What it actually costs
When to go
Cold, grey, short days. The thermal baths are still amazing in winter though (steaming outdoor pools in snow).
Szechenyi Baths on weekday mornings are peaceful. Saturday afternoons are a party atmosphere (which can be fun or overwhelming).
What locals know
Ruin bars are the signature experience. Szimpla Kert is the most famous (worth seeing once) but Instant-Fogas and Anker't are where locals actually go.
Thermal baths: Szechenyi for the experience, Gellert for the architecture, Rudas for the rooftop pool overlooking the Danube.
Market Hall (Nagycsarnok) ground floor is for shopping (paprika, sausages). Upstairs has cheap luncas (Hungarian stew, goulash) for Ft 2,000-3,000.
The Danube at night from the Pest side (looking at Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion lit up) is the best free view in Europe.
Honest warnings
Currency is forint (HUF), not euros. Exchange at official exchange offices (Correct Change is reputable). Airport rates are terrible.
Ruin bar drinks are cheap but watch for 'pretty girl' scams in District VII — someone invites you to a bar, you get a €200 bill.
Taxis: only use Bolt app or official Fo-Taxi (yellow cars). Random taxis outside clubs will scam you.
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