Looking for some outstanding activities in Budapest, Hungary, if you are travelling there in May? This is the spot you want to be. March in Hungary is packed with activities, sites and experiences in the lively capital city. Budapest in May has a lot to offer, from cultural festivals to outdoor activities and these are some of the best places to visit and things to do.

1. Go for a walk along the Danube.

Walk leisurely along the famous Danube Promenade when you start your trip. From this part of the Danube, you can admire the Buda Castle, Parliament Building and Chain Bridge. Stop to enjoy the outdoors and the amazing views as you see the wonderful architecture of the city.

May is a great time to visit Budapest since the weather is mild and sunny, letting people take walks along the Danube. Nice places to rest and drink coffee are available along the gravel path all over the promenade. Take some time to see the memorial called “Shoes on the Danube Bank,” erected to honor people who died in World War II.

2. Make a trip to Buda Castle.

On top of Castle Hill, Buda Castle is recognized by UNESCO and is well worth visiting for any traveler. Go to the palace complex, as it houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Try to see the wide views of the city from the space around the castle.

With spring, the castle courtyards bloom and fill with greenery which only adds to a visitor’s enjoyment. If history or art are your interests, the exhibitions show a vivid view of Hungary’s past and artistic traditions.

3. Wander through Fisherman’s Bastion.

A short distance away from Buda Castle you’ll see the lovely Fisherman’s Bastion. It provides amazing views over the city and the river Danube. Go around the area and appreciate its beautiful architecture and try to take some memorable pictures too.

Catching the golden hour light or escaping big groups can be best done with a visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Entry to the upper towers is sometimes chargeable, but going down to the lower terraces is free and equally wonderful.

4. Go to the Thermal Baths for a relaxing time.

Thermal baths are well known in Budapest and in May the weather makes it an ideal time to use them. Soak in the Széchenyi Baths, one of the biggest spas in Europe or visit the Gellért Baths for some Art Nouveau charm. Have a relaxing experience with a massage and some time in their thermal pools.

Because temperatures are rising in May but not as high as summer, outdoor pools become more enjoyable. You can find many wellness treatments, saunas and steam rooms in baths which are perfect for a break after all your sightseeing.

5. sample local dishes

Treating yourself to Hungarian cuisine is one of the main things to do in Budapest. Try out the famous Hungarian meals goulash, langos (fried dough), chimney cake and palacsinta (Hungarian pancakes). Go to the Great Market Hall to sample traditional Hungarian dishes and pick up some memories for yourself.

You can often choose to sit outside at cafes and restaurants in May. Get of taste of the local and seasonal dishes and also look for new creations that reflect traditional Hungarian recipes.

6. Come to the Budavár Spring Festival.

The Budavár Spring Festival which celebrates arts, music and culture, is held in Budapest in May. Have fun at concerts, exhibitions, dance shows and theater productions which are held at different venues throughout the city. Join in on local art events to see and feel the rich cultural history of Hungary.

Performers at the festival often take the stages in Buda Castle and Castle Garden Bazaar which create a beautiful setting for the shows. The festival gives you the chance to enjoy Hungarian folk traditions, modern art and performers from other countries all together.

7. Hop on a Boat Cruise at the Danube River.

Take in the city sights from a sightseeing cruise along the Danube River. See beautiful landmarks such as the Parliament Building and Budapest Eye while you are on a cruise at night. You really should take advantage of this wonderful experience.

Many cruise guides will use audio or give live commentary to explain interesting parts of the city’s past. Some cruises throw in dinner or performances, so you have an unforgettable night.

8. Visit Margaret Island.

To get away from the busy streets, why not go to Margaret Island, a peaceful green area on the Danube? Take a bike or go for a pleasant walk, in the beautiful park. Enjoy the thermal baths, admire a beautiful Japanese garden and spend time outside playing mini-golf or swimming.

During May, flowers pop up and shopping and dining on the island become busier. Attend the musical fountain or see the ancient ruins that are sprinkled all through the park. You can relax here with your family or friends and enjoy a great picnic.

9. Walk around the Ecseri Flea Market.

Visit the Ecseri Flea Market if you love older items and unique items. Look around the stalls and see if you can find unique books, antique woodwork, retro clothing, vinyl records and anything else you like. This is the best place to buy a special souvenir for your trip.

Travelers who want to collect unique finds will feel very much at home in this market. You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy seeing the old posters, war items and unusual art that reflects Hungarian culture here.

10. Spend some time in the Ruin Bars.

Ruin bars which are found in old, abandoned structures and courtyards, are a well-known part of Budapest. You can find cool venues with unusual styles, music and exciting things happening at night. Make sure to see Szimpla Kert, where the first ruin bar opened.

In May, many ruin bars move their parties to their outdoor areas, giving everything a garden-party atmosphere of sparkling lights and quiet music. If you go for a drink or to listen to live DJs, these bars should definitely be on your list when you party.