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There’s something about Budapest that keeps pulling us back — maybe it’s the thermal baths, the glowing bridges over the Danube, or the easy-going rhythm that makes it one of our favorite cities in Europe.
The city is full of incredible historic buildings, amazing (and surprisingly affordable) restaurants, and beautiful hotels for every kind of traveler. Getting around couldn’t be easier either — once you grab a day pass for public transport, the whole city opens up.
We live only about three hours away by car, so since 2020 we’ve visited many times — and somehow, it never gets old. What we love most is how Budapest completely changes with the seasons.
In summer, it’s vibrant and full of life with rooftop bars, Danube cruises, and outdoor festivals. In winter, it turns cozy and magical — with steaming baths, mulled wine, and some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. It honestly feels like two different cities depending on when you visit, and both are worth experiencing.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering where to stay in Budapest, just keep reading. Choosing the right district really shapes your experience — especially if it’s your first time here.
Even if you’ve been before, this guide will help you discover new areas and hotels to fall in love with. We’ve also added a few bonus tips on the best places to stay in Budapest during the Christmas markets to help you plan your visit no matter the season.
We’ve rounded up our favorite hotels and top-rated areas to help you plan the perfect trip — whether it’s your first visit or your third.
In a hurry?
These are our top hotels in Budapest we’d book again
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hotel Vision (Our Top Pick) – Mid-range hotel with stylish rooms, Danube views, and unbeatable price for its comfort and location.
👉 See prices & availability →
⭐️⭐️ Aria Hotel Budapest – 5-star luxury hotel next to St. Stephen’s Basilica.
👉 See prices & availability →
⭐️ Walk Inn Váci 78 – Budget-friendly stay in District V, clean, central, and great value for money.
👉 See prices & availability →
Where to Stay in Budapest: Our Experience
We stayed in District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) on our very first trip in 2020, and it was love at first sight. Waking up to the tram bells, strolling past Parliament, and watching the Danube at sunset made the city feel instantly magical.
It’s no surprise so many people consider it the best area to stay in Budapest — everything you want to see is right at your doorstep, and the atmosphere feels both elegant and vibrant. We’ve come back a few times since, and this area keeps pulling us in.
If you’re nearby, grab a cozy, home-style meal at Parasztkonyha Restaurant.
Later, we tried District I (Buda Castle District) on the other side of the river, and the mood shifted completely. Quiet streets, soft evening light, and postcard views from Fisherman’s Bastion made it feel peaceful and romantic.
Dinner at Ildikó Konyhája was a highlight — simple, traditional, and full of flavor.
We also spent a few nights in District VI (Terézváros), and it quickly became a favorite for longer stays. Elegant streets around Andrássy Avenue, easy walks to the Opera, and café breaks that slow you down in the best way.
Cafe Brunch – Opera became our morning ritual.
We haven’t stayed overnight in District VII (Jewish Quarter) yet, but we’ve spent a lot of time exploring it — especially its cafés, bars, and markets. It’s lively, colorful, and full of energy, and we can easily see why so many travelers choose it. We’re definitely planning to stay there next time to experience the atmosphere from morning to night.
Every district gave us a different feel — from the grand and elegant to the cozy and local. Keep reading to find out which area might be right for you and check out our favorite hotels in each neighborhood below.
Best Areas to Stay in Budapest
Before we dive in, here’s a quick map to get a feel for where everything is. It’s a great way to see how close the main districts are, helping you decide which area fits your trip best.
District V (Belváros-Lipótváros)
District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) is right in the center of the city, and honestly, it’s hard to imagine a better place for a first visit. You’re within a 10-minute walk of almost everything — the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Chain Bridge are all just around the corner. The streets feel alive but never overwhelming, and we loved how easy it was to get everywhere on foot or by tram.
The vibe here is charming, romantic, and full of life. Mornings start with the sound of trams and the smell of coffee from little cafés around Zrínyi Street, and evenings are perfect for riverside walks as the city lights reflect on the Danube.
This was the first area we ever stayed in Budapest, and it instantly made us fall in love with the city. It’s safe, beautiful, and has that “everything’s right outside the door” feeling.
