The Best Areas Of Budapest: Choosing Where To Stay
Budapest has several great areas for visitors to stay in. The best spot for you depends on your budget and how close you want to be to the best things to do in Budapest.
Whether you’re into history, nightlife, or a trendy local vibe, this Budapest Travel Guide will help you choose the best area to stay. Once you've picked your spot, you can find the best hotels in Budapest for your travel budget and plan the perfect trip.
The Two Sides Of Budapest
Budapest is divided by the Danube River into two distinct sides—Buda and Pest—each offering a unique experience. Buda, on the western side, is the quieter, more residential area known for its historic charm, rolling hills, and panoramic views. It’s home to Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Gellért Thermal Bath, making it perfect for those who enjoy history, scenic walks, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
In contrast, Pest on the eastern side is the vibrant, energetic heart of the city, packed with restaurants, ruin bars, nightlife, and cultural hotspots like St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Hungarian Parliament, and the Jewish Quarter. While Buda is elegant and peaceful, Pest is dynamic and lively, making it the preferred side for those looking to be in the middle of the action.
District V (Belváros - Downtown)
District V is the heart of Budapest and the most central area to stay in. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to be within walking distance of major landmarks like the Budapest Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Danube Promenade.
This area is packed with elegant cafés, high-end shopping streets, and some of the best restaurants in the city. It’s also one of the safest areas, making it a great choice for families and solo travelers. Hotels here tend to be on the pricier side, but the convenience of staying in the city center makes it worth the cost.
Attractions Near District V
- Hungarian Parliament – Located in District V
- St. Stephen’s Basilica – Located in District V
- Shoes on the Danube Bank – Located in District V
- Váci Street (Shopping Street) – Located in District V
- Danube Promenade – Located in District V
- Chain Bridge – 5-minute walk
- Buda Castle – 15-minute walk or short tram ride
District I (Castle District)
If you’re looking for a quieter and more historic setting, District I is an excellent choice. This area is home to Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion, offering some of the most spectacular views of the city.
Unlike the bustling Pest side, this district has a more relaxed and old-world charm, with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and fewer crowds in the evenings. It’s ideal for history lovers and couples looking for a romantic getaway. However, dining and nightlife options are more limited compared to other districts.
Attractions Near District I
- Buda Castle – Located in District I
- Matthias Church – Located in District I
- Fisherman’s Bastion – Located in District I
- Hospital in the Rock – Located in District I
- Gellért Hill & Citadella – 15-minute walk
- Chain Bridge – 10-minute walk across the river
- Hungarian Parliament – 15-minute drive or tram ride
District VII (Jewish Quarter)
For those who love nightlife, street food, and a vibrant atmosphere, District VII is the best place to stay. This is Budapest’s party hub, filled with ruin bars, trendy cafés, and some of the best street art in the city.
The Jewish Quarter is a favorite among backpackers and younger travelers, offering a mix of budget hostels and boutique hotels. The area is also rich in Jewish history, home to the Great Synagogue, one of the largest in the world. While it’s an exciting place to be, it can get noisy at night, so it’s not the best choice for those seeking peace and quiet.
Attractions Near District VII
- Great Synagogue (Dohány Street Synagogue) – Located in District VII
- Szimpla Kert (Famous Ruin Bar) – Located in District VII
- Gozsdu Courtyard (Bars & Restaurants) – Located in District VII
- Hungarian National Museum – 10-minute walk
- St. Stephen’s Basilica – 10-minute walk
- Andrássy Avenue (Shopping & Opera House) – 15-minute walk
District IX (Ferencváros)
District IX is one of Budapest’s up-and-coming areas, blending history with a modern arts scene. Once an industrial neighborhood, it has transformed into a trendy district with unique galleries, cool coffee shops, and a mix of old and new architecture.
Ferencváros is a great option for travelers looking for a less touristy and more authentic experience. The area is also home to the famous Great Market Hall, where you can taste traditional Hungarian foods. It’s a budget-friendly option while still being well connected to the rest of the city via public transport.
Attractions Near District IX
- Great Market Hall – Located in District IX
- Museum of Applied Arts – Located in District IX
- Bálna Budapest (Cultural & Shopping Center) – Located in District IX
- Liberty Bridge – 5-minute walk
- Gellért Baths – 10-minute walk
- Hungarian National Museum – 10-minute walk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best district to stay in Budapest for first-time visitors?
District V (Belváros) is the best option for first-time visitors. It’s central, safe, and within walking distance of major attractions like the Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Danube River.
Which district in Budapest is best for nightlife?
District VII (Jewish Quarter) is the best area for nightlife. It has famous ruin bars like Szimpla Kert, a wide range of clubs, and a youthful, energetic vibe.
Is District I a good place to stay in Budapest?
Yes, District I (Castle District) is a great choice for travelers who love history and a quieter atmosphere. It’s home to Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church, offering stunning views of the city.
Where can I stay in Budapest on a budget?
District IX (Ferencváros) is a budget-friendly area with a growing arts scene. It offers cheaper accommodation options while still being well-connected to central Budapest via public transport.
What is the most luxurious area to stay in Budapest?
District V is the most luxurious area, featuring high-end hotels, fine dining, and shopping streets like Váci Street and Andrássy Avenue.
Is Buda or Pest More Expensive?
Generally, Buda is more expensive than Pest when it comes to residential areas and upscale accommodations. Buda, with its quiet, historic charm and scenic hillside neighborhoods, tends to have higher real estate prices and luxury hotels, especially in areas like the Castle District and Gellért Hill. However, because it's more residential and less touristy, dining and nightlife options are fewer, which can sometimes make day-to-day expenses lower.
Pest, on the other hand, is more affordable overall, especially for tourists looking for budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and cheap eats. It has a higher concentration of bars, restaurants, and entertainment, offering a wide range of options from budget to high-end. That said, some areas in Pest—like around Andrássy Avenue or the Parliament—can still be quite pricey due to their central location and upscale venues.
So, while Buda is generally more expensive for living and luxury stays, Pest offers a broader range of options for different budgets, especially for visitors.
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