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The 6 Best Free and Paid Walking Tours in Budapest (PERSONALLY TESTED)

Last updated: Dec 17, 2023

Author: Adam Dimitrov — Budapester, Hungarian & City Expert/Guide

Are you overwhelmed by choices for walking tours in Budapest?

Look no further.

I've done the legwork — literally — by personally taking on six of the city's most popular walking tours .

Whether you're keen to explore Buda Castle , delve into the labyrinthine cave system beneath it, stroll the vibrant Pest side , uncover the city's dark WW2 and Jewish history , take a grand tour of the Budapest, or enjoy a more entertaining undead folklore themed adventure , I've got a recommendation for you.

Each recommendation is backed up by first-hand experience and countless photos, so you'll know exactly what to expect.

Ready to explore?

Disclaimer: This website uses affiliate links. I get paid a small commission if you purchase anything through my links. It costs you nothing and makes my job financially sustainable. Cheers!

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Summary & Comparison — Top 6 Walking Tours in Budapest

Reviews calculation: I am using the total review count of the activity from GetYourGuide, Tripadvisor, Guruwalk and Viator.

1. Night Vampire Walking Tour in Buda Castle District

💡 Note: This review is based on my experience during the 8:00 pm English-language tour, led by Joe as our guide.

Immerse yourself in the mysteries of the night with Budapest's one-of-a-kind walking tour , centered around undead folklore and haunting tales of the Hungary and Eastern Europe.

This isn't your average historical walking tour; prepare for spine-tingling stories that delve deep into Eastern European myths about vampires, ghosts, and the undead .

Highlights of the Tour

I can attest that this tour is not just another walking tour in Budapest—it's an immersive storytelling experience . Our guide, Joe, with his 20 years of improv acting experience, brings depth, humor, and a dramatic twist to Eastern European myths.

His spellbinding narrative skills are complemented by the ethereal beauty of the Castle District at night , a setting that enriches the storytelling and makes the tour truly unforgettable.

Starting Point and Accessibility

The journey begins at Clark Ádám Square , located at the base of Buda Hill. From here, you'll embark on a 5-10 minute ascent up the hill's stairs. For those with mobility issues, a funicular option is available to take you to the top for an extra 10€ fee.

The group size struck a perfect balance, numbering between 20 and 25 participants . This made it easy to connect with other tour participants without complicating the practical aspects of the tour, such as walking and finding a good listening spot around our guide.

Points of Critique

While Joe is an engaging orator, I found the latter half of the tour to lose a bit of its initial spark. After hearing 5-6 out of the total ten tales, the storytelling began to feel a bit repetitive .

Coupled with the late evening timing, the group's energy waned toward the end. Still, Joe’s dynamism keeps the atmosphere electric for most of the tour.

Should You Go?

If you're less concerned with historical facts and more interested in the dark and mysterious folklore of Budapest and Eastern Europe, this tour is a must-try. It's a thrilling way to explore the Castle District under the cloak of night.

🗝️ Key Facts

• 🕒 Duration: 2 hours
• 💵 Cost: 21€
• 🗓️ Tour Dates & Languages: (Please note that schedules are subject to change)
• 🇬🇧 English : Starts at 7:45 pm and 8:00 pm
• 🇪🇸 Spanish: Starts at 7:30 pm
• 👨‍👩‍👦 Family-Friendly: No (Only children above age 10 are permitted), 15% discount (children age 11-18)
• ♿ Accessibility: Limited (5-10 minute stair climb to Castle District; funicular available at an extra cost of 10€)
• 🗺️ Tour Area: Castle District
• 📍 Starting Point: Clark Ádám tér (Adam Clark Square)
• 🏁 End Point: Clark Ádám tér (Adam Clark Square)
• 🐕 Pet-Friendly: Yes (Tour takes place entirely outdoors)
• 🏰 Landmarks Visited: Buda Castle, Matthias Church, Fisherman's Bastion, and everything in between (Note: The tour only passes by these landmarks; there's no entry into the buildings)

How to Get There

• 🗺️ Meeting Point: Gather at Clark Ádám Square in Budapest, next to the Kilometer Zero stone near the entrance to the funicular.
• 🚌 Public Transport: Catch the 105/16/178/216/R16 buses from Elizabeth Square.
• 🚶 On Foot: Take a scenic walk across the recently renovated Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

2. Buda Castle Cave Labyrinth Walking Tour

💡 Note: This review is based on my personal experience of a 1.5-hour English cave tour.

Discover the hidden depths of Budapest in the extensive cave system beneath the city's Castle District.

Known as Budavári barlang, this section was reopened to the public in 2019 after being off-limits for years.

The tour focuses on a fascinating 3km stretch of caves and takes you on a journey through time, exploring the geological and human history of these mysterious underground tunnels.

What sets this tour apart is its dedication to historical accuracy .

You'll learn about how these caves formed over millions of years — you'll even get to see where a mammoth left one of its teeth!

Beyond the geology, the tour dives into the 800-year history of human usage of the caves, from medieval storage and tax evasion to their roles as prisons, war refuges, criminal hideouts, and even locations for clandestine parties in the 90s.

The temperature inside the cave averages 10-12°C , so it's advisable to wear warm clothing and comfortable footwear you don't mind getting dirty.

However, for those visiting in summer attire, free ponchos are provided to keep you warm.

The meeting spot is at Trinity Square , right by the Trinity statue. A quick 5-minute walk will take you to the cave's entrance.

Unfortunately, the cave is not accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.

With an group size of 20-25 participants , the tour struck a perfect balance — facilitating smooth navigation through the maze-like caves while also enabling captivating, interactive storytelling.

In all honesty, there were few drawbacks to this unique journey, if any.

The tour company goes to great lengths to ensure everyone's comfort, and the expert guides make the experience engaging and educational.

If history blended with a touch of geology intrigues you, this is your tour.

Absolutely, yes!

This tour is an excellent choice for those who are looking for something more niche and offbeat than your run-of-the-mill walking tour. It's an experience that leaves you both educated and intrigued.

• 🕒 Duration: 1.5 hours
• 💵 Cost: 13€
• 🇬🇧 English: Varies by day, typically between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm
• 🇪🇸 Spanish: Typically at 6:00 pm
• 👨‍👩‍👦 Family-Friendly: Yes (Only children aged 3 and up are allowed), 30% discount for ages 4-18
• ♿ Accessibility: Unfortunately, not wheelchair-accessible
• 🗺️ Tour Area: Explores the subterranean cave system beneath the Castle District
• 📍 Starting Point: Szentháromság tér (Trinity Square)
• 🏁 End Point: Labirintus kijárat (Labyrinth exit)
• 🐕 Pet-Friendly: Not allowed
• 🏰 Landmarks Visited: None, as the cave system is the main attraction

🗺️ Meeting Point: Gather at Szentháromság tér , right in front of the statue opposite Matthias Church. 🚌 Public Transport: Board Bus 16 from Elizabeth Square to reach the Castle District. 🚶‍♂️ On Foot: Take a scenic walk across the recently renovated Széchenyi Chain Bridge, climb Buda Hill, and make your way to Trinity Square (Szentháromság tér).

3. Best Jewish Quarter Walking Tour

💡 Note: This review is based on my personal experience of a 2.5-hour English walking tour.

Immerse yourself in the rich Jewish heritage of Budapest on this enlightening tour.

The excursion not only offers a deep dive into the harrowing years of World War II but also presents a comprehensive history of Jewish life in Hungary dating back to medieval times.

As a Hungarian who supposedly knows this country, I still learned a lot of intriguing historical facts.

For history aficionados seeking more than just surface-level information, this tour is a goldmine.

The guide provides rigorous academic-level commentary , requiring a high level of English proficiency (unless you take the Spanish tour of course).

Notable landmarks include synagogues and poignant memorials dedicated to heroes who resisted Nazi and Arrow Cross Party oppression.

The tour kicks off at Imre Madách Square and concludes at Dohány Street Synagogue. The entire tour is outdoors and wheelchair-accessible, and it takes place in the Jewish Quarter (VII. District).

The tour was structured well to accommodate a medium-sized group (20-30 people), ensuring everyone could hear the guide clearly and see the landmarks.

