros for short. What I really enjoy about this area is the mix of beautiful historic buildings, charming streets, and stunning architecture. It’s the perfect combination of old-world charm and modern conveniences!
The best way to experience the city is on an evening cruise with unlimited Prosecco. You’ll see all the stunning landmarks along the Danube River, including the Hungarian Parliament, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle.
Why stay in Belváros for first-timers
- District 5 is the city’s most central location, perfect for all first-time visitors
- walking distance to all popular attractions, including St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Danube Promenade and the Chain Bridge
- home to Váci utca, the city’s largest shopping street
- three metro lines (M1, M2 and M3) connecting at Deák Ferenc tér
- easy access to the airport (just take the 100E shuttle bus from Deák Ferenc tér)
I always recommend District 5 (Belváros) for first-time visitors. In my opinion, it’s the most convenient area, whether you’re into sightseeing, shopping, visiting the Christmas markets, or just spending one or two nights in the city. One of the things I love about the neighbourhood is how it’s packed with amazing bakeries like Artizán Bakery, Meron Budapest, and of course, my all-time favourite, VAJ Sas. Plus, District 5 is just a short walk from the Jewish Quarter, which is famous for its nightlife and great restaurants.
Best hotels in District 5 (Belváros)
Stories Boutique Hotel – Most popular 4-star
Stories Boutique Hotel sits on the border of Districts 5 and 6, just a 4-minute walk from Deák Ferenc tér, where three metro lines intersect. The rooms are spacious, with some featuring a sauna and hot tub. The hotel offers a fantastic breakfast and has a great jungle-inspired restaurant, Twenty Six.
Cortile Hotel – Best rated 4-star
The location is great – just a 10-minute walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica and 5 minutes from both Arany János utca (M3 line) and Opera (M1 line) metro stations. The rooftop bar and pool are a nice bonus, offering some great city views.
Verno House – Most popular 5-star
This luxury hotel is right on Szabadság tér, making it easy to walk to St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and several metro stations. The Michelin-recommended Flava restaurant is amazing, and there’s also a great spa with a sauna, steam room, and whirlpool bath.
Aria Hotel – Best rated 5-star
This hotel has an ideal location for sightseeing, just around the corner from St. Stephen’s Basilica and a 5-minute walk to Deák Ferenc tér. The rooftop bar has lovely panoramic views, and the spa is amazing, with a heated indoor pool, sauna, and steam room. And the best part? They offer complimentary wine and cheese every afternoon!
12 Revay Hotel – Best 3-star
A fantastic location, just a short stroll from St. Stephen’s Basilica and Deák Ferenc tér. The rooms are modern and comfy, with great beds, and the on-site bar has some excellent craft beer.
Trigon Palace – Best apartments
Trigon Palace offers self-serviced apartments in the beautiful, historic Anker Palace. The apartments are spacious, featuring high ceilings and fully equipped kitchens, including a washing machine.
Chain Bridge – best area to stay in Budapest for tourists
For a first-time visitor to Budapest, District 5 is undoubtedly an excellent choice. However, depending on your hotel’s exact location, you might have to walk about 30 minutes to reach Buda Castle or take the red M2 metro line. That’s why, if you want to be within a short walking distance of all the major sights, I recommend staying as close as possible to the Chain Bridge.
Built in 1849, the Chain Bridge was the first permanent bridge between Buda and Pest. And it’s still one of the city’s most iconic landmarks! The Chain Bridge links District 1 on the Buda side with District 5 on the Pest side. It places you within a 15-minute walk of major landmarks like Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Staying here makes it easy to explore both sides of the city on foot! Also, you can enjoy incredible views of the Danube any time of the day.
However, my advice is to stay on the Pest side of the Chain Bridge, in District 5 (Belváros). In this way, you’ll have easy access to three metro lines at Deák Ferenc tér. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by amazing bakeries, brunch spots, and restaurants. As I already mentioned, I wouldn’t suggest staying on the Buda side, because it’s hilly, and the metro options are limited.
Why stay near Chain Bridge as a tourist
- Chain Bridge is the perfect area for tourists, as it’s easy to explore both the Pest and Buda sides of the city from here
- you’ll be less than a 15-minute walk from iconic attractions like Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen’s Basilica
- easy access to anywhere in the city from Deák Ferenc tér metro station
Best hotels near Chain Bridge
Three Corners Downtown Hotel – Most popular 4-star
The location is perfect for sightseeing, with the Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and Deák Ferenc tér all less than 10 minutes away. You can relax in the Finnish sauna, and enjoy Belgian beers, Hungarian wines, and Italian Arabica coffee at the Honesty Bar.
