Wondering Where To Stay In Budapest? We’ve Got Answers!
Picking the best places to stay in Budapest for your trip might seem tough with so many Budapest accommodation options in different areas! We’ll help you make sense of it all.
Budapest is a popular city to visit. The largest city in Hungary draws millions of visitors from all over the world to take in the sights, the history, the food, and much more.
We’ve visited the Hungarian capital several times and Eric is Canadian/Hungarian… so we think we know the city pretty well.
There are lots of great Budapest neighbourhoods – known as Districts – to choose from. Of course, there are some popular Budapest city centre hotels – like Hotel Memories Budapest or H2 Hotel Budapest – but there are also lots of other accommodation options and locations.
So, our guide dives into accommodations in Budapest by style and budget, and then covers the top areas or neighbourhoods to stay in – with examples of accommodations in each! Let’s find a place to stay in Budapest for you!
Friendly Disclosure: We pay for the accommodations we stay at ourselves and are not told to include them in our articles.
Table of Contents
Accommodations By Type
To cater to so many different types of visitors (couples, business travellers, families, backpackers, Danube river cruisers, etc.), there are various accommodation options in the different areas (Districts) scattered across Budapest.
In this section, we’ll cover Budapest accommodations by type. This way, if you know what type of accommodation you are looking for (e.g. a hotel), you can get started looking right away.
Alternatively, if you want to stay in a specific area, you can read about different areas of Budapest – and some accommodations in each – in the second half of the post!
Hotels in Budapest
Overall, hotels are the most popular accommodation option in Budapest. There are hotels to suit lots of different travellers and their unique needs.
For example, aparthotels hotels might be good for longer stays, boutique hotels are for those looking for a stylish stay, and 5-star hotels with views of Buda Castle and the Danube might make for a romantic stay as a couple!
⇒ Get started searching for hotels in Budapest here.
As for hotel locations, many hotels are located in/around the city centre areas (Districts 5, 6, 7, 8 and 1). Staying in a hotel in any one of these Districts (explained later) means that you’re just a short walk to attractions, nightlife, food, the Danube, and more.
To get an overview of some popular hotels in Budapest, Hungary that balance location, value, and amenities, check out this curated list:
Popular Budapest Hotels
- Hotel Memories Budapest – A trendy, upscale hotel with breakfast close to attractions in District 7
- H2 Hotel Budapest – A cool, trendy hotel with breakfast in the heart of the city centre (District 5).
- B&B Hotel Budapest City – A fun, classy hotel with Danube views and parking in District 9
- Medos Hotel – A simple, reliable hotel with breakfast in District 6
- Maison Bistro & Hotel – A quaint, charming hotel with restaurant up in District 1
- The Three Corners Hotel Anna Superior – A cool, modern hotel with great breakfast in District 8
- Ensana Thermal Margaret Island – A classic, comfortable hotel with spa & pools on Margaret Island close to District 13
Budget/Cheap Hotels in Budapest
If you are looking for cheap places to stay in Budapest, you will definitely have some luck!
Budapest is a cheaper city to visit relative to other European capitals like Oslo or London. So, you can actually find an affordable but very nice hotel even in the more central areas.
Keep in mind, “cheap” doesn’t necessarily mean that the hotels are “bad”. Cheap hotels in Budapest are sometimes just simple places with less “frills” and fewer amenities compared to other places.
You will also find hotels in Budapest that are more budget-friendly simply because of their location farther from the heart of the action (like in District 9).
If you are looking for a budget hotel in Budapest, check out these options below located in a number of Districts in/around the city centre:
- Roombach Hotel Budapest Center – A cozy, colorful hotel with breakfast and parking in District 7 (Our Pick)
- Exe Carlton Hotel Budapest – A nice, standard hotel option in District 1 close to Buda Castle
- Ibis Budapest Heroes Square – A comfortable, clean hotel near Heroes Square in District 6
- SB Hotel – A relaxed, charming hotel in District 8 steps from the Metro station
- Corvin Hotel Budapest Corvin Wing – A simple, standard hotel with breakfast in District 9
Boutique Hotels in Budapest
For those seeking a Budapest hotel with a bit of personality – be it modern, trendy, cool, or minimal – there are plenty of great options in Budapest.
