Top Tourist Attractions in Hungary: 2025 Travel Guide For Visitors From Pakistan

 

Hungary is one of Europe’s most surprising destinations. Many travellers from Pakistan know about Paris, London, or Rome, but Hungary’s capital Budapest and its beautiful countryside are often less crowded, more affordable and equally rich in history and culture.

From grand riverside palaces and warm thermal baths to peaceful lake resorts and scenic river bends, Hungary offers a memorable European experience that fits easily into wider Schengen and Europe tour plans.

In this 2025 guide, you will discover the top tourist attractions in Hungary, the best time to visit, practical tips, and how Malik Express Travel & Tours can help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip from Pakistan.

Why Visit Hungary?

1. Budapest - “Pearl Of The Danube”

Budapest is often listed among the best cities to visit in Europe, famous for its mix of historic architecture, riverside views, thermal baths and vibrant café culture.

The city is split by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, connected by several bridges, and its historic centre along the river is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Thermal Baths And Wellness

Thanks to its natural hot springs, Hungary - and especially Budapest - is known as a spa capital. There is no other capital city in the world with as many thermal baths, where visitors can relax in warm mineral waters all year round.

3. Value For Money In Europe

Compared with many Western European countries, Budapest and other Hungarian destinations are often more budget-friendly while still offering excellent hotels, restaurants and attractions.

Top Tourist Attractions In Hungary

Most first-time visitors from Pakistan start in Budapest and then add one or two extra regions such as the Danube Bend or Lake Balaton.

1. Budapest Parliament Building And The Danube Riverfront

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the largest and most impressive parliament buildings in Europe, sitting dramatically on the banks of the Danube.

Why It Is Special:

• Neo-Gothic architecture with a central dome and spires
• Part of Budapest’s UNESCO-listed riverfront panorama
• UNESCO World Heritage Centre
• Beautiful by day and spectacularly lit at night

You can admire the building on a guided tour inside or from outside during a Danube river cruise. Many 2025 Budapest guides recommend evening cruises for the best city views.

Tip: If you plan to tour the interior, book tickets in advance, especially in high season.

2. Buda Castle And Castle Hill

Buda Castle sits on a hill overlooking the Danube and has long been a symbol of Hungarian kings and history. The entire Castle Hill district - with cobbled streets, museums and viewpoints - is part of the UNESCO World Heritage area.

What To See:

• Buda Castle complex and courtyards
• The Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum
• Panoramic views across to the Parliament Building and Pest
• You can reach Castle Hill by funicular, bus or a short uphill walk.

Tip: Visit around sunset for soft light and beautiful photos over the river and city.

3. Fisherman’s Bastion And Matthias Church

• Near Buda Castle sits Fisherman’s Bastion, a fairy-tale terrace with white towers and arches that offer some of the best views in Budapest.
• Right next to it is Matthias Church, a beautifully decorated church with a colourful tiled roof.
• Fisherman’s Bastion provides picture-perfect views of the Parliament across the river.
• Matthias Church hosts concerts and has a detailed interior rich in patterns and colours.

Tip: Some parts of Fisherman’s Bastion are free; a small fee applies for the upper terraces, which are worth it for photographers.

4. Széchenyi Thermal Bath And Other Spas

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest and one of the most famous.

Located in City Park, it features:

• Large outdoor pools with warm mineral water
• Indoor pools of different temperatures
• Saunas, steam rooms and spa services

Other popular baths include Gellért Baths, Rudas Bath and local favourites like Lukács Bath.

Tip For Travellers From Pakistan:

Carry modest swimwear, flip-flops and a towel. Some baths allow renting towels and swim caps, but bringing your own can save time and money.

5. Chain Bridge And Danube River Cruise

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is one of Budapest’s most recognisable landmarks and connects Buda and Pest. It is often highlighted by official tourism sites as a symbol of the city.

A Danube river cruise in Budapest is an excellent way to see:

• Parliament Building
• Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion
• Gellért Hill and Liberty Statue
• Bridges and riverfront architecture

Most cruises last from 60 to 90 minutes and are available during the day and evening.

6. Heroes’ Square And City Park

Heroes’ Square is one of Budapest’s main squares, featuring statues of Hungarian leaders and a large central column, and is frequently included in lists of must-see sights.

Behind the square lies City Park (Városliget), home to:

• Széchenyi Thermal Bath
• Vajdahunyad Castle
• A boating lake that turns into an ice rink in winter
• This area is great for families and relaxed walks.

7. Jewish Quarter And Ruin Bars

The Jewish Quarter in Pest has become one of the city’s most lively districts, mixing history with modern nightlife.

