Budapest is the perfect base for exploring some of Hungary's most charming and picturesque destinations with its well equipped infrastructure.
Whether you're seeking historical villages, stunning natural landscapes, or town escapes, these day trips from Budapest have something to offer every traveler.
Here are five must-visit spots to add to your itinerary:
1. Nomad Hotel & Glamping: The Best Retreat
Nestled in the scenic hills of Noszvaj, just a 1.5-hour drive from Budapest, the Nomad Hotel & Glamping offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure. This eco-friendly retreat is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.
What makes Nomad Hotel & Glamping so special is that they have Europe's two largest glamping bubbles. These are semitransparent spheres that are 5+ metres wide, each with a private bathroom and a giant terrace overlooking the lake.
If you’re looking for the best retreat from Budapest, Nomad Hostel & Glamping is the perfect spot for you.
2. Visegrád: Hidden natures paradise
Only one hour’s drive north of Budapest is Visegrád, a historical gem on the banks of the Danube River, known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When you go to Visegrád, visiting Visegrád Castle and riding the bobsled is a must, but an uncovered gem in the outskirts of Visegrád is Rám-szakadék - which every outdoor lover has to visit when in Hungary!
This spectacular gorge offers a thrilling hiking experience, set amidst the lush beauty of the Pilis Mountains - not something you would normally expect from Hungary.
The trail to Rám-szakadék is well-marked and takes about 2 to 3 hours (intermediate) to complete, depending on your pace and stops along the way.
Before hiking here, remember to Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip to handle the rocky terrain, and check the weather forecast before you go.
3. Szentendre: An Artistic Haven
Not only is this town colorful, cute, and filled with small shops, restaurants, and cafes, but it's also conveniently located only 40 minutes by train from Budapest.
Visit the Szentendre Art Mill, the Marzipan Museum, and the Kovács Margit Ceramic Museum to taste local creativity.
Szentendre is the perfect small city break from Budapest, for those of you who don’t have much time but want to visit more than just Budapest.
4. Esztergom: The Heart of Hungary
Just an hour’s drive from Budapest lies Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest cities and the centre of its Catholic Church. Did you know that the city’s crown jewel is the magnificent Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary!?
There’s many reasons why you should visit Esztergom, especially for those who love nature. Surrounding Esztergom are lush forests & scenic mountains ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and nature walks.
Fun fact: Only divided by the Danube River, you can cross after a small hike in less than 10 minutes and you’ll find yourself in Slovakia
5. Hilltop Wine Estate & Restaurant: An overnight experience
Located in Neszmély, just over an hour's drive from Budapest is the ultimate overnight-day trip from Budapest. At Hilltop Wine Estate, you can spend a night at a Boutique hotel located among Hungarian Wine yards. Enjoy tasty wine, spectacular views, and an outside heated pool overlooking the Vineyards!
Also known as the "Hungarian Tuscany”, Hilltop Wine Estate & Restaurant is located on top of Melegeshegy, among well-kept vineyards, where they offer some of the most tasty Hungarian wines, stunning sunsets and many events during the summer.