Funny Things to Do in Budapest: A Guide to Unique and Entertaining Activities

Nestled along the scenic banks of the Danube River, Budapest is more than Hungary's capital—it's a hub of quirky, eclectic activities that promise not only to entertain but also to immerse visitors in unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a history buff looking for a humorous twist, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast craving something out of the ordinary, Budapest has a myriad of offerings to transform your visit into a memorable journey.

Table of contents

Historical and Cultural Fun

Buda Castle Exploration with Costumed Guides

Buda Castle

Explore the grandeur of Buda Castle not just as a tourist, but as a participant in its history. Costumed guides, dressed as historical figures from Hungarian royalty, lead you through secret passages, hidden treasures, and tales of ancient intrigue.

  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, weekends
  • Cost: Approx. €15 per person
  • Location: Szent György tér 2, 1014 Budapest
  • Special Features: Includes a mini medieval weaponry demonstration and a chance to try on period costumes.

St. Stephen’s Basilica with a Scavenger Hunt

St. Stephen’s Basilica

Engage in a playful yet enriching experience at St. Stephen’s Basilica. This scavenger hunt challenges participants to solve puzzles and riddles based on the basilica’s art and architecture, blending fun with cultural enrichment.

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, daily
  • Cost: €10 per person, includes scavenger hunt materials
  • Location: Szent István tér 1, 1051 Budapest
  • Special Features: Winners receive Hungarian handicraft souvenirs and a traditional pastry.

Communism Tour with a Retro Twist

Turn back time as you explore Budapest’s communist past in an authentic Trabant or Soviet jeep. This walking tour combines historical insights with amusing anecdotes, offering a vivid picture of life behind the Iron Curtain.

  • Duration: 3-4 hours
  • Cost: Approximately €50 per person
  • Starting Point: Various pickup points in central Budapest
  • Special Features: Includes a stop at a retro café for coffee and a classic Hungarian snack.

Adventure and Games

Escape Rooms

Escape Room

Experience adrenaline-pumping fun at Budapest's top escape rooms, such as Locked Room Budapest and E-Exit Escape Room. Each room presents a unique theme ranging from historical puzzles to modern thrillers.

  • Themes Include: Vampire’s lair, bank heist, Cold War spy missions
  • Cost: €20-30 per person
  • Location: Various locations across Budapest
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Group Size: 2-6 players

Interactive Games and Sports

  • Bubble Football: Wrap yourself in a giant inflatable ball and attempt to play soccer. A hilarious twist on traditional football.
    • Location: Various sports centers in Budapest
    • Cost: Around €25 per person per hour
  • Axe Throwing: Test your aim in a safe, controlled indoor environment.
    • Location: Axe Throwing Budapest, Kazinczy u. 7, 1075 Budapest
    • Cost: €15 per person per hour
  • Laser Tag: Engage in futuristic combat with friends in a high-tech arena.
    • Location: Laserforce Budapest, Montevideo u. 16b, 1037 Budapest
    • Cost: €10 for 30 minutes

Unique Tours and Experiences

Night Tours on E-scooters

Explore Budapest's illuminated beauty on an e-scooter. This guided tour at night lets you see iconic landmarks under the stars with an added thrill of zipping through the streets.

  • Route: Includes the Chain Bridge, Parliament, and Heroes' Square
  • Cost: €40 per person
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Special Features: LED-lit scooters, helmets, and reflective vests provided

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Comedy Guides

Hop-on Hop-off Bus

Combine sightseeing with laughter on this unique bus tour. Comedy guides share hilarious anecdotes and jokes about Budapest’s history and culture as you visit major attractions.

  • Frequency: Buses every 30 minutes
  • Stops: Includes Heroes’ Square, Várkert Bazár, and more
  • Cost: €25 for a day pass
  • Extras: Free Wi-Fi and one complimentary drink on board

Culinary Delights with a Twist

Great Market Hall

Embark on a gastronomic adventure that tests your senses. This tour involves challenges like blindfolded taste tests and cooking competitions under the guidance of local chefs.

  • Stops: Great Market Hall, local eateries, and a hidden ruin bar
  • Cost: €50 per person
  • Duration: Approximately 4 hours
  • Special Features: Includes all food samples and one alcoholic beverage

Conclusion

From playful historical tours to adrenaline-fueled adventures and culinary escapades, Budapest invites you to explore its lighter, more entertaining side. This guide offers a comprehensive range of activities designed not just to entertain but to create unforgettable moments of joy and laughter in Hungary’s captivating capital.

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Popular excursions in Budapest
1-hour Cocktail Cruise Downtown Budapest
1-hour Cocktail Cruise Downtown Budapest
The cruise takes place during sunset, providing our guests with the most fabulous views of the illuminated Budapest. While enjoying the gorgeous panorama, guests can indulge in 3, freshly prepared cocktails on board. (3 cocktails included in the price)
€37
per person
1123 reviews
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1,5-hour Sightseeing Cruise with Live Music
1,5-hour Sightseeing Cruise with Live Music
See Budapest's most famous sights from the comfort of the Gróf Széchényi ship on this Danube River cruise. Enjoy live music, stop at the on-board bar, and visit the ship's unique engine room.
€15
per person
1824 reviews
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2-hour Sunset Cocktail Cruise
2-hour Sunset Cocktail Cruise
Explore Budapest the classiest way possible, on a magnificent river cruise, with a large glass of cocktail in your hand, watching the marvelous hills of Buda from the Danube!
€37
per person
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2-hour Dinner Cruise with Folklore & Operetta Show
2-hour Dinner Cruise with Folklore & Operetta Show
Spend an unforgettable evening cruising along the embankment of the Danube River and enjoy a live folklore
from €45
per person
350 reviews
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1-hour Downtown Budapest Pizza Cruise
1-hour Downtown Budapest Pizza Cruise
Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Danube River through the heart of Budapest. Savor pizza on board, accompanied by unlimited beer and soft drinks, while taking in views of the iconic sights of the city.
from €39
per person
812 reviews
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1-hour Unlimited Booze Cruise Downtown Budapest
1-hour Unlimited Booze Cruise Downtown Budapest
Partake in a 85-minute panoramic sightseeing tour in the fabulous capital city of Hungary. During the tour guests can marvel at the historical sights and landmarks of Budapest. The cruise departs from the heart of the city.
from €39
per person
630 reviews
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1-hour Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music
1-hour Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music
Marvel at the illuminated beauty of Budapest and enjoy a lovely candle-lit dinner accompanied by relaxing live music.
€85
per person
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2-hour Dinner Cruise with Piano Show
2-hour Dinner Cruise with Piano Show
Our exceptional piano show makes our cruise an even more captivating experience. The great atmosphere of the event is ensured by two brilliant pianists and a fantastic, charming vocalist.
from €45
per person
1279 reviews
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