How to Discover Budapest like a Local

Budapest, Hungary’s enchanting capital, is often described as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities—rightly so. The city offers experiences well beyond the typical tourist checklist: here, you can visit historic thermal baths, grand architecture, and unique ruin pubs, too. If you want to discover the city like a local, you must step off the beaten path—here’s your guide to experiencing Budapest!

Start Your Morning at a Local Market

No matter where you’re staying, you’ll find a market nearby—locals love buying fresh vegetables, homemade cheeses and jams, or delicious meat and fish early in the morning, so it’s time for you to join them for an authentic experience. Check out Fény Street Market near Széll Kálmán tér, where you’ll find every produce you can think of, including Hungarian sausages and, of course, friendly vendors who are more than happy to chat with you. Grab a lángos (fried dough with sour cream and cheese) and enjoy it with a coffee, and you’ll have enough energy for a long day of sightseeing.

Get Around Like a Local

While the Budapest Metro is convenient, locals often prefer the city’s iconic yellow tram line 2, which runs along the Danube on the Pest side. This beautiful route gives you panoramic views of Buda Castle or the Parliament, and you can also admire the bridges connecting the city’s two sides.

For a truly local experience, hop on tram 4 or 6, which runs 24/7 and connects several major districts. It’s a lifeline for Budapesters, especially students and night owls. Just be sure to validate your ticket—fare inspectors are a serious business here!

Cycling is also becoming popular, as the city has expanded its bike lanes, and you can also use MOL Bubi, Budapest’s public bike-sharing system.

Visit Lesser-Known Baths

You’ve probably heard that Széchenyi and Gellért baths are legendary, but locals often prefer quieter spots. Rudas Baths is located at the foot of Gellért Hill, and it has a stunning rooftop hot tub with beautiful views over the city. It’s a mix of the old and the modern, as it combines centuries-old Turkish baths with a new wellness area. For an even more isolated spot, visit Veli Bej, a restored Ottoman bath. They limit the number of guests, making sure you’ll get a calm experience surrounded by Budapesters looking to relax after a long week.

Explore the Beauties of Buda

Tourists usually spend most of their time on the Pest side, a place packed with pubs and restaurants full of energy. But Buda, with its hills, winding streets, green spaces, and nature trails, is where many locals prefer to live and relax.

Take a hike up Normafa and admire the view and fresh air, or visit the Children’s Railway, operated by children (under adult supervision), which takes you through the beautiful Buda hills. Locals love to spend weekends here, walking their dogs or enjoying a picnic.

Don’t skip the charming neighbourhoods like Tabán or Krisztinaváros either—these quiet, residential areas are filled with historical houses, cosy cafés, and secret courtyards. They’re perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk or people-watching from a shaded bench.

Experience the Ruin Bars—but Not Just Szimpla

Szimpla Kert may be the most famous ruin bar, but dozens of others have fewer tourists and more local flavour. Ellátó Kert, Fogas Ház, and Instant are packed with mismatched furniture, intriguing décor, and a diverse and laid-back crowd.

If you’re looking for something more low-key, Csendes Bar is like stepping into a bohemian antique shop. It’s a great spot to relax with a glass of fröccs (wine spritzer), a go-to drink for practically every Hungarian in the summer.

For a twist, try a daytime ruin pub brunch or art event—many of these bars double as cultural spaces, hosting exhibitions, workshops, and pop-up markets. It’s an ideal way to see the creative side of Budapest, not just its nightlife.

Find Accommodation Outside the Tourist Zone

While District V is a convenient place to stay downtown, consider a home base in District IX (Ferencváros), District XIII (Újlipótváros), or District II on the Buda side for a more local vibe. These neighbourhoods are filled with character, green parks, and fewer crowds.

If you’re flying in late or have an early flight, staying at a Budapest airport hotel might be a practical choice. Here, you’ll be close to Liszt Ferenc International Airport and may even find a direct shuttle service to the city centre. Another Budapest airport hotel perk is that they offer access to wellness areas, which are perfect for relaxing after a long flight.

Go Slow, Stay Curious

To truly discover Budapest like a local, slow down and allow yourself to wander. Budapest has it all. You can soak in a hidden thermal bath, enjoy a beer at a ruin pub, or chat with a barista about the best wine bar. Once you experience it, you might never want to leave.