Before or after the wedding, we recommend touring the exhibitions and museum of the beautiful Royal Palace of Gödöllő, which was a favorite of Empress Elisabeth, known as Sisi. She spent many summers at the Royal Palace, enjoying its peaceful surroundings. You can tour the grand rooms, stroll through the lush gardens, and experience the elegance that captivated her!
A guided historical tour is also available upon interest!
The most popular programme here is the so called Legend of the Horseman, a horse theater show that provides insight into the life and the history of the Hungarian horsemen.
The park is located right outside Gödöllő.
The tickets need to be booked for this in advance! Those who are interested should let me know so we can organise a show in advance for everyone!
This beautiful arboretum offers a serene setting to enjoy a leisurely walk through gardens, towering trees, and scenic pathways. It has over 70 hectares of landscaped grounds.
It's especially beautiful in the spring and summer months when everything is in full bloom.
It's located right near the Royal Palace of Gödöllő!
One of our favorite spots to visit when in Gödöllő for ice cream or even just a nice iced coffee! This ice cream shop has 2 locations in Gödöllő both around the town square. They always have exotic ice cream flavours and also every year make an ice cream from the official Hungarian Birthday cake flavour of the year.
The Palm House Nursery and Herbarium is located in the park of the Gödöllő Royal Palace. Its special feature is the six different gardens, each designed in a unique style.
In the right wing of the Palm House, there is an Herbarium, where a wide range of handmade teas, jams, syrups, spices, and cosmetics await everyone!
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 8.00 – 18.00 Sunday: 8.00 – 16.00
Just a short walk from the Hotel Queen Elizabeth is the Gödöllői Várósí Museum. You can discover fascinating exhibits ranging from local historical artifacts to contemporary art. The museum showcases artworks from Hungarian painters, ancient relics, and exhibitions on the town’s past, including its role during the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10:00-16:00
Tickets: Between the ages of 26 – 62 : 1200.- HUF
Discounted ticket for students, those under the age of 26 and those over 62: 600,- HUF. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
This photo studio is located inside the Royal Palace! You can dress in period-appropriate clothing from the enchanting Princess Sisi (otherwise known as Empress Elizabeth of Austria) era. There is something for everyone with exquisite gowns for women, noble attire for men, and charming period pieces for children, all designed to transport you back to the 19th century. The photos are captured with a genuine vintage Sisi-era camera.
No separate ticket to enter the Palace is necessary when accessing the Nostalgia photo studio.
Price for 1 person taking a solo picture: 14.000 HUF
Discounted prices for each additional person included in the photo and for families.
We can also recommend this restaurant which is also located in the town center of Gödöllő. They have renovated a traditional Hungarian house in a non traditional way. They always have vegetarian options as well!
This waterpark is located 9.5 km from the Hotel Queen Elizabeth! There are 10 kinds of waterslides as well as various pools and jacuzzis.
Ticket prices can be seen on the website and tickets can be bought at the entrance.
The Hungaroring is 10 km from the Hotel Queen Elizabeth. The track, built almost three and a half decades ago, was considered a curiosity at the time because it was the first behind the Iron Curtain. Today, it is notable as the second in a series of tracks that are continuously featured in the F1 race calendar.
At the Driver Training Center, anyone can test their own and their car's capabilities. But there are also plenty of activities to try out at the track (please see website for more details)!
We highly recommend trying Budapest's iconic bathhouses during your stay. The Széchenyi Baths, one of the largest and most famous in Europe, have been a beloved spot for locals and visitors since 1913. Built in Neo-Baroque style, the baths are fed by thermal springs that have been used for centuries.
We also think that a trip to the Hungarian Parliament is a must! Built between 1885 and 1904, this Neo-Gothic building is one of the largest Parlaments in Europe and sits on the banks of the Danube. It was designed by architect Imre Steindl and serves as a symbol of Hungary’s national identity. The Parliament is home to over 600 rooms, including the stunning Dome Hall, where the Holy Crown of Hungary is kept.
On August 20th (the National Hungarian Holiday) entrance to the Parlament is free of charge!
We also recommend visiting the Rudas Baths, one of Budapest’s oldest thermal bathhouses. Originally built in the 16th century during the Ottoman era, the baths have been a part of the city’s wellness culture for centuries. The stunning octagonal dome, dating back to the 1500s, is a highlight, and the waters, rich in healing minerals, have been used for their therapeutic properties for generations. There’s also a rooftop jacuzzi offering panoramic views of the city and the Danube!
This historic Buda Castle, dating back to the 13th century, has been the seat of Hungarian kings. It is filled with beautiful courtyards and museums. You can also enjoy the panoramic views of the city. To get there you can walk or take the bus or take a ride on the iconic funicular that has been there since 1870.
During the celebrations around August 20th many of the cultural programs like music concerts and dance shows can be enjoyed in the Castle courtyards.
For one of the best views of Budapest, we recommend to visit the Halászbástya, or Fisherman’s Bastion. Built in the early 1900s, this lookout was designed to resemble a fairytale fortress and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including the Danube, Parliament, and Buda Castle. The name comes from the fishermen who defended this part of the city in medieval times.
It is located right next to the Buda castle and no ticket is necessary here!