• Historic synagogues, including the Dohány Street Synagogue (one of Europe’s largest)
• Street art, cafés and international restaurants
• Famous “ruin bars” created in old buildings and courtyard

8. Danube Bend - Day Trip From Budapest

The Danube Bend, located north of Budapest, is a scenic area where the Danube River curves between hills and historic towns such as Esztergom, Visegrád and Szentendre. Recent travel articles describe it as one of Hungary’s underrated highlights.

You can:

• Visit hilltop castles and viewpoints
• Explore riverside towns and museums
• Enjoy hiking, cycling or river activities
• Many travellers visit on a guided day trip from Budapest.

9. Lake Balaton - Hungary’s “Inland Sea”

Lake Balaton is Central Europe’s largest lake and a favourite summer destination for Hungarians. The official tourism website recommends including Balaton for travellers who enjoy swimming, sailing and lakeside resorts.

Popular Areas Include:

• Balatonfüred - a traditional spa town
• Tihany Peninsula - famous for views and lavender
• Siófok - lively resort with beaches and nightlife

For families and couples from Pakistan, Lake Balaton offers a more relaxed setting after busy days in Budapest.

Best Time To Visit Hungary From Pakistan

Hungary has four distinct seasons. Choosing the right time depends on what you want to experience and your budget.

Spring (April-June)

 

• Pleasant temperatures for walking and sightseeing
• Flowers in parks and along the Danube
• Fewer crowds than peak summer

Many current Budapest guides consider April to June one of the best times to visit.

Summer (July-August)

• Warm to hot weather, ideal for Lake Balaton and outdoor activities
• Festivals, open-air events and busy nightlife
• Higher demand and prices in popular areas

Autumn (September-October)

• Comfortable weather and colourful foliage
• Good time for city breaks and Danube Bend trips
• Slightly lower prices and fewer tourists

Winter (November-March)

• Cold but atmospheric, with Christmas markets and thermal baths offering warm relaxation
• Lower prices on flights and hotels (except New Year)

 

Practical Travel Tips for Hungary (Especially from Pakistan)

1. Visa And Entry Requirements

Hungary is part of the Schengen Area, so Pakistani passport holders generally need a Schengen visa before travelling. Requirements typically include:

• Valid passport
• Completed visa form
• Flight and hotel bookings
• Financial proof and bank statements
• Travel insurance covering the Schengen region

Always check updated rules before applying, as regulations can change.

2. Currency And Payments

Local Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)

• Card payments are widely accepted in cities, shops and restaurants.
• ATMs are available almost everywhere in Budapest and major towns.

3. Getting Around Budapest And Beyond

• Budapest has an efficient public transport network:
• Metro, trams, buses and suburban trains
• Travel cards and passes that combine multiple modes

The official Budapest tourist site and recent guides highlight public transport and walking as the best ways to explore the city.

For other parts of Hungary:

• Intercity trains connect Budapest with cities such as Debrecen and GyÅ‘r.
• Buses serve smaller towns and Lake Balaton.

4. Safety And Comfort

Budapest is generally considered safe for tourists, including families and solo travellers, as long as normal city precautions are followed.

Suggestions:

• Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or reputable ride services.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa.

5. Halal Food And Dining

While Hungary is not a Muslim-majority country, Budapest has a growing selection of halal and Middle Eastern restaurants, plus many vegetarian and seafood options.

Typical Hungarian dishes include goulash soup, stews, grilled meats, pastries and sweets. You can plan halal-friendly dining by checking restaurant reviews and locations near your hotel in advance.

 

How Malik Express Travel & Tours Can Help You Visit Hungary

 

Malik Express Travel & Tours is a long-established, leading travel agency in Islamabad and a tour operator serving major cities across Pakistan and beyond. It provides flight bookings, visas, tour packages, hotel reservations and travel insurance

1. Tailored Hungary And Europe Tour Packages

Using their experience with multi-country itineraries, Malik Express can design customised packages that include Hungary by itself or in combination with other Schengen destinations such as Austria, Czech Republic, Italy or Germany.

They Can Arrange:

• Budapest city breaks
• Hungary plus Vienna and Prague routes
• Danube-focused itineraries including river cruises

2. Schengen Visa Guidance For Hungary

Schengen visa applications can be challenging, especially for first-time travellers. Malik Express can help with:

• Guidance on document requirements
• Flight and hotel bookings suitable for your visa file
• Travel insurance that meets Schengen regulations

3. Flights, Hotels And Transfers

With access to global booking systems, Malik Express can:

• Find convenient flights from major Pakistani cities to Budapest via hubs such as Istanbul or Doha
• Book centrally located hotels in Budapest and other Hungarian destinations
• Arrange airport transfers, sightseeing tours and day trips such as Danube Bend or Lake Balaton

4. Ongoing Support

Having a reliable agency behind you means you have support if:

• Your flights are rescheduled
• You need to adjust your itinerary
• You want to add extra experiences such as a river cruise or thermal spa visit

 

Sample 6-8 Day Hungary Itinerary From Pakistan

You can use this as a base and refine it with Malik Express according to your budget and interests.