It’s also the best area to stay in Budapest if you’re visiting during the Christmas Markets. Both the main market at Vörösmarty Square and the Basilica Market are just a short walk away. Later in this guide, we’ll share the best hotels near the Christmas markets that make your stay feel even more special.
✅ Pros: Walkable, elegant, romantic, close to main attractions
❌ Cons: Hotels can be pricey in high season
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors, couples, and anyone visiting during the Christmas Markets
District VI – Terézváros
District VI sits right next to the city center, stretching along Andrássy Avenue and the Opera House. It’s one of those areas that feels close to everything yet never too crowded. You can walk to the Basilica or the Jewish Quarter in about ten minutes, and hop on the metro to City Park in just a few stops — super easy and well-connected.
What we love about this district is how comfortable it feels. The streets are wide and calm, lined with grand old buildings and small neighborhood cafés where locals actually hang out. We spent many slow mornings here at Cafe Brunch – Opera, our go-to spot for breakfast and coffee before heading out to explore.
Staying here feels like slipping into the rhythm of the city — a mix of culture, great food, and quiet charm that’s easy to fall in love with. It’s ideal if you want to be close to everything but still have a peaceful base to come back to.
If you can, find a place near Andrássy Avenue or close to the Opera — it’s one of the prettiest parts of the city and perfect for evening walks when the lights come on.
✅ Pros: Central, peaceful, great cafés, easy access everywhere
❌ Cons: Nightlife is more low-key
⭐️ Best for: Couples, culture lovers, and anyone who wants a relaxed city stay
District VII Jewish Quarter
District VII sits just behind the Basilica, about a 10-minute walk from the river and Andrássy Avenue. It’s one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the city, full of street art, small courtyards, and a mix of old charm and creative energy.
The vibe here is lively, fun, and a little bit chaotic — in the best way. We highly recommend stopping by My Little Melbourne or Mazel Tov for coffee or brunch — these are our favorite spots to start the day before exploring.
And when the sun goes down, head to Szimpla Kert, the city’s most famous ruin bar, to experience Budapest’s nightlife at its best. Everything feels close and walkable, from vintage shops and food markets to quirky wine bars tucked behind old façades.
We haven’t stayed overnight here yet, but we’ve spent plenty of time exploring, and it’s easy to see why so many people love it. There’s always something happening — music, pop-up stalls, and locals chatting late into the night. Next time we visit, this is where we want to base ourselves just to feel that energy from morning to evening.
If you visit, plan for a late dinner and wander — Dob Street and Kazinczy Street are where you’ll find the best mix of food, drinks, and atmosphere.
✅ Pros: Lively, full of cafés and bars, great food scene
❌ Cons: Can be noisy at night, parking is tricky
⭐️ Best for: Food lovers, nightlife lovers, and anyone who wants to feel Budapest’s creative side
District I – Buda Castle District (Best for Views & History)
District I sits across the river from the city center, just a short walk over the Chain Bridge. You can reach District V and most of the city’s main attractions in about 15 to 20 minutes on foot, or around 10 minutes by bus. It’s close enough to everything yet feels like a peaceful escape from the busy streets across the river.
The area is calm, historic, and full of charm — cobblestone lanes, red rooftops, and postcard-perfect views. We took advantage of staying here and came to Fisherman’s Bastion for sunrise — it was absolutely magical, and we highly recommend doing the same before the crowds arrive.
The best hotels are lined along the river, offering incredible views of Parliament and the Chain Bridge. They’re some of the most expensive in the city, but the views are worth it.
If you want to try traditional Hungarian food, we recommend eating at Ildikó Konyhája, which serves home-style dishes.
✅ Pros: Peaceful, scenic, historic, amazing views
❌ Cons: Pricier hotels along the river, uphill walks
⭐️ Best for: Couples, history lovers, and anyone who wants a quieter, more romantic stay
Best Hotels in Budapest
This list brings together our favorite top-rated Budapest hotels across the city. Each one is a place we’ve either stayed at ourselves or would genuinely book after exploring all the main areas — we’ve done the research (and plenty of nights here) so you don’t have to.
