Budapest really surprised me. I didn’t expect it to feel so alive, so beautiful, and so easy to explore on my own. Whether you’re visiting in the middle of winter or during the warm summer months, the city always has something to offer. As a solo female traveller, I felt completely safe the entire time—even at night. In fact, as soon as I landed, the architecture reminded me of Zagreb (my home city in Croatia)—elegant streets, grand buildings, and that perfect blend of Eastern and Western Europe. That resemblance is understandable considering the historical influence, but it was still surprising to see just how similar the two cities felt in look and vibe.
When to Visit Budapest
Budapest is a year-round destination, but here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best time for your trip:
- Spring (April to June): Pleasant weather, blooming trees, and fewer crowds. Temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C.
- Summer (July to August): Lively atmosphere and long days. Temps can go above 30°C, so be ready for the heat.
- Autumn (September to October): Ideal for walking and sightseeing, with crisp air and golden leaves. Around 12°C to 22°C.
- Winter (November to February): Magical vibes with Christmas markets and snowy streets. Temperatures average 0°C to 5°C.
Getting Around Budapest
Currency: Hungary uses Hungarian Forint (HUF). Most places accept cards.
Public Transport: Get a day or multi-day pass to save money and easily get around by metro, tram, and bus. Super efficient and well connected.
Explore Smart: Use the Smart Guide app for audio-based self-guided tours. It’s a fun way to discover historical facts and navigate solo.
Where I Stayed: Full Review of Dorothea Hotel
Dorothea Hotel
If you’re searching for the perfect place to stay in Budapest, Dorothea Hotel makes a strong case. It’s one of those rare hotels where every detail feels intentional—from the comfort of the room to the way they think about what guests actually need. Stylish yet welcoming, modern yet personal, it blends thoughtful design with real warmth. This 5-star hotel even won an award for Best Luxury Experience, and honestly, it shows in every corner.🛎️ The Room: From the moment you walk in, the space feels calm, stylish, and intentionally designed. The room is spacious and quiet, with soft lighting, neutral tones, and crisp bedding that instantly puts you at ease. High-quality coffee and tea are provided, and practical extras like a complimentary shoe-cleaning service and in-room iron are just the kind of thoughtful touches that make travel smoother. The large windows overlook the city’s central square, right in the heart of Budapest, yet the room still feels completely private—a quiet escape above it all.
🛁 The Bathroom
The bathroom offers both form and function, with a modern walk-in rain shower, a deep soaking bath, and soft towels. High-end toiletries, bath salts, a wooden razor, a comb kit, and a body scrub give it a spa-like feel. You’ll also find a proper blow dryer and Dyson straighteners—proof they’ve really thought about what women appreciate when travelling.
💧 Spa & Wellness
The spa is a true highlight. It features a natural, chlorine-free pool kept at a refreshing temperature—ideal after time in the sauna. There are also massage treatment rooms and a quiet lounge area designed for deep relaxation.
🌱 Sustainability Touch
Each hallway is equipped with still and sparkling water refill stations—eco-friendly, convenient, and done with style.
Breakfast
Breakfast is buffet-style and impressively well-managed, offering eggs, sausages, croissants, fresh fruit, strong coffee, plant-based milk, and detox juices for a lighter start. Everything feels fresh, thoughtful, and satisfying.
📍 Location
Right in the heart of the city, the hotel is within easy walking distance to all major attractions. Just around the corner is Gerbeaud, the iconic Hungarian cake shop known for its beautiful setting and low-sugar cakes made with traditional methods.
🍝 On-Site Restaurants
- Pavilion – Bright and welcoming, this is where breakfast is served.
- Aleli Italian Restaurant – Cosy and elegant, with a strong social media following and truly authentic Italian food. Nearly all ingredients are locally sourced, with a few select international items carefully chosen to complement the menu.
👀 Overall Experience
Dorothea Hotel balances luxury and warmth in a way that feels both effortless and rare. It’s the kind of place where design, comfort, and thoughtful service all come together—and every small detail adds up to something memorable.
Dorothea Hotel
A luxurious 5-star stay in the heart of Budapest. Elegant design, thoughtful details, and a perfect central location make it ideal for exploring the city on foot. Exceptional service and a focus on guest comfort set it apart for a truly memorable stay.
Must-Try Food in Budapest
Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács)
This sweet, spiral-shaped pastry is one of Budapest’s most famous street treats. Baked over an open flame and rolled in cinnamon sugar, coconut, or crushed nuts, it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You’ll find it at food stalls and markets, often made fresh right in front of you. It’s the perfect snack while wandering the streets, especially in cooler weather when it's still warm in your hands.