Prestige Hotel – Best rated 4-star
Set in a charming 19th-century townhouse, this elegant hotel is just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica and Deák Ferenc tér. You can enjoy international gourmet cuisine at the Michelin Guide-recommended Osters Downtown Restaurant. There’s also a nice sauna and a delicious breakfast to start your day.
Áurea Ana Palace – Best 5-star
Set in a historic building on a quiet street, this hotel is right next to the Hungarian Parliament Building and Kossuth Lajos tér metro station. The breakfast is exceptional, served in a ballroom that makes you feel like royalty. There’s also a lovely small spa with a sauna, steam room, and vitality pool.
D8 Hotel – Best 3-star
The location is ideal, just a short walk from Deák Ferenc tér, Váci Shopping Street, and the Danube River. The breakfast buffet is delicious, the bed is very comfy, and the bar is a great spot to relax with a drink.
TG Hotel Apartments – Best apartments
This boutique aparthotel offers stylish apartments with fully equipped kitchens, including dishwashers. You’ll also find breakfast available, luggage storage, and the Italian restaurant TG Osteria Restaurant on-site.
Best hotels in Budapest with spa
Budapest is often called the City of Spas, and for good reason. It has a rich history with thermal baths that goes all the way back to Roman times! In fact, the city sits on a network of natural hot springs that people have used for their healing properties for centuries. The thermal waters are packed with minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, each known for their therapeutic benefits. It’s one of those unique things of Budapest that makes it so special!
Staying in a hotel with a spa is such a great way to experience Budapest’s wellness culture without having to go far. Instead of heading to the bigger baths like Gellért or Széchenyi, you can relax just steps away from your room. After a full day of sightseeing, soaking in hot, mineral-rich waters is honestly the best way to recharge.
Keep in mind that while many hotels have a small sauna, if you want the full experience with a large pool, steam bath, and more, you’ll likely need to book a 5-star hotel. It’s rare to find a 4-star hotel that offers that level of wellness facilities. With that in mind, here are the best hotels in Budapest with spa.
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus – Most popular
This hotel is ideally located, just a quick walk from Deák Ferenc tér, a major transportation hub. The wellness centre is definitely a highlight, with a large heated indoor pool overlooking the lush Erzsébet tér. You can also relax in the steam room, Finnish sauna, bio sauna, or tepidarium. And when it comes to food, you’ve got two amazing options – Nobu for Japanese and ÉS Bisztró for Hungarian cuisine.
Aria Hotel – Best rated
Aria Hotel features a prime location, just around the corner from St. Stephen’s Basilica. The spa centre is one of the best in Budapest, with an indoor heated pool, Finnish sauna, aromatic steam room, and infrared sauna. Don’t miss the fantastic rooftop bar, and the complimentary wine and cheese every afternoon!
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – Most luxurious
If you really want to spoil yourself, Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace is the place to be. Housed in a gorgeous art nouveau building right across from Chain Bridge, it’s a luxury experience from start to finish. The spa is incredible, with an infinity-edge pool and whirlpool to relax in. Don’t miss their signature Hungarian moor mud treatment, it’s one of a kind. And for a special dining experience, the contemporary French brasserie, Kollázs, is a must.
Erzsébet Square – where to stay in Budapest for Christmas market
The main Christmas markets in Budapest are located at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica. You’ll also find two smaller markets in Óbuda and the Buda Castle district, along with ice rinks at Deák Ferenc Square and City Park. The best part? You can easily reach the main festive spots on foot. However, to get to the Christmas markets at Fisherman’s Bastion and the City Park, you’ll need to hop on public transport.
The best place to stay in Budapest for the Christmas market is Erzsébet Square. Located in District 5, it’s right between Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica. This means that you’ll be just a 5-minute walk away from the two main Christmas markets in the city.
You’ll also be just steps away from Deák Ferenc tér metro station, where three of the city’s metro lines meet. This makes it super easy to visit more Christmas markets, like the one at City Park (just hop on the yellow M1 line) or at Fisherman’s Bastion (take the red M2 line). Plus, you’re only a short walk from Váci utca, the city’s largest shopping street!
Check out my Budapest Christmas Market review, where I’ve included everything you need to plan your holiday trip and make the most of the festive season.