Best Hotels in District V
Staying in District V means being right in the heart of the city, surrounded by the city’s most beautiful landmarks and elegant streets. It’s the perfect base if you want to walk everywhere, enjoy romantic river views, and experience that classic atmosphere from the moment you step outside.
Walk Inn Váci 78 $
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in the heart of the action, Walk Inn Váci 78 is one of the best-value options around. It was actually the first hotel we ever stayed at in Budapest, and we still recommend it to anyone who wants to be central without overspending. The location is perfect — right on Váci Street, surrounded by cafés, shops, and just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Chain Bridge.
What we loved most about this hotel was how easy it made exploring the city. You can walk everywhere, and despite being so central, the rooms are quiet, bright, and comfortable. Of course, there are a few slightly cheaper hotels/hostels around, but this one is absolutely worth paying a few extra euros for the comfort and location alone.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a clean, quiet, and central stay close to everything
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Hotel Vision Budapest by Continental Group $$ (Our Top Pick)
If you’re after a hotel that combines modern comfort, river views, and a great location, Hotel Vision is one we’d really like to stay at next time. It sits right on the Danube River, just a short walk from Váci Street, the Chain Bridge, and St. Stephen’s Basilica, so it’s perfect if you want to explore the city on foot.
It’s our top pick because it offers incredible value for the level of comfort and the views you get. The rooms are sleek and beautifully designed, many overlooking the river, and the overall atmosphere feels calm and polished without being overly formal.
For us, it strikes that perfect balance — a mid-range price with the kind of quality and setting you’d expect from a higher-end stay.
Best for: Travelers who want stylish comfort, river views, and great value in a central location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Aria Hotel by Library Hotel Collection $$$ (Our Dream Stay)
If you’re after a stay that truly feels special, the Aria Hotel in District V is our dream pick. It’s just steps from St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Chain Bridge, offering one of the best locations in the city for exploring on foot.
What makes it stand out is its elegant, music-inspired design and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are beautifully detailed, the service is exceptional, the breakfast is extraordinary, the spa is amazing, and from the rooftop bar, you get a breathtaking view directly over St. Stephen’s Basilica — one of the most iconic sights in Budapest.
It’s one of the best-rated hotels in the city — luxurious without feeling pretentious — and the kind of place we’d love to stay one day for a truly memorable trip.
Best for: Travelers who want a refined, central stay with luxury touches and incredible Basilica views
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Best Hotels in District VI
Staying in District VI gives you the best of both worlds — close to the main sights but tucked away enough to feel calm and local. It’s a great choice if you love beautiful architecture, cozy cafés, and a more relaxed pace, all while being just minutes from everywhere you want to be.
Serenity Boutique $
If you’re looking for an affordable and peaceful stay in District VI, Serenity Boutique is a great pick. It’s tucked away on a quiet street just a short walk from Andrássy Avenue and the Opera House, so you’re close to everything but still get that relaxed, local feel.
What we loved most here is how modern and homey it feels — the rooms are bright, spotless, and thoughtfully designed, and the kitchen in the apartment is beautiful, perfect if you like making your own breakfast before heading out. For just 10 or 20 euros more than the very cheapest hotels, you get really nice accommodation that feels comfortable and well cared for.
For the price and location, it’s easily one of the best-value stays in this part of the city.
Best for: Travelers who want a quiet, modern apartment-style stay near Andrássy Avenue
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Hotel Oktogon Haggenmacher by Continental Group $$ (Our Top Pick)
If you want a stylish mid-range stay with great value, Hotel Oktogon Haggenmacher is one of the best options in District VI. Set right on Andrássy Avenue, it’s close to the Opera House, cozy cafés, and boutique shops, with easy access to public transport and the main sights — ideal if you’re looking for where to stay in Budapest city center.
What makes this hotel stand out is how it blends historic architecture with a modern, welcoming feel. The rooms are clean, quiet, safe, comfortable, and surprisingly spacious, with a great shower and everything you need for a relaxing stay. There’s even a small wellness area and fitness room — a nice touch for a hotel in this price range.
It’s our top pick in District VI because for the price, you get a perfect mix of comfort, location, and amenities — the kind of hotel that feels far more upscale than it costs.
