While there’s lots to explore in Budapest, there are many destinations within easy reach that are perfect for day trips, ranging from stunning castles and palaces to some of the world’s premier wine regions.

Hollókő

Address: Hollókő, 3176 Hungary

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Around 55 miles northeast of Budapest in a valley of the Cserhát mountains, Hollókő is a traditional Hungarian village and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old part of the village features conservation areas with houses revitalized in timber and stone to reflect the original Palóc rural architecture. The protected zone includes the 12th-century castle ruins perched on a hilltop above the village, and it has been recognized as Hungary’s Most Beautiful Village on multiple occasions.

Traveling to Hollókő from Budapest: The easiest travel option is by car, taking around 90 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the direct bus service from Puskás Ferenc Stadion (on the blue metro line), which takes about two hours.

Székesfehérvár

Address: Székesfehérvár, Hungary

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Situated between Budapest and Lake Balaton, Székesfehérvár is among Hungary’s oldest towns, historically serving as the country’s medieval capital. With parts of its iconic cathedral dating back to 1235, the colorful town also highlights beautiful baroque architecture. Key cultural attractions include the King St Stephen Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Istvan Csok Art Gallery. Just outside the center, Bory Castle is notable for its unique architectural styles set in lovely sculpture-filled gardens.

Traveling to Székesfehérvár from Budapest: Frequent trains operate from Budapest-Déli station, taking between 65 and 80 minutes, or you can opt for the direct bus service from Budapest’s Népliget station, also around 80 minutes. The bus station is more conveniently located to the town center compared to the train station.

Lake Velence

Address: Lake Velence, Hungary

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While Lake Balaton is Hungary’s largest lake, it is quite distant from Budapest for a day trip. In contrast, Lake Velence is only a 45-minute drive away, making it an excellent location to enjoy some sunny hours by the water. The warm, shallow waters reach pleasant summer temperatures, and several beaches dot the shoreline. Activities such as biking, kayaking, and windsurfing abound here, along with a thermal spa located at Agárd.

Traveling to Lake Velence from Budapest: Trains depart from Budapest-Déli station directly to Gárdony, taking around 45 minutes, with one-way tickets costing about $5. If driving, expect a similar travel time of about 45 minutes.

Gödöllő

Address: Gödöllő, Hungary

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Located less than an hour northeast of Budapest, Gödöllő is renowned for its stunning royal palace, the summer residence of Austrian Emperor Franz Josef. This baroque manor house boasts a rich historical significance and lavish interiors reflective of the imperial era. The beautiful botanical garden surrounding the palace covers a vast 190 hectares.

Traveling to Gödöllő from Budapest: You can take the frequent HÉV suburban train from Örs vezér tere station or opt for the hourly bus service from Puskás Ferenc Stadion, both journeys lasting around 45 minutes.

The Danube Bend

Address: Szentendre, 2000 Hungary

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North of Budapest, the Danube Bend is recognized as the most picturesque stretch of Europe’s second-longest river. A fantastic way to absorb the scenery is through a boat trip during high tide seasons between May and September. Enjoy a journey through historic towns like Szentendre, Visegrád, and Esztergom, each rich with history and culture.

Traveling to the Danube Bend from Budapest: Guided boat tours are available during peak season, and train services operate from Budapest’s Nyugati station to Esztergom. Alternatively, bus services are available to key towns, ideal for independent exploration.

Eger

Address: Eger, Hungary

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At the foot of the Bükk Mountains, approximately 85 miles northeast of Budapest, Eger is famed for its distinguished winemaking history that dates back to the 11th century. The region’s standout wine is Bull’s Blood (Egri Bikavér), a blend traditionally aged in oak barrels. Visitors can explore the bustling Szépasszony-völgy (The Valley of the Beautiful Women) for wine tastings and cellar tours.

Traveling to Eger from Budapest: Direct coach services are available, taking about two hours, while a direct train from Keleti station will also take around two hours. For those driving, expect a similar travel time of just under two hours.