When planning a European holiday, most Malaysians automatically think of London, Paris, or Switzerland. But if you want a destination that offers the grand architecture of Western Europe at a fraction of the cost, without the overwhelming tourist crowds, it’s time to put Budapest on your radar.

Affectionately split into two halves by the winding Danube River, historic, hilly Buda on one side and flat, vibrant Pest on the other, Hungary’s capital is a masterclass in affordable fairytale travel. From soothing thermal baths and majestic castles to affordable bowlfuls of comforting, hearty beef goulash that feel perfect for a rainy day, Budapest is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. 

As a Malaysian passport holder, you enjoy visa-free access to Hungary and the rest of the Schengen Area for tourist stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day window.

However, keep note of an important administrative shift happening later this year. Starting in late 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will become mandatory for visa-exempt travelers, including Malaysians.

From panoramic viewpoints to unique local culinary habits, here are 10 absolute must-do experiences to add to your bucket list.

Perched on Castle Hill on the Buda side, Fisherman's Bastion looks exactly like a Walt Disney castle come to life. Featuring seven ornate stone turrets representing the original Hungarian tribes, it offers the single most famous, sweeping panoramic view over the Danube River and the majestic Parliament building across the water.

As the world's largest Gothic Revival structure, this symmetrical architectural marvel is the undisputed icon of Budapest's skyline. While it looks spectacular from a distance during a river stroll, stepping inside reveals an opulent interior lined with 40 kilograms of gold leaf, grand frescoed ceilings, and the prized Hungarian Crown Jewels. Note: Tickets sell out weeks in advance, so booking early online is essential.

Budapest isn't called the "City of Spas" for nothing—it sits on a massive network of natural, mineral-rich thermal springs. Széchenyi is the largest and most famous medicinal bath complex in Europe, housed inside an eye-catching, bright yellow Neo-Baroque palace. Soaking in the steaming outdoor pools while watching elderly locals play chess on floating boards is an iconic, relaxing Viennese-adjacent ritual.

Dominating the city's historic hill district, this sprawling palace complex was the historical home of Hungarian kings. While you can take a vintage funicular railway up the steep hillside, walking the cobblestone pathways on foot is easy and rewards you with great photography angles. Today, the castle houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.

Read More: The Best Time to Visit Budapest: Guide to Hungary's Crown Jewel

Budapest’s nightlife is completely unique thanks to its "Ruin Bars" (romkocsma). In the early 2000s, creative locals began transforming abandoned, crumbling buildings and old factories in the Jewish Quarter into quirky, bohemian watering holes filled with eclectic vintage furniture, neon art, and retro graffiti. Szimpla Kert is the original and most famous instance; it's a labyrinth of odd rooms that feels part bar, part underground art museum.

Named in honor of Hungary’s first king, this monumental neoclassical basilica is equal in height to the Parliament building, signifying the equal balance of church and state. The interior is stunningly dark and atmospheric, detailed with gold mosaics. For an incredible 360-degree look at the city, take the elevator or climb the stairs up into the observation dome.

Foodies should immediately head to this massive, 19th-century indoor market hall. The ground floor is packed with vendors selling local paprika spices and cured meats, but the upper floor is where the street food magic happens. Grab a fresh Lángos (deep-fried flatbread slathered in garlic water, sour cream, and shredded cheese) or a sweet Kürtőskalács (hollow, cinnamon-sugar chimney cake roasted over charcoal).

Located a short walk down from the Parliament building along the river edge, this is one of the most moving and hauntingly beautiful memorials in Europe. It features 60 pairs of rusted, period-accurate iron shoes fixed to the concrete stone. It honors the thousands of victims (predominantly Jewish) who were ordered to remove their valuable shoes before being executed at the river's edge by militia during World War II.

Seeing Budapest from the water is an essential experience, but it becomes truly magical after dark. At night, the city illuminates every major monument, bridge, and palace in a uniform, warm golden glow. Gliding past the massive, lit-up facade of the Parliament building reflecting off the dark water is an unforgettable sight.

As the very first permanent stone bridge to span the Danube River, the iconic Chain Bridge historically united the separate towns of Buda and Pest into a single great metropolis in 1849. Guarded at both ends by monumental stone lions, taking a leisurely evening stroll across its pedestrian walkways offers cool, breezy views of the city lights reflecting over the water.

Skip buying individual physical tickets. The city's public transit network, including metros, historical yellow trams, and buses, is incredible. You can buy a 24-hour or 72-hour travel pass directly on the app to scan digital barcodes seamlessly.

Unlike most of Europe, Hungary does not use the Euro! They use the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Conversion rates can look intimidating (e.g., RM1 is roughly 80 HUF). Keep a multi-currency travel card (like Wise) handy for the best exchange rates.

When dining out, standard practice is to leave a 10% tip if service is good. However, many tourist-heavy restaurants automatically add a 10–12.5% service charge directly onto your final bill. Always check the bottom of the receipt first so you don't accidentally tip twice!

Read More: How to Travel Cheap in 2026: 8 Proven Tips to Cut Flight, Hotel, and Food Costs

Situated directly along the Danube River bank in the historic Castle District, Park Plaza Budapest offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building. Guests can enjoy contemporary rooms adorned with modern art, an elegant on-site restaurant, and effortless access to nearby metro and tram lines.

Located just a short five-minute walk from the iconic Heroes' Square and the lush City Park, ibis Budapest Heroes Square provides an ideal, budget-friendly base for sightseeing. The hotel features cozy, air-conditioned rooms, a welcoming 24-hour lounge bar, and fast public transport connections to the rest of the city.

Set in the heart of Budapest's lively Inner City district, Danubius Hotel Erzsébet City Center places top attractions like Váci Street and the Hungarian National Museum right at your doorstep. This modern, pet-friendly property boasts well-appointed rooms, an in-house steak restaurant, and excellent connectivity to multiple metro lines.

Nestled along the banks of the Danube River near Margaret Island, Verdi Budapest Aquincum is a premier upscale hotel famed for its tranquil surroundings and extensive wellness facilities. Visitors can unwind in the thermal spa and indoor pool, dine at the refined on-site restaurant, or explore nearby Roman historical sites.

Ready to experience the best things to do in Budapest? Book a flight and arrange your hotel, car rental, airport transfer, and activity with Traveloka. Enjoy special deals, hotel discounts of up to 25%, free hotel cancellation, and easy flight rescheduling. Terms and conditions apply. 

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