The city is very much an international hub of art, fashion, and designs so there are boutique hotels in Budapest that reflect this creative side.
For outlandish hotels with an eccentric use of colour to chic hotels that care about design and details, check out these Budapest boutique hotels across a number of top areas to stay in:
- Hotel Memories Budapest – A trendy, upscale hotel with breakfast close to attractions in District 7 (Our Pick)
- Maison Bistro & Hotel – A quaint, charming hotel with restaurant up in District 1
- Noble Boutique Hotel – Adults Only – A chic, stylish hotel with breakfast in District 5
- Stories Boutique Hotel – A retro, colorful hotel with inner courtyard on the edge of District 6 and 7
- House Beletage-Boutique Hotel – A light, elegant hotel with courtyard and breakfast in District 8
Luxury Hotels in Budapest
Those wondering where to stay in Budapest for luxury will be happy to know that there are lots of exquisite luxury hotels in Budapest to choose from.
There are luxury hotels scattered across many areas of the city – but mostly located in and around District 5 and/or overlooking the Danube river.
Many luxury hotels are located in beautiful historic buildings. These five-star hotels in Budapest offer visitors top amenities like spas, river views, dining experiences, and top services to be pampered at every turn.
Have a look at these Budapest luxury hotels in lots of great areas for shopping, sightseeing, walking, and more:
- Hotel Clark Budapest – A cool, stylish 5-star Hotel located in District 1 with amazing Danube views (Our Pick)
- Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest – A grand, classy hotel with many amenities overlooking the famous Ferris Wheel in District 5
- Anantara New York Palace Budapest – An elegant, lavish hotel with grand breakfast and bar/lounge in District 7
- Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa – A sophisticated boutique hotel with spa and breakfast in District 8
- Matild Palace – A cozy and elegant with rooftop bar close to the Danube in District 9 (next to city centre)
Apartments in Budapest
Next to hotels, another popular accommodation choice are apartments in Budapest. Those looking for a Budapest apartment might be travelling with kids, a larger group of travellers, or are staying longer and would like their own space to cook.
Budapest benefits from having large residential apartment blocks with many flats accessible through a singular coded doorway. This setup is common around the central Districts. That said, there are also a number of aparthotels in Budapest.
Hotels with suite-style apartments and rooms with kitchenettes are often a better choice because they don’t take residential space from locals and you (the traveller) benefit from hotel amenities like reception, possible breakfast, and more.
We’d recommend an aparthotel or serviced apartments in Budapest rather than an Airbnb unless you are renting a room in someone’s home.
You can check here for great apartments in Budapest here. We’ve included a mix of aparthotels, hotels with some suite-style rooms, and a few classic apartment rentals:
- Vagabond Broadway – A bright, spacious aparthotel with kitchens and balconies in District 7 (close to 6) (Our Pick)
- Milford Suites Budapest – Upscale, cozy aparthotel with breakfast in District 1
- A Golden Star Modern Luxury Apartments Budapest – A modern aparthotel with full kitchens in District 5
- King Apartments – Bright and functional apartments with balconies on the border of District 6 and 7
- Dean’s College Hotel – A youthful, hip hotel with kitchenette rooms in District 9
- Tatra 4 Studios – Quaint, cute studio apartments in District 13 (but close to District 5)
Guesthouses/Bed and Breakfasts in Budapest
Those looking for a cozy accommodation in Budapest might want to stay at a guesthouse or bed and breakfast.
Oftentimes, classic guesthouses and B&Bs are not common in larger cities due to the types of buildings.
However, because Budapest has quite a few residential buildings mixed in with the commercial and touristy areas in and around the city centre, there’s a nice mix of bed and breakfasts/guesthouses in Budapest (especially in District 8 – Józsefváros).
These types of accommodations offer a more relaxed stay and many are walkable to the Danube, the top attractions in District 5, and to public transit.