Day 1-2: Arrival And Central Budapest

• Arrive in Budapest, rest and explore the neighbourhood
• Visit Parliament Building and take a Danube evening cruise
• Walk across the Chain Bridge and enjoy views of Buda Castle

Day 3: Castle Hill And Fisherman’s Bastion

• Explore Buda Castle complex and museums
• Visit Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion
• Evening coffee or dessert in the Castle District

Day 4: Thermal Baths And City Park

• Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath
• Explore Heroes’ Square, City Park and Vajdahunyad Castle
• Optional: visit a ruin bar in the Jewish Quarter

Day 5: Danube Bend Day Trip

• Day trip to Esztergom, Visegrád and Szentendre
• Return to Budapest in the evening

Day 6-7: Lake Balaton (Optional)

• Travel to Lake Balaton for lakeside relaxation
• Boat ride, swimming or walking in Balatonfüred or Tihany
• Return to Budapest

Day 8: Departure

Last-minute shopping and transfer to the airport

Malik Express can convert this plan into a confirmed holiday with clear pricing, accommodations and transport options.

 

Final Thoughts

Hungary, and especially Budapest, offers a rich European experience with grand architecture, thermal baths, river scenery and friendly prices. For travellers from Pakistan looking for something different from the usual Western European circuit, Hungary is a smart and rewarding choice.

With Malik Express Travel & Tours handling visas, flights, hotels and itineraries, you can explore the top tourist attractions in Hungary with confidence and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Hungary From Pakistan

1. Is Hungary a good travel destination for Pakistani tourists?

Yes. Hungary is one of the most budget-friendly and culturally rich destinations in Europe. Budapest offers stunning architecture, thermal baths, scenic river cruises and historical sites, making it ideal for couples, families and solo travellers. Compared to many Western European capitals, Hungary is more affordable and easier to explore.

2. Do Pakistani travellers need a visa for Hungary?

Yes. Pakistanis need a Schengen visa to visit Hungary. This visa also allows travel to other Schengen countries such as Austria, Germany, Italy, France and the Netherlands. Malik Express Travel & Tours can help you prepare your document file, bookings and travel insurance for a smooth application process.

3. What is the best time to visit Hungary?

The best time to visit Hungary is during April to June and September to October, when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are smaller. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, ideal for Lake Balaton and outdoor events. Winter (November to March) is colder but great for Christmas markets and thermal bath experiences.

4. How many days do you need to explore Hungary?

For a comfortable trip, most travellers need 5 to 7 days.

A suggested breakdown is:

• 3 days in Budapest
• 1 day trip to the Danube Bend
• 1-2 days at Lake Balaton
• Optional day trip to nearby countries such as Austria (Vienna)

Malik Express can customize your itinerary based on your interests and budget.

5. Is Budapest safe for tourists?

Budapest is generally considered a safe European city. Normal travel precautions are recommended, especially in busy tourist areas. Public transport is reliable, and tourist zones are well-lit and maintained. Always keep important documents secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places.

6. Are halal food options available in Budapest?

Yes. Budapest has a growing number of halal restaurants, including Turkish, Middle Eastern, Pakistani and international cuisines. You can also find vegetarian and seafood options easily. Malik Express can help you choose hotels located near halal-friendly dining spots.

7. How expensive is Hungary compared to other European countries?

Hungary is generally more affordable than countries like France, Italy or Switzerland. Hotels, transport, food and activities are reasonably priced. Public transport is cheap, and many attractions offer discounts for students, families and early bookings.

8. What is the local currency in Hungary?

Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF). While many places accept debit and credit cards, carrying some cash is useful for small purchases, local markets or public transport kiosks.

9. What clothes should I pack for Hungary?

Your packing depends on the season:

• Spring/Autumn: Light layers, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket.
• Summer: Breathable clothes, sun protection, sunglasses and a hat.
• Winter: Thermal layers, warm jackets, gloves, scarves and sturdy shoes.
• For thermal baths, pack swimwear, slippers and a towel.

10. How can Malik Express Travel & Tours help with my Hungary trip?

Malik Express offers:

• Schengen visa assistance
• Flight bookings from Pakistan to Budapest
• Hotel reservations in central locations
• Customized tour itineraries
• Airport transfers and day trips
• Travel insurance and support during your trip