But first, breakfast!
First things first: let's grab a bite to eat, and fuel up with coffee to kick off the day right. We recently compiled a list of our favourite breakfast and brunch spots in the city, which you can check out here. But if you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new off the beaten path, take a local’s tip and check out Rojt és Bojt (Fringe and Tassel) in Buda!
While there is an old joint in the area, head to the much roomier café-breakfast spot, perched along the Granite Steps, leading to the Castle District. Start your day here with a delicious egg dish or sandwich special, sip on a refreshing smoothie or orange juice, and top it off with a killer coffee before you take on whatever the day has in store – and if it's raining? Well, that's just background noise.
Culture up at a museum
After indulging in some culinary delights, why not dive into a bit of art exploration? Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities to do so around the city. We've recently rounded up the best exhibitions for 2025 here, and we've also made a list of when to visit Budapest museums for free, but if you visit just one arts pot, make it the Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Centre on Nagymező utca. It's the perfect chance to check out their monumental permanent exhibition dedicated to the iconic photographer. Not only will you see his famous shots, often only found in books, but if you visit until the end of March, you'll also get a glimpse into a collection of Eastern European perspectives. But if fashion speaks more to your heart, you can also check out the recently opened Folk Fashion exhibition at the stunning Hungarian Heritage House.
Get active or wind down in a bath
Budapest is a bath lover's paradise, so you're never far from a relaxing dip or soak. Lukács Baths is a local gem with saunas to help you unwind after a swim. Széchenyi and Gellért Baths are two iconic spots where you can enjoy both the soothing thermal waters and stunning historic architecture. Rudas Baths takes it up a notch with spa treatments, a rooftop jacuzzi, and a traditional Turkish bath section.
Popcorn and a film
Budapest boasts some fantastic art cinemas, where films are usually shown in their original language. You can even catch Hungarian movies with English subtitles – currently, big hits like Gone Running or Emma and the Death's Head. Check out spots like Toldi, Művész, Puskin, or Kino Café. And for something extra special, head to Bem Cinema – our favourite repertory theatre on the Buda side near Margaret Bridge, where they screen big classics in a charming, old-school setting.
Catch great concerts
Budapest's concert scene is nothing short of electric, and the city boasts iconic venues to match them. From the –an old stationary boat near Petőfi Bridge – to downtown Akvárium Klub, Müpa, and the stunning House of Music Hungary, designed by Japanese Sou Fujimoto in City Park. Whether rain or shine, these spots deliver brilliant lineups and top-notch acoustics.
Cosy up at a café or slurp on hot soup
Gloomy days call for a cosy coffee shop and a steaming hot drink – and luckily, Budapest has no shortage of options. We've collected our 5 favourites in a previous article, from spots with cosy living room vibes and stacks of books to places serving up creative hot chocolates. And if you've worked up an appetite and prefer a hearty dinner while rain pours outside, we've got you covered with the best soups in town.
(Cover photo: Márton Koncz - We Love Budapest)
