Welcome to Budapest which is famous in Hungary for its history, beautiful buildings and lively culture. Not everyone thinks of Budapest as a beach getaway, even so, you can find some excellent places for summer escape in the city. Here, we’ll show you the best Budapest beach resorts and help you plan your perfect summer trip. To learn where they are and what you should expect, keep reading.

Why Make Budapest Your Choice for a Beach Holiday?

Because it is along the Danube, Budapest sees a fusion of urban sights and beautiful natural surroundings. During summer, many of the city’s waterfronts are converted into beach resorts thanks to their special geographical layout. If you wish to sunbathe on a beach, relax by the pool or try exciting water sports, you’ll find what you need in Budapest.

At Budapest’s beach resorts, you can find lots of fun daily for a low cost, but for the same price at Dubrovnik you’d need to travel far and not enjoy city life at all. The warm weather in May 2025 (20–25°C) helps to extend the travel season, the Budapest Travel Portal says. Reddit’s r/budapest is enthusiastic about these havens, great for people visiting with children or on a solo trip.

Best Places to Stay at Budapest Beaches

1. Palatinus Beach

Palatinus Beach is situated on Margaret Island and is a much-loved beach resort in Budapest. Its size includes pools, wave pools, several water slides and delightful beaches perfect for sunbathing. Thanks to its green surroundings, Palatinus Beach allows you to get away from the city closer to home.

It costs 3,500 HUF (£7.29) to get in at Margitsziget (District XIII) and using a sunbed costs 1,000 HUF (£2.08). Bus 26 brings you here from 9 AM to 8 PM. TripAdvisor (4.4/5) feels that this is a great place for families to visit. A burger snack costs 2,000 HUF, so it’s about £4.17.

2. Lupa Beach

Looking for a beach that’s removed from the crowds? Lupa Beach is sure to please. Just north of Budapest, next to Lake Lupa, this resort features an endless stretch of sandy beach and wonderfully clear waters. With its location in a stunning forest, Lupa Beach is perfect for those who want quiet relaxation in nature.

At Budakalász (near Budapest, get there by bus from Árpád híd for 500 HUF or £1.04), you have to pay 4,000 HUF (£8.33). The beach is open from 8 am until 9 pm, according to lupabeach.hu. On r/travel, Reddit says it’s the perfect spot for a calming getaway. The price for cocktails is 2,000 HUF (£4.17) each.

3. Pünkösdfürdő Beach

At Pünkösdfürdő Beach, both a city and beach atmosphere can be found, since it is built on the banks of the Danube. Because it has sandy beaches, swimming pools and lots of recreation, it’s a perfect choice for families. The beach is worth a visit because it gives stunning views of the Hungarian Parliament.

There is a 2,500 HUF (£5.21) entry fee at Királyok útja 272 (in District III). Monday to Sunday 10 AM–7 PM, the museum can be accessed via the HEV train for 350 HUF (£0.73). Viator (4.3/5) points out that the place is attractively scenic. Lángos is priced at 800 HUF (£1.67).

What You Can Find at Budapest’s Beach Resorts

Knowing what you can find at Budapest resorts helps ensure you have a great time there. There are a number of things you want to consider.

• Many beach resorts in Budapest have amenities like sunbeds, shades, places to change and showers available. A number of resorts also offer restaurants and bars for your enjoyment.
• Many resorts allow you to enjoy activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking or jet skiing in the water. Talk to the beach resort to find out what activities are offered.
• There are live music shows, beach parties and other enjoyable events offered by resorts, mainly on weekends. Looking at the schedule of events before you arrive is wise.
• There are beach resorts where you’ll need to pay a charge for entry, whereas others will ask you to get a daily or half-day pass. Pricing is usually within reach, but make sure to check what’s available now on the internet.
• Palatinus allows visitors to try paddleboarding for 2,000 HUF (£4.17) an hour, Lupa offers kayaking at 1,500 HUF (£3.13) and Pünkösdfürdő puts on DJ events at no cost. You can order goulash at most restaurants, at a price of 2,500 HUF (£5.21).

Steps to Have a Great Time at the Beach

With these beach resorts mapped out, take a look at these extra tips to enjoy your time in Budapest this summer.

• Remember to check the plans and necessary details from the resorts ahead of your visit.
• Pack thoughtfully: Remember to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, towels and any other things you’ll need for a great day outside.
• Arriving at the beach early allows you to have a comfortable experience and good space.
• Drink lots of water to stay hydrated whenever it is warm or hot outside.
• If you are at a beach resort, remember to discover what’s around the area. You just might come across special cafes, parks or interesting places nearby.
• Plan your visit to Book Palatinus by accessing palatinusstrand.hu. Don’t forget to carry cash for Lupa’s sellers. After spending time at Palatinus, walk to Margaret Island’s Japanese Garden (it’s free).

Why should you visit Budapest’s Beaches?

The best part is that you get both city and nature at low costs, starting at £3. Try stopping at Heroes’ Square (close to Palatinus and free) or makeshift ruin bars.

Final Thoughts

When you visit a Budapest beach resort, you can unwind, have fun and admire beautiful nature, right in the center of the city. You’ll have an unforgettable visit at any of these three beaches: Palatinus Beach, Lupa Beach or Pünkösdfürdő Beach. Don’t forget to organize your visit, bring everything you’ll need at the beach and enjoy the areas along Budapest.