Though the tour was generally excellent, the guide could have introduced himself more formally (as he just went straight into the material) and allowed pauses for absorption between his in-depth explanations (as his speech felt like speed-reading at times).

I highly recommend for history enthusiasts who appreciate a nuanced, detailed exploration of Jewish history in Budapest.

• 🕒 Duration: 2.5 hours
• 💵 Cost: " Free" (Suggested donation of 10-20€ at tour's end)
• 🇬🇧 English: Typically at 11:00 am and 3:00 pm (Sundays only)
• 🇪🇸 Spanish: Typically at 10:30 am and 5:00 pm
• 👨‍👩‍👦 Family-Friendly: Not recommended (The tour is meant for adults)
• ♿ Accessibility: Fully accessible for those with reduced mobility
• 🗺️ Tour Area: Jewish Quarter (VII. District)
• 📍 Starting Point: Madách Imre tér (Imre Madách Square)
• 🏁 End Point: Dohány utcai Zsingagóga (Dohány Street Synagogue)
• 🏰 Landmarks Visited: Sissi Statue, Rumbach Street Synagogue, Dohány Street Synagogue, Gozsdu Court, House of Theodore Herzl, Courtyard of Heroes, Carl Lutz Memorial, Angel of Budapest, Tree of Life, and an exterior visit to Kiraly Street & Ghetto Wall (Note: The tour only passes by these landmarks; there's no entry into the buildings)

🗺️ Meeting Point: Budapest, Madách Imre út 2, 1075 Hungary. Look for the yellow umbrella next to the Sissi statue. 🚌 Public Transport: Easily accessible from anywhere in the city by taking any metro line or trams 47/49 to Deak Ference square then walking to the Sissi statue. 🚶‍♂️ On Foot: The central areas of Budapest are highly walkable. You can comfortably reach our meeting spot with a 15-20 minute stroll from most central locations.

4. Best Budapest Inner City Walking Tour

💡 Note: This review is based on my personal experience of a 2.25-hour English walking tour.

This walking tour is a perfect way to get an overview of Budapest's history , taking place in the inner district of Pest.

You'll gain insights into our past, including the troubled times during the Soviet era , the period after the fall of the Berlin Wall which we call "The System Change," and even contemporary history and controversies.

For first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive introduction to Budapest's rich history, this tour is an ideal choice. The tour offers not just historical accuracy but also local insights, thanks to our Hungarian guide.

The meeting location is at Kossuth Square by the Hungarian Parliament. More precisely, it’s near the M2 metro and/or tram station . The tour is wheelchair-friendly and welcomes those with mobility challenges. The tour concludes at Vigadó Square.

We were among about 30 participants . Despite being a larger group, it didn’t take away from the enjoyment or educational value of the tour. I even struck up some pleasant conversations with fellow tour mates.

The only minor issue was that the tour guide was not a native English speaker . However, her genuine local Hungarian perspective more than made up for this.

You know the answer already — yes! Especially if you're a first-time visitor wanting a rich, historical overview of Budapest, you'll find this tour worthwhile.

• 🕒 Duration: 2.25 hours
• 🇬🇧 English: Typically at 10:00 am
• 🇪🇸 Spanish: Typically at 10:00 am,11:30 am and 5:00 pm
• 👨‍👩‍👦 Family-Friendly: Yes, offers a well-rounded historical overview suitable for all ages
• 🗺️ Tour Area: Delving into the heart of Pest (V. District)
• 📍 Starting Point: Hungarian Parliament (Hungarian Parliament)
• 🏁 End Point: Vigadó tér (Vigadó Square)
• 🏰 Landmarks Visited: The tour starts at the Hungarian Parliament and takes you through an exploration of the Communist era and the 1956 revolution, Liberty Square, the Monument to Soviet Heroes, the Monument to the Victims of the German Invasion, the Chain Bridge, the Danube Riverbank with views of Buda’s city panorama, St. Stephen's Basilica, Queen Sisi Square, Vorosmarty Square, and concludes at Vigadó Square (Note: The tour only passes by these landmarks; there's no entry into the buildings)

🗺️ Meeting Point: Gather at Kossuth Lajos square , between right next to the tram stop. Look for an orange umbrella. 🚌 Public Transport: Take metro or tram line 2 and take a brief walk to the meeting point. 🚶‍♂️ On Foot: The central areas of Budapest are highly walkable. You can comfortably reach our meeting spot with a 15-20 minute stroll from most central locations.

5. Best Buda Castle District Walking Tour

💡 Note: This review is based on my personal experience of a 2-hour English walking tour.

Discover the architectural and historical gems in Budapest's Castle District with this straightforward yet thoroughly engaging walking tour. This tour offers a factual and no-nonsense overview of the district's landmarks, perfect for those wanting a solid introduction to Hungary's storied past.

The tour offers an enriching walk through the charming cobblestone streets of the Castle District, covering major landmarks like the Royal Palace ("Buda Castle"), Matthias Church, and Fisherman's Bastion.

What stands out is the tour's commitment to factual storytelling, devoid of the supernatural or fantastical elements you might find on other tours.

The tour kicks off at Trinity Square , right in front of the iconic Trinity Statue. Plus, the entire tour is wheelchair accessible, making it convenient for everyone

With a group of roughly 25 people, it was easy to move around and the tour never felt overcrowded.

The tour delivers what it promises: a comprehensive, factual overview. However, prepare yourself for the elements—like heat, if you happen to visit during a hot spell like I did. 😅

Certainly. If you're looking for a straightforward, facts-based exploration of Budapest's Castle District, this tour fits the bill.

• 💵 Cost: 10€
• 🇬🇧 English: Starts at 2:00 pm and 2:30 pm
• 🇮🇹 Italian: Starts at 10:00 am (Weekends only)
• 🇫🇷 French: Available for private group tours only
• 🇩🇪 German: Available for private group tours only
• 🏁 End Point: Szentháromság tér (Trinity Square)
• 🏰 Landmarks Visited: Royal Palace ("Buda Castle"), Matthias Church, Fisherman's Bastion, and everything in between (Note: The tour only passes by these landmarks; there's no entry into the buildings)

6. Grand City Tour of Budapest

💡 Note: This review is based on my personal experience of a 3-hour English walking tour.

Embark on a comprehensive 3-hour tour of Budapest, encapsulating both the Pest and Buda sides of the iconic city.

With a blend of air-conditioned bus rides and leisurely walking, you'll have the chance to witness major landmarks, from Heroes' Square to the Castle District while learning of their history.

Though it provides a sweeping view, be prepared for a surface-level overview that touches upon, but does not delve deeply into, each individual area.

The tour gave me a bird's eye view of Budapest . It kicked off with a brief but informative stop at Heroes' Square and proceeded to drive past local landmarks like the Opera House, Városliget and Keleti Railway Station.

What sets this tour apart is its unique approach to ascending the Castle Hill — coming up from the side opposite the Danube, a welcome change from typical tours.

The journey begins at Clark Ádám Square , located at the base of Buda Hill. From here, you'll embark on a 5-10 minute ascent up the hill's stairs. A word of caution: the tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired individuals.

The tour was structured well to accommodate a medium-sized group, ensuring everyone could hear the guide clearly and see the landmarks.

While the tour was extensive, it left me wanting more , especially when it came to exploring the Pest side.

The quick stop at Heroess' Square and drive-by sightings don't do justice to the richness of the landmarks.

However, the air-conditioned bus was a welcome respite from the sweltering heat. The Castle District tour was spectacular though.

If you are time-constrained but still want a quick overview of Budapest, this tour fits the bill. For those looking for a more detailed exploration, consider setting aside a full day.