Best for: Travelers who want stylish comfort, great value, and a central yet relaxed location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Hotel Moments by Continental Group $$$
If you’re after modern design, comfort, and a location that couldn’t be better, Hotel Moments is one of the top-rated luxury stays in District VI. It sits right on Andrássy Avenue, perfectly positioned between the Ruin Bars and the city’s main attractions — ideal if you’re deciding where to stay in Budapest and want everything within walking distance.
The interiors are elegant and beautifully decorated, with high ceilings, soft lighting, and a refined, welcoming feel. Rooms are spacious and stylish without being overdone, and everything from the service to the breakfast has an attention to detail that makes it stand out.
It’s one of those hotels that immediately feels special from the moment you walk in — combining modern luxury, excellent location, and top-tier comfort all in one.
Best for: Travelers who want a high-end stay with elegant design and the perfect central location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Best Hotels in District VI
If you’re after atmosphere and energy, District VII is where this city really comes alive. It’s packed with great food, street art, and nightlife — the kind of place where there’s always something happening just around the corner.
Lizu Apartment $
If you want to stay right in the heart of District VII without spending much, Lizu Apartment is a great find. It’s close to Dob Street and Kazinczy Street, so you’ll be surrounded by cafés, street art, and some of Budapest’s best ruin bars — all just a few minutes’ walk away.
The apartment is modern, clean, and surprisingly quiet for such a central location. There’s a small but well-equipped kitchen, perfect if you like making breakfast before heading out, and the layout feels cozy yet functional — ideal for couples or solo travelers.
For the price, it’s hard to beat this mix of location, comfort, and value in one.
Best for: Travelers who want an affordable, modern base close to nightlife and great food
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Florin Apart Hotel $$ (Our Top Pick)
If you want to stay in the heart of District VII but still have a calm, stylish place to come back to, Florin Apart Hotel is a perfect choice. It’s just around the corner from Dob Street and Kazinczy Street, where you’ll find great cafés, restaurants, and nightlife — all within a short walk.
What we really like about this place is how much comfort and quality you get for the price. The rooms are modern, clean, and well-designed, with a cozy apartment feel that makes it easy to settle in. It’s the kind of stay that feels a little more upscale than you’d expect in this price range.
It’s our top pick in District VII because it has that perfect balance — great location, beautiful design, and good value all in one.
Best for: Travelers who want a stylish, central stay close to the city’s best food and nightlife for a good price
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Anantara New York Palace $$$ (Our Second Top Pick)
Few places capture Budapest’s elegance quite like Anantara New York Palace. Set in a breathtaking 19th-century building in District VII, it perfectly combines historic charm with five-star comfort. From the moment you walk through the marble lobby with its chandeliers and gold details, you know you’re somewhere special.
It’s our second top pick in this area because the interior is truly unique and unforgettable. The rooms are elegant, spacious, and beautifully restored, while the famous New York Café — often called the most beautiful café in the world — feels straight out of a movie.
Tip: If you visit the café, be ready for high prices — around €60 for two coffees and a dessert.
Best for: Travelers who want a luxurious, iconic stay in Budapest
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Best Hotels in District I
For a quieter, more romantic side of the city, District I is hard to beat. Perched above the Danube, it offers stunning views, cobblestone streets, and a peaceful charm that feels worlds away from the busy center — even though it’s just a short walk across the bridge.
Hillside Central Apartments $
If you’re after an affordable and peaceful stay in Budapest, Hillside Central Apartments is a great choice in District I. It’s set in a quiet area on the Buda side, about 10–15 minutes from the city center — perfect if you want more space and calm.
The apartments are beautiful, new, and clean, with a gorgeous rooftop and flexible check-out if no one’s arriving after you. It’s comfortable, modern, and easily one of the best-value stays in this part of the city.
Best for: People who want an affordable, modern apartment in a quiet Buda location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Maison Bistro & Hotel $$ (Our Top Pick)
If you’re looking for one of the best boutique hotels in Budapest, Maison Bistro & Hotel is our top pick in District I. It’s tucked into a peaceful corner near Fisherman’s Bastion, giving you easy access to the Castle District while staying close to buses that run every 5 minutes to the city center.
