Thinking about going to Budapest and don’t know where to stay? There’s no need to look anywhere else. We will look at some great Budapest neighborhoods that have something different to offer based on your preferences and interests.

1. District V covers the area named Belváros/Lipótváros.

District V which many call Belváros or Lipótváros, is where the central area of Budapest is located. Because of the beautiful buildings, lively surroundings and closeness to major sights, many tourists choose to stay there.

Highlights:

 Parliament Building: Be impressed by the elegant design of one of Europe’s finest parliaments. With the Danube flowing by, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a work of neo-Gothic beauty and is most beautiful when it is lit at night.

•  When you get a chance, take some time to make the drive to Chain Bridge for delightful views over the Danube River. The bridge connects Buda and Pest and it’s wonderful for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
•  Tour the detailed architectural style of St. Stephen’s Basilica and reach the top for a stunning look across Budapest’s rooftops. Don’t forget to see the safely preserved hand of St. Stephen, Hungary’s founding king, while inside.
•  At Váci Street, shoppers will find a lively place with many charming stores and fun souvenir shops. Much of the restaurants and cafes have both Hungarian food and various international options.
• Liberty Square (Szabadság tér) is located in District V, a space with monuments, fountains and modern cafes within a green area. You can easily take a break there after exploring the nearby sights.

2. Erzsébetváros is the name for District VII.

For those who like partying, District VII is your best option. Otherwise known as the Jewish Quarter, it features a lively mixture of restaurants, bars and interesting street art.

Highlights:

•  Visit Gozsdu Udvar to enjoy the energy of the area and dine, socialize or shop at its many cafés, bars and small shops. In the evening, the district attracts both locals and tourists with its trendy cocktails and mixed cuisine.
•  Visit Szimpla Kert to experience why everyone talks about the famous ruin bar culture in Budapest. Situated in a former factory, the space is furnished with assorted pieces, colorful decor and has both live music and farmers’ markets.
•  Discover the Great Synagogue, the biggest synagogue anywhere in Europe. Located here are the Jewish Museum, a Holocaust memorial and a contemplative garden.
•  Explore the area’s streets and alleys to see many colorful examples of street art. They usually represent how Budapest’s people experienced history and expressed their imagination.
• This district is perfect for foodies since it has Hungarian and international restaurants, vegan stalls and many more. Escape rooms, specialty coffee shops and concert venues are located close to one another just about anywhere downtown.

3. District I (Castle District)

Can you believe I’m telling you to go to the Castle District? You’ll find some of Budapest’s most famous sights in this neighborhood, along with marvelous views of the city.

Highlights:

 Take a tour of Buda Castle, part of the same World Heritage Site and experience its Royal Palace. Culture lovers will find much to enjoy at the castle’s Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum.

•  Fisherman’s Bastion provides scenic views over both Budapest and the Danube River from its unique terrace platform. With its towers and lookout points, the architecture differs nothing from the towers you’d find in fairy tales.
•  Matthias Church: Appreciate the amazing Gothic style found in this large old church. The roof’s bright tiles and ornately decorated rooms make it a famous city landmark.
•  Hospital in the Rock: Visit the secret World War II and Cold War hospital and bunker hidden below Budapest. Guided tours and information on Hungary’s wartime effort are available at the museum.

There are cobbled streets, lovely secret gardens and artisan stalls here, making an evening stroll after museum trips very appealing.

4. District VI is called Terézváros.

Terézváros which is what District VI is called, is alive with life and boasts numerous historical features, fashionable cafés and lovely green areas. Anyone who loves food or art will find much to enjoy here.

Highlights:

 Andrássy Avenue: Walk through this graceful street full of stylish shops, coffee places and ancient buildings. The road links the downtown area to Heroes’ Square and resembles Paris’s world-famous Champs-Élysées.

•  At Heroes’ Square, take in the famous Millennial Monument and the statues important to Magyar history. Other landmarks in the square are the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art.
•  Steps from the river, hunt down a performance or join a tour at the magnificent Hungarian State Opera House. The city’s impressive neo-Renaissance design can be seen best in the Hungarian Opera House.
•  Experience Nagymező Street, where you’ll find plenty of theaters, a range of cafes and galleries. Both those going to a show and those staying past midnight fill this cultural corridor.
• Also nearby is City Park (Városliget), with the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, a zoo and Vajdahunyad Castle—a fantasy mix of building styles by the peaceful waters of the lake.

5. District XIII is called Újlipótváros.

People looking for a peaceful residential atmosphere will find District XIII the best option. Being on the Danube, the area is calm and life is relaxed due to many nearby recreational areas.

Highlights:

 Because of its greenery, pools and recreational areas, Margaret Island offers a chance to get away from city life. You could rent a pedal cart or just sit nearby where the musical fountain is located.

•  Enjoy a break at Szent István Park amid its lovely lake, trails and trees. Thanks to the Art Deco architecture and nice cafes scattered through the area, it’s perfect for a peaceful afternoon out.
•  Visit Duna Plaza: you’ll find shops, a cinema and other entertainment at one of the largest malls in Budapest. Cinemas and international restaurants are also part of the shopping areas.
•  Go to Lehel Market Hall to get a taste of Hungarian food. Enjoying fresh produce, goulash or sausages is a delicious way to find out how locals eat.

The area of District XIII is easily accessible by metro and tram, so you can enjoy the better pace of a neighborhood and still make it to city centers reliably. This type of accommodation is top choice for families and longer stays.