• 🕒 Duration: 3 hours
• 💵 Cost: 29€
• 🇬🇧 English: Starts at 10:00 am
• 🇮🇹 Spanish: Starts at 10:00 am
• 🇩🇪 German: Starts at 10:00 am
• ♿ Accessibility: Regrettably, the tour is not wheelchair-friendly due to bus inaccessibility and staircases in the Castle District.
• 🗺️ Tour Area: Begins at Heroes Square (15 mins), transitions into a hop-on, hop-off style tour of Pest, and culminates in an in-depth exploration of the Castle District.
• 📍 Starting Point: Cityrama & Gray Line Travel Agency, Báthory utca 19, Budapest 1054
• 🏁 End Point: Parlament (Hungarian Parliament)
• 🐕 Pet-Friendly: No, the tour includes bus travel and indoor segments.
• 🏰 Landmarks Visited: Heroes' Square, City Park, Keleti Railway Station, Blaha Lujza Square, Elizabeth Bridge, and key locations in the Castle District such as Buda Castle, Matthias Church, Fisherman's Bastion, and everything in between (Note: The tour only passes by these landmarks; there's no entry into the buildings)

🗺️ Meeting Point: Gather at the Cityrama & Gray Line Travel Agency office, located at Báthory utca 19, 1054 Budapest, Hungary . 🚌 Public Transport: Take Metro Lines 2 or 3 and take a brief walk to the meeting point. 🚶‍♂️ On Foot: The central areas of Budapest are highly walkable. You can comfortably reach our meeting spot with a 15-20 minute stroll from most central locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a walking tour in budapest.

The cost of walking tours in Budapest can vary widely depending on the tour provider, the length of the tour, and the topics covered. On average, expect to pay anywhere from 10€ to 35€ per person for guided tours. Some specialized or private tours may cost more.

Can you walk around Buda Castle for free?

Yes, you can walk around the exterior grounds of Buda Castle for free. This includes several courtyards and terraces that offer stunning views of Budapest. However, to access the interior of the castle, including the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery, there is an admission fee.

How much do you tip a free walking tour guide in Budapest?

For free walking tours in Budapest, a common tip is around 10€ to 20€ per person. Some people give more for an exceptionally informative and entertaining guide.

Budapestadventures is your free guide to help explore Budapest. We test, evaluate and review touristic services and activities in the city for your benefit.

Budapest  >  Central Budapest Free Walking Tour

‎ Budapest Tourist Tips ‎ |  Suggested Itineraries For Budapest

• Central Pest Walking Tour
• Jewish Quarter Walking Tour
• Castle Hill Walking Tour
• City Park Walking Tour
• Gellért Hill Walking Tour
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Visitor Tips
• Suggested Itineraries

Free Budapest Walking Tour:

Location :  Pest ( East Side of Danube River ) Cost :  Free, Self-Guided ( Museum and sight costs below ) Style :  Do-It-Yourself Walking Tour ( Self Guided ) Start :  Holocaust Shoe Memorial Stop :  Grand Market Hall Walking Distance :  3 Miles Time :  1 hour of walking ( 4 hours with sights; +1 hour for Parliament Tour ) Fun Scale :  9 out of 10

Central Pest Overview:

Sitting of the Eastern bank of the Danube River is Budapest’s lively and history Pest neighborhood.  Pest was founded in was an economic powerhouse in the 11th-13th Centuries until it was sacked by the Mongols in 1241.  The city made a comeback through the Middle Ages which later lead to grand buildings and cathedrals.  After severe flooding spread 8 feet of water through Pest, it merged with Buda and Óbuda on the Western bank in 1873.

Even through all of the changes and wars, Pest has retained many historic monuments like Saint Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament to remain the heart of Budapest.  Our self-guided walking tour through central Pest is the perfect way to get a feel for the Budapest’s history.  Different sights will highlight Pest’s war-torn past, the days of power grandeur, plus an easy to love culture and flair.

Pest Walking Tour Sights:

1. holocaust shoe memorial :.

About The Holocaust Shoe Memorial :  On first glance, the Holocaust Shoe Memorial looks like just a collection of bronzed shoes by the waterside, but knowing the history of this spot makes a visit truly moving.  During WWII, the Nazi’s secret police group  Arrow Cross  often executed Jews and other citizens here by shooting them then pushing them into the Danube River.  All of the victims were required to line up and take their shoes off not knowing which of them would be shot.  When the Nazis wanted to save bullets they would tie a few people together, shoot one, push the group into the freezing river, and watch the dead bodies drag the entire group down.  The Memorial’s 60, 1940’s era shoes represent the shoes left behind by the fallen Arrow Cross victims and you really should not missed it.

As you walk North along the river the big white mansion on your right is the  Office of the Prime Minister .  The building once was a mansion for Hungarian aristocrats, and the grandmother of US Sectary of State and former Presidential candidate John Kerry’s grandmother was born here as a daughter of the chambermaid.

2. Hungarian Parliament Building :

About The Hungarian Parliament Building :  The huge Gothic-style Hungarian Parliament, or House of the Nation, is the formal  seat of government for Hungary  and the most photographed monument in Budapest.  The massive 315-foot-tall and 879-foot-long building is a symbol of Hungary’s power as it dominates the Eastern bank of the Danube River.  The Parliament’s silhouette of the white Gothic spires, red domes, and 242 sculptures is breathtaking.

Construction of the Parliament started shortly after Budapest was united out of three cities ( Óbuda, Buda, and Pest ) in 1873 to centralize Hungary’s government.  Although it wasn’t completed until in 1904, the building was symbolically consecrated 1896 to mark the 1,000th anniversary of the country being formed.  It is impossible to not be impressed by the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament with its exterior spires and interior filled with carved woodwork, stained glass windows, Gothic arches.  We will talk more about the interior of the Parliament next on this free Budapest walking tour, but first we want to point out a few other of the interesting exterior features you should know about.

On the North side of the Hungarian Parliament Building is a small park with a memorial statue from 1975 for controversial former president Károlyi Mihály (ruled from  1918-19 ).  Early in his political career, Mihály was credited with helping give women, veterans, and other citizens the right to vote in 1915.  He became Prime Minister after opposing the previous leader ( who got them into WWI ), and then quickly turned Hungary into a democracy.  With an anti-war mindset, Mihály pushed for Hungary to make peace with the Allied Nations to end WWI, but was forced out of power after his efforts led to too many territory concessions.  In the end, Hungary did have to give up further land to end the war with the  Peace Treaty of Trianon  which also led to a long economic decline.  With these negative circumstances considered, modern Hungarians look past the bad things under Mihály and honor the good intentions he had for the country.

Another larger statue around the Parliament grounds is of former president  Lajos Kossuth  (ruled from  1848-49 ) on a red stone pedestal directing both the people and the army.  Kossuth was the President through the Revolution of 1848-49 and was a strong social advocate who signed the first law which recognizing minority rights in Europe.  The inscription at the memorial calls him “Father of Hungarian Democracy, Hungarian Statesman, Freedom Fighter”.

3. Hungarian Parliament Interior :

About The Hungarian Parliament Interior :  While we love the admire the Parliament Building from every possible angle on the outside, you really need to see the gorgeous interior.  In total there are 10 courtyards, 28 staircases, and 691 rooms inside the massive complex.

On a tour of the interior of the Hungarian Parliament you will see some of the most beautiful rooms for 50 minutes with a guide.  The tours start with a walk down the gold-plated Staircase XVII framed by statues, stained glass.  Old Upper House Hall which has colorful paintings of Hungary’s royal families and murals depicting the historical role of the nobility in a medieval beer hall style room.  This leads to the Upper House Lobby which is the most exotic space in the Parliament resembling the inside of an Ottoman Sultan’s palace .  The large wrap around murals in both the Nándorfehérvár and Munkácsy Halls are also very impressive with their depictions of religious and battle scenes.

Reaching the geometric center of the House of Parliament and the symbolic center of Hungary, you enter the sixteen-sided Dome Hall.  Since 2000 this vast space is has been home to the Holy Crown Of Hungary  protected 24 hours a day by two royal guards.  The Byzantine-style royal crown dates back to the between 1031-1070s, was made in Constantinople ( modern-day Istanbul ), and was used to coronate over 50 Hungarian Kings.  Make to look up at the stunning ceiling while inside the Dome Hall which looks like a radiant sun beaming light down on you.

We love the main corridors filled with statues representing the different Medieval professions from horse herders to stonecutters, but the Grand Stairway is the most impressive space.  The combination of arches, ceiling murals, and lighting make the Grand Stairway feel like the inside of an old-world castle.

