A solo female traveler's guide to Budapest

Solo female travel in Budapest

For those seeking to do solo female travel, Budapest should be one of your first city destinations. The Hungarian capital city is known to be one of the most stunning European cities on the continent, and even in the top 10 for most beautiful cities in the world. Whether you’re a history buff, a tour taster, or a nightlife owl, Budapest has something for solo female travelers.

From safety to widely available public transport, this is a great launch pad for all those trying solo travel for the first time, and all are welcome! Whether you’re a t-total tourist, a vegan venturer, or a walking wanderer, we’ll find something for you in this amazing capital city.

Best time to visit Budapest

Late spring and early fall are the best times to visit Budapest. Spring can be cool but with warm, sunny days. You’ll see the local parks come to life with fresh flowers and green leaves. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit with the changing of the leaves, and just before the freezing winter temperatures kick in.

If you’re not afraid of the cold or big crowds, Budapest in late December around Christmas and Hanukkah is a spectacular time filled with festive cheer and dazzling lights! Plus, the cozy holiday markets are a perfect place for present buying.

Must-see places in Budapest

Divided by the tranquil Danube River, the city is made up of two separate cities: Buda and Pest. The Buda side (the west side of the Danube river) is made up of the city’s historic District 1, whilst the Pest side (the east side) is where you’ll find the rest of Budapest’s activities and visits.

Széchenyi thermal bath & Gellért thermal bath

You can’t visit Budapest without visiting the famous thermal baths! Located in District 7, the entry fee to these historic World Heritage sites includes all 22 baths, the outdoor thermal bath, and all saunas. There are all-female changing rooms, as well as separate areas for men and women. We suggest going early morning when you’re more likely to share the pools with locals rather than tourists.

Hungarian Parliament Building

As a rule of thumb, the Parliamentary buildings in a capital city are often beautiful and grand to behold. However, few are as striking at the Hungarian Parliament Building. The tips of the neogothic towers can be seen across the city, whilst hosting an imposing presence across the Danube. This gigantic monument is what a lot of travelers think of when they visit Hungary, and it’s hard to find a postcard that doesn’t have the image of this impressive building on it.

Visiting times to see the inside of this building are very strict and it can only be accessed during specific times of the year. Sadly, dogs are not allowed inside.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Considered to be a marvel of 19th-century architecture, this magnificent bridge connects the Buda side to the Pest side whilst offering clear views of the river and the Hungarian Parliament Building. The Chain Bridge itself has its past around recent historical events, something history buffs should look into once there.

The Central Market Hall

Taste the best in local produce at the Central Market Hall, one of Europe’s largest covered food markets. Built in 1897, the neogothic architecture takes you back in time to when market halls were the beating heart of major cities like Budapest. You can easily spend a whole day wandering around shopping, eating, and drinking. Plus, it’s also dog-friendly!

The Halászbástya or Fisherman's Bastion

If you’re walking along the Danube River, the Fisherman’s Bastion is hard to miss. Placed up on the highest point in the city on the Buda side of District 1, this magnificent castle towers over the capital in all its millennia of history. The castle offers a great insight into the start of Budapest’s history and beginnings, as well as gorgeous sunset views every evening.

Things to do in Budapest

Explore the different Districts 

Each of Buda and Pest’s Districts is unique and distinct, despite their proximity to each other. District 1 is ideal for those who love history and offers amazing views across the Pest side, the Danube River, and the Hungarian Parliamentary Building. Whilst across the bridge into Districts 5 and 7, you’ll be immersed in the vibrant cafes, art museums, and cultural delights, including the famous Budapest nightlife.

Visit the museums

Budapest is rich in centuries of history. Sadly, this also means it has been the scene of many tragic events, especially during the Second World War. When you visit a city like Budapest, solo travel or otherwise, it’s important to make time to learn what happened and pay your respects. 

Go for long walks

Did we mention this is a very walkable city? With pedestrian-friendly streets, easy-to-access roads, and well-lit walkways Budapest is ideal for idlers. Whether you have a pup pal in tow, or you just fancy a walk in the sun, you can reach every area of the city by walking.

People watch over a coffee

There is no shortage of cafes and bars in Budapest, particularly around the Ruin Bars in District 7. Unless you’re traveling in winter, most coffee shops have outside seating which is ideal for people watching. Similarly, if you’re on a dog walk, most places are happy to accommodate your new furry sidekick as well.

