Budapest in Spring: Things to Do & Tips for Visiting

Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and it’s especially stunning in springtime! Spring sees the arrival of warmer temperatures, longer hours of sunlight, and seasonal blooms. This is perfect for urban walks, strolls through the city parks, and outdoor dining.

In this post, I’ll outline everything you need to know about visiting Budapest in spring. From where to stay and what to see, to when’s the best time to go and what weather to expect, I’ve got you covered.

So read on for all the information you need for a perfect trip to Budapest and my special tips from a local perspective!

*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Best Things to Do in Budapest in Spring

Promenade along Tóth Árpád 

Tóth Árpád Promenade is an elevated walkway in the Budapest Castle District. It provides a wonderful view over the city towards the Buda side and is a dreamy spot for photographers. But it’s also one of the best places to see the resident cherry blossoms when they bloom in April!

Tóth Árpád sétány is really close to Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and Buda Castle so remember to squeeze it in if you visit the city during cherry blossom season. If you want to catch the cherry blossoms in their full glory, try to schedule your visit for the second half of April.

Visit a botanical garden

If seeing the flowers ranks top of your list of things to do in Budapest in spring then you can opt to visit a botanical garden. There are two options in the city subject to how you are planning your itinerary for Budapest.

Dating back to the 18th century, Elte füvészkert is the oldest botanical garden in Budapest. Located in District VIII, the complex comprises landscaped gardens and flower beds as well as greenhouses where you can see seasonal displays as well as cacti, orchids, water lilies, and more. There are around 8,000 plant species in the 8.7 acres (3.5 hectares) plot!

The alternative option is located in City Park. The park is one of Budapest’s unmissable sights and contains a thermal bath which we’ll come to later.

The Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is set among a series of botanical exhibits including a Japanese Garden. It isn’t possible to visit the gardens separately as the exhibitions are merged, so you need to buy a ticket for the zoo in order to visit.

Wander through the Buda Arboretum

The Buda Arboretum is one of several budget-friendly alternatives if you want to see the seasonal displays of plants and flowers up close for free.

This park is located on the Buda side near the castle and comes to life from March onwards. This peaceful oasis is one of the best places to appreciate spring in Budapest. Originally used as a vineyard, the arboretum is now a sanctuary for plants and is great for spotting seasonal snowdrops.

Hop aboard a Danube River Cruise

Make the most of the longer days and snap up tickets to a cruise along the Danube River. 

This major waterway is the second-longest river in Europe. It dissects the city of Budapest with the city being divided into the Buda and Pest sides.

The Budapest segment of the river passes by the city’s principal landmarks that flank the Buda and Pest sides of the city. Taking a cruise is one of the most fun things to do in Budapest in spring and packs in a lot of sights!

The vast majority of river cruises operate seasonally from March until late September with options running in daylight hours and at night. There are various choices available to suit your travel style, budget, and availability.

Here are my top picks:

• 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Welcome Drink: this is the perfect all-rounder that works even if you’re only spending one day in Budapest and want to do something special at night. This evening cruise is economically priced and includes one alcoholic beverage.
• Budapest Daytime Sightseeing Cruise: If you would rather take a boat tour during the day then this is a great option. Cruises depart between 11 am – 5 pm and the price includes an audio guide.
• Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music: This cruise is ideal for a special occasion with friends or a romantic date night. The package includes a 4-course meal, one welcome drink, and a backdrop of live music.

Stroll along the Danube River

As well as taking in the scenery of the city from a boat you should factor in a springtime stroll along the banks. Or, if you’re traveling on a budget, a walk is the perfect alternative to taking a boat trip.

Both the Buda and Pest side of the city features lovely walking paths along the waterside. 

The Pest side affords views of Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church in their hilly setting. You can check out one of the city’s most beautiful and significant structures, the Hungarian Parliament Building before heading south. 

Stop to pay your respects at the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial during your walk. This representation of 60 pairs of cast iron shoes was placed in tribute to the 20,000 Jews who were slain during World War II after first being ordered to remove their shoes. It’s heartbreaking but important. 

Meanwhile, a walk across the Buda side provides the opposite experience and gives an incredible perspective of the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building.

Visit Fisherman’s Bastion at sunrise  

Fisherman’s Bastion is an icon of the Hungarian capital and should always feature on any Budapest itinerary.

