1. Krisztián Bódis, Bertalan Soós: Budapest
A book that's about to launch – and we're already first in line. Why? Because it's packed with street photos by two brilliant photographers, no stranger to We Love Budapest: Krisztián Bódis and Bertalan Soós . They've spent the past 15 years capturing the soul of the city , and this collection is a curated snapshot of their best work. Sure, you'll spot iconic landmarks – but the real deal lies in what's beyond the postcard shots . Think contemporary art, layered architecture, locals on bikes, in baths, at parties, or skating through ice rinks. 236 pages of pure Budapest: beautiful, vibrant, and full of unexpected moments – just like the city itself.
Budapest is getting launched on 11 June , and you can preorder it here .
2. Narratives of Budapest
Released last June, Narratives of Budapest offers a fresh way to discover the city through personal essays and interviews that put people in the spotlight. From city patriots and photographers to artists, writers, translators, tour guides, historians, and cultural pioneers, the book brings together voices that shape Budapest's creative pulse. Expect deep dives into the independent art and literature scenes, along with intimate portraits of some of Budapest's most fascinating characters . Fun facts? Nothing quite like this has ever been published about Budapest – especially not in English.
Order it here .
3. Alan Shivers: Europea Halls 2: A Summer in Budapest
This one's not for the faint-hearted. A sequel to the hip slasher novel Europea Halls , you can definitely expect some blood, but hey, it also comes with pretty amazing Budapest tips. It's fast-paced, nerve-wracking, surprisingly funny in all the right places, and easy to get into . The story picks up with the international crew who survived a serial killer's rampage in their elite Brussels dorms (catch up on the first book ). Now it's summer, and they're in Budapest to forget the trauma – only for the Hungarian capital to become the setting for their next nightmare . They roam through both iconic and off-the-beaten-path spots (take notes for your next trip): pre-drinks at Deák tér , party at Instant , a soak in Széchenyi Baths , and meals at Napfényes and Mazel Tov . Spoiler: nothing good comes of it. The author, Alan , lived in Budapest and was keen to set the story here as a love letter to the city.
Order it here . The third part is also out.
4. Zsanett Fürdös: City Park
One of Budapest's most idyllic parts is the City Park (Városliget), and now, you can have a full book on it. The latest volume in the 10+1 Budapest series, a pocket-sized guide , explores the landmarks of the area. It's perfect for anyone who wants to learn a bit more about the buildings while strolling through the park – and trust us, that stroll is a must when in Budapest. In the book, after a general introduction, you'll find curious facts and stories about the Museum of Fine Arts , the Kunsthalle , the Zoo , the iconic Gundel Restaurant , the House of Music Hungary and the Museum of Ethnography . And a bonus fact: you'll also learn why there's a bridge in the park that leads nowhere.
Order it here or find it in independent bookstores (like Atlantis, House of Music Hungary, or Írók Boltja ).
5. BUDA + PEST BY LABROSSE – Awesome Look & Find Book
Here's a fun and colorful way to explore Budapest: through its very own version of Busytown . Made for children but suitable for all ages, this look-and-find book turns the city into a treasure hunt. Tag along with the Prince of Buda and the Princess of Pest as they play hide-and-seek across twelve unique locations . You'll spot them (if you can!) in a sea of quirky characters and creatures. Not every challenge is easy – but don't worry, witty clues will nudge you in the right direction. And once the adventure is completed on the pages, go ahead and discover these attractions in real life.
Take a peek here and order it here .
+1 The Hungarian Cookbook
Goulash soup, Hortobágyi meat pancakes, catfish paprikash, and strudel – call us biased, but we strongly believe Hungarian cuisine is one of the heartiest in Europe. And if you also fell in love with what was on your plate during your Budapest trip, this recipe book makes the perfect souvenir . It's packed with classic recipes – from starters and soups to main courses, dumplings, and desserts – many dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. Alongside detailed instructions, you'll find bite-sized stories setting the scene for each chapter, plus stunning, mouthwatering photos that bring every dish to life. So roll up your sleeves and recreate Hungarian staples like Jókai bean soup, stuffed peppers, curd cheese pasta and potato scones – right in your own kitchen.
Order it here .
(Cover photo: We Love Budapest)