General Hours : April-October 8am-6pm; November-March 8am-4pm.   Guided Tours :  50-minute tours leave from the underground entrance on the park side of the building toward the East ( away from the river ).  Tours in English at 10am, Noon, 1pm, 1:45pm & 3pm; many other languages available throughout the day.   Tour Cost :  6000 HUF for Adults; 2400 HUF for EU Citizens; Students Half price; Kids 6 & Under Free.   Buying Tickets :  Tickets can be purchased in advance to save yourself waiting in line and can sell out if you don’t buy in advance.   Parliament Website :  ( HERE ).

4. Museum of Ethnography ( Neprajzi Muzeum ):

About The Museum of Ethnography :  The Museum of Ethnography is a great way to get an eclectic mix of cultures throughout the World all in one building.  They have a diverse collection of more than  200,000 ethnographic artifacts , as well as historical photographs, manuscripts, folk music recordings, and videos of everything you can think of.  Its European collection covers every ethnic group on the continent, its Oceania and Africa Collections are assembled by famous Hungarian world travelers and ethnologists, and its collections of authentic artifacts from America, Asia, and Indonesia, are also pretty awesome.

The palace-like building housing the Museum of Ethnography was actually first built for the Department of Justice in the 1800s as a Supreme Court, and supreme it is.  Its grand style and richly ornamented interior reflect the powerful place Hungary’s government occupied in Europe in the 1800s.  The museum was moved here in 1973 and it just seems like a perfect fit.  You’ll be wowed from the second you step into the dimly lit grand hall and entertained through the last exhibit.  Adults seem to appreciate the collects more than kids do.

Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm; Closed Mondays.   Cost :  1000 HUF; 500 HUF for EU Citizens; special exhibit combo tickets are usually 200 HUF more.   Guided Tours :  Available in numerous languages and 8,000 HUF covers a group up to 25 people.   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

Closure Notice : The museum is closed for renovations and will re-open sometime in 2020.

5. Imre Nagy Memorial :

About The Imre Nagy Memorial :  Located in the middle of the small leafy Martyrs Square ( Vértanúk Tere ) is the Imre Nagy Memorial consisting of a cozy footbridge and the former leader symbolically looking out over Parliament .  Nagy was Prime Minister of Hungary during the anti-Soviet Revolution of 1956 when many Hungarian Citizens fought to get rid of Soviet influence.  The Revolution was foiled but Nagy shared the group’s views and took action to make his Communist government neutral from both the Soviets and Stalin.  The biggest step he took was when he withdrew from the Warsaw Pact  and asked the United Nations to recognize Hungary and a neutral 3rd party.  He also took steps to open the Hungarian Government up to a multi-party system although he remained himself a Marxist.

The steps Nagy took faced a lot of hostility as the Soviets had helped liberate Hungary from the Nazis at the end of WWII and many Government officials were still loyal to the USSR.  Because of these strong loyalties, Nagy was arrested for treason in 1958, tried secretly, executed by hanging, and was buried in an unmarked grave.  Many viewed this as a message from the USSR to other Communist leaders of what would happen if they started growing away from them.  The corruption involved was obvious since the same man who had Nagy tried for treason ( János Kádár ) became the next Prime Minister.  Over the following 30 years of Communist rule, it became illegal to utter Nagy’s name as he was viewed as a martyr and symbol of freedom.  After Communism fell in 1989, Nagy was reburied and a crowd of over 200,000 people gathered in Heroes’ Square near Budapest’s City Park for his funeral.

6. Freedom Square ( Szabadság Tér ):

About Freedom Square :  Named after the freedom fighters who were executed here in the 1840s, Freedom Square is actually the former site of a military barracks.  The main highlight of the square is the  Soviet Monument  dedicated to the Soviet’s Red Army troops who liberated Hungary from the Nazis at the end of WWII.  A standing Soviet Monument is really quite rare in Budapest as most Communist statues were moved to Memento Park outside of town when Hungary became a true Democracy in 1989.  While most modern-day Hungarians seem to want the Soviet Monument removed, try to view the monument as more of a celebration for the Nazis being kicked out than as an honor for Soviets coming in.  The square also holds other monuments to freedom including a statue of Ronald Regan who was the US President the year Communism ended in Hungary.

7. The Fat Policeman Statue :

About The Fat Policeman Statue :  The iconic bronze statue of the Fat Policeman is one of many good luck statues you will see on this free Budapest walking tour.  The statue was added along Zrínyi Street in 2008 by artist Illyés András who used his own grandfather as inspiration.  The exaggerated features of the Fat Policeman, especially the huge belly, are meant to show how hearty the Hungarian foods like goulash are.  It has become a tradition to rub the gut of the Fat Policeman for good luck which keeps like belly a shiny gold color.

8. Saint Stephen’s Basilica ( Szent István Bazilika ):

About Saint Stephen’s Basilica :  The two towers and large dome of the huge, 315 foot tall Saint Stephen’s Basilica towers of the large open square around it.  This powerful church is named after Stephen, the  first King of Hungary  ( 975–1038 ), whose mummified fist is still housed in the reliquary.  His first is known locally as the Holy Right and can be seen in the back of the church mummified and holding jewels.  The display is dark and they make you pay 100 HUF to light it up which is pretty weird, but worth it.  If you are looking to see it for free you have to be in town on August 20th known as St Stephen Day when they have the hand attend services and also lead the parade in his honor.

As you can imagine with a church this big the construction, which started in 1851, didn’t go as smooth as they wanted.  The first dome collapsed 17 years after the groundbreaking and then the second architect Miklos Ybl, who also built the  Opera House , died.  It seemed like the church was doomed, but finally they got it all together 50 years after the groundbreaking.  After the stabilized Church was finally standing strong, the best painters and sculptures in Hungary came in to finish off the masterpiece.

The interior today is a great mix of light and dark, stone and wood, marble and gilding to combine into a very impressive church.  We highly suggest swinging by the treasury, twin bell towers, and Szent Jobb Chapel.  Among the two bell towers, the left tower has one of the better panoramic views of Budapest and the right tower houses a giant 9-ton church bell.  Which one you choose depends on what you want to see.

Visitor Hours :  Church is open Daily 7am-7pm; Treasury is 9am-5pm ( 10am-4pm in winter ); Szent Jobb Chapel 9am-5pm ( Sundays 1pm-5pm ); Tower daily 10am-4:30pm ( July-September until 6pm ).   Cost :  Church Free; Treasury 400 Ft; Tower 500 Ft.  Church Services :  Daily 8am, 530pm, & 6pm; Sunday Mass is at 8am, 9am,10am, Noon, 6pm, & 7pm.   Church Website :  ( HERE ).

9. Elizabeth Park ( Erzsébet Tér ):

About Elizabeth Park :  Elizabeth Park is a great park to visit any day of the week and is extra busy on the weekends.   The area is busy not just because it is a large beautiful and hip park, but also because it is a cross roads for three different Metro Lines which leads to a very eclectic crowd.  The West side of the Square is more of a laid-back standard park area with trees and fountains while the East side is definitely the bustling, young, hip area.  Adding to the hipness of the East side are a large look-like pond and multi-level terraces filled with outdoor furniture.

This area is surrounded by numerous cafes where you can grab a bit to eat or a drink.  Many locals bring their own wine in the evening and drink around the pond.  Also on the East side, there are the two popular bars/nightclubs called Gödör Klub ( website ) and Akvárium Klub ( website ).  We love both of them, but end up spending more time in Akvárium as we really like their outdoor fit pits in the Winter.  The funky band memorabilia and Volt signage in the lobby of Akvárium comes from the annual Volt Musical Festival they help promote in Western Hungary which 80,000 people go to.

Just off of the Southeast corner of the Park is the giant yellow Anker Mansion House which was built as the first apartment building in Budapest in 1907.   The two-towered building, with its pyramid roof, gets its name from the Anker Life and Pension Insurance Company which first built it.

10. Gresham Palace Four Seasons Hotel :

About Gresham Palace :  Overlooking Roosevelt Park at the foot of the famous Chain Bridge, is the architectural treat called Gresham Palace.  The Palace was built in 1906 as the grand headquarters for the foreign Gresham Life Insurance Company and they spared no expense.  The headquarters were built so fancy that tons of wealthy British aristocrats all spent time living on the upper floors.

