In a nutshell
- Budapest is split into two main areas (Buda and Pest), each offering great options for where to stay. The Jewish Quarter is also a hotspot for nightlife and evening fun.
- Buda is ideal if you prefer a quieter stay close to historical sites. Our hotel tip: Maison Bistro & Hotel – charming interiors and a delicious breakfast.
- Pest is a lively and colorful area to stay in Budapest, with plenty of restaurants and shops. Our hotel tip: Bo33 Hotel Family & Suites – spacious suites and a rooftop fitness area put it among the best .
- For nightlife lovers, the Jewish Quarter has it all. Our hotel tip: Casati Superior – themed rooms and a stunning inner courtyard make it a standout choice for anyone looking for the best place to stay in Budapest.
Best Areas to Stay in Budapest
Budapest is split into two main districts, Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube.
Both areas are great choices for an overnight stay in Budapest, depending on what you want to do and the type of atmosphere you prefer in your accommodation.
Buda tends to be quieter and more relaxed, while Pest is lively and full of energy. This is also where you’ll find the city’s nightlife hub, the Jewish Quarter, with plenty of options for evening entertainment.
Each district has its perks, and to help you pick the perfect place to stay in Budapest, we’ll break down the districts in detail.
We have marked the districts and the most important sights on a map to give you an overview of Budapest’s most important districts to stay in.
Where to Stay in the Pest District
Pest is where most of the city’s restaurants, shops, and young, energetic scene are concentrated. Many of Budapest’s top sights are also here, including the Parliament, the Central Market Hall, and Heroes’ Square.
If you’re not just in Budapest for sightseeing, but also want to enjoy a bar or café in the evening, Pest is the district to be.
That said, Pest also has quieter, more elegant corners—especially in the southern part along the Danube. For those wanting to stay in the heart of the city, there are plenty of stylish hotels in central locations that put you right in the middle of the action.
Pros of staying in Pest
- Be in the center of Budapest, where the city really comes alive
- Close to major sights like the Central Market Hall or St. Stephen’s Basilica
- Wide range of restaurants and things to do in Budapest
- Good connection to the airport
Cons of staying in Pest
- A longer walk to Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion
The best places to stay in Pest
Our top pick in Pest is the Bo33 Hotel Family & Suites. Stylishly decorated rooms, great value for money, and family-friendly amenities make it one of the best places to stay in Budapest. Its central location is ideal without feeling overly touristy.
Another excellent choice is the Hotel Rum. This modern, boutique hotel sits right in the vibrant heart of Pest. You’ll be just a five-minute walk from the Central Market Hall and surrounded by cafés, bars, and restaurants. Each room is individually styled and contemporary.
Where to Stay in the Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter on the Pest side is a hotspot for young travelers. Here you’ll find most of the city’s bars, clubs, and famous ruin bars—once-abandoned buildings turned into trendy hangouts.
The area is buzzing, especially in the evening.
If you want to experience Budapest’s nightlife up close, staying in the Jewish Quarter is perfect. The city has earned a reputation for its creative bars and vibrant club scene.
However, if you prefer a quiet night’s sleep, this isn’t the best place to stay in Budapest. You can still explore the area by joining one of the many guided tours.
Pros of staying in the Jewish Quarter
- Budapest’s nightlife right on your doorstep
- Very central location with most sights within walking distance
- Plenty of exciting bars, clubs, and restaurants
Cons of staying in the Jewish Quarter
- Can get noisy, especially at night
- A bit further from Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion
The best places to stay in the Jewish Quarter
We recommend the Casati Budapest Hotel Superior. The 25 rooms are each decorated around four unique themes, letting you choose from classic, modern, nature, or sky-themed rooms—perfect for travelers seeking a memorable stay in Budapest.
For a touch of luxury, the Anantara New York Palace is one of the city’s most iconic hotels. Its stunning courtyard alone is worth a visit, and the hotel’s Café New York is legendary.
Where to Stay in the Buda Area
Buda, on the west side of the Danube, is home to many of Budapest’s key sights, including the Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion. Most of Budapest’s thermal baths are also located here. Overall, Buda is a quieter, more relaxed part of the city.
If your focus is exploring the historical side of Budapest and enjoying peaceful evening strolls, Buda is the ideal area to stay.
Thanks to its hills, you’ll get fantastic city views, and the charming town of Szentendre is just a short trip away—a hidden gem among the best insider tips in Budapest.
Pros of staying in Buda
- Close to historical landmarks like the Buda Castle
- Quiet and relaxed with stunning views
- Many thermal baths within walking distance
Cons of staying in Buda
- Further from the city center and sights on the Pest side
- Less nightlife and evening activity
The best places to stay in Buda
Our favorite pick on the Buda side is the Maison Bistro & Hotel. Just a short walk from the Buda Castle, the rooms are individually and lovingly decorated, and breakfast is delicious—a top choice for a quiet, memorable stay in Budapest.
Extra Tip: Special Hotels in Budapest
If you want to try something different, Budapest has plenty of unique places to stay.
Sleep on a boat in Budapest
For a truly unusual stay, consider a boat—a fun twist on a Budapest boat tour.
The Grand Jules Boat Hotel is a floating hotel located on the Danube near Parliament. You get a central location while escaping the city noise.
The modern interior gives it a boutique feel, which isn’t always the case with older ships—definitely a cool choice.
Book the Grand Jules Boat Hotel
Relax in a wellness hotel on Margaret Island
A wellness hotel on an island might not scream city trip, but Budapest makes it possible.
The Ensana Grand Margaret Island sits on beautiful Margaret Island in the Danube. Built in 1873, it has a long tradition of hospitality.
Next door is the Ensana Thermal Margaret Island, with one of the city’s top spa and wellness areas.
The hotels are connected by a heated underground corridor, so whether you stay in the luxurious Grand Hotel or the spa hotel, you can enjoy the wellness area.
Book Ensana Grand Margaret Island
Book Ensana Thermal Margaret Island
