1. See the sights of Buda Castle.

Start the month in April by visiting Buda Castle, a site recognized by UNESCO. The castle has lovely views of the city and includes the Budapest History Museum among its museums. Walk through the Castle District to admire its historical design.

To get a different view, you may also take the funicular up from Clark Ádám Square. Up at the summit, you can tour the Spanish Hall in the Royal Palace, discover medieval paintings in the National Gallery and stop at Fisherman’s Bastion to photograph the Danube from above. Try to include in your visit a walking tour or an audio guide offering information about all of the kingdoms, Ottoman sieges and Baroque renovations that formed the castle through the years.

2. Visit the area’s thermal baths.

Budapest’s thermal baths are well known and you should make the most of them in April. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the most famous in Budapest and it’s a great place to relax in the warm pools. Don’t miss out on the famous thermal spa treatments for maximum relaxation.

If crowds aren’t your thing, try Gellért Baths in Buda instead. Their Art Nouveau interiors create an admirable environment for you to soak in. Rudas Bath near Elizabeth Bridge gives you a chance to experience historic Ottoman architecture through its Turkish pool and regular parties. October is a great time to plan your hydrotherapy, mud wrap or aromatherapy session in advance and stay away from busy times in the pools.

3. Experience the traditional Hungarian way of cooking.

You must try the local dishes when you visit Budapest. Go to a genuine Hungarian restaurant and taste some goulash, lángos and chimney cake. During April, the Budapest Spring Festival gives you a chance to sample iconic Hungarian dishes from many different regions of the country.

For a real culinary adventure, visit the Jewish Quarter’s bistros or the many hip bárbistro places in District VII. Enjoy your filling pörkölt dish with a glass of Egri Bikavér or find interesting craft beers at places like Élesztőház. Consider having a drink at the rooftop wine bars in Deák Ferenc Square and try delicious Tokaji wine along with artisan cheeses, as you watch the sunset above the Danube.

4. Attend this year’s Budapest Spring Festival.

The Budapest Spring Festival will allow you to sample the city’s energetic cultural life. Here, the event highlights several art areas, including music, dance, theater and visual arts each year. Attend concerts of classical music, appreciate live dance shows and visit art exhibitions at a variety of places in the city. For more information, go to the festival’s official website.

You can usually find performances in the Hungarian State Opera House, the Ludwig Museum or Müpa Budapest arts center. A variety of outdoor concerts are put on in local parks and gardens and ticketed gala events introduce audiences to famous or new musical and theatrical talents. Making your bookings in advance will ensure you get a seat for popular shows such as a complete Mozart concert or the first performance of an avant-garde puppet show.

5. Experience a trip along the Danube River.

See Budapest in a unique way, by taking a cruise on the Danube river. Enjoy the views of the Parliament, Buda Castle and more as you float on the river. The weather is lovely in April, so you can fully enjoy a cruise and a few boats include live music and dining to make the experience even better.

Often, those on morning cruises can benefit from hearing about hidden treasures like the Gresham Palace and the Liberty Statue. To make a romantic evening, book a river-cruise departing from Vigadó Square—you’ll find tables elegantly decorated and local folk musicians playing music on board. If you need to get there fast, board a hydrofoil and you’ll be in Szentendre in no time.

6. Go and visit Margaret Island.

If you’re in the Danube region, Margaret Island is a peaceful place with flowers blooming in spring. Hire a bicycle and enjoy the green gardens, fountains and musical fountains. Whether you stroll or have a picnic, make sure to enjoy the pleasant spring weather in April. Visitors also enjoy some fun at the tennis club, swimming pool and mini-golf.

You won’t want to miss the old water tower for its wide views or the hidden Japanese Garden behind the Palatinus Baths at the south end. Medieval ruins are close to the northern park entrance where families will enjoy them and those who like to jog can use the 5-kilometer running track that circles the island. Near the Rose Garden, some seasonal dance and music concerts are arranged just before dusk.

7. Check out the Great Market Hall.

Food enthusiasts will appreciate the Great Market Hall, as it’s also a great way to discover local culture. Make your way along the stalls offering fresh foods, spices, Hungarian dishes and the chance to buy handicrafts. Remember to sample some Hungarian street food such as lángos and kürtőskalács, when you are there.

In 1897, Fővám Square gained this three-story hall, noted for its iron-and-glass roof and bright Zsolnay tiles. In the ground floor area, you’ll discover stores selling delicious Mangalica pork and vendors selling both kinds of sweet and spicy paprika. The floor above the entrance has eateries selling gulyás soup and stuffed cabbage and down below you’ll find supplies of wines, pickles and bottles of pálinka to take with you.

8. Check out Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square is a famous and historical site in Budapest. Look at the Millennium Monument which honors important figures from Hungary’s history. Because flowers and greenery are blooming, April is an excellent time to see the City Park. Take a stroll in the park and find peace in the silence.

Flanking the square are two landmark buildings: the Museum of Fine Arts with its classical collections and the Műcsarnok Kunsthalle showcasing contemporary exhibitions. Just behind the monument, you’ll find the Vajdahunyad Castle—its fairy-tale towers reflecting in a small pond where seasonal ice skating rinks appear in winter. Horse-drawn carriage rides often depart from here, offering a romantic circuit around the leafy paths of Városliget.

9. Check Out the Ruin Bars

Budapest is known for its unique ruin bars, which are located in abandoned buildings and courtyards. These trendy and bohemian bars offer a unique atmosphere to socialize and enjoy a drink. Szimpla Kert is the most famous ruin bar in Budapest, but there are plenty of other cool options to explore.

Each ruin bar has its own character: Instant is a labyrinth of neon-lit rooms and vintage furniture, while Mazel Tov transforms a crumbling villa into a middle-eastern–themed garden restaurant. Fogasház welcomes with a massive dance floor and graffiti-covered walls, and Élesztőház is a craft-beer paradise with over 40 taps. Most bars host weekend brunches, art installations, and live DJ sets, so check their social media for special pop-up events.

10. Attend the Easter Markets

If you’re visiting Budapest in the weeks leading up to Easter, don’t miss the colorful Easter markets. Vörösmarty Square hosts one of the largest markets, offering traditional crafts, hand-painted eggs, and delicious Easter treats. Experience Hungarian Easter traditions, enjoy live music performances, and browse the stalls for unique souvenirs.

A short walk away, St. Stephen’s Basilica holds its own market with nighttime light shows projected onto the church façade. You’ll find stalls selling braided kalács sweet bread, smoked ham platters, and honey cakes, along with workshops for painting ceramic eggs. Gozsdu Udvar also organizes smaller artisan fairs, where local designers display handmade jewelry and fabric goods—perfect for an offbeat gift or memento.

Conclusion

Budapest in April offers a wide array of activities and experiences for visitors. From exploring historical landmarks to indulging in thermal baths and enjoying the vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Budapest!