B&Bs usually serve breakfast in the morning while guesthouses are just a simpler, cozy place to sleep. However, this isn’t a hard rule – just a guideline!
You can check here for guesthouses in Budapest. We’ve included a variety of the both to get you started:
- Butterfly Home Danube – A cozy B&B with breakfast right on the Danube in District 5 (Our Pick)
- Bellevue Budapest B&B – A traditional, cozy bed and breakfast with Danube views in District 1
- Central 5 Guest House – A bright and simple guesthouse in District 5 near the Danube
- Budapest Rooms Bed and Breakfast – A warm, cozy B&B with breakfast in District 8
Hostels in Budapest
With a buzzing nightlife scene combined with the fact that Budapest is among the cheaper cities in Europe to visit, the city is attractive to budget travellers and backpackers.
This means that there are plenty of hostels in Budapest to choose from. There is a wide variety of Budapest hostels: some cater to a party/social lifestyle, while others are on the more relaxed side (but still social).
Years ago, Eric stayed at Vitae Hostel. Located in a great area (District 7), Vitae was the perfect mix of fun and sleep with amazing staff and friendly travellers.
Of course, there are hostels in all different areas of Budapest so you will likely find a hostel to suit your style and budget.
You can check here for hostels in Budapest but we also listed some popular ones below:
- Vitae Hostel – A fun, social hostel with a nice balance in District 7 (Our Pick)
- Wombat’s City Hostel Budapest – A lively, popular hostel on the edge of District 6 and 7
- Flow Spaces – A bright, trendy hostel right beside the Great Market Hall in District 9
- Carpe Noctem Hostel – A fun, colorful hostel close to the trams in District 6
- Maverick Urban Lodge – A stylish, minimalist hostel close to the Danube in District 9
Accommodations By Budapest District
Having covered the different types of accommodations in Budapest, we can dive into the areas – called Districts.
We’ll explain what’s in each District, what the vibe is like, and why it might be the best area to stay in Budapest for you. We then offer up a few well-rated accommodation suggestions in each.
Fun Fact: Budapest is made up of three cities that merged in 1873: Buda is the hilly side of the river with Buda Castle, Pest is the flatter side where most of the city (for a visitor) lies, and the smaller Óbuda.
There are 23 districts around the Budapest area. They are designated by Roman numerals in a sort-of clockwise system around the city. In general, lower numbers (like 1 and 5) are in the centre along the Danube River while higher numbers are further out.
For a traveller, this basically means that the closer you are to the Danube river, the closer you are to the highest concentration of restaurants, tourist attractions, bars and clubs, historical sights, etc.
Keep in mind, these are certainly not all the areas of the city. We will only cover the major seven districts that touch the city centre. These are areas we have stayed before and/or would search for accommodation in when we visit again (which we will soon).
Of course, there are pockets of bars, restaurants, shops and things to do and see outside of these central areas.
If you have an idea of what area you want to stay in and want to get a quick overview, check out our top accommodation picks in the areas outlined below!
Top Budapest Accommodations By Area
- District V – Belváros-Lipótváros (Central & Attractions): H2 Hotel Budapest
- District VI – Terézváros (Culture & Shopping): Stories Boutique Hotel
- District VII – Erzsébetváros (Lively Nightlife): Hotel Memories Budapest
- District VIII – Józsefváros (Trendy & Youthful): The Three Corners Hotel Anna Superior
- District I – Várkerület (Castle & River Views): Maison Bistro & Hotel
- District IX – Ferencváros (Local Authenticity): B&B Hotel Budapest City
- District XIII – Angyalföld-Ujlipotváros (Residential & Calm): Ensana Thermal Margaret Island
It should also be noted that Budapest is generally a safe city to visit as a visitor – especially if you stick to the areas listed below.
Because it is so full of international visitors, it’s best to be on the watch for classic scams in and around touristy areas (eg. pickpocketing). Even after dark, there are lots of people out and about in the centre (especially in District 7).
District V – Belváros-Lipótváros – For Central Location & Attractions
Known in English as the Inner City-Leopold Town, District V is what many would consider the touristy, lively, and historical part of Budapest.