During WWII the Soviets used Gresham Palace to house troops and after the war, the damaged building served as a rundown apartment complex.  Finally, after over 50 years of falling apart, the Four Season’s Hotel chain bought the property and quickly restored to its original grandeur.  Today the Palace serves as a great backdrop to Roosevelt square and offers great views of Castle Hill which is directly across the Danube River.  Even if you can’t afford its $400+ a night rooms, a brief stroll through the magnificent lobby will leave you in awe.

Sitting in front of Gresham Palace is a long park called  Roosevelt Square .  On the North side of the Park statue of Count István Széchenyi ( 1791-1860 ) who founded the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and also originally thought up nearby Chain Bridge. The Southside has its own statue of Ferenc Deák ( 1803-1876 ), who advanced relations between Austria and Hungary and had the nickname “Wise Man”.   Hotel Website :  ( HERE ).

11. Chain Bridge ( Széchenyi Lanchid ):

About The Chain Bridge :  The historic quarter-mile long Chain Bridge was  completed in 1849  as the first permanent bridge connecting Buda and Pest.  The bridge was needed to help Pest escape constant flooding and led to the city merging with Buda and Óbuda to form Budapest in 1873.  With  large lion statues  guarding all four corners of the Bridge, its easy to feel its power.  Great photo opportunities come not only from the statues but also from the Chain Bridge itself with the breath-taking Buda Hills & Royal Palace in the background.  The Chain Bridge is absolutely gorgeous when it is lit up at night.

If you only have a short amount of time in Budapest we suggest that your break this  free Budapest Walking Tour  off here and follow the Chain Bridge across the Danube River to follow our  Castle Hill Walking Tour .   If you have a few days in Budapest, however, continue on this tour taking your time and visit Castle Hill later.

12. The Spoon Restaurant :

About The Spoon Restaurant :  The Spoon is an amazing restaurant inside a docked boat right on the Danube River.  The setting on the water is especially beautiful at night.  Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner or just a beautiful place to get a drink we highly suggest the Spoon.  The-250 foot-long three level riverboat has two restaurants, five bars, a panoramic open terrace, convertible winter garden, and an underwater Oriental bar.  The Spoon remains docked the entire year so it’s always there and has a lot of outdoor seating plus posh inside seating.  It’s worth buying a drink or food just to be able to check The Spoon out and take some photos especially if you go down into the Red Velvet Oriental Bar on the bottom level.

Depending on your taste for the menu there is also a second really good boat restaurant right next door to The Spoon called the Vén Hajó ( website ).  After your visit, we suggest taking the crosswalk between the two boat restaurants to reach the steps that will up the opposite side of the tram tracks.  Crossing here is the easiest way to continue with the rest of the sites on the free Budapest walking otherwise you will have to go down the riverfront a long distance for the next set of steps.

Cost :  High end drinks average $6-15; Meals are $10-20.   Hours :  Daily Noon-Midnight.   Restaurant Website :  ( HERE ).

13. Royal Princess Statue ( Kis Királylány ):

About The Royal Princess Statue :  Often referred to as the Jester, the bronze Royal Princess Statue is one of the top photo opportunities in Budapest with the Danube River and Royal Palace in the background.  The artist, László Marton, modeled the famous statue after his daughter who often dressed with a paper newspaper crown to pretend to be a princess.  The original Royal Princess Statue can be seen at the Hungarian National Gallery and this larger replica was created added near the tram tracks in front of Vigado Square in 1990.

Like the Fat Policeman Statue’s belly from earlier on this free Budapest walking tour, the Princess has gained polished golden knees from visitors rubbing her for good luck.  The artist, László Marton, also has a noteworthy statue of poet Attila József sitting on the riverside steps not far from the Hungarian Parliament Building.  On a trip to Budapest,  Prince Charles  of England liked the Royal Prince Statue so much he had a replica made for his residence in London.

14. Vörösmarty Square :

About Vörösmarty Square :  As you enter the large Vörösmarty Square you will find a huge limestone statue of  writer Mihály Vörösmarty , who the Square is named after.  Vörösmarty gained his fame not just from his romanticized poems and plays, but also for his patriotic lyrics making him a national treasure.  The statue was built in 1908 on a pedestal of limestone blocks and is surrounded by tons of figures representing different classes of Hungarian society.  These figures include a farmer, students, peasants among many others.  Vörösmarty’s writings were both appealing to and made up of a very wide range of people as you can tell by the diversity of the  figures who surround him.

The Square is also home to the Vörösmarty tér Metro Stop, but it is the beautiful  Gerbeaud Café  ( website )opened in 1858 that you will remember the most.  Gerbeaud Café is a delightful pastry shop with a lavish marble and ornate interior whose white facade dominated the Square.  If pastries are not your thing, Gerbeaud also has a nice authentic pub and a great high-end restaurant that will make you feel like a Hungarian aristocrat.  Gerbeaud can hold up to 300 guests inside and also has great outdoor seating, so don’t worry about getting served if you see a crowd, there is plenty of room for everyone.  You can always get something to go and do a makeshift picnic.

Our favorite time of year to visit Vörösmarty Square is in December when you’ll be treated to a number of great outdoor stands that make up Budapest’s Christmas Fair and Market.  The Market has the perfect look and feels just like the large Christmas markets of Austria and Germany.

15. Váci Shopping Street (Váci Utca):

About Váci Utca :  The pedestrian-only Váci Street is the best shopping area in all of Budapest and stretches all the way from Vörösmarty Square to the Great Market Hall.  The architecture along the street is some of the best from the 1700s, the atmosphere is always upbeat, and there is a great mix of both affordable souvenir shops and high-end fashion boutiques.  If you wander slightly off Váci Utca, in almost any direction, you can find a great number of mom-n-pop style eateries that have great deals and even better food.

Speaking of food, notice the  Historic McDonald’s  on your right as you begin down Váci, it is a big deal. This McDonald’s was the first Western fast food restaurant built in the Communist East Block when is came here in 1988.  The people of Budapest were so excited for McDonald’s to be here that the line to get food typically ran outside the restaurant and down the road a few blocks.   McDonald’s went on to build what we feel is their fanciest restaurant in the World to the Northeast of here near the train station, which is also marked on the map above.

While the McDonald’s and the shopping on Váci Utca are special, the most unique thing is definitely the statue of the  Peeing Boy .   It is quite literally is a statue of a peeing boy and serves as a gathering spot for travelers looking to rest their feet.  As you continue down the street make sure to investigate numerous statues you come across.

16. Roman Fortress Ruins ( Contra Aquincum ):

About Contra Aquincum :  The Roman city of Aquincum ( modern Óbuda ) was founded just up the river from here on the opposite bank of the Danube in 41AD and became the capital of the state of Pannonia in 106AD.  This elevated status made Aquincum a target of rival Barbarian groups which led to the need for greater protection.  A large fortress called Contra Aquincum was built here in the early 100s AD to serve as the first line of defense for the regional capital.

Interestingly the Contra Aquincum was built on the Barbarian side of the Danube which was not fully controlled by the Romans.  The placement of the fortress on just beyond the Roman borders at the edge of the frontier made it very important.  When Roman Emperor Diocletian visited in 296AD he ordered the fortress be massively re-enforced.  It was common for Emperors to visit Budapest and many did starting with Domitian in 86AD through Valentinian I in 374AD.

After the Romans left, the Hungarians continued to use Contra Aquincum for defense until around just after the country was officially founded in 896AD.  A settlement began to grow around the former fortress which sparked the true beginning of the city of Pest .  Much of the village and the remains of the fortress were ravaged in the Mongol Invasion of 1241, but the city continued to grow.  In Medieval times a wall protected Pest and on any modern map you see a natural half circle in the road ( Károly > Múzeum > Vámház ) 5 blocks out from the river where the wall enclosed the Inner City of Pest.

Through the plexiglass viewpoints middle of Március Square, you can still see parts from the original Contra Aquincum Fortress sitting just below the pavement.  These Roman ruins used to be open air, but had to be covered in the early 2000s to protect them from vandalization.  If you are further interested in the Roman history of Budapest you can visit the ruins of the former regional capital Aquincum just North of the city with an easy 20-30 minute metro ride from the center of town.

