If you can’t decide where to begin when visiting Budapest and Barcelona, this guide is for you. That’s exactly what you need! Within this guide, we’ll take a look at these two vibrant cities, pointing out what makes them different, the most popular sights to explore and special events to attend. No matter if you’re interested in history, food or partying, you’ll find plenty in both Budapest and Barcelona. We’re going to explore everything you should know to organise your fun trip.

1. A region’s position in the world and its climate

Budapest is where you’ll find the capital of Hungary by the Danube, while Barcelona occupies a spot on the northeastern Spanish coast as the capital of Catalonia. Winters in Budapest are cold, summers are hot, but in Barcelona, you’ll find that the climate is Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters. Remember to bring clothing that matches the weather during your visit.

If you look at the different climates before your trip, your experience will be that much better. If you go to Budapest during the winter (November to March), dress warmly, but in Barcelona, you can keep exploring outdoors almost any time you like. Both places are warm in the summer, but because Budapest gets very hot, you won’t have the cool sea breeze like Barcelona does.

2. Attractions

2.1 Budapest

Budapest is filled with beautiful architectural sites. First, check out Buda Castle, since it gives fantastic views of the whole city. Don’t skip this chance to spend time at one of Budapest’s thermal baths such as the Széchenyi or the Gellért. Visit Andrássy Avenue which has been named a World Heritage site because of its stylish buildings and shops. Finally, the Hungarian Parliament Building should not be missed at night, as it really stands out.

A lot of the city’s history is visible in its icons, including the Castle District and the makeup of the Chain Bridge. Viewing the city’s skyline from a Danube river cruise gives you a special sight. If you enjoy art, you can visit the many museums and galleries across Budapest and people looking for a calm moment will discover them in the old baths with their hot springs.

2.2 Barcelona

When in Barcelona, you’ll be amazed by the distinctive works of the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. Enjoy the stunning Sagrada Família, a work still being built more than 100 years after it began. Pay a visit to Park Güell, a weirdly fascinating park with great views of Barcelona. Las Ramblas is a great place for a gentle walk, surrounded by lively street performers and stalls run by local people. Finish your stay in Barcelona by going to Camp Nou if you’re interested in football.

Besides being beautiful, Barcelona is charming because of its vibrant neighborhoods such as the Gothic Quarter with its old, narrow streets and El Born, where you’ll find many fashionable places and guesthouses. Visitors who love the sea can relax by the Mediterranean and those interested in art can check out the works at both Picasso Museum and Joan Miró Foundation.

3. Food Culture

Whether you’re an expert or novice, both Budapest and Barcelona will impress you with their diverse cuisine.

3.1 Budapest

Don’t miss trying traditional Hungarian dishes while you’re in Budapest. Try cooking goulash first, a rustic soup prepared from beef and using paprika. You can try kürtőskalács, a sweet chimney cake or lángos, a pastry that’s fried and covered in all kinds of tasty toppings. You won’t want to miss trying pálinka, the Hungarian fruit brandy that’s really famous.

You’ll often see paprika and other spices in Hungarian cuisine which is both hearty and delicious. The Great Market Hall, as well as other street markets, give you a good chance to enjoy Hungarian food and pick up souvenirs. Red eateries are famous for dishes that are deeply historic, but present-day restaurants combine Hungarian tastes with up-to-date ways of preparing food.

3.2 Barcelona

Barcelona is famous for its love of tapas. Examples of pintxos include patatas bravas and jamón ibérico and you’ll find many more. Be sure to eat paella, a rice casserole blended with saffron and either seafood or meat. Crema Catalana is an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys a rich dessert with caramelized sugar on top.

Mediterranean ways of cooking are visible in Catalan food, given the importance of fresh seafood, olive oil and colorful tastes. At markets such as La Boqueria, you can see and smell the many different fruits, vegetables and specialty goods. Usually, Spain’s Barcelona is a place where meals are meant to be shared, often in lively groups.

4. Fun and excitement at night.

You can find plenty of nightlife and many entertainment possibilities in both Budapest and Barcelona.

4.1 Budapest

One of the main attractions of Budapest are ruin bars which developed in spaces left abandoned by buildings. They provide a blend of art, good music and energetic environments. If you haven’t, don’t miss Szimpla Kert which is known for being a popular ruin bar. If you like listening to live music, you’ll find a mix of jazz and classical performances in the city.

From relaxing wine bars to crowded nightclubs, the city’s nightlife means you’ll find something for your taste. The Jewish Quarter is where you will find lots of buzzing clubs and bars which get going after dark. A wide range of festivals happens in Budapest all year, celebrating different forms of art.

4.2 Barcelona

It’s easy to find lively clubs and bars all over Barcelona thanks to its vibrant nightlife. You should go to El Raval if you are looking for trendy bars and clubs. If you’d prefer a lively night, go to one of the beachfront clubs in Barceloneta and stay until morning. Residents in Barcelona have chances to attend flamenco dances and go to live music events.

Whether you like places to party or stylish rooftop spots with great views, there’s a lot of choice in Barcelona’s nightlife. Because the evenings never really end here, the city is a favorite among those who prefer to dine and party late.

5. Budget Considerations

Feeling your pocket is likely cheaper in Budapest compared to Barcelona. Travelers visiting Budapest generally find accommodation, meals and transportation more affordable than in most other places. You’ll often find that Barcelona is more expensive in places popular with tourists. By organizing and checking out nearby possibilities, you can still enjoy your trip without spending much.

Thanks to Budapest’s prices, visitors might have the chance to stay longer or treat themselves more often, but Barcelona, with its golden coast, comes at a higher cost due to its fame. When you choose local restaurants, stay at budget hotels and explore attractive areas for free, both cities give you great value.

Having explored both cities, you can now start thinking about your dream trip to either one. If you enjoy enjoying amazing architecture in Budapest or imagining yourself in Barcelona’s liveliest places, both cities will leave you with amazing memories. Think about what you want from your trip, when you’d like to go and how much you want to spend and you’ll have a trip to remember for years.