What makes this place special is its thoughtful design, cozy atmosphere, and unique touches — like the option to skip room cleaning and receive a 2,000 HUF daily restaurant voucher instead, something you rarely see elsewhere.
The rooms are elegant yet homely, and the on-site bistro serves excellent Hungarian dishes in a warm, local setting. It’s the kind of place that instantly makes you feel comfortable — relaxed, romantic, and run by people who really care about the details.
Best for: Travelers who want a cozy, well-designed boutique hotel with great food and location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Hotel Clark $$$ (Adults Only)
We stayed at Hotel Clark in 2024, when Nika was pregnant, and it instantly became one of our favorite stays in the city. Now we couldn’t stay there anymore because we have our little miracle, Ema — but that’s okay, since this adults-only hotel is really made for couples.
Right by the Chain Bridge, it offers incredible Danube River views, especially from the rooftop bar. The rooms are modern and cozy, the staff welcoming, and Leo Bistro downstairs serves amazing food. Watching the sunset from the rooftop was unforgettable. The only small downside is that the gym is connected to the spa area, so there’s not much privacy when working out.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Budapest for a romantic trip, this is one of our best picks.
Best for: Couples who want a romantic, adults-only stay with unbeatable Danube and Chain Bridge views
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Hilton Budapest $$$
We’re adding one extra hotel since our previous luxury pick was adults only, and Hilton Budapest is perfect if you’re traveling as a couple or family. It’s set right next to Fisherman’s Bastion, offering some of the best Danube and Parliament views in the city.
The rooms are spacious, quiet, and elegant, with that classic Hilton comfort and top-notch service. The location couldn’t be better for exploring Buda Castle District, especially if you want to stay somewhere scenic and peaceful.
Best for: People who want a luxury stay with incredible views and a family-friendly atmosphere
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Best Hotels near Christmas Markets
Prestige Hotel $$
As we promised, here’s one of the best hotels to stay in Budapest when visiting the Christmas markets. Prestige Hotel is just a few minutes from St. Stephen’s Basilica, placing you right in the heart of the festive lights, music, and winter charm.
The hotel is set in a beautifully restored historic building with elegant interiors, cozy rooms, and a calm atmosphere — perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the markets and sipping mulled wine by the Danube River.
Best for: Travelers visiting during Christmas who want elegance, comfort, and a central location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
The Three Corners Downtown Hotel $$
The Three Corners Downtown Hotel is another great option we recommend if you’re visiting Budapest for the Christmas markets. It’s just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica and Vörösmarty Square, where all the lights, music, and food stalls create that perfect winter vibe.
The rooms are modern, cozy, and clean, and even though you’re right in the center, it still feels peaceful. The breakfast is excellent — exactly what you need before heading out for a day of exploring and sipping wine.
Best for: Christmas market visitors who want comfort for great value
👉 Check availability and current prices →
FAQ about the best places to stay in Budapest
Where should first-time visitors stay in Budapest?
Based on our experience, the best area for first-timers is District V — everything is close by, from St. Stephen’s Basilica to the Chain Bridge, plus plenty of great restaurants and cafés. If you prefer something quieter, District I on the Buda side is another favorite for its historic charm and beautiful views.
What is the best place to stay in Budapest for couples?
For a romantic getaway, District V is ideal — central, elegant, and perfect for sunset walks by the Danube, while District I offers peaceful charm and castle views. We recommend Cortile Hotel Budapest and Hotel Collect, two top-rated adults-only hotels perfect for couples.
Where to stay in Budapest for nightlife?
Definitely District VII (Jewish Quarter) — it’s full of ruin bars, rooftop spots, and late-night cafés. Stay near Dob Street or Kazinczy Street for the best vibe, but pick a quieter side street if you want to sleep well.
What are the best 5-star hotels in Budapest?
For a luxury stay, we recommend Aria Hotel Budapest, Matild Palace, and Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa — all top-rated for their design, comfort, and service, each offering a unique vibe.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Budapest
No matter how many times we visit, Budapest always surprises us with something new — from stylish boutique hotels to cozy local stays. Whether you want to be near the Christmas markets, the ruin bars, or the Danube views, each district has its own charm.
Choose the area that matches your vibe, and you’ll quickly see why we keep coming back to this city again and again.