This is simply because of the number of attractions all condensed into one small area along the Danube River.
District V is known for the most famous of attractions like: The Hungarian Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Ferris Wheel of Budapest, the pedestrian shopping street known as Váci u – and much more.
⇒ Check Here For Accommodations in District 5.
In terms of location, District 5 runs along the Danube and meets the boundaries of other central districts like 6,7 and 8 (among others).
Those wondering where to stay in Budapest for the Christmas market should also aim for District 5 as it occurs in Vörösmarty tér (Square) located in this area.
It may be touristy, but a stop at Café Gerbeaud in the heart of District 5 is a popular stop if you want a Hungarian dessert like Dobos torte!
Featured Accommodations in Belváros-Lipótváros
Below are a few of the top accommodations in this area. Budapest hotels in the city centre (District 5) can be more expensive compared to hotels in areas further away from the centre.
However, for some, paying for the premium location in the heart of the city with access to many areas of the city by walking, metro, or tram is worth it.
Many might consider District 5 the best district to stay in Budapest and there certainly are several positives about the area – like its easy walkability to other Districts and access to public transit.
However, only you can decide if it’s the best district for you and your travel needs.
H2 Hotel Budapest – Check Now
- Style: A Cool & Trendy Hotel (very popular)
- Price Range: Mid-Range
- Location: In the heart of District 5, just steps from St. Stephen’s Basilica
- Featured Amenities: Nice breakfast, underground (paid) parking garage, dog friendly
Central 5 Guest House – Check Now
- Style: A Bright & Simple Guesthouse
- Price Range: Lower Mid-Range
- Location: Close to the Danube in District 5, walkable to the Metro and other Districts.
- Featured Amenities: Passionate host, shared kitchen
Noble Boutique Hotel – Adults Only – Check Now
- Style: A Chic, Stylish Boutique Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
- Location: In a quieter area of District 5, between two Metro stations – easily walkable to the heart of the action
- Featured Amenities: Nice breakfast, small onsite bar
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest – Check Now
- Style: A Grand & Classy Luxury Hotel
- Price Range: Luxury
- Location: Overlooking Elizabeth Square with the famous Ferris Wheel in the heart of District 5.
- Featured Amenities: Numerous restaurants, coffee shop, bar, pool and spa facilities
District VI – Terézváros – For Culture & Shopping
Known as Theresa Town in English, this district of Budapest is fashionable, central, and cultural. The district itself is located along the famous Andrássy Avenue – a mecca for shopping, arts, and culture.
The District runs all the way up along Andrássy Avenue to Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere) at City Park.
The attractions the district is known for are Andrássy Avenue (for high-end shopping), the Hungarian State Opera House, St. Theresa of Ávila Church, and the House of Terror Museum, among others.
⇒ Check Here For Accommodations in District 6.
District 6 makes for a good location because you are directly connected to District 5, District 7 (mentioned below), and even District 13 to go see Margaret Island.
The south end of the area is packed with many bars and restaurants since it begins to overlap with the lively area of District 7.
Featured Accommodations in Terézváros
Below are a few accommodations to check out in Terézváros. The places to stay in District VI are all considered centrally-located.
Many have easy access to the “Oktogon” which is a station along the M1 subway line and connects to trams 4 and 6.
In fact, the M1 subway line runs the length of Andrássy Avenue so you’d have lots of stops in District 6 to get to your accommodation.
The area is also very flat so you should be able to walk everywhere (if you can) but know that you are very well connected by public transport in this district.
