The Danube is not just about rowing and fishing. There are beaches, too, dotted the length of the river that connects Budapest with waterside destinations such as Szentendre, Nagymaros and Verőce. Here we select the best ones, all within easy reach of Budapest by car, boat, train or bus. Created in co-operation with DunakanyarGO.

1/10

Bánki-tó

People called Bánki-tó (Lake Bánk) ‘The Eye of the Sea’. This small lake at Bánk, north of Vác, is frequented for its relaxing warm water temperature in summer, ideal for swimming and fishing. 

Bánk, Tópárti sétány

2/10

Dunabogdány

The waters of the Danube at Dunabogdány are clear, and the shore is sandy, making this perfect for a day out or a tour. Bear in mind that swimming in rivers may hold unseen dangers. 

Dunabogdány, Kossuth Lajos út 129

3/10

Göd Danube bank

Close to Pest, at this free beach at Göd, visitors can rent a bike or a canoe. Swimming is allowed on both banks because the water quality is excellent. 

Göd, Béke út 1

4/10

Kismarosi Homoksziget

This super sandy beach has a slightly seasidey resemblance if the water level of the river Maros is low. This idyllic place was an inspiration for the closing scene of the 1962 Hungarian classic historical romance, Az aranyember

Between Kismaros and Nagymaros

5/10

Nagymaros Beach

The sandy beach at Nagymaros towards Visegrád Castle has only recently been designated as an official spot for swimming. Locals and tourists swarm here in summer, so the bar, the café, the ice cream stall and lángos vendor do a roaring trade. 

Nagymaros, Hunyadi sétány

6/10

Pilismaróti bay

A hidden gem of peaceful harmony in the middle of nowhere, Pilismaróti öböl (Pilismarót Bay) awaits visitors on summer days. They should pack drinking water and camping gear in case of they fancy a long day’s fishing. The nearby ships’ graveyard is worth a visit. 

Pilismarót, Rév utca

7/10

Szentendre Beach

The free public beach at Szentendre opened in 2016, with a buffet, shower, lockers and a playground. The free-pour ice cream at Kacsakő Bisztró is unmissable. 

Szentendre, Strand utca

8/10

Szigetspicc

A nomadic paradise in Kisoroszi, Szigetspicc is an ideal place for getting back to nature with the kids. Don't forget the mosquito repellent! 

Kisoroszi

9/10

Verőce Beach

The settlement of Verőce lives in harmony with the river Danube. On the beach, huge bonfires light up the summer nights. The shore is grassy, the water is clear. 

Verőce, Árpád út 5

10/10

Zebegény Danube bank

The Danube shore at Zebegény contains a free public beach with a first-aid centre, showers and toilets. Visitors can rent canoes and use the free sunbeds. 

Zebegény, Napraforgó utca 12