Budapest Things to Do

As 2013 sees the celebration of 75 years of acclaimed concerts at Margaret Island Open-Air Theatre, expect the Budapest Summer Festival to set the world on fire. The summer-long music jamboree kicks off on June 14 with an open-air concert of music by Verdi and Wagner performed by the Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra on Margaret Island in the middle of the Danube.

Aspiring tourists with children may be surprised to discover that Hungary’s capital city offers affordable and varied opportunities for travelers with kids to entertain. The price is right and the activities are likely to amuse grownups as well as their children. See below for a sampling of the many events and institutions available in Budapest that are geared toward the young.

Easily the equal of other European subterranean wonders (in Paris, Moscow, London, etc.), the labyrinth system beneath Castle Hill in Budapest originated as calcareous tufa caves resulting from hot water springs more than 350,000 years ago.  Since that time, the complex (the natural properties of which have been considerably improved by man over the years) has served many purposes, and today exists as one of the most curious and rewarding tourist attractions in Budapest.

The many beautiful bridges that span the Danube (a total of 10) are best toured by bike, as is much of the rest of the city. Luckily, there are a number of reputable operations geared up to make just such a proposition possible.

There aren’t any noteworthy vineyards in Budapest, but there are plenty of opportunities to sample domestic and foreign wines at a number fantastic locations. The following are a few of the best.

Budapest has long been a proud cultural staple of Europe, and these days, you would be pressed not to find at least some arts and music events to attend around the city. Unfortunately, not all of these events are free, and for those traveling on a budget, it would be a pity to miss out on what Budapest has to offer.