Stories Boutique Hotel – Check Now
- Style: A Retro, Colourful Boutique Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
- Location: Right where District 6 meets 7 (nightlife area), a short walk to transit and top attractions
- Featured Amenities: Beautiful inner courtyard, delicious breakfast
Medos Hotel – Check Now
- Style: A Simple, Reliable Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: Around the corner from Oktogon station for transit, food options around
- Featured Amenities: Nice breakfast, some rooms with city view terrace
King Apartments – Check Now
- Style: Bright, Functional Apartments
- Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
- Location: On the border of District 6 and 7 with nightlife nearby, walkable to District 5
- Featured Amenities: Full kitchens in apartments, suites with balconies
Ibis Budapest Heroes Square – Check Now
- Style: A Comfortable, Clean Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: Located just steps from Budapest’s Heroes Square, metro stop, and large City Park with thermal baths
- Featured Amenities: Breakfast available, private parking (for fee)
District VII – Erzsébetváros – For Lively Nightlife
Known in English as Elizabeth Town, District VII is known for the nightlife, its energy, and the bars. Its central location makes it one of the most populated Districts in the whole city.
Located right between District 6 and 8 with District 5 forming the southern border, it’s a popular district for people to flock to after dark for food and drinks.
⇒ Check Here For Accommodations in District 7.
As Budapest’s “Jewish Quarter” (former Jewish Ghetto), there is quite a bit of history here, too. Top attractions in the area are Dohány Street Synagogue, Rumbach Street Synagogue, as well as the famous ruin bars – notably Szimpla Kert.
We really liked The Goat Herder (on István utca) located in this District a short walk from Budapest-Keleti train station.
Like District 6, the district runs northwest all the way past Budapest-Keleti train station to the south end of City Park.
That said, many of the accommodations in District 7 are squished into a smaller area in the southern portion of the District (closer to the city centre in District 5).
Featured Accommodations in Erzsébetváros
Below are a few featured accommodations in this area. It should be noted that this entire area is very central but will likely be louder, especially on weekends.
If you are looking to have fun and be social, then this is the district for you.
This is also a good district to stay in if you want to catch a tram or the metro since there are a number of stops in and around this area.
Hotel Memories Budapest – Check Now
- Style: A Trendy, Upscale Boutique Hotel (very popular)
- Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
- Location: Overlooking Dohány Street Synagogue in District 7, a short walk to District 5 and other attractions
- Featured Amenities: Great breakfast, spa amenities, coffee & juice free 24/7 in lounge
Roombach Hotel Budapest Center – Check Now
- Style: A Cozy, Colorful Hotel
- Price Range: Mid-Range
- Location: Located right in the heart of District 7, steps from District 5 and lots of great food/drink places.
- Featured Amenities: Plentiful breakfast, private parking (for a fee)
Vagabond Broadway – Check Now
- Style: A Bright, Spacious Aparthotel
- Price Range: Mid-Range
- Location: Right in the heart of District 7, walkable to attractions, transit, and other Districts
- Featured Amenities: Apartments with full kitchens, balconies, underground parking for a fee
Anantara New York Palace Budapest – Check Now
- Style: An Elegant, Lavish Hotel
- Price Range: Luxury (but not as high as some other European capitals)
- Location: Right on a popular corner in District 7 with transit close
- Featured Amenities: Excellent breakfast, spa services, onsite restaurant, bar/café (the famous New York Café)
District VIII – Józsefváros – For Trendy & Youthful Vibes
Translated in English as “Joseph Town”, Józsefváros is certainly one of the areas known to be up-and-coming, trendy, and social.
District 8 is uniquely wedged between District 7 (the nightlife area) and District 9 (which runs along the Danube heading away from the city centre).
⇒ Check Here For Accommodations in District 8.
Since there are a number of universities close by and a few green spaces, it’s a popular area with the younger crowds and university students. It’s got a number of cafes like LUMEN Cafe and other places for drinks or a bit to eat.
In terms of things to explore, there’s actually lots to see and do in this area. The Hungarian National Museum, the Hungarian Natural History Museum, Rákóczi Market Hall, and Orczy Park/Garden are all located here.
Featured Accommodations in Józsefváros
Below are some of the featured accommodations in this area. It can have more of a quieter, residential feel being tucked away in places. This makes it great for more bed and breakfast/apartment-style accommodations.
The location – slightly farther from the direct city centre – can also make it slightly cheaper than other areas.
Keleti Railway Station is technically located in this area and there are metro lines and tram lines that run through/around this area. This makes getting to other parts of the city – not just via walking – easy.