17. Inner City Parish (Belvárosi):

About Inner City Parish :  Rebuilt numerous times over the centuries, the Inner City Parish was the heart of the neighborhood of Pest in Medieval times.  In as early as 296 this location was the watchtower for the Roman Contra-Aquincum Fortress and was then a massive military control room by 350.  When the Romans left, a small village ( Pest ) began to form around the old fortress.  Shortly after Hungary officially formed in 896 the fortress was no longer needed and the first church was built here in the 11th century by Hungary’s first King Saint Stephen ( 1000-1038 ) to honor the Virgin Mary.

The original Inner City Parish was made of stone with three naves and was said to have inspired other famous churches like the hand-carved  Ják Abbey.  This early church was where the  monk Saint Gellért was buried after he was martyred just across the river on Gellért Hill in 1046.  Saint Gellért ( Gerard of Csanád ) had been put in a barrel and rolled to his death by citizens resisting his attempts to convert them to Christianity.  The church even had to be extended in 1053 to hold all of the new relics from Saint Gellért ( who was a mentor of King Stephen ).  Some of his foot bones and vertebra can be still found at the altar Inner City Parish even though much of the original church which was destroyed by the Mongols in 1241.  There are also bones from Hungarian Princess Elizabeth ( 1207-1239 ) who was engaged in the church to Saxon count at age four.  Our favorite remnant on display from this era of the church is a marvelous fresco of the Virgin Mary sitting in a throne.

A second church was built here in the Gothic-style and was famously where a congregation of nobles  appointed Matthias Corvinus  the King of Hungary on January 23rd, 1458.  The Gothic parish survived being converted into a Mosque during Ottoman rule ( 1541-1686 ) and was turned back to a church again before burning in a fire in 1723.  The third and current Franciscan ( Catholic ) church was heavily influenced by the Austrian-Hungarian alliance as its Baroque-style looks like many of the small parishes near Salzburg and Vienna.  The beloved Hungarian composer Franz Liszt even lived and worked on the church grounds between 1858-1871.  From the ancient Roman sections, to the original Medieval cellars, and the Muslim Mihrab niche near the altar, it is very interesting to see all parts of the parish’s history incorporated into the current church.

You can learn more about the famous monk Saint Gellért on our  Gellért Hill Walking Tour . which picks up just across the Danube River from the Inner City Parish.

Entrance Cost : 1,000 HUF for Adults; 700 HUF for Children; Kids 6 & Under are Free.  Hours :  Weekdays 9am-4:30pm; limited hours in the evenings and weekends due to church services.  Website : Here .

18. University Library & Ybl Palace :

About University Library & Ybl Palace :  A series of great mosaic title roofs all right next to each other leads to one of the more icon photos opportunities in Budapest.  The blue and grey Ybl Palace was designed as an upscale apartment building in 1869 by famous Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl.  Ybl’s best-known work is the Hungarian Opera House, but his influence in the buildings of Budapest seems to pop up all over.  The bright yellow University Library houses many priceless works of literature and art including works from the days of King Matthias and Hungary’s founding.

19. University Church ( Egyetemi Templomi ):

About University Church :  Built in 1742 on the site of a Turkish Mosque, the University Church is by far the biggest and best baroque-style church in Budapest.   It is tucked tightly into an alley on Egyetem Tér but is easily viewed and photographed at the nearby Károly Garden to the Northeast. The exterior dominated by two green-cap towers, which were added in 1771 and statues of the hermits Paul and Anthony in the middle.  Can you spot the palm between two lions with a raven?  This is the traditional emblem of the Pauline Order of priests and it sits directly above the image of Madonna on a globe.  The theme of the Madonna carries inside as the interiors frescoes are full of scenes depicting the life of the Virgin.

20. Hungarian National Museum :

About The Hungarian National Museum :  Housed in a building that looks like the U.S. Supreme Court, the Hungarian National Museum has been an icon of Budapest ever since it was built in 1807.  The museums main claim to fame was when a reading on the front steps of Sándor Petőfi’s  12 Points  and famous poem  Nemzeti Dal  partially helped inspire citizens to begin the Revolution of 1848.   Today there are two statues at the museum commemorating this Revolution.  The most fascinating exhibits are the preserved art treasures, and Princes from Afar, but whatever the Exhibit of the Month happens to be is usually worth the stop in itself.

Cost :  Adults 1600 HUF; Discounts for students and families.   Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm; closed Mondays.   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

21. For Sale Pub :

About For Sale Pub :  One of the most famous pubs in Budapest because of the unique decor.  For centuries it was a custom around town for people to post their items for sale in their local pub as an early version of classified ads.  This pub carries on that tradition as every inch of the walls and ceiling are covered in paper for sale notices.  The floor even looks like an old barn-style tavern with nut shells and loose straw scattered about.

Hours :  Daily Noon-3am; can get very busy from 7-10pm which a reservation is suggested by phone.   Phone :  +36 70 599 3860

22. Grand Market Hall ( Nagycsarnok ):

About The Grand Market Hall :  Also known as Central Market Hall, this three-story-tall bustling food epicenter is grand indeed.  The basement has a large grocery area, the second floor has a lot of meat and vegetable sellers, and the second floor has a bunch of clothing knickknack sellers.  The Grand Market is the most touristy yet the most beautiful of the five major market halls in Budapest.

You can go to the strudel stall on the first floor and taste the typical Hungarian poppy-seed and cabbage strudels. You can also go to the Langos stall (fried salty dough topped by cheese, sour cream ham etc) on the second floor where you can also sample wine and spirits for a reasonable price. You will also find strings of red paprika and garlic, the famous Hungarian salami, sausage, ham and other meat product along with fresh pastry, frisbee-sized salty doughnut, cheap and delicious Hungarian wine and fruit brandies are sold.  Definitely, a must stop while in Budapest and this is the best of the five big markets in town.

Hope you enjoyed your time on the Pest Monument Walking Tour, from here you have a couple different options for where to go next. You can either take the short walk across the bridge which leads you to our  Gellért Hill Walking Tour , you can head straight north on Vaci Utca to catch up on any shops you miss, or you can head back up to Kalvin Square to jump on the Metro – the choice is yours.

Hours :  Mondays 6am-5pm; Tuesday-Friday 6am-6pm; Saturdays 6am-3pm; Closed Sundays.   Market Website :  ( HERE ).

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Budapest free walking tour by locals ©, best free tour of budapest.

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Become an expert of Budapest from day one, with the best free tours of Budapest in English

What are the free walking tours of Budapest?

Our free walking tours are a guided tour of Budapest ‘ s most emblematic sites and buildings, led by an expert in Hungarian history, originally from Budapest and with an excellent command of the English language

Other travelers like you join our tours every day

Walk with us

On this fascinating walking tour of the city we visit places like the Parliament, the Basilica, the Opera, the river Danube and much more

Why should I book this free walking tour of Budapest?

Our free walking tour is intended only for people who want the best. Better experience, better guides, better quality, better memories

• Free cancellation without penalties
• 100% free Budapest tour . No matter what price you want to pay
• Limited number of participants per guide . This is the most exclusive free tour in Budapest, other tour companies have up to 90 people per guide, especially international ones. Try a tour with locals, book ours!
• You can hear us loud and clear . We use 50W loudspeakers (others use 5W or don’t)
• Even if it’s raining, the free tour will take place
• We are all experienced professional guides
• We are the top-rated Budapest free tours
• Best designed Budapest tours
• We speak excellent, fluent and understandable English
• As if that were not enough, we are funny !

How much should I pay for the free tour?

The suggested payment is 10 EUR per adult, but you are free to decide at the end of the tour what is the fair payment for your guide

Guides accept EUR, USD, GBP, HUF and Revolut

First day in Budapest?

Our Essential Budapest Free Walking Tour is the best way to start your experience from day one. A fascinating walking tour of historical monuments and buildings

General history and useful tips from a local on your first day in Budapest

Budapest Free Walking Tour By Locals

Starts at the Hungarian State Opera at 10:30 and ends at 1:00 p.m. at Parliament

Historical content

•  Beginnings of the Hungarians
•  Monarchy in Hungary
•  Christianity
•  Austro-Hungarian Empire
•  Empress Sissi and Franz Joseph I
•  World War 1
•  2nd World War
•  Nazi occupation in Budapest and Jews
•  Communism in Budapest
•  Budapest today

What will you learn?

