Budapest, Hungary
There aren’t many cities I return to again and again on purpose.
Especially when there’s a whole continent still to explore as part of this long, slow journey through Europe.
But Budapest, sometimes dreamlike, sometimes heartbreaking, has just the right mix of things to keep me coming back.
Earlier this year (in March), I spent another month living here. It was my third time back.
No, it’s not perfect. Nowhere is.
But Budapest has everything I need to thrive.
Bal and I in front of St. Stephen's Basilica
It’s beautiful without being too polished, stimulating without being overwhelming.
And the harder parts? They remind you you’re still growing— and honestly, that’s exactly how it should be.
Now, could I pick just one thing I love about this place? Absolutely not.
So here’s a bunch.
Below are my favourites:
Foods I obsessed over
Coffee shops to work from
Moments that stood out
Best neighborhoods to stay in
Foods I obsessed over
1. 101 Tigris Noodle House
Tucked on a quieter street near the center, with chewy hand-pulled noodles and bold flavors. My go-to? The hot sesame noodle soup with pork ragout—comforting, spicy, and full of depth.
2. VAJ Sas Bakrey & Cafe
Flaky, buttery pastries, strong coffee, and a peaceful vibe just minutes from the Basilica. I kept coming back for their seasonal danishes.
3. Pizza Dellarosso
Roman-style pizza by the slice. Crispy, square, and simple. I loved the roasted mushroom with truffle oil—perfect for a quick bite between errands.
4. Twentysix Budapest
More about the lush, greenhouse vibe than the food, but still solid brunch and veggie-forward plates. Great for catching up with a friend or getting a moment of calm in the middle of the city.
Coffee Shops to Work From
1. Madal Cafe
One of my all-time favorites—bright, spacious, and full of calm energy. Great coffee, fast WiFi, and a mix of locals and remote workers make it an easy place to settle in for a few hours.
2. Espresso Embassy
Minimal, stylish, and serious about coffee. It can get busy, but there’s usually a quiet corner you can tuck into with your laptop. Their filter coffee is excellent.
3. Selah Coffee House
A more intimate vibe, tucked away near the Jewish Quarter. Friendly staff, great drinks, and fewer crowds than some of the bigger names.
4. Magveto Cafe
Part bookstore, part café, and super underrated. Tables are well-spaced, the WiFi holds up, and the atmosphere makes you want to stay and write something meaningful.
5. Flow Specialty Coffee Bar
Elegant but unpretentious. You can linger with a laptop and a flat white, and they’ve got solid vegan and gluten-free snacks if you’re hungry.
Moments that stood out
Walking across Széchenyi Chain Bridge
It was so windy the day we crossed, I had to hold my jacket closed with both hands—but the views were worth it.
From the middle of the bridge, you can take in both sides of Budapest.
Go on a weekday if you want to avoid the crowds and linger a little longer.
Built in the mid-1800s, it was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest—and with its stone lion statues and suspension chains, it’s still one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Meeting Ali through a local Facebook group
When I first arrived in Budapest last year, I joined a Facebook group called Women of Budapest and posted asking if any creative professionals wanted to meet for a coffee.
One of the first to respond was Ali—a fellow podcaster who had moved here from Mexico City eight years ago. I was instantly excited.
Not only was I meeting someone who had made a life here, but she also shared the same creative lane.
Fast forward a year later: I’m in her apartment, meeting her boyfriend, and eating homemade Hungarian pancakes - what a dream.
Neighborhood Vibes
For the curious, budget-conscious traveler.
Still a bit gritty, but changing fast—some blocks feel up-and-coming, others feel stuck in time. If you’re into layered cities and don’t mind a little edge, you’ll find great value here.
Not ideal if you’re after postcard streets or feel uneasy after dark.
District VII – The Jewish Quarter
For the social, night-owl traveler.
Buzzing with ruin bars, cafés, and crowds, this is Budapest’s busiest district. Walkable, central, and always entertaining—great for first-timers.
Skip it if you need peace and quiet.
For design lovers and city walkers. Elegant and central, with museums, theaters, and grand boulevards. It’s stylish but not stuffy, and more laid-back than the Jewish Quarter. Less ideal if you’re craving a small-town feel.
For those who want calm, but not too far from the action.
Leafy, local, and just north of the center—great cafés, older locals, and riverside walks. Margaret Island is steps away.
Not for nightlife-seekers or trend chasers.
Delicious baked goods at Lui Cafe
Before You Go…
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Thank you! Köszönöm!