The Three Corners Hotel Anna Superior – Check Now
- Style: A Cool, Modern Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: A short walk to the metro and top attractions in District 7 and 5
- Featured Amenities: Nice breakfast, free tea/coffee in lobby, parking available (for a fee)
Budapest Rooms Bed and Breakfast – Check Now
- Style: A Warm, Cozy Bed & Breakfast
- Price Range: Budget
- Location: In the heart of District 8, close to the Hungarian National Museum and walkable to District 5 and 7
- Featured Amenities: Amazing breakfast, friendly host
Central Hotel 21 and Apartments – Check Now
- Style: A Quiet, Charming Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: Tucked away in the heart of District 8, a quick walk to metro station and other Districts (5 and 7)
- Featured Amenities: Simple breakfast available, inner garden/courtyard
Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa – Check Now
- Style: A Sophisticated Boutique Hotel
- Price Range: Luxury
- Location: In the heart of District 8 (quieter), a short walk to metro stop, attractions, shops/cafes and other Districts nearby
- Featured Amenities: Spa services available, exceptional breakfast
District I – Várkerület – For Castle & River Views
Also known as Budavár, District 1 is the hilly district that runs along the Danube River across from the flatter side of Pest.
This “Castle District” in Buda is where some of the city’s major attractions such as Buda Castle, Gellért Hill and the Citadella, The Castle Hill Funicular (Cable Car), the Hungarian National Gallery, and the gorgeous Fisherman’s Bastion are located.
⇒ Check Here For Accommodations in District 1.
Overall, it can be quite busy during the day but it’s a very historical, peaceful, and beautiful area to stay in. It’s likely most sought after for the views you get of the Danube and the rest of the city below.
District Tip: District 1 is the most hilly District we mention (aside from the river’s edge area). If you require a flatter area due to mobility impairment, we’d suggest staying on the Pest side of the city in District 5, 6, or 7.
Featured Accommodations in Várkerület
Below are a few featured accommodations in the Castle District area. There is a good mix of accommodations by type with hotels being the most common.
A commonality between the accommodations below is their locations in relation to the top attractions in Buda.
One downside (if you can call it that) to the area is that it is located across the river from the main part of the city and lacks great public transit connections back into the city.
Metro Line 2 and 4 do continue into District 1 but from there the tram/bus connections to get to your accommodations aren’t too convenient. Thus, you might need to walk, bus, or rely on cabs to get back into Pest from District 1.
Of course, if you are in it for the views and don’t mind a bit of exercise, a stay in District 1 is definitely worth it!
Maison Bistro & Hotel – Check Now
- Style: A Quaint, Charming Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
- Location: In the heart of District 1, a short walk to the Fisherman’s Bastion and other attractions
- Featured Amenities: Wonderful breakfast, onsite restaurant, quiet inner courtyard
Milford Suites Budapest – Check Now
- Style: An Upscale, Cozy Aparthotel
- Price Range: Mid-Range
- Location: On the hillside in District 1, also a short walk to the Fisherman’s Bastion and other sights
- Featured Amenities: Suites with full kitchens, simple breakfast available
Bellevue Budapest B&B – Check Now
- Style: A Traditional, Cozy Bed & Breakfast
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: Also on the hillside in District 1, a short walk to the Fisherman’s Bastion and other sights
- Featured Amenities: Nice breakfast, rooms with balconies + some with views of the Danube
Hotel Clark Budapest – Adults Only – Check Now
- Style: A Cool, Stylish 5-Star Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
- Location: Close to the Chain Bridge and Buda Castle in District 1 – incredible views of the Danube
- Featured Amenities: Decent breakfast, in-room coffee, rooftop bar/lounge with amazing views
District IX – Ferencváros – For Local Authenticity
Known as Francis Town in English, District IX is quite large and generally feels lively, local, and authentic.
Located between District 8 and the Danube River, parts of District 9 actually border the central area of District 5.
This District extends quite a ways along the Danube away from the city centre. So, it’s best to stay in the part closer to the city centre if you choose District 9.
