Budapest, a city rich in history and culture, also offers many activities for adults seeking unique experiences. From soothing spa treatments to lively entertainment and exquisite dining, Budapest has something for everyone. In this guide, we will explore the best adult activities in Budapest, segmented into three categories: Relaxation, Entertainment, and Gastronomy.
1. Relaxation
Secrets of Budapest
Start your relaxation journey at Secrets of Budapest, an exclusive spa offering deep, relaxing, and sensual therapies. This haven is meticulously designed to provide a sanctuary for those seeking a break from the daily grind. Whether you are looking for a solo escape or a shared journey with a partner, the luxurious massage experiences at Secrets of Budapest promise to transport you to blissful surrender.
Thermal Baths
Budapest is renowned for its thermal baths, a legacy of the city’s Roman and Turkish history. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest medicinal baths in Europe, offers a range of pools with varying temperatures and mineral compositions, perfect for soothing sore muscles and rejuvenating the body. Another popular spot is the Gellért Thermal Bath, known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and therapeutic waters. Both locations provide an ideal setting for unwinding and soaking away stress.
2. Entertainment
Szimpla Kert
Experience the quintessential Budapest nightlife at Szimpla Kert, the city’s most famous ruin bar. Established in an abandoned building in the Jewish Quarter, Szimpla Kert is decorated with local art, graffiti, fairy lights, and vintage furniture, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying drinks in an old Trabant car or exploring the range of bars within the venue, Szimpla Kert promises an unforgettable night out.
Bar 360
For breathtaking views and excellent drinks, visit Bar 360. Located atop an art deco shopping center on Andrássy Avenue, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of Budapest’s iconic landmarks, including the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, and St. Stephen’s Basilica. In winter, heated igloos provide a cozy setting for enjoying cocktails, Hungarian wine, and bar snacks with friends or on a romantic date.
Hotsy Totsy
Step back in time at Hotsy Totsy, a prohibition-era speakeasy-style bar featuring moody lighting and vintage tunes from the 1940s and 1950s. The bar’s personalized cocktails are showcased on a novel playing card deck menu, making the experience even more special. For a more intimate setting, explore the hidden “Hudson” lounge, offering a cozy and exclusive environment for a night of sophisticated drinking.
3. Gastronomy
Babel Budapest
Indulge in fine dining at Babel Budapest, a Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of the city. The elegantly casual dining room, with its white linen tables and views of a nearby Gothic cathedral, sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary experience. Babel’s menu features creative dishes inspired by Hungarian traditions, all made with high-quality local ingredients. The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere and exquisite cuisine make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Laurel
Hidden in a dim backstreet of Budapest’s District 7, Laurel is a gem of a fine dining restaurant. The modern furnishings and soft electronic music create a casually elegant ambiance. The below-ground kitchen produces beautiful plates inspired by Hungarian cuisine, featuring dishes like aged Mangalica ham, stuffed cabbage, and catfish with farmer’s cottage cheese. Laurel’s innovative approach to traditional flavors makes it a standout dining destination.
Salt Budapest
For a dining experience that celebrates foraged, pickled, and fermented ingredients, visit Salt Budapest. This downtown restaurant, awarded a Michelin star in 2021, offers a 15-course tasting menu crafted by Chef Szilárd Tóth. Highlights include the deeply flavorful aged Mangalica ham and the koji-fermented barley crepe filled with tender goat meat tartar. Salt’s bright and inventive flavors are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.