Why stay near Erzsébet Square for the Christmas market
- Erzsébet Square is the perfect area to stay, as it’s conveniently located between the two main Christmas markets at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica
- easy access to the rest of the markets via metro lines M1 and M2 (from Deák Ferenc tér metro station)
- only a short stroll away from the famous Váci Shopping Street
Best hotels near Budapest Christmas Market
Emerald Hotel – Most popular 4-star
This hotel is in a perfect location for the Christmas markets – only a 5-minute walk to Vörösmarty Square Market and 10 minutes to the St. Stephen’s Basilica Market. The famous Váci Shopping Street is also a short stroll away. The sauna is fantastic, and Secco Café & Bar on-site is a great spot to relax with a drink.
Leonardo Boutique Hotel – Best rated 4-star
Leonardo Boutique Hotel is conveniently located right across from Deák Ferenc tér. From there you can easily catch the metro to explore the city or hop on the airport bus shuttle. Plus, the two main Christmas markets are less than 10 minutes away.
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus – Best 5-star
Right between Vörösmarty Square Market and St. Stephen’s Basilica Market, and just steps from Deák Ferenc tér, this spot puts you in the heart of the city. For dinner, you can choose between Nobu for Japanese cuisine or ÉS Bisztró for Hungarian flavours. Don’t miss the fantastic cocktails at Blue Fox The Bar, and be sure to relax in the spa, complete with a heated indoor pool.
Roombach Hotel – Best 3-star
This is a great 3-star hotel close to the main Christmas markets. Both Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica are just a 10-minute walk away. Plus, Gozsdu Court, with all its restaurants, is right around the corner. The beds are super comfortable, and the breakfast has plenty of choices.
Zoom-Budapest Apartments – Best apartments
These apartments are just around the corner from the St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market, making them a perfect base for your holiday getaway. Plus, Deák Ferenc tér, where you can catch the airport shuttle, is only a short walk away. These self-serviced apartments come with a fully equipped kitchenette with a microwave.
Best hotels near Budapest Keleti Station
Located in District 7, Keleti Station (Keleti Pályaudvar) is one of the main train stations in Budapest and a key hub for international travel. It’s actually Hungary’s busiest railway station! If you’re coming by train from cities like Vienna or Berlin, you’ll likely arrive here. Keleti Station is also an architectural gem. Built in an eclectic style, it’s famous for its grand façade, impressive glass roof, and beautiful frescoes.
While Keleti Station is well connected to the city centre by the red metro line M2, it’s a bit far from the main tourist attractions. For this reason, I’d only recommend staying here if you have an early train to catch or are just staying for one night. Even then, I’d suggest staying near Deák Ferenc tér, which is directly connected to the station by the M2 metro line. This area also has more to offer, as District 7 near Keleti feels more residential, with not much to see or do.
If you’re looking for a hotel within walking distance of Keleti Station, here are some of the best options nearby.
IntercityHotel – Nearest to Keleti Station
The location is ideal, right across from Budapest Keleti Station and next to a metro stop on the red M2 line, which takes you directly to the city centre. The rooms are spacious, with comfy beds and great city views.
Bo33 Hotel Family & Suites – Best 4-star
This hotel is in a great spot, right between the Jewish Quarter and Keleti Station, so you’ll have easy access to both the tourist attractions and the train station. The breakfast is a real treat, with a chocolate fountain and champagne. And if you’re looking to relax, there is a nice spa area with a sauna, steam bath, and hot tub.
Anantara New York Palace – Best 5-star
Set on the elegant Erzsébet Körút Boulevard, Anantara New York Palace is the nearest 5-star hotel to Keleti Station. The hotel is home to the beautiful New York Café, where you can enjoy an excellent breakfast (no need to wait to visit the iconic café). The spa is fantastic, with an aromatherapy steam room, Finnish sauna, and hot tub.
Three Corners Hotel Anna – Best 3-star
If you’re looking for a great 3-star hotel near Keleti Station, Three Corners Hotel Anna is a perfect choice. It’s in a quiet area, just a short distance from the train station, and you’ll have easy access to everywhere via the red metro line M2. Plus, there’s an Honesty Bar with complimentary coffee and tea.
Erzsébetváros – best area to stay in Budapest for nightlife
Budapest is a fantastic destination for nightlife. The city is known for its rooftop bars, where you can enjoy breathtaking views, and its famous ruin bars. These quirky spots, set in abandoned buildings and courtyards, offer a one-of-a-kind experience that’s hard to beat.
