Budapest: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour & Danube River Cruise
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is a city rich in history and architectural splendor. Formed in 1873 by the unification of Buda, Pest, and Óbuda, the city sits majestically along the Danube River. Its grand boulevards, historic bridges, and thermal baths reflect centuries of influence from Roman, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian eras. Landmarks like Buda Castle, Chain Bridge, and the Hungarian Parliament showcase the city’s vibrant past and cultural heritage.
The Danube River has long been central to Budapest’s identity, shaping trade, culture, and urban development. River cruises became a popular way to appreciate the city’s architecture and skyline, particularly its stunning bridges and riverside monuments. Combining a hop-on hop-off bus with a Danube cruise offers visitors an ideal introduction to Budapest, blending history, culture, and scenic beauty from both land and water.
Highlights
- Explore Budapest with stops covering the city’s most iconic landmarks
- Soak in epic views of the Hungarian Parliament building and Margaret Bridge
- Cruise the Danube for breathtaking views of Budapest’s top attractions
- Join a guided walking tour through Pest’s historic and vibrant streets
- Enjoy audio commentary in 16 languages while riding in comfort
Full Description
Discover Budapest at your own pace with a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus. Two carefully designed routes with 27 stops allow you to explore the city’s landmarks on your schedule.
See the magnificent Basilica, Andrassy Avenue, Chain Bridge, and more while listening to audio commentary in 16 languages. Optional guided walking tours provide an in-depth look at Pest’s streets, architecture, and hidden gems.
Your ticket also includes a scenic 1-hour Danube River cruise. Admire the Hungarian Parliament Building, National Theatre, Chain Bridge, and Royal Palace from a unique riverside perspective.
Additionally, enjoy a 1-hour guided walking tour through Pest. Visit areas buses can’t reach, such as the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, Váci Fashion Street, and Promenade.
Buses are air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter, ensuring a comfortable sightseeing experience all year round.
What’s Included
- Hop-on hop-off bus ticket valid for 1, 2, or 3 days (depending on option)
- Digital audio commentary in 16 languages
- 1-Hour Danube River Cruise
- Guided 1-Hour Walking Tour
Meeting Point
Present your booking confirmation to a Big Bus Tours staff member at the Big Bus Budapest office or on board the bus.
- Guided walking tour: Begins at 1:00 PM from Stop #1: Basilica (Red Route) and ends at Stop #2 by the Chain Bridge. Redeem your ticket with a staff member before joining.
- River cruise: Tickets must be redeemed with a staff member before boarding.
Price
From $41 per person
Traveler Reviews
- A wonderful way to see the sights of beautiful Budapest.
- Excellent tour. Comfortable, covers the main tourist sites. Recommended!
- It is a good way to move around; however, online ticket authorization could be easier. The meeting point map was incorrect.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What is included in the Big Bus Budapest ticket?
The ticket includes a hop-on hop-off bus pass valid for 1, 2, or 3 days depending on your selection, plus digital audio commentary in 16 languages. It also provides a 1-hour Danube River cruise and a 1-hour guided walking tour of Pest. Guests can explore the city at their own pace and join tours according to their schedule. Buses are air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter.
How do I join the guided walking tour?
The guided walking tour starts at 1:00 PM from Stop #1: Basilica (Red Route) and ends at Stop #2 by the Chain Bridge. Before joining, present your ticket to a Big Bus Tours staff member. The tour covers streets and landmarks the bus cannot reach, including the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial. Tours provide historical insights and a local perspective on Pest.
How do I redeem my river cruise ticket?
Before boarding the 1-hour Danube River cruise, show your ticket to a Big Bus Tours staff member. Tickets are valid any day within your pass duration. The cruise offers scenic views of the Parliament, Chain Bridge, Royal Palace, and riverside architecture. Guests can relax, take photos, and enjoy the city from the water. Cruise staff ensure a smooth boarding process.
Can I hop on and off the bus at any stop?
Yes, your ticket allows unlimited hop-on hop-off access at any of the 27 designated stops. This flexibility lets you explore landmarks at your own pace, combining sightseeing, walking tours, and river cruises. Audio commentary is available throughout the ride in 16 languages. You can use the ticket on the Red and Blue routes according to your itinerary.
Is this experience suitable for children and families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly. Children can enjoy the sights from the comfort of the bus and experience the Danube River cruise. Walking tours provide educational insights suitable for older children. Buses have comfortable seating, and river cruises offer panoramic views of Budapest’s landmarks. Families can explore at a relaxed pace, ensuring a fun and educational experience for all ages.