Built during the 19th century, the fortress features turrets, towers, and walkways that provide panoramic views over to the Pest side of the city. The beautiful building looks like a fairytale setting and is one of the best Budapest Instagram spots. 

The best time to visit Fisherman’s Bastion is sunrise. However, during spring, that is usually between 5-6 am. If that’s too early for you, try to get there as soon as you can to experience the soft morning light.

The great thing about Budapest in spring is that the landmark is less crowded anyway. Even if you can’t make it there first thing you will still have a wonderful time.

While exploring Fisherman’s Bastion you can also pay a visit to one of the city’s most impressive churches – ​​Matthias Church. It has a long history as a coronation church and features roof tiles that have a diamond pattern. 

Roam the grounds of Buda Castle

Buda Castle is another of the city’s great emblems that you should always include in a Budapest itinerary. The palatial complex was originally used as a royal residence, although nowadays it’s the setting of the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.

Taking a turn around the grounds of Buda Castle is one of the essential things to do in Budapest in spring. No admission charge applies if you want to simply wander through the terraces, gardens, and city views.

You can take a leisurely stroll up to the top of the hill on a brisk spring morning or hop on the funicular if you’d prefer to conserve your energy.

Pause for a moment in the Castle Garden Bazaar

The Castle Garden Bazaar is a Neo-Renaissance complex of gardens, fountains, and architectural gems located at the base of the Buda Castle hill. It’s a beautiful spot year-round but if you visit during the spring months you’ll catch it at its greenest as it welcomes the season’s flowers.

If you visit Buda Castle on foot then the bazaar is a must in order to catch your breath!

Banish the winter blues in a thermal bath

Spring is the perfect time to seize the opportunity to wash off those winter blues in a steaming thermal bath!

Due to the city’s location on a fault line, Budapest is brimming with thermal baths that are naturally fed by 120 hot springs. The venues come in a variety of differing styles. There are some lavish options alongside budget-friendly alternatives.

When visiting Budapest in spring, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the number one choice. This majestic yellow complex was constructed in 1913 in the heart of City Park. It consists of inside and outside bathing pools that provide a luxurious and Instagrammable experience.

The baths are open daily, 7 am – 8 pm, and you can choose to reserve your tickets in advance online or line up. In springtime, the baths are less crowded however it’s still risky so it’s beneficial to book online before you turn up.

Hike up Gellert Hill

Gellért Hill is situated south of Buda Castle and overlooks the Danube River. It provides sensational views of the city landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

Atop the hill, you will find gardens, memorials, a Habsburg citadel, and the Gellért Hill Cave. This is a chapel complex carved into the hills and an exceptionally amazing place to visit in spring, specifically at the end of March, when the huge almond tree in front of the chapel is blooming.

During this time, locals and tourists alike flock to this place to photograph the tree so you can expect a big crowd, even if you visit during sunrise.

It takes around 20 minutes to walk up to the top of Gellért Hill and it is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset. As you know, sunrise is very early during spring in Budapest but it’s worth an early alarm clock! If you visit during cherry blossom season then Gellért Hill is one of the best places to see the trees. 

Gellért Hill is the setting for another of Budapest’s most beautiful thermal baths – some say this one is more impressive visually than  Széchenyi Thermal Bath. However, the Gellért Baths are fully-enclosed and you may prefer to visit this bathhouse when you visit Budapest during winter.

Visit a rooftop bar

Visiting a rooftop bar is a year-round activity in Budapest as the different bars reflect the current season with their decor and menu. But springtime sees a return to not having to worry about donning thermals and woolly hats ahead of your visit!

Make the most of the long evenings and agreeable temperatures afforded by Budapest in spring by heading to one of the city’s best bars.

• 360 Bar: The highest-altitude rooftop bar in Budapest, located on Andrássy Avenue. It offers stunning panoramic views over District V, including St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Budapest Eye, and the surrounding hills.
• Liz and Chain: Situated on the Pest side of the Danube, this bar provides scenic views of the river and Buda Castle. The cocktail and food menus change seasonally, making each visit unique.
• High Note SkyBar: Located on top of the Aria Hotel, this bar offers a unique perspective right next to St. Stephen’s Basilica, giving you a close-up view of one of Budapest’s most beautiful landmarks.