Lángos
If Hungary had a national street food, this would be it. Lángos is deep-fried flatbread topped traditionally with sour cream, garlic, and cheese, but you can find versions with ham, sausage, or even sweet toppings. I tried mine at Budapest Iconic Lángos Restaurant, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it was better than pizza—crispy edges, fluffy middle, and generous toppings. It’s rich, indulgent, and totally worth it.
Gerbeaud
One of the oldest and most elegant cake shops in the city, Gerbeaud is a Budapest institution. Located just steps from Dorothea Hotel, it’s known for traditional Hungarian desserts like Dobos Torte and Gerbeaud slice. The atmosphere is grand with marble tables, chandeliers, and ornate ceilings—perfect for a late afternoon treat or a quiet coffee break away from the crowd.
New York Café
Often called the “most beautiful café in the world,” this place feels like walking into a scene from a film. Beautiful golden columns, hand-painted ceilings, and live classical music playing in the background. Just keep in mind, it’s very popular—visit on a weekday to avoid long queues, and note that from 11 am to 12 pm, only desserts are served. It’s pricey, but for the setting, it’s worth experiencing at least once.
Alternative: Parisi Passage
If you want a gorgeous café experience without the crowds or inflated prices, head to Parisi Passage. Just a 5-minute walk from Dorothea Hotel, this place has equally stunning architecture, a relaxed vibe, and no queue. Their breakfast and lunch menus are solid, and many times, you’ll catch live music that elevates the whole moment. It’s ideal for a solo brunch or a relaxed coffee with your book or journal.
Best Bars in Budapest 
- Mitico
- Twenty Six
- KAA
- Muzsa (inside Four Seasons)
- Déryne
- W Lounge (inside W Hotel)
- Bohé Bar
- High Note Skybar – For the best panoramic city view
- Duchess rooftop bar
Fine Dining & Restaurants 
If you’re into Michelin-starred or fine dining experiences, try these local chef-recommended gems:
- Essensia Restaurant
- Aspago
- Stand25
- Gundel
- Hilda
- Zerbo
- La Fabric
- Kollázs (inside Four Seasons)
Aspago – Full Review
Aspago delivers one of the most memorable meals in Budapest. Their signature duck dish is melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfectly balanced in flavor and presentation. The sushi was also a surprise highlight—fresh, light, and beautifully plated. The overall vibe is relaxed yet refined, making it perfect for a leisurely upscale evening. Service is attentive but never intrusive, and the staff clearly knows their menu. Make a reservation in advance, especially if you plan to enjoy a drink at the Duchess rooftop bar afterwards—it’s a popular pairing for good reason.
Gundel – Full Review
Budapest’s oldest and most iconic restaurant, Gundel is packed with character and timeless charm. I stopped by just before heading to the airport, and it turned out to be the ideal final meal. The service was genuinely warm, with a quiet elegance that never felt too formal. Live music played softly in the background, and the setting felt classic without being stiff. I ordered the chicken paprikás, a traditional Hungarian dish that looked simple but delivered deep, rich flavors and serious comfort. It’s the kind of plate you remember long after your trip—familiar, soulful, and done just right.
Must-See All These Spots
1. St. Stephen’s Basilica ⛪
Just a short walk from Dorothea Hotel, this landmark is a must. Entry is free (a donation is appreciated), and climbing to the dome rewards you with sweeping city views—especially magical at golden hour when the rooftops start to glow.
2. Danube River Cruise
Seeing the Hungarian Parliament from the water is something truly special. I highly recommend booking a dinner cruise package—it’s more relaxed, attracts a more mature crowd, and lets you take in the city lights in style as you float past iconic landmarks.
3. Hungarian Parliament Building
This neo-Gothic masterpiece stands proudly on the riverbank and is even more striking from the water. If you have time, book a guided tour to see the interior and the Holy Crown—but honestly, it’s the nighttime view from the cruise that stays with you.
4. Fisherman’s Bastion
This dreamy white terrace in the Buda Castle District gives you one of the best views of Pest. Head up early if you’re aiming for Instagram-worthy photos—it fills up fast. Bonus tip: have a coffee at the bar on the upper terrace. It’s a peaceful break with unbeatable scenery.
5. Szabó Ervin Library
This was, hands down, the most beautiful place I saw in Budapest. Hidden inside a former aristocratic palace, its historical reading rooms feel like stepping into a movie set. To find them, take the elevator to the 4th floor, then follow the signs for the Wenckheim Palace Wing. Be respectful—this is a functioning library—and keep quiet as you move through the halls. It’s an absolute dream for anyone who loves books, old interiors, or hidden gems.
6. Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Although it’s one of the city’s most famous landmarks, it wasn’t on my personal list. Based on reviews and photos, the space often seems overcrowded and not particularly clean—so I chose to skip it. If you’re after a more relaxing spa experience, you might want to look into some of the smaller or less touristy bathhouses.