⇒ Check Here For Accommodations in District 9
In terms of things to do, there are actually some places that you’ll want to check out like the National Theatre and Ludwig Museum, the Central Market Hall (massive famous food hall), the Zwack Unicum Museum, the Holocaust Memorial Center, and more!
Featured Accommodations in Ferencváros
Below are some featured accommodations in this area. Generally, accommodations in this area are a bit cheaper as in other areas of the city.
If you stay in the part closer to the city centre (e.g. around Central Market Hall), you’ll be able to walk to District 5 and 8 with ease.
Additionally, District 9 has the unique feature of running parallel with tram line 2. This line runs along the Danube directly to the heart of the city centre.
There’s also a transport stop in this area (Boráros tér) which connects to trams lines 4 and 6 to get elsewhere in the city!
B&B Hotel Budapest City – Check Now
- Style: A Fun, Classy Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: Close to the Danube and transit stop for trams back to the city centre
- Featured Amenities: Good breakfast, underground parking, bar onsite, rooftop terrace with Danube views
Dean’s College Hotel – Check Now
- Style: A Youthful, Hip Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: Very close to the Metro stop and a number of attractions in District 9
- Featured Amenities: Rooms with kitchenettes, onsite gym + laundry, rooftop terrace
Corvin Hotel Budapest Corvin Wing – Check Now
- Style: A Simple, Standard Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: In the heart of District 9, within walking distance to metro and trams to the centre
- Featured Amenities: Nice breakfast available
Matild Palace – Check Now
- Style: A Cozy, Elegant 5-star Hotel
- Price Range: Luxury
- Location: Steps from the Danube in District 9 (but very close to District 5 city centre)
- Featured Amenities: Onsite rooftop bar, onsite restaurant, spa services
District XIII – Angyalföld-Ujlipotváros – For Residential & Calm
Last, but certainly not least, we have District XIII (13). Located to the north of the city centre (District 5), this large and sprawling district also runs along the Danube River and touches District 6.
The area is characterized by being calm, family-friendly, and peaceful. In the area closer to the city centre (Ujlipotváros), you’ll find many bars, cafes, and restaurants.
⇒ Check Here For Accommodations in District 13.
In the areas farther away, it becomes more residential. We had a walk through this area and it was lovely. Some of the attractions the area is known for are the Flippermúzeum and Vígszínház (performing arts theatre).
Another feature of District XIII – besides the Danube river walks – is Margaret Island. This natural green space in the middle of the Danube River with paths, gardens, and points of interest used to be in District 13 but it is now its own district.
The island is a great way to escape the busy city life while not having to venture too far outside the city!
Featured Accommodations in Angyalföld – Ujlipotváros
Below are some accommodations in District 13. We mentioned how popular Margaret Island is because one of the accommodations is actually located on the island. It makes for a beautiful setting to return to each evening.
Accommodations in this district and on Margaret Island are generally not as expensive as in other districts because of their “distant” location.
However, if you are good on foot, you can absolutely walk south along the Danube back to the most important attractions in District 5.
Also, Metro line 3 runs along the District so you’re well connected to the rest of the city via the reliable metro system if you stay close by in 13.
Ensana Thermal Margaret Island – Check Now
- Style: A Classic, Comfortable Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
- Location: Tucked amongst the green space of the north end of Margaret Island
- Featured Amenities: Spa and pool facilities, onsite restaurant and breakfast, balcony rooms
Danubius Hotel Helia – Check Now
- Style: A Traditional yet Stylish Hotel
- Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
- Location: On the edge of the Danube in District 13 overlooking Margaret Island
- Featured Amenities: Many pools, big buffet breakfast, rooms with balcony views
Tatra 4 Studios – Check Now
- Style: Quaint, Cute Studio Apartments
- Price Range: Upper Budget
- Location: In the south end of District 13, close to shops and restaurants and very close to District 5 (city centre)
- Featured Amenities: Apartments with kitchenettes, self check-in
FAQ
If you have questions about where to stay in Budapest, here are some specific answers for you!
Where to stay in Budapest for nightlife?
