Free Budapest Walking Tour

Budapest is Hungary’s capital city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hungary. Whether you’re into history, arts and culture, or nature, with over 1.7 million people and 200 sq. miles there’s plenty to explore!

In our opinion, one of the best ways to get to know Budapest is by doing a walking tour. And you can find a free walking tour on the Trip to Budapest website. You definitely won’t be disappointed! But keep in mind guides are not paid by the organization and make their money from tips. So please be sure to tip your guide at the end of the tour. It’s generally recommended to tip $5-10 USD/person. 

Here’s some of what we saw on our Free Budapest Walking Tour!

Elizabeth Square

The tour started in Elizabeth Square in downtown Budapest, which is named after Queen Elizabeth or “Sissi” who was a favorite of the Hungarian people. The park is known for the “Budapest Eye,” a giant ferris wheel overlooking the city, and has become a popular spot for political protests. 

Michael Jackson Tree

The Michael Jackson Tree is pretty much what it sounds like. It’s nothing much to look at, just a tree covered in pictures of Michal Jackson. After his death, fans decided to dedicate the tree to him since he often stayed in the Kempinski Hotel across the street when he visited Budapest. I also read that every year on his birthday a flash mob gathers to dance to one of his songs. 

Former British Embassy

On the corner of the former British Embassy is a plaque commemorating Swedish consul Raoul Wallenberg who sheltered and saved many Jewish people during Nazi occupation during WWII.  

You’ll also notice a small iron teddy bear. This is Mr. Bean’s teddy from the famous British comedy character. The statue was created by guerrilla sculptor Mihajlo Kolodko, whose work can actually be found all over the city. Apparently there are almost 30 of these little sculptors around the city in total. Click here for more information on the hidden mini statues: https://budapestflow.com/hidden-mini-statues-budapest/  

Lion Fountain

The Lion Fountain located in Vörösmarty Square is a relatively new addition to Budapest. It was built in 1985 over a well containing natural spring water, which flows out the lions’ mouths and can still be used to drink or cool off on a hot summer day.  

Statue of Mihály Vörösmarty

The statue is constructed from limestone and carrara marble and features Mihály Vörösmarty, an author and poet surrounded by other figures representing different classes in society. 

Outline of Former City Wall 

As you travel down the touristy Váci U Street near the H&M store, which is actually the biggest H&M in Europe, you’ll notice some strange outlines on the sidewalk. It may not seem like much to look at, but for those of you who are history buffs, these outlines actually mark the former city wall. Kind of cool that they did that to commemorate the original city. 

Vigadó Square 

Vigadó Square is located along the Danube on the Pest side of Budapest. It gets its name from the Vigadó concert hall, home to the Hungarian State Folk Ensemble and the second largest concert hall in the city. The concert hall was designed in the 1850s and has beautiful arched entries and windows. Aside from the concert hall, the square also has a charming little statue and fountain. It’s also a great spot to catch a view of Buda Castle or have a romantic dinner at one of the many river side restaurants. Though be sure to check prices first, since they tend to run higher than other areas in the city. 

Little Princess Statue 

The whimsical Little Princess Statue sits on the railing between Vigadó Square and the Danube River. The statue was inspired by the artist’s daughter who used to pretend she was a princess and run around wearing a bathrobe and newspaper crown. Today locals and tourists pass by the sculpture and rub the little princess’s knee for good luck. Fun fact, there are three other copies of the sculpture. One in the National Gallery, one in the artist’s home, and one at the Tokyo Metropolitan Theater. 

Inner City Parish Church

The Inner City Parish Church also known as the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary is the oldest church in Budapest. The original church was built in a romanesque style during the 11th century. It was rebuilt in a gothic style during the 14th century and in a baroque style during the 18th century. The church was used as a mosque during Turkish rule and still has an Islamic mihrab or prayer niche. It also contains artifacts from several saints, as well as a piece of the cross where Christ was crucified. 

Jewish Memorial

To the right of Inner City Parish Church along Szabad sajtó út is a little known Holocaust memorial that looks kind of like an infinity symbol. On the ground leading up to the memorial are bricks printed with locations where many Jewish people lost their lives. The left side of the sculpture is lined with numbers representing the numbers branded on Jews during the Holocaust.  

Váci u

Our guide also took us down Váci u, a touristy street with shops and restaurants. While there we stopped at a supermarket where she pointed out traditional wine and beer and a shop where you can get langos and chimney cake. 

Langos is a traditional, tasty, and very filling Hungarian snack. It’s deep fried dough covered in sour cream, garlic, and cheese. If you like garlic and cheese you’ll love it, but it definitely sits in you like a brick. Picture a savory funnel cake!

Chimney cakes are a traditional Hungarian dessert made by wrapping sweet dough around a spit and coating it in butter and sugar, creating a caramelized crispy crust.

Central Market Hall 

At 10,000 sq meters Central Market Hall is the largest market in Budapest with 3 levels and hundreds of stalls. It’s a beautiful building that resembles a train station, but never was, 

with arched windows and doorways and Hungary’s trademark colorful tiled roof. On the first floor you’ll find fresh meat, produce, and baked goods. The second floor has souvenirs and food stalls. And the basement has paprika and pickled goods. It’s definitely worth a stop to admire the architecture, browse, and try some local food. But some vendors can prey on tourists, so make sure you check prices ahead of time.  

Liberty Bridge

Our last stop of the tour was Liberty Bridge, formerly Franz Joseph Bridge, where we watched as the sun set over the Danube and caught a glimpse of the Gellért Hotel & Sap and the Cave Church on the other side. 

Note: The walking tour takes you by attractions, but you do not go inside. If you want to go inside the attractions you can do that on your own after the tour.  

Here is the Trip to Budapest website if you’d like to check out more or sign up for a tour.  

You can also check out our other article on the Free Buda Castle Walking Tour.