Spend an afternoon on Margaret Island

Margaret Island is a small island on the Danube River, located just north of the city’s District V. Spending a day exploring the island is one of the best outdoor things to do in Budapest in spring – not least because it’s one of the best places to witness cherry blossoms!

Attractions include the ruined 13th-century Franciscan monastery and covenant, a rose garden, a Japanese Garden, and the historic Margaret Island Water Tower which provides panoramic views. Family attractions include a water park and a couple of children’s playgrounds.

For wellness seekers, Margaret Island also features a health resort – the Ensana Thermal Margitsziget Health Spa – which is served by the thermal waters already mentioned. This is an option if you’re looking for where to stay in Budapest and fancy a detox before summer rolls in.

If you’re looking for the most beautiful cherry blossoms in Budapest in spring, don’t miss the huge cherry tree in front of the hotel!

Alternatively, you could visit the Palatinus Strand Baths for a few hours. These public thermal baths aren’t as impressive as the Széchenyi Thermal Baths but the atmosphere is unparalleled and they feature slides and wave pools. In fact, the Palatinus Baths are the oldest of their kind in the city!

You can explore Margaret Island on foot or by renting a bicycle. Either take a picnic with you or plan to make a stop for lunch at one of the restaurants on the island.

Hike in the Buda Hills

The arrival of spring in Budapest means that hiking is back on the table. There’s already plenty of walking featured in this guide with the likes of Gellért Hill and Margaret Island. However, if you want to get higher and more remote then you can plan a day trip to the Buda Hills. 

These hilly ranges are located west of the Buda side of the city and are easily accessible via train or the Zugliget Chairlift. Once in the hills, you can explore the scenery on foot following one of the hiking trails or via a rental bicycle.

Hiking trails range from short, easy hikes to longer routes. Elizabeth Tower on János Hill marks the highest point within the Buda Hills. It is accessible via chairlift or by taking a more strenuous trail uphill if you have more time. 

Indulge in an al fresco brunch

One of the greatest things about spring in Budapest is being able to eat outside again. As there is so much to see in the city, I wholeheartedly recommend starting at least one of your sightseeing days with a gourmet breakfast or brunch.

• Stika Gastropub: Located in the Jewish Quarter, this cozy spot offers an extensive menu, from egg dishes and pancakes to breakfast burgers and traditional Hungarian breakfasts. The outdoor seating is great for al fresco dining, while the lush greenery inside makes it feel like you’re outdoors.
• Törökméz: Perfect if you’re visiting Fisherman’s Bastion or Buda Castle early in the morning. Situated near Margaret Bridge, this café serves a globally inspired, health-conscious, and vegan-friendly breakfast menu. It also features a charming terrace and a plant-filled interior.
• Vintage Garden: A local favorite known for its seasonal decor, changing themes throughout the year. If you visit in spring, expect a floral wonderland while enjoying your meal.

In case you need some more local tips for breakfast in Budapest, be sure to check out my in-depth guide about the best breakfast places in Budapest which features more than 20 different cafes and brunch spots!

Experience culture at the Budapest Spring Festival

Besides seeing flora and landmarks, Budapest hosts several events during the spring months. The inaugural Budapest Spring Festival took place in 1981 and has been held every April since then. 

The two-week-long program consists of over 100 music events, theatrical and dance performances, film screenings of Hungarian cinema, and other cultural activities. Generally, the events are linked by a common theme that changes every year.

Most of the events take place in and around Vörösmarty Square on the Pest side. This same spot is the location for one of the best Christmas markets in Budapest as well as the next suggestion of cultural things to do in Budapest in spring.

Try on local food at the Budapest Easter Fair

The Easter Fair is another seasonal event that takes place during spring in Budapest. Subject to the dates of the holiday, this will occur in either March or April in Vörösmarty Square.

Activities at the fair range from Easter Egg Hunts, arts and crafts workshops, dances and concerts, and shopping at the pop-up stalls. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with kids however the fair has something to offer travelers of all ages. 

Most importantly, this annual fair is your golden opportunity to sample typical Hungarian cuisine and street eats! In case you missed the Christmas markets, you can try such foods as goulash, palinka, langos, paprikash stew, stuffed cabbage, grilled sausages, and chimney cake.

Explore the Jewish Quarter & Ruin Bars 

The Jewish Quarter is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Budapest. The streets around the three major synagogues in the area are decorated with street art and leafy urban parks. The food scene is phenomenal with a blend of kosher, Hungarian, and international restaurants and bistros. 