At the end  you will know where the Hungarians come from , whose mummified hand is in the Basilica and why the parliament does not use the flag of the European Union

•  Restaurants, boats, etc.
•  Typical meals
•  essential activities
•  Mobility (transport)

© Budapest Free Walking Tours

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• Walking Tours

Budapest All In One Walking Tour with Strudel Stop

The most recommended walking tour in Budapest!

• Small-group interactive walking tour with a licensed guide
• See Heroes’ Square and City Park and have a look into a spa
• Marvel at the Opera, Andrassy Avenue and St Stephen’s Basilica
• Learn about the communist times on Liberty Square and walk to the Parliament
• Enjoy the view from Fisherman’s Bastion and see Matthias Church
• Coffee and strudel is included in the iconic Strudel House

3.5-4 hours

Adult: 68 € Student with ID: 66 € Child: 30 €

Meeting Point

In front of the Hungarian State Opera House

Conclusion Point : Buda Castle, near Matthias Church

MEETING POINT

Licensed English speaking guide, coffee or soft drink with Hungarian dessert, public transport tickets during the tour, 1 extra single ticket for the public transport to return to downtown

• Entry fees to sights and museums, pick-up or drop-off

Know before you book

• You will need to be fit for light continuous walking, for up to 3 hours.
• Tour goes in all weather conditions so please dress appropriately.

Full Tour Description

Your walking tour begins at the Opera House from where you take a short ride on the Millennium Metro out to Heroes’ Square and City Park. Here you’ll get a great introduction to Hungary’s rich history and culture through the stories of its great kings. Then, you’ll walk through City Park to visit Vajdahunyad Castle and you’ll stop off and peek inside to Szechenyi Baths to learn about the amazing bath culture this country has to offer. After you’ll take the Millennium Metro back towards the city center and stop off at the end of Andrassy Avenue where you’ll hear about the significance the street to the city’s nobility.

Next you’ll head over to see St. Stephen’s Basilica (outside only) before taking a break in a café for a taste of a Hungary’s dessert and a coffee or soft drink (included in the tour). After your refreshment break, you head down to the riverside to see the famous blue Danube. On the way you will learn about the communist times in Liberty Square and at the Danube you can admire the magnificent Parliament building. Here you’ll take in the spectacular view of the UNESCO World Heritage panorama with Buda Castle, Matthias Church, Royal Palace and Gellert Hill with the Citadel.

From the Chain Bridge, you will cross the Danube by bus and after a short walk through the Castle District, you’ll approach the Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. From the vantage point, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city.

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Free Budapest Walking Tours

This post lists the best free walking tours you can take in Budapest, Hungary, the beautiful city once the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

We also include free walks with bus tour tickets, self-guided tours, and small group tours.

We are a group of local walking tour guides who lead daily walking tours throughout Budapest.

And, in the video below, Zsuzsi from Budapest Personal Guide takes you on a virtual walk of the streets of Pest, one-half of Budapest.

These walking tours are called 'free tours' but are commonly understood to run on a name-your-own-price model or what's called a 'tips-only-basis'.

There are no fixed prices to take a tour.

Below is a calendar of some of the great free walking tours available in Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube.

Click on the entry below to expand the listing for more details. READ OUR GROUP POLICY  (bookings more than 4 people)

The tours listed below are run through us.

Searching Availability...

More tours are available in the Google calendar below .

Many people are drawn to these Budapest free tours because they are convenient, affordable, and entertaining. Their popularity, however, also means that group sizes can get quite large.

• City Centre
• Buda Castle
• WW2/History

How Much Do You Tip for a Free Walking Tour Budapest?

After taking the tour, you get to decide how much you thought it was worth or what you could afford, even nothing.

Technically speaking, these aren't tips to the guide. You are simply paying for the tour what you wish.

According to reviews on Google and TripAdvisor, past participants seem to leave between €5 - €20 per adult.

And while free walking tours are generally limited to a city centre, in Budapest there are free themed tours, such as those focused on communism or the city's Jewish Quarter.

If you want to ensure a smaller group setting to give you more time to interact with your tour guide, we suggest checking out paid small-group tours .

Alternatively, you could try one of the available self-guided tours, which are completely free. 

CITY CENTRE WALKING TOURS IN BUDAPEST

There are a few companies offering tours of the city center of Budapest that operate on the name-your-own-price system.

Luna Tours is a professional tour guide outfit in Budapest, known for its passion, enthusiasm, and expert knowledge of the city, that offers two free tours in Budapest.

Their main outing covers Downtown Pest, including landmarks like the Parliament, the Basilica, and riverbank views, where you will see Budapest Castle, Chain Bridge, and more.

This guided walking tour is available daily at 11am and it lasts 2 hours.

Meeting point of the tour is St. Stephen's Basilica.

View the calendar above . Reservations are required .

BUDA CASTLE WALKING TOURS

In addition to tours of the city centre, there are also companies offering free or pay-what-you-wish walking tours around Buda Castle.

If you want to learn more about the castle, these are great and affordable opportunities you won't want to miss.

In addition to her city centre tour, Klaudia also offers a daily tour of the Buda Castle district which includes stops at the Royal Palace and Fisherman's Bastion.

This tour starts daily at 3:00pm and lasts for 2 hours.

Meeting point of the tour is St. Matthias Church.

WW2 HISTORY TOURS

If you're hoping to learn more about what happened in Budapest during WW2, these tours provide a lot of useful details and point out important historical locations that you might otherwise miss.

Visitors can expect to see and learn about the following sites and subjects:

• Rumbach Synagogue
• Heroes' Courtyard
• Budapest Angel
• Jewish Quarter
• Tree of Life

If these attractions and historical details are of interest, consider taking one of the pay-what-you-want walking tours listed below.

Budapest Tours

This company currently offers one of the best WW2 tours in Budapest, covering a variety of subjects and sites including the Rumbach Synagogue and the Heroes' Courtyard.

You can take this pay-what-you-wish walking tour daily at 11 am and on Sundays at 15:00 (3 pm).

Tour runs for around 2 hours 30 minutes and it starts from Budapest Madch Imre tr 2 1075 Hungary .

Your guide will be standing next to the Sisi statue with a YELLOW UMBRELLA.

Book this WW2 tour or learn more .

STREET ART TOURS

Budapest has a vibrant street art scene with beautiful murals painted alongside walls and buildings throughout the city.

These tours focus on both the subject of this artwork and the neighborhoods where you are most likely to find it.

While on a street art tour, you can expect to visit some of the following locations:

• Szimpla Kert Bar
• Famous Abandoned Buildings

If you're interested in taking a look at some of the lesser-known areas of Budapest, consider taking one of the pay-what-you-wish walking tours listed below.

Zsanett Tours

This street art tour will take you off the beaten path to see some of the oft-forgotten sites of Budapest, where modern artists have chosen to express themselves on walls and buildings from the past.

The tour availability is variable and you should check the availability calendar before heading for the tour.

Tour starts at 11 am and runs for around 2 hours.

Meeting point of the tour is Budapest, Szent István Bazilika, Szent István tér 1, 1051 Hungary .

You will find you guide by the Entrance of the building with LIGHT BLUE UMBRELLA.

Book this street art tour or learn more .

SELF-GUIDED TOURS

It’s easy to customize your own experience and be in charge of your explorations through Budapest with a self-guided or audio tour.

Start when you want, and take as much or little time as you can - it’s up to you.

Budapest by Locals

This blog offers multiple tips on what to see and do in Budapest, including this walking tour itinerary .

The walking tour comes with an interactive map on their site and has several route options, including downtown, Buda Castle, and other specific neighborhoods.

Art and History Audio Guide

This free audio guide takes you through the streets of Budapest to find street art, memorials, sculptures, and landmarks that are important to today’s culture.

If you’re interested in listening to a guide - but have the ability to pause and investigate some stops further - this audio tour is a good way to go.

Self-Guided Haunted City Game

This is an interesting alternative to the traditional walking tour, as it allows you to explore the city in search of clues to solve a puzzle while you learn about the haunted history of Budapest.

Although it's not technically a tour and it isn't free to take, this self-guided city exploration game is only €8, which is about what most people would tip their guide for a pay-what-you-wish walking tour.

