With temperatures creeping above 30 degrees, you might be dreaming of shady, cool spots instead of squeezing onto a packed sightseeing bus. And that’s totally okay. We’ve rounded up five places in the city where you can beat the heat and have a great time.
Take a plunge
The easiest way to beat the heat? Dive headfirst into a pool! As Budapest is the city of spas, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to baths and lidos. Swim at the Alfréd Hajós National Pool Complex or Palatinus Open-Air Baths on Margaret Island. Take the kids to the Aquaworld or Dagály! Head to the less crowded Paskál or Római Baths! Or, if you're in the mood for something classic, explore the thermal baths like Lukács, Széchenyi or Gellért – each with its own outdoor pools!
Chill at Római-part
Római-part is the ultimate riverside hangout in the city, coming with retro but friendly vibes. You can even swim in the Danube here until August 20th (in a designated area, of course). Grab some fried fish at Evezős Sörkert, try the Hungarian deep-fried flatbread lángos, topped with sour cream and cheese, or kick back with a spritzer (wine and sparkling water mixed to your liking) while dipping your toes in the river at Nap bácsi!
More waterfront spots here.
Watch a film at Művész Art Cinema
If cooling down with popcorn in hand while watching blockbusters sounds like your kind of fun, head to an art cinema and sit back! Művész on the Grand Boulevard is a top pick; they screen films in the original language with Hungarian subtitles, and Hungarian movies come with English subtitles. It's laidback and quirky, plus you can even grab a glass of wine or beer before the show starts.
Get tickets here or on-site.
Explore an exhibition at the Hungarian National Museum
A museum is always a superb choice when you're looking for a cool escape. And if you're eager to wander around in a stunning Neo-Classical building from the 1840s that also happens to be one of Budapest's most prominent museums, step into the Hungarian National Museum! It's a must-see for history buffs, and until August 25th, you can dive into the world of bridal gowns and love stories at the Hungarian Bride exhibition! While it's a feast for the eye, you'll also learn about the evolving roles of women in marriage. Plus, don't miss the photo exhibition by the young André Kertész – definitely worth a visit too! (x)
Get tickets here.
Visit St Stephen's Basilica
Budapest's churches are truly stunning, and if you find yourself aching for some cooling down, they're a great option for a refreshing break. St Stephen's Basilica, standing tall (it's the tallest building on the Pest side along with the Parliament) and proud in downtown Budapest, welcomes you with high ceilings, the scent of frankincense, and all the coolness that its massive walls can provide. You can even catch organ concerts while there.
Get tickets here.
(Cover photo: Mudra László - We Love Budapest)