If you are looking for the best areas to stay in Budapest for nightlife, a great option would be District 7 (Erzsébetváros). This is where you’ll find the famed ruin bars – like Szimpla Kert – and plenty of other open air beer garden type establishments.
Check out Hotel Budapest Memories or Roombach Hotel Budapest Center if you wish to stay at some popular hotels nearby. You could even stay at The Three Corners Hotel Anna Superior in District 8 – just a few short blocks from the ruin bars.
Where to stay in Budapest on a budget?
As we mentioned above, Budapest is a more inexpensive city so you can find good budget accommodations in many areas of the city.
That said, District 8, 9, and parts of 13 are farther from the tourist centre and thus tend to have lower prices overall.
You might check out the Central Hotel 21 and Apartments in District 8, B&B Hotel Budapest City in District 9, or Tatra 4 Studios in District 13 for accommodations that come with smaller price tags and simpler details.
You might also try a dorm-style room in a great hostel like Vitae Hostel or Maverick Urban Lodge!
Where to stay in Budapest for a view of the Danube?
There are lots of places to stay in Budapest with views of the Danube. District 1 on the Buda side and District 5, 9, and 13 all share the river and would be a good place to look.
Just imagine waking up to views of the river with the famous Chain Bridge or river cruise boats sailing by!
In District 1, check out Hotel Clark Budapest for sweeping views of the city and river below. Bellevue Budapest B&B in District 1 also has rooms with Danube Views.
In District 5, the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest has unparalleled views of the Danube overlooking the Chain Bridge.
Hotel Vision – also in District 5 but further down the river away from the immediate city centre – has river views from a suite.
In District 9, the Matild Palace has some rooms with views of Gellért Hill and the River, while the Danubius Hotel Helia in District 13 has lots of river view rooms at a reasonable rate!
Where to stay in Budapest for first time visitors?
If you are a first time visitor to Budapest, we’d suggest staying on the Pest side in any of District 5, 6, 7, or 8.
These areas provide a healthy mix of the flattest terrain, lots of attractions, access to public transit, bars and restaurants, and the ability to catch the airport shuttle and/or get back to Budapest-Keleti train station very easily.
Staying in any of these areas also allows you to easily explore the other Districts because they are all sandwiched in beside one another.
You can also cross the Danube to check out District 1 with attractions like Buda Castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion.
So, a stay at any of the following accommodations would be a great base for a first time visitor: H2 Hotel Budapest in District 5, Medos Hotel in District 6, Hotel Memories Budapest in District 7, or The Three Corners Hotel Anna Superior in District 8.
Where to stay in Budapest if you are walking?
If you plan on walking around Budapest and/or you did not arrive by car, then the best places to stay in Budapest for walking would be on the flatter Pest side (District 5, 6, 7 or 8).
Similar to the above answer, these Districts are connected to one another and are all very well-connected to the metro and trams to get around if you’re planning to venture a little farther across the city.
You’d also be able to easily get back to the main train station (Keleti) via walking, cab, or the metro. Don’t forget about the nice long strolls you can have along the Danube.
Once again, check out H2 Hotel Budapest in District 5, Medos Hotel in District 6, Hotel Memories Budapest in District 7, or The Three Corners Hotel Anna Superior in District 8 as great places to stay.
Basically just avoid District 1 because it is across the Danube River from the main train stations, the airport shuttle bus service, and it is quite hilly.
Related Articles
If you need more help planning your Budapest trip, here are a few more posts that might interest you:
- A Full City Itinerary – Budapest in 3 Days
- Our Favourite Cafes in Budapest
- The Top Things to Do in Budapest
- How to Spend One Perfect Day in Budapest
- Top Restaurants in Budapest (Told by a Foodie Blogger!)
And there you have it – a rundown on where to stay in Budapest. In the end, there are so many great accommodations and areas to choose from in Budapest.
If you stick to the suggestions above, you’ll almost always be within walking distance to the centre and all the action – or a just quick metro ride away. Each District is ready to be explored so get out there and see the city!
As always, Happy Waddlin’,
-L&E