In my opinion, the Jewish Quarter is the best area to stay in Budapest for nightlife. It’s located in the western part of District 7, also known as Erzsébetváros. This lively neighbourhood is filled with ruin bars, cocktail spots, and amazing restaurants. For some of the city’s best nightlife, make sure to check out Király utca, Kazinczy utca and Dob utca. You’ll also find Gozsdu Courtyard (Gozsdu Udvar) here, a popular passageway packed with bars, restaurants, cafés, and small shops.
The Jewish Quarter stretches from Károly körút and Deák Ferenc tér in the west to Erzsébet körút in the east. It’s right next to District 5, so you’ll be just a short walk away from the city’s top tourist attractions. Plus, the neighbourhood is home to the Dohány Street Synagogue, a must-see when you’re in Budapest.
Why stay in Erzsébetváros for nightlife
- Erzsébetváros, with its trendy cocktail bars and famous ruin bars, is the best place for nightlife
- some of my favourite cocktail bars in the area are Jardín, Warm Up, Boutiq’Bar and Tuk Tuk Bar
- join this Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl to discover hidden bars and enjoy local drinks like fröccs and Hungarian cocktails
- be sure to check out Szimpla Kert, the most iconic ruin bar in the Jewish Quarter
Best hotels in Jewish Quarter (Erzsébetváros)
Ambra Hotel – Most popular 4-star
This hotel is tucked in a quiet spot of the Jewish Quarter, just around the corner from Király utca, where you’ll find tons of great restaurants and bars. The breakfast is fantastic, the rooms are spacious, and there is complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby each afternoon.
Casati Hotel – Best rated 4-star
Located between the Terézváros district and the Jewish Quarter, this boutique hotel is in a quiet area. You can enjoy delicious cocktails at the Tuk Tuk Bar or relax in the sauna. In the afternoons, you will also find complimentary tea, coffee, and pastries.
Queen’s Court Hotel – Best 5-star
The location is perfect – quiet, yet right on Dob utca, which is full of amazing restaurants and bars. The spa is a real treat, with an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna. And if you’re hungry, the Chess Restaurant & Bar serves fantastic international dishes and fine wines.
Roombach Hotel – Best 3-star
This great 3-star hotel is just steps from nightlife hotspots such as Király utca, Gozsdu Court, and Dob utca. Plus, Deák Ferenc tér, where you can catch the 100E bus to the airport, is only 5 minutes away. The beds are comfy, and the breakfast is delicious with plenty of options.
Best hotels in Budapest Airport
Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is Budapest’s main airport. It’s located about 16 kilometres (10 miles) southeast of the city centre. To get to the city, you can take the 100E Airport Express bus (35 minutes to reach Deák Ferenc tér), or grab a taxi from Főtaxi, the official airport taxi service, for about €30.
I’d personally avoid staying near the airport unless you’ve got a super early or late flight. It’s a bit far from the city centre, so you’ll spend more time commuting than you probably want to. But if you do need a hotel close to the airport, here are some great options to consider.
ibis Styles – Nearest to the airport
Located just a short walk from the terminal, ibis Styles is the only hotel right at Liszt Ferenc International Airport. The rooms are soundproofed, with comfy beds for a good night’s sleep. Breakfast is excellent, starting from 4 AM, which is perfect for early flights.
Airport Hotel Stáció – Best 4-star
Even though it’s about a 10-minute ride from Budapest airport, this hotel offers a free shuttle, so you don’t have to stress about making it to your early flight. The breakfast starts at 4 AM, and there’s a buffet at 6:30 AM, which is super convenient. On-site, the Pipacs Restaurant serves both Hungarian and international cuisine. Plus, there’s a nice wellness centre with a heated pool, jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, and steam bath.
FAQs about where to stay in Budapest
One of the nicest hotels in Budapest is Anantara New York Palace. It’s home to the iconic New York Café, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast in a stunning setting. The spa is also fantastic, with an aromatherapy steam room, Finnish sauna, and hot tub to unwind and recharge.
The best area to stay in Budapest is District 5 (Belváros). It’s centrally located, with major attractions, restaurants, and public transport all within easy reach. You’ll be close to landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament, making it ideal for sightseeing.
I recommend staying in Pest. It’s more central, with easier access to major attractions, restaurants, and public transport. You’ll be within walking distance of sights such as the Hungarian Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica. Buda, on the other hand, is quite hilly, which can make getting around a bit more challenging.
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