Getting around Budapest

Budapest’s public transport is fantastic. Not only is it varied - there are trams, trolleys, buses, and a brilliant metro line - but it is well maintained and cheap. Public transport starts at around 5 am every morning and can go on to as late as 1 am, as well as reaching all corners of the city.

Otherwise, if you fancy a stroll, the city is super easy to walk around and it can be done in just a couple of days. The old streets are well-paved, and you can walk the length of the Danube from north to south.   

Weather in Budapest

As a landlocked country in the heart of Europe, and surrounded by hills, Budapest can be very hot in the summer and super cold in the winter. It can be so cold the Danube River freezes over allowing locals to skate and set up markets. In recent years, temperatures have reached into the high 30s (centigrade) or high 90s (Fahrenheit) during July and August, whilst January can easily drop to below -1C or 20F. 

Spring can be wet, but it’s generally a very pleasant time to visit with consistent temperatures around 20C or 60F. Autumn is very similar, although the nights can be a bit colder than in spring.

Accommodation for solo female travelers in Budapest

As we all know, the best way to experience any city is by house and pet sitting! Stay in a local, central location whilst caring and befriending a new furry pal. Stay in the real homes of other animal lovers who share the same passion for pets. It’s the purr-fect way to integrate yourself into a new city.

If you’re unable to find a sit for your next adventure, there are loads of hotel and hostel options. For solo female travelers, it’s best to think about what it is you’re looking for from your trip. If you want to meet other travelers or stay in female-only dorms, staying in a hostel is a great way to make new friends. For those seeking a more private adventure, a hotel might be best for you.

Is Budapest safe for solo female travelers?

How safe is Budapest for solo female travelers? As major cities go, Budapest is regarded as safe for solo female travelers. According to the Solo Female Travelers Club and Fragile State Index, Hungary is considered to be a safe country for solo female travelers. The Global Peace Index 2021 considers the country - and by extension Budapest - as being one of the top 20 most people countries in the world.

Saying this, always follow the same safety tips no matter where you are. Always travel with caution and care, especially at night, and avoid (or immediately leave) any situations that make you uncomfortable. Crime and theft can happen anywhere, so be sure to stay alert on your trip.

Meeting people and connecting with locals

As we mentioned earlier, housing and pet siting are great ways to blend into the local community. Your host will be able to offer insider recommendations of the best places to eat and hang out around Budapest. They may recommend the Ruin Bars as a potential place to meet new people and chill with the natives.

If the Ruin Bars are not for you, there are plenty of different websites and apps for connecting with other solo female travelers. Some of these sites may suggest meeting for guided tours or walks around the beautiful city of Budapest.

Tips from a local

• Although Hungary is part of the EU and Schengen, it doesn’t use the Euro, instead, you pay in the local Forint (HUF). You can exchange your currency at the airport, train stations, and several tourist information sites around the city.
  
• Take a guided tour, it’s the best way to learn about Budapest’s cultural history and many of them are free! Just chat with your host or local tourist information station to ask where to find them.
  
• As some of you may know, Hungarian is known to be one of the most difficult languages to learn, especially for English speakers or those with native Latin-based languages. Luckily, most people speak English in Budapest and don’t expect you to attempt it whilst you’re visiting. Feel free to have a go, of course, but you may be met with a few giggles from the locals!
  
• Hungary is known for its meat-based food and bread, but most Budapest restaurants and bars have vegan and gluten-free options. Research eateries in advance or simply ask a staff member before sitting down if they can accommodate your dietary requirements, otherwise, they’ll be able to point you in the direction of somewhere else you can eat nearby.

Budapest for solo female pet sitters

Things to do with dogs in Budapest

As a very walkable city, it’ll come as no surprise that this is a great place for dog walking! Take your new pooch pal down the winding streets of Buda and Pest, and stroll along the Danube River.

Budapest is very popular, so most bars and restaurants will allow your furry friend to come along. As an animal-loving country, many places provide water bowls and tasty treats to settle your snuffle into a cozy evening of cheer and chats.

House and pet sit

Check out the latest house and pet sits available in Budapest. This is by far the best way to explore the city in a new way right in the heart of the action. Not a member yet? Well, check our pricing options and become a member in time for your next solo travel adventure.