Városliget (City Park) is the perfect place to relax and explore. Some of Budapest’s most famous landmarks are located here. Starting with Heroes’ Square, one of the city's most iconic spots. Built in 1896 to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of Hungary, the square features a stunning column topped with the Archangel Gabriel and statues of Hungary’s most important national leaders, heroes, and historical figures. Next to the Heroes Square there is the Museum of Fine Arts which has constantly changing exhibitions available for visitors to see! The Széchenyi Baths, one of the largest and most beautiful thermal baths in Europe is also here. There’s also a peaceful lake where you can rent rowboats, making for a relaxing afternoon on the water. And for Budapest Zoo is right here too! Nearby, you’ll find the Vajdahunyad Castle, which was built in 1896 for the Millennial Exhibition and is designed to resemble a mix of Hungarian architectural styles. There is also a museum in the park called the Ethnographic Museum, which has a vast collection of Hungarian folk art, traditional costumes, and artifacts that tell the story of the country’s cultural heritage. Another attraction in the park is the Zeneház (House of Music), a modern building dedicated to Hungary’s rich musical traditions. Inside, you’ll find exhibits that explore the history of Hungarian music, with displays on famous composers like Franz Liszt and Béla Bartók. There are also often concerts here that one can buy tickets to!
This historic Grand Markethall, built in 1897, is a great place to experience Hungarian food, culture, and craftsmanship. The vibrant stalls are filled with fresh produce, spices, meats, cheeses, and local specialties like langos (fried dough) and pörkölt (stew). You’ll also find beautiful handmade Hungarian products, from embroidery to pottery and souvenirs. It’s a perfect spot to pick up a gift or enjoy a snack while soaking in the lively atmosphere of one of Budapest’s oldest and most beloved markets.
This is another great option for a lovely Hungarian spa experience! Located at the foot of Gellért Hill, this stunning Art Nouveau bathhouse is one of Budapest's most famous thermal spas. You can soak in the healing thermal waters, relax in the beautiful indoor and outdoor pools, or even enjoy a traditional massage.
A visit to St. Stephen’s Basilica is an essential experience in Budapest. Completed in 1905, this grand church is named after King Stephen I, Hungary’s first king, who was crowned in the year 1000 and is revered as the founder of the Hungarian state. It is built in a stunning neoclassical and neo-Renaissance architecture. Inside, you’ll find beautiful mosaics, frescoes, and the Holy Right Hand of King Stephen, a revered relic that has been preserved for centuries. Make sure to visit the roof of the basilica. You can take an elevator and climb a few steps to reach the panoramic viewing platform, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking 360-degree views of Budapest, including the Danube, Buda Castle, the Parliament, and the city’s iconic skyline. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance!
The Budapest Opera House is also a must see. It opened in 1884 and was built in a neo-Renaissance style. Designed by the renowned architect Miklós Ybl, the interior is equally impressive, with its grand staircase, intricate frescoes, and gold accents. Tickets are available online for those interested in seeing show!
It's located on Andrássy Avenue, Budapest’s luxury shopping street. The Opera House is surrounded by elegant boutiques, cafés, and cultural landmarks. Andrássy Avenue itself is a lovely street to walk down!
Normafa Park is located on the Buda side and it offers great views of Budapest and the surrounding hills. It’s a popular place for locals to go for a walk, have a picnic, or just relax in nature. There are also plenty of trails if you’re up for a casual hike or a peaceful stroll through the greenery!
We highly recommend visiting Margaret Island. This green oasis in the middle of the Danube River is the perfect place to enjoy nature. You can take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore the island's beautiful gardens, tree-lined paths, and historic landmarks, like the Ruins of the Franciscan Church and the Musical Fountain, which puts on a show every hour.
The island is also home to several cafes and open spaces where you can sit back and relax. One can also take a swim at the Palatinus Bath an outdoor pool complex!
This stunning building is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world. Built in the mid-19th century in an impressive Moorish Revival architecture style.
Another lovely thing to see in Budapest is the Szabó Ervin Library located in a stunning early 20th-century building, this library is a hidden gem. The interior is breathtaking, with elegant marble columns, intricate woodwork, and grand staircases. Even if you're not looking for a book to read, the building itself is worth the visit.
One of our favourite restaurants in Budapest located off of the Andrássy street. It's known for its creative take on Hungarian cuisine! The restaurant is warm and friendly with a lovely bistro ambiance!
For a taste of traditional Hungarian Rétes, Strudel House is our recommendation! It specialises in the beloved Hungarian rétes (strudel), this restaurant offers both sweet and savory strudels, all made fresh daily. They have the classic apple or cherry, but also the Hungarian specialty of cottage cheese or poppy seed strudels.
From classic goulash and pörkölt to fried cheese and stuffed cabbage, you’ll find all the comfort food that Hungarian cuisine is famous for here!
We highly recommend Central Kávéház, one of the city's most historic and charming cafés. Established in 1887, this iconic spot is a perfect blend of old-world elegance and modern charm. With its classic café ambiance, high ceilings, and beautiful stained-glass windows, it feels like stepping back in time while enjoying a delicious coffee or pastry.
Known for its rich Hungarian cakes and coffee blends, Central Kávéház is the ideal place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. We recommend trying dobos torte or eszterházy torte!
New York Kávéház is one of the most beautiful and historic coffeehouses in Budapest. Often referred to as the “most luxurious café in the world" and is popular among visitors!
This is also one of our favourites for Hungarian food! There are also traditional Hungarian dishes made with vegetarian ingredients as well!
We also highly recommend TATI Farm to Table, a restaurant that brings the best of Hungary’s fresh, local produce to your plate. With a focus on sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine, TATI offers a menu that’s both innovative and rooted in Hungarian tradition. TATI offers a modern take on Hungarian cuisine that’s both delicious and thoughtful. The menu has a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes as well as complete vegetarian and vegan tasting menus!
More recommendations for things to do in Budapest as well as restaurants we recommend to follow!