There’s no other way to say it: Budapest is gorgeous (I mean, with multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, what can you expect?). There’s so much to see in either Buda or Pest, but with the mighty Danube running through the middle, why choose? A Budapest boat tour is an amazing way to see the city, whether you’re new in town or just want something new to do. If you’re looking for a daytime party, romantic sunset, or anything in between, let’s help you find a Budapest river cruise that will leave you spellbound. All aboard!

This post contains affiliate links <3

Why Take a Budapest River Cruise?

It’s Easy and Accessible

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good walking tour–but a Budapest river cruise is just an easy way to cover a lot of ground (or…water?). All you have to do is get onto the boat, and then you’re able to see some of the city’s most famous sights without lifting a finger! This low-impact activity is great if you have low-mobility or low-energy people in your party.

It’s Beautiful!

Y’all…even after overfiver years in Budapest, that city skyline never gets old. Once you get on a boat, you’re signed up to experience UNESCO World Heritage sites, beautiful bridges, and buildings that look like they came straight out of a fairytale. Whether you opt for a daytime cruise or an evening cruise (I’d definitely vote for a sunset cruise for that extra “wow’ factor), you’re going to have a gorgeous time!

Popular Attractions Along the Danube

It helps to know what you’re looking at! What are some of the iconic sights that you’ll see during a Budapest river cruise?

The Hungarian Parliament Building, with its stunning dome and grandiose spires, may be the most recognizable landmark. Though hard to spot from the river, next to Parliament lies the Shoes on the Danube memorial, which pays tribute to victims of the Holocaust. Buda Castle, perched high on the Castle Hill, offers panoramic views of the city and is a testament to the city’s medieval past. Next to it is Fisherman’s Bastion, which is my #1 go-to spot in Budapest for a fairy-tale-like experience. Finally, the many bridges of Budapest are sights themselves, most famously the Chain Bridge with its lions, Liberty Bridge with its green ornamentation, or Elizabeth Bridge with its soaring modern architecture.

River Cruise Options in Budapest

1. Unlimited Prosecco Cruise

Photo: Get Your Guide

Perfect for:

• Bachelorette Parties
• Girl’s Night Out
• Birthday Celebrations

Hugely popular with both tourists and locals, this should be your number one stop for bubbles in Budapest. Sailing past the gorgeous Parliament building and Buda Castle is already gorgeous enough, but doing it with truly unlimited prosecco (and yes, there are non-alcoholic options) takes the experience to another level. There’s also an option to add food to your journey (honestly, thank goodness, because there’s no way I should sip all of that prosecco on an empty stomach). It’s possible to purchase rosemary focaccia and dips and/or even truffle pasta made out of a giant parmesan wheel. Gorgeous.

• Price: from 9,640 HUF (~€25 EUR)
• Duration: 75 minutes

2. City Highlights Cruise with Welcome Drink

Photo: Get Your Guide

Perfect for:

• New to Budapest
• Date Night
• Guests in Town

This 1-hour evening sightseeing cruise is the perfect introduction to Budapest’s most famous sights. That’s why I’d recommend it if you’re in town for the weekend, or if you have visitors in town who are unfamiliar with the city. As one of the most popular cruises, this is a short and sweet way to get acquainted with the layout of the city and enjoy a unique activity.

• Price: from 3,743 HUF (~€10 EUR)
• Duration: 60 minutes

3. Sunset Cocktail Cruise

Photo: Get Your Guide

Perfect for:

• Date Night
• Girl’s Night Out
• Birthday Celebrations

This is a great option if you prefer cocktails over prosecco! This easygoing, 80-minute, Budapest cruise will give you panoramic views of the Hungarian capital, while you sip on not one, not two, but three cocktails.

• Price: from 13,565 HUF (~€35 EUR)
• Duration: 80 minutes

4. Downtown Budapest Unlimited Booze Cruise

Photo: Get Your Guide

Perfect for:

• Bachelor(ette) Parties
• Night Out
• Birthday Celebrations

If you’re looking for a high-engergy addition to your evening, this all-you-can-drink experience might be the option for you. This Danube River cruise is a great way to get in some sightseeing while warming up for a wild night out in Budapest. The open bar (shots not included) and party tunes all unite to create an upbeat experience in the center of Budapest.

• Price: from 13,565 HUF (~€35 EUR)
• Duration: 80 minutes

5. Luxury River Cruise

Photo: Get Your Guide

Perfect for:

• Bachelor(ette) Parties
• Date Night
• Birthday Celebrations

If you’re looking to make your time on the water extra special, this Dunarama cruise is the perfect luxury treat. Inspired by the water limousines of Venice, you can take this beautifully made watercraft for a high-quality, luxurious trip up and down the Danube. Go as fast or as slowly as you’d like–the pace of this private hire is completely up to you!

• Price: from 174,000 HUF per group (~€450 EUR)
• Duration: 50-200 minutes

6. Downtown Budapest Cruise with Pizza and Beer

Photo: Get Your Guide

Perfect for:

• Date Night
• Guests in Town

If you’d like to get in some sightseeing and get some food in your stomach, this could be a good option for you! This cruise includes one pizza per person and unlimited drinks (beer, soft drinks, mineral water, etc.).

• Price: from 16,286 HUF (~€40 EUR)
• Duration: 80 minutes

7. Danube Cruise with Hungarian Dinner and Live Music

Photo: Get Your Guide

Perfect for:

• Just Visiting
• Guests in Town

I can see that this the most “typical tourist” cruise on the list, but it still is a way to get a mix of Hungarian sights and Hungarian culture. If you want to save money but still want the general experience–you could definitely do a cheaper cruise and then stop by a Hungarian restaurant later in the evening. However, if you’d like to have everything in one place, this cruise provides excellent views, classic Hungarian live music, and an all-you-can-eat buffet of classic Hungarian food as well. Enjoy!

• Price: from 26,820 HUF (~€70 EUR)
• Duration: 120 minutes

No matter which one you choose, I’m so excited for you to take a Budapest river cruise! If it’s your first day in the city, it’s a great way to become familiar with the landmarks, and if it’s your last day, it’s a wholesome way to say goodbye. And remember–book for sunset, if you can! Enjoy!

Xx Denae