What to Do in July in Budapest: Sun, Culture, and Summer Magic
Budapest in July is a city in full swing — sun-drenched days, lively nights, and a buzz that runs through its boulevards and along the Danube. If you’re looking for a mix of culture, fun, food, and unforgettable experiences, this is your month. Here’s your perfect guide to what to do in Budapest in July!
1. Sunset Vibes at Citadel and Gellért Hill
Start your trip with a golden hour view from one of the city’s best vantage points. Gellért Hill offers panoramic views over Budapest’s skyline, with the Danube, Parliament, and Chain Bridge glowing in the sunset. Top tip: Pack a picnic, climb up just before dusk, and let the city unfold beneath you as the lights come on.
Click here for more details about Gellért Hill and Citadel.
2. Cool Down at Budapest’s Outdoor Pools and Thermal Baths
Yes, Budapest is famous for its thermal spas — but in July, locals and travelers alike flock to the city’s open-air pools.
Must-visit spots:
- Palatinus Strand on Margaret Island – huge wave pool, slides, and leafy chill zones
- Római Part lido – more local, laid-back riverside bathing and beach-bar atmosphere
- Széchenyi Baths – soak outside in the steaming pools surrounded by neo-baroque architecture (early mornings or evenings are best to avoid the heat)
Click here for more details about Budapest’s thermal baths.
3. Celebrate Summer at Budapest’s Open-Air Festivals
July brings a jam-packed calendar of events across the city — music, dance, gastronomy, and more.
Festival highlights:
- Budapest Summer Festival – concerts and performances at Margaret Island and Városmajor
- Vajdahunyad Castle Summer Music Festival – classical, jazz, and folk in one of the city’s most magical settings
- Rosalia Wine Picnic (early July) – rosé, sparkling wines, and chill-out vibes in City Park
- Street Food & Craft Beer Fests – popping up across town with food trucks, BBQ, and artisan brews
4. Cruise the Danube — Day or Night
A river cruise is a summer essential in Budapest. Whether you’re floating under the Chain Bridge by day or sipping champagne beneath the stars, the Danube delivers serious wow factor.
Choose your style:
- Classic sightseeing boat with audio guide
- Dinner cruise with Hungarian cuisine and live music
- Cocktail or party boats – a floating night out with a view
5. Go Green: Day Trips to Escape the Heat
Sometimes it’s worth leaving the city behind for a day. July’s heat is a perfect excuse to explore cooler escapes.
Easy day trips from Budapest:
- Normafa & the Buda Hills – shady hikes, forest walks, and sweeping views
- Szentendre – charming artist town with cobbled streets and river cafés
- Lake Velence or Lake Balaton – Hungary’s best-loved beaches are a train ride away
6. Chill at Rooftop Bars & Garden Terraces
As the sun sets, Budapest’s rooftops and ruin pubs come alive. You’ll find everything from high-end cocktails to laid-back garden lounges hidden in courtyards.
Top spots to sip and socialize:
- 360 Bar – iconic views and summer cocktails
- Leo Rooftop – stylish and close to the Chain Bridge
- Kertem or Mazel Tov – for cool garden hangs with music and food
- Szimpla Kert – still the king of Budapest ruin pubs
Click here for more details about Budapest’s skybars.
7. Satisfy Your Summer Cravings
Let’s face it: half the joy of travel is tasting your way through a city.
Summer must-eats in Budapest:
- Gelarto Rosa – still the best rose-shaped gelato in town
- Kürtőskalács (chimney cake) – cinnamon-sugar heaven, fresh off the coals
- Lángos – because it’s never too hot for fried dough and cheese
- New York Café – opulent, iconic, and perfect for coffee with a side of elegance
Click here for more details about Budapest’s cafés and here for more details about the ice cream places in Budapest.
8. Explore Budapest by Night
The city doesn’t slow down after sunset — it transforms. Music spills into the streets, bridges light up, and warm evenings invite late-night wanders.
Ideas for a magical night:
- Walk the Danube Promenade
- See the Parliament lit up from a boat or from Batthyány Square
- Watch an outdoor film screening
- Join a night walking tour or bar crawl
- Sit in a hidden courtyard with a glass of Tokaji wine
Final Tip: Let July Surprise You
Traveling with kids? Budapest has you covered — but not every event or attraction is family-friendly. If you need a few hours (or a full day) of grown-up time, trusted local babysitting services like Non Stop Nanny can help. Whether it’s date night, a spa day, or a wine cruise, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your children are in good hands.
Send a Babysitter request now: Request a Nanny
