Before visiting Budapest, take some time to learn its layout so you get the best use out of your travel. It’s highly recommended to check out the Pest area in Budapest. We’ll show you a detailed picture of Pest in this guide, along with highlighting its biggest points of interest. Let’s get started!

Understanding Pest

On either side of Budapest, you can find Buda west of the Danube and Pest east of it. Even though Buda is famous for its charming Medieval atmosphere and hills, most of the city’s landmarks, historical sights and busiest parts are in Pest.

History, culture and modern life are all well represented in Pest. Whether you like buildings, markets or cafes, this area of Budapest has something fun for all tastes.

Lively Homes At Pest

In Districts V, VI and VII, the busy Pest area is home to attractions ranging from 0–10,000 HUF (£0–£20.83). It’s much easier to explore the flat areas of Pest than the hilly neighborhoods of Buda since you can get there quickly by metro. The average weather for spring in 2025 (15°C-25°C) encourages outdoor walks, according to budapestinfo.hu. Reddit users in r/budapest say Pest is a center of culture and entertainment and its landmarks and entertainment are on par with those of Prague, but at much more affordable prices.

Getting to know the less pleasant part of Budapest

I’d like to share a few important sights you can enjoy on the side of Budapest called Pest.

1. Heroes’ Square, in Budapest

Heroes’ Square is recognized worldwide and acts as a main entrance to the lovely city park. Home to the Millennium Monument which features important historical personalities from Albania, this big public square is next to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art. Start your time in Pest here and you’ll be glad you did.

Entrance to Hősök tere is without charge. The visit to the Museum of Fine Arts is free, thanks to the Budapest Card. The monument is situated near the road junction at Hősök tere. According to TripAdvisor (4.6/5), the palace is famous for its “longstanding grandeur.” Visit a City Park and take a stroll (for free) or go ice skating in May when the rink is open at 2,000 HUF (about £4.17).

2. St. See the famous Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika).

In celebration of the first King of Hungary, St. Stephen’s Basilica was built and now stands out beautifully in the Pest area. Come to the top for a fantastic view of Saint Petersburg or explore inside to see the church’s beautiful frescoes and the amazing Holy Right Hand relic.

At Szent István tér 1, in District V, entry is on your own goodwill (£1.04 by donation) and the dome can be visited for another 2,000 HUF (£4.17). Open Mondays to Saturdays 9 AM to 7 PM, near M3 (Arany János utca). It is ornate beauty that many like best about Viator. That month in the summer, there are special concerts featuring organ music (entrance 3,000 HUF, £6.25).

3. Parliament Building in Hungary (Országház)

The Building of the Hungarian Parliament is well-known in Budapest and represents the city. This fine neo-Gothic design catches the eye with its grand size and sits overlooking the Danube River. Join a specialized tour to explore the history of the parliament and admire its amazing inside.

Tours are priced at 10,000 HUF (£20.83) at Kossuth Lajos tér 1–3 (District V). From 8 in the morning till 6 in the evening, close to M2 (Kossuth Lajos tér). It claims that the city’s buildings are among its greatest attractions. Go to parlament.hu to book for May.

4. Nagyvásárcsarnok

To really savor Budapest’s food, make a visit to the The Market Hall is a spectacular place.. There is plenty to taste, see and buy here, from fresh goodies to local snacks and homemade crafts. Enjoy the local dishes, buy souvenirs and appreciate the lively mood everywhere there.

Entrance to the exhibit is free at Fővám tér 1–3 in District IX. Eight hundred HUF (£1.67) is the price of lángos and 1,000 HUF (£2.08) for paprika. Sundays closed, open every other day from 6 AM until 6 PM, nearby the M4 at Fővám tér. According to TripAdvisor (rated 4.4/5), there is a great culinary scene here. Those stalls towards the top also offer embroideries, each around 2,000 HUF (£4.17).

5. Váci Street

Váci Street is the main street in Budapest meant for pedestrians and it is a dreamshop for those looking to buy. Thanks to the many elegant shops and trendy cafes here, it’s a great spot for shopping. Enjoy a slow walk around and let the energetic atmosphere spoil you.

Espressos can be found in District V at Váci utca, priced at 600 HUF (£1.25) each. Next to M3 (Ferenciek tere). People on Reddit’s r/budapest love how lively the city is. Gerbeaud Café (pastries at 1,200 HUF which is £2.50), just round the corner, is another traditional place to try.

Using the Pest Side of Budapest Map

With all the key sights described, it’s a great opportunity to use a map while exploring the Pest area of Budapest. I’ve provided a simple example of a Pest map:

• Heroes’ Square
• St. Stephen’s Basilica
• Hungarian Parliament Building
• Great Market Hall
• Váci Street

Have this map with you while making your plan and getting around Pest in Budapest. Gain a sense of the area by noticing important landmarks and General Land Office sections to set up a clear route.

While a general map shows the layout, it’s smart to have or use a city map or navigation app to stay updated.

Making a Plan for Your Pests

The tour begins at Heroes’ Square, then you can take M1 for about half an hour to St. Stephen’s Basilica. Go from the Basilica to the Parliament (15 minutes) and either have drinks on Váci Street or have lunch at the Great Market Hall (£3.13 entry, £3.13 average meal). Google Maps or BKK FUTÁR apps help you move around easily. Váci now has short-term events as part of the Budapest Beer Week in May, according to budapestinfo.hu.

Useful Advice for May 2025

• Access to Parliament tours can be arranged through parlament.hu.
• You can ride Pest with Metro: M1/M2/M3/M4 (350 HUF, £0.73).
• You can avoid crowds and find peace at Market Hall if you arrive early at 8 AM.
• Remember to have your money ready in HUF, as it is easier for small vendors.
• May adds festivals with musical concerts at Heroes’ Square.
• Guards your bags while you walk along Váci Street.
• Near Váci, you can visit Dohány Synagogue for 5,000 HUF (£10.42).

What makes PEST important to explore?

Pest’s attractions include landmarks, markets and cafes that offer great value for your money (much less expensive than what you can find in Vienna). Its convenient connections by foot and on the metro are why it is popular for short journeys.

Conclusion

The Pest side of Budapest offers a myriad of attractions and experiences for travelers. From historical landmarks to vibrant markets and bustling streets, there’s something to delight every visitor. By familiarizing yourself with the Pest side of Budapest map and exploring the key attractions mentioned in this guide, you’ll make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

So grab your map, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to immerse yourself in the exciting Pest side of Budapest!