It’s worth visiting the Jewish Quarter twice: once to fully appreciate the architecture and synagogues and a second time to experience the nightlife. 

The Jewish Quarter is the setting for the famous “ruin bars” of Budapest, the most famous one is Szimpla Kert. Ruin bars are located in the courtyards of abandoned buildings and offer a unique experience at whatever time of year you visit.

As they are open-air, you’ll have a more enjoyable experience in the mid to late spring season when evenings are warmer.

Shop till you drop

Shopping probably doesn’t rank at the top of your list of things to do in Budapest in spring. However, if you are in the market for some new clothes for summer or want to take back some souvenirs for your loved ones then Budapest more than delivers.

Andrassy Avenue connects Heroes’ Square with the central neighborhoods of Pest and is lined with high-end boutiques. 

Alternatively, the first floor of the Great Market Hall has a myriad of souvenir stalls. While you’re there, you can tuck into seasonal produce at the ground floor food market.

Useful Info for Visiting Budapest in Spring

Reasons to visit Budapest in spring

In case you’re still weighing up your options, here are 3 reasons why you should spend at least one spring in Budapest.

• Gorgeous weather: The spring months see Budapest shrug off the thaw of winter and welcome warmer temperatures with sunnier skies. This means you can explore the city’s prominent sights on foot and travel with a lighter checked bag. 
• Blooms and Flowers: Spring sees the arrival of cherry blossom trees and seasonal blooms. One of the ultimate things to do in Budapest in spring is to take walks through the city parks and green spaces. Scroll down for more details about visiting Budapest to catch the seasonal flora. 
• Fewer tourists: Summer is the peak season for tourism in Budapest. July and August see the city overrun with domestic and international visitors and it may feel overwhelming. Choosing to visit Budapest in spring means you get to bypass the increased crowds and elevated accommodation prices.

Spring weather in Budapest

Spring in Budapest starts mid/late March and runs until the end of June. While the first signs of spring appear in March the weather remains chilly and unpredictable until around mid-April.

By mid/late April, you can anticipate pleasant daytime temperatures in the region of 17-19 °C (63-66 °F) and a balmy 20-25 °C (68-77 °F) during May and June. Beyond spring, July and August see average highs of 28 °C (82.4 °F).

Bear in mind that Budapest is prone to rainfall and storms during the spring season. This is usually fleeting and while it doesn’t get too cold you will appreciate an umbrella or poncho.

The majority of things to do in Budapest in spring are outdoors so you will need to factor the likelihood of rain into your plans.

Best time to visit Budapest for blooms and flowers

Experiencing the spring flora is one of the leading reasons to visit Budapest. Spring in Budapest sees the city erupt into a fragrant ocean of cherry blossoms, snowdrops, tulips, pansies, daffodils, and much more.

If you want to see the iconic snowdrops then March/early April is the best time to plan your visit to Budapest.

Meanwhile, April is the best season to see the pastel-pink cherry blossoms that bloom in Budapest in spring. Some of the best places to see them include the Tóth Árpád promenade near Buda Castle, Gellért Hill, Margaret Island, and the Füvészkert Botanical Gardens.

If you’re looking to catch specific flowers or blooms, here is a rough schedule of when is the best time to see them:

• Snowdrops: mid-to-late March
• Almond blossoms: end of March
• Plum blossoms: beginning of April
• Cherry blossoms: mid-April
• Daffodils: mid-April
• Rapeseed: end of April/beginning of May
• Lilacs: beginning of May
• Poppies: mid-May

Where to stay in Budapest in spring

Although Budapest can seem like a big city when looking at the map, in reality, it’s quite compact and walkable. Most tourist attractions and the best things to do in Budapest in spring are located in the city center so I would recommend looking in this direction.

The classic city center is located on the Pest side, comprising districts 5, 6, and 7. Alternatively, districts 8, 9, and 13 can be a great choice as well, although you will have to calculate with a bit of a commute time in this case.

If you want to learn more about the different districts in Budapest, make sure to check out my in-depth guide about where to stay in Budapest!

If you’re looking for a quick solution, below you can find some of the best hotels to stay in the city center of Budapest, depending on your budget.

• Luxury: Anantara New York Palace Budapest
• Mid-Range: Hotel Moments Budapest
• Budget: T62 Hotel