I love love, don’t you? But whether you’re in a long-term relationship looking to mix things up, or hoping to impress someone new, sometimes it’s hard to come up with date ideas that aren’t just…predictable. If you need some inspiration for Budapest date ideas that are beyond the classic romantic dinner and drinks, this article will point you in the right direction! Enjoy!
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Budapest Dates to Just Have Fun
Photo: IndoorGolf
1. Go to the Pinball Museum
Okay, picture this: rows and rows of pinball machines, and absolutely unlimited play! Get surrounded by the lights, colors, and sounds of the 80s as you and your date enjoy this blast from the past. We love a little competition during date night! Who will emerge with the high score (and bragging rights)? There’s only one way to find out.
2. Play at a Board Game Cafe
These board game cafes are absolutely bursting with traditional and non-traditional board games, with everything from Monopoly to Atomic Kittens. Of course, many of them will have instructions in Hungarian, but if you’re already familiar with a game, or don’t mind using Google translate, then your options open up! Try Vault51, Board Game Cafe, or Barcraft. Reservations are recommended.
3. Try Neon Mini Golf
Big fun can come in small packages! This neon mini golf course is right in the city center (and it’s indoors, which is great in case the weather isn’t cooperating). Test your aim (and the strength of your love) as you traverse their 3 courses–space themed, horror themed, and nature themed. This is great for those couples who don’t mind getting a little competitive. Reserving a slot ahead of time is necessary, so head to their site and book your adventure now!
Budapest Dates With a View
Photo: GetYourGuide
4. Enjoy a Sunset River Cruise
Actually, I can’t think of a more romantic sight than the dusky blue of Budapest’s Danube River all lit up at sunset. Cruises give you a different view of the city–you can see Parliament and Buda Castle all lit up as you glide underneath Budapest’s bridges. Popular choices are a classic sightseeing cruise or an unlimited prosecco cruise.
5. Go Sightseeing at Sunset
The best part about living in a city full of UNESCO World Heritage Sites is that so many breathtaking sights are absolutely free. Thanks to its rolling hills, Buda has some of the best romantic spots that are perfect for a sunset date. Head up to Castle Hill to Buda Castle or Fisherman’s Bastion, or go green and climb up Gellért Hill. If you do the latter, hike back down and take advantage of the numerous bars and restaurants on Bartók Béla út (Palack Wine Bar, Hadik, or Béla Bar are some of the favorites).
6. Enjoy a Drink at a Rooftop Bar
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to Budapest rooftop bars. Try Mariott’s Liz & Chain Sky Bar for superior service and a panorama of the river, the Aria Hotel’s High Note SkyBar for luxurious views of the Basilica, or the often-underestimated Intermezzo Rooftop Terrace for a slightly more private experience. If you prefer the Buda side, the White Raven or Leo Rooftop are both options!
Adventurous Dates in Budapest
Photo: GetYourGuide
7. Explore Adventure Caving
Yep, you read that right. If you want to inject a little adrenaline into your Budapest date night, you can go spelunking through the caves underneath the Buda Hills. It could be a great bonding experience…it’s just not recommended for anyone who has a fear of small spaces. You’ll have to squeeze through some tight gaps, after all. If the squeezing sounds like too much for you, but you’re still curious about the caves, there’s a much more mild walking tour that you can do instead.
8. Go Axe Throwing
I mean…letting your inner lumberjack out sounds pretty cool. And don’t worry–there’s an instructor on site to show you and your love the basics and brief you on the safety precautions. Once you feel comfortable, you can let those axes fly! Aim for the bullseye–good luck!
9. Do an Escape Room
Budapest is basically the birthplace of escape rooms, and there are so many options to choose from. These interactive puzzle games are test of love, for sure–they’re a great way for you to work together under pressure. And honestly, I’m so often surprised by the level of detail they pack into the rooms! In a way, it’s like you’re taking board games to the next level. Pick your theme, difficulty, and start the clock! Here are a few to choose from:
10. Explore City Park
Budapest’s City Park (Városliget) is primed for the cutest date activities all year round! A lot of this is thanks to the giant lake in front of Vajdahunyád Castle.
Ice Skating in Budapest
During the winter, you can go ice skating in City Park. How cute is that date? Holding hands with mittens on, sipping hot chocolate or mulled wine, gliding over ice in the shadow of a castle…I just find it so romantic! The ice rink is open November-February.
Boating in Budapest
During the warmer months, the lake goes back to its natural form. This is when you and your lover can get out on the water! You can have your Notebook moment with a rowboat, or give the arms a rest and opt for a paddleboat instead. There are larger boats if you want to do a double date or just go there with friends.
Budapest Zoo
The Budapest Zoo is a chance to see not only a wide range of animals, but also its interesting Art Nouveau architecture. It’s right niext door to the historic Gundel Restaurant, so you can stop for a classy lunch after.
BalloonFly
Did you know you can have a hot air balloon ride right in the center? Although it’s a brief ride, it’s a unique way to see a panorama of the entire city. Just be advised that the balloon is highly weather-dependent, and won’t fly if conditions aren’t perfect (saftey first, of course). Check ahead on their website for flying conditions, and have a backup plan just in case!
Budapest Dates to Relax and Enjoy
Photo: GetYourGuide
11. Have a Spa Day
Budapest has plenty of opportunities to relax in natural thermal waters in historical baths dating back centuries. The Rudas Spa and Dining Experience lets you go swimming in Turkish baths that were established in the 16th century, as well as enjoy a 3 course meal. Rudas, as well as a select few other Budapest thermal baths offer a night bath experience.
If you’re looking for a more contemporary spa experience, Mandala Day Spa is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of Budapest, Mandala offers a wide range of luxurious treatments.
12. Watch a Movie in an Art Cinema
This is a way to elevate your movie date to the next level. Budapest’s art cinemas make for absolutely gorgeous settings for a film. As opposed to the big-box cinema chains, each art cinema has its own stlye, from quirky mosaics to art nouveau lobbies. These cinemas mostly play films in their original languages, as well, so you can find movies in English quite easily. Get there a little early to soak up the history (and grab a cocktail and popcorn) and then enjoy the show!
13. Do a Wine Tasting
Did you know that Hungary has 22 wine regions? If you opt for a wine tasting instead of just going for a glass of wine, you and your date can learn something new together (and maybe even get some ideas for a future wine vacation 😉 ).
Try this 8-flight wine tasting at the friendly Bortodoor or a wine, cheese, and charcuterie tasting at Tasting Table. If you want to pair your wine with a mini-adventure, you can get out of the city for a half-day wine tasting tour in Etyek.
14. Experience an Interactive Exhibit
This puts a twist on the classic museum date. I was surprised at first to learn about how many non-traditional and interactive museums Budapest has. These promise an immersive experience with mind-bending visuals. There are plenty of options perfect for taking amazing pictures and experiencing something unique together!
15. Do an Art Gallery Crawl
This is my personal favorite! Honestly, I think it’s an incredibly underrated date idea in Budapest–and it’s totally free! Budapest is bursting with art galleries that show everything from contemporary and classic works to sculptures to handcrafted jewelry. Certain neighborhoods have pockets of galleries (especially in the 5th district). I’d suggest starting with the major ones like Virág Judit, Pintér, BODO, or Kieselbach, and then stop into the smaller galleries/antique shops along the way.
As you can see, there are so many creative Budapest date ideas to create a memorable time. I’m wishing you lots of love and adventure!
Xx Denae
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