8 Food Lover Tips For Visiting Budapest

Time and time again clients of mine visit Budapest and are wowed by its charm. The City of Bridges and Hungarian capital is truly one of the most photogenic cities in Europe and is a vital center for dance, music, film, visual arts, and theatre. The majestic riverside location along the Danube makes it a popular destination for river cruises. Budapest is full of wonders.

Regardless of your reason to visit, don't leave without indulging in the delicious authentic dishes served throughout the nation. Your palette will be dancing with all the rich flavors. To guide you to some of the best spots to grab food in Budapest, I've created a list of 8 food lover tips for your visit.

parliament building in Budapest, Hungary at night
1. Langos

You most certainly can't leave Budapest without trying one it's most traditional foods, langos. Langos is a flatbread that is deep-fried in fat and can be served plain or smothered with cheese blends and other flavorful toppings. You can find langos nearly anywhere, but we recommend heading to the Central Market Hall. I had some of the best langos there!

2. Hungarian Cooking Class

If you love cooking and eating, sign up for a Hungarian cooking course. You will get to experience an authentic three-course meal that you helped create. I will match you up with one that fits your budget, and if you prefer a private course, these are available as well. 

3. Budapest International Wine Festival

Every year in early September, you can catch the Budapest International Wine Festival. This festival has been running for many years and has become custom to the natives and tourists alike.

4. Palinka & Sausage Festival

If you're in the country in October, definitely make your way to the Budapest Palinka and Sausage Festival to try some of the fantastic European brandy paired with any of the many sausage varieties you will find throughout the stands.

5. Unicum

Hungarian Unicum is one of the most famous liquors in the country. It's in herbal bitter that aids in digestion, which you will find helps tremendously after delving into all of the spicy street foods. You can also head to the Zwack Museum to learn all about the miracle liquor.

6. Etyek-Buda Wine Region

Make way to the Etyek-Buda Wine Region to experience one of the leading wine-producing villages that have been around since the 18th century. This winery makes for a great day trip. Just prepare yourself to try dozens of varieties.

>> read more about Best European Destinations for Wine Lovers

7. Marzipan Museum

Anyone who loves the age-old delicacy marzipan, visit Szamos Marzipan, a museum in honor of the artists Mátyás Szamos and Károly Szabó. These artists started shaping marzipan into the shapes of flowers and other beautiful creations back in the 1930s, and this museum intends to keep their spirit and tasty treats alive.

8. Mangalica & Társai Húspatika

If you have a fond love in your heart for delis, you are going to adore Mangalica & Társai Húspatika. This deli has everything from assorted salamis, cured hams, and more. This deli stands today in the dedication of the curly-haired Mangalica pig, which is a domesticated, extremely furry Hungarian swine.

These foods are just a small peek into what Budapest has to offer. You will be amazed by this beautiful city. Experiencing the food native to a country is the perfect (and delicious) way to connect to the local culture. Let a European Travel Specialist help you plan an unforgettable and stress-free trip to Budapest today.