The game lasts for 2 hours and meeting point is Budapest, City Park, 1146 Hungary

Learn more or download this game .

FREE TOURS WITH BUDAPEST TOURIST PASSES

If you are considering purchasing a hop-on-hop-off ticket while in Budapest, do note that both Big Bus as well as CitySightseeing offer free walking tours with each ticket (no pay-what-you-wish).

Likewise, if you are considering purchasing the Budapest Card , then note that it too includes free walking tours (no pay-what-you-wish).

The Budapest Card

This tourist pass includes access to two free walking tours every day offered by CITYRAMA.

The first tour starts at 10 am, and it covers some of the most notable areas in Pest. The second tour starts at 2 pm, and it's all about Buda.

The Budapest Card also includes discounts on bike rentals, bike tours, sightseeing cruises, hop-on hop-off bus tours, and tuk-tuk tours.

Read more about this service in our post covering Budapest tourist passes .

Explore Budapest Pass

This company also includes free tours of Budapest with their tourist pass.

The main outing they offer is the Budapest Absolute All-in-One Walking Tour.

This tour attempts to cover as many bases as possible including both the city centre and Buda Castle.

There is also a free tour of Budapest Coffee Houses, which is a perfect option for any coffee lovers visiting this city.

Alternatively, you can also take the Budapest Dark History tour for free and learn about some of the more disturbing things that have happened in this city.

This pass also includes alternative Budapest tours, pub crawls, a tour of the Royal Palace of Sisi, and more.

Check our post about Budapest tourist passes for more details.

Big Bus Tours

The Premium and Deluxe tickets offered by this hop-on hop-off bus tour company include free walking tours of the Pest area in the city.

Each of these tickets also includes a free cruise as well. For the price of one ticket, you can see Budapest by foot, by bus, and by boat!

Read more about this combo package .

City Sightseeing

This hop-on hop-off bus tour company also offers tickets that include admission to a free walking tour of Budapest.

Unlike Big Bus, they include not only a free cruise but also a free bike tour as well. In this case, you can see Budapest on foot, by bike, by bus, and by boat -- all with one ticket!

Find out more about this combo package .

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Budapest: Buda Castle District Walking Tour

About the activity

Explore the Buda Castle District on a guided walking tour in Budapest. See highlights like the Matthias Church and the Royal Palace, and explore hidden gems while hearing about Hungarian history.

• Free cancellation Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Instant confirmation & Mobile tickets Receive your ticket right away. Use your phone or print your voucher.
• Skip the line Get priority entry. (depends on selected option)
• Live guiding English, French, German, Italian (depends on selected option)
• Duration 2-3 hours
• Professional tour guide
• Entry tickets
• Pickup and drop-off
• Walk on the old cobble-stone streets of the Castle District in Budapest
• Admire the Gothic splendor of the Matthias Church and the Fishermen's Bastion
• Explore the Royal Palace complex by walking around its courtyards
• Enjoy the best river views with iconic sights like the Parliament building
• Follow the commentary of your tour guide and be transported to the past

Description

Follow your guide through the history and sights of the Buda Castle District on this walking tour in Budapest. Hear stories from Hungarian history as you see sights like the President's Palace, the Royal Palace, and Fishermen's Bastion. Begin your tour at the Baroque Holy Trinity Statue and walk around the 15th century, Gothic Matthias Church. Admire the fairy-tale like Fishermen's Bastion and take in views of the Danube river and the Parliament building from the Neo-Romanesque terraces. Stroll along the old cobble-stone streets to get to the President's Palace and the Royal Palace complexes. Walk around the courtyards and fountains, and look at the proud guards outside the palace.  Marvel at stunning views of the other side of the city across the majestic Danube River from the royal terraces. Capture pictures of views of the Margaret Bridge, the Chain Bridge, the Elizabeth Bridge, and the Liberty Bridge. Visit the other side of the castle and enjoy an excellent view towards the forested Buda Hills from the medieval walls. End your tour near the Holy Trinity Statue where it began.  The tour does not include an inside visit of the church and royal palace museums. Your tour guide will give you all the instructions on purchasing entry tickets to these sights and their opening times. (Matthias church is closing at 5pm and is often periodically closed in the daytime due to weddings. The castle royal palace museums are always closed on Mondays.)

• This tour will take place rain or shine

Standard Group Tour in English

Small group tour in english, small group tour in french, german, or italian, small group tour in english with hospital in the rock option, reviews & ratings, top 5 similar activities in budapest.

Gems of the Budapest Castle District: Free Walking Tour!

Discover the most attractive spots of the district and the hidden gems as we take you around the whole district and describe the interesting historical and cultural facts!

• 2 hours • Guiding available

Budapest: Guided Foodie Walking Tour with Food and Drinks

Taste your way through Budapest with a foodie guide and learn about the history of Hungarian cuisine. Try Budapest’s street food, traditional dishes, and alcoholic drinks.

• 2.5 hours • Skip the line • Guiding available

Budapest: Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl with a Local Guide

Discover the diverse and vibrant nightlife scene of Budapest on a fun bar crawl. Meet like-minded travelers, sip tasty local drinks like fröccs, and see the hidden gems of Budapest.

• 3 hours • Skip the line • Guiding available

Budapest: MonsteRoller E-Scooter Tour

Explore Budapest aboard an easy and fun-to-use e-scooter on this guided tour. Choose between a wide range of tour options and pick the route and experience that most interests you.

• 1-4 hours • Skip the line • Private tour • Guiding available

Budapest: Buda Castle District Walking Tour with a Historian

Discover the imposing Buda Castle complex on a guided walking tour. Step back in time during a stroll with a passionate historian and learn more about the history of the castle and Budapest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prices & booking.

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Free walking tours in Budapest

Find the perfect Free Walking Tour for you in Budapest

Essential Free Walking Tours in Budapest

Discover the most highlighted places in Budapest with these Free Walking Tours

Discover the best neighborhoods in Budapest with the GuruWalk Free Walking Tours

Walk around one of the most emblematic neighborhoods in Budapest with these Free Walking Tours

Enjoy the best Free Walking Tours at the Buda Castle.

FAQs Free Walking tour Budapest

What places are visited on essential free tours in budapest.

Essential free tours in Budapest take you to the city's most iconic and historic sites. You will visit landmarks such as the Parliament Building, St. Stephen's Basilica, and the Chain Bridge. Additionally, the tour includes stops at the Central Market Hall, Buda Castle, and Heroes' Square. These tours are perfect for first-time visitors who want to get an overview of Budapest's main attractions and history.

What will I discover on a free walking tour of the Buda Castle District?

The free walking tour of the Buda Castle District offers a deep dive into one of Budapest's most significant areas. You'll explore the Royal Palace, Matthias Church, and Fisherman's Bastion. The tour also includes breathtaking views of the Danube River and Pest side of the city. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the history and culture of this medieval district.

How much do you usually pay on a free walking tour in Budapest?

While there is no fixed price for a free walking tour in Budapest, participants typically tip the guide between €10 and €50, depending on their level of satisfaction and enjoyment. The payment is entirely voluntary and reflects the value you place on the tour experience.

What is the Free Tour of Budapest's Jewish Quarter about?

The Free Tour of Budapest's Jewish Quarter takes you through a vibrant and historically rich area. You will visit significant sites such as the Great Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, and the Holocaust Memorial Center. The tour highlights the cultural and historical importance of the Jewish community in Budapest, offering insights into their heritage and contributions to the city's development.

What is special about the free night tours in Budapest?

Free night tours in Budapest provide a unique opportunity to explore the city under the enchanting ambiance of evening lights. You'll see the city's famous landmarks, such as the Parliament Building and Buda Castle, beautifully illuminated. These tours offer a different perspective compared to daytime tours and are perfect for those who enjoy a cooler and more relaxed atmosphere.

Others cities to visit after Budapest

Free walking tour near budapest.

• Free walking tour in Berlin
• Free walking tour in Tirana
• Free walking tour in Florence
• Free walking tour in Rome
• Free walking tour in Copenhagen
• Free walking tour in Bratislava
• Free walking tour in Zagreb
• Free walking tour in Belgrade

Find other guruwalks in Budapest