Cruise Through Budapest - Discover, Dine & Relax

Multiple route options
Multiple route options
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Scenic views
Scenic views
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Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
Budapest Danube River cruise boat passing under Chain Bridge with cityscape in the background.
Budapest Danube River cruise at night with view of illuminated Hungarian Parliament building.
Buda Castle illuminated at night viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Cruise by the Matthias Church in Budapest
Matthias Church illuminated at night, viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
Budapest Danube River cruise boat passing under Chain Bridge with cityscape in the background.
Budapest Danube River cruise at night with view of illuminated Hungarian Parliament building.
Buda Castle illuminated at night viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Cruise by the Matthias Church in Budapest
Matthias Church illuminated at night, viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
Budapest Danube River cruise boat passing under Chain Bridge with cityscape in the background.
Budapest Danube River cruise at night with view of illuminated Hungarian Parliament building.
Buda Castle illuminated at night viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Cruise by the Matthias Church in Budapest
Matthias Church illuminated at night, viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
4.2(2,309)

Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Cruise

Multilingual audioguide
1 hr.
Free cancellation
View popular sights like Chain Bridge, Margaret Island, Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion +7 more
All photos
Széchenyi Spa and Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
Woman relaxing in thermal bath at Széchenyi Spa, Budapest, Hungary.
Szechenyi Baths thermal pools with visitors enjoying the warm waters in Budapest, Hungary.
Matthias Church view from a cruise on the Danube River in Budapest.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Woman in a thermal bath at Széchenyi Spa
Aerial view of Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, showcasing thermal pools and historic architecture.
Hungarian Parliament building view from River Danube during sightseeing cruise.
Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
Széchenyi Spa and Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
Woman relaxing in thermal bath at Széchenyi Spa, Budapest, Hungary.
Szechenyi Baths thermal pools with visitors enjoying the warm waters in Budapest, Hungary.
Matthias Church view from a cruise on the Danube River in Budapest.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Woman in a thermal bath at Széchenyi Spa
Aerial view of Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, showcasing thermal pools and historic architecture.
Hungarian Parliament building view from River Danube during sightseeing cruise.
Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
Széchenyi Spa and Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
Woman relaxing in thermal bath at Széchenyi Spa, Budapest, Hungary.
Szechenyi Baths thermal pools with visitors enjoying the warm waters in Budapest, Hungary.
Matthias Church view from a cruise on the Danube River in Budapest.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Woman in a thermal bath at Széchenyi Spa
Aerial view of Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, showcasing thermal pools and historic architecture.
Hungarian Parliament building view from River Danube during sightseeing cruise.
Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
4.2(6,836)

Combo (Save 5%): Full-Day Access to Széchenyi Spa + Danube River Sightseeing Cruise

Multilingual audioguide
from €41
€38.95

5% off

View popular sights like Chain Bridge, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle Buda Castle +8 more
All photos
Indoor pool at Gellert spa in Budapest\Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
Indoor pool at Gellert Spa, Budapest with ornate columns and arched windows
Gellert Thermal Bath interior with ornate columns and pool, Budapest.
Cruise ship sailing on the Danube River near Buda Castle, Budapest.
Mosaic blue tiles in Gellert Thermal Bath, Budapest, showcasing intricate patterns and historic architecture.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Indoor pool at Gellert spa in Budapest\Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
Indoor pool at Gellert Spa, Budapest with ornate columns and arched windows
Gellert Thermal Bath interior with ornate columns and pool, Budapest.
Cruise ship sailing on the Danube River near Buda Castle, Budapest.
Mosaic blue tiles in Gellert Thermal Bath, Budapest, showcasing intricate patterns and historic architecture.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Indoor pool at Gellert spa in Budapest\Budapest, Chain bridge with tourist boat
Indoor pool at Gellert Spa, Budapest with ornate columns and arched windows
Gellert Thermal Bath interior with ornate columns and pool, Budapest.
Cruise ship sailing on the Danube River near Buda Castle, Budapest.
Mosaic blue tiles in Gellert Thermal Bath, Budapest, showcasing intricate patterns and historic architecture.
Cruise by the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
4.2(3,736)

Combo (Save 8%): Gellert Thermal Bath Tickets + Budapest River Cruise

Multilingual audioguide
from €41
€37.72

8% off

  • With this cost-saving combo, go for a rejuvenating experience at the Gellert Thermal Bath and enjoy sightseeing on a river cruise through Budapest.
  • Relax and recharge in a range of spa and pool services at the aesthetically designed Gellert Thermal Bath in Budapest.
  • Take your pick from a private cabin or a locker facility, and relax your muscles on a massage and sauna experience.
  • Go on a day or night cruise with an audio guide that tells you about the attractions along the River Danube and see Budapest in an all-new light.
  • See iconic bridges like the Chain Bridge with guardian lions, the Margaret Bridge, and the Elisabeth Bridge as you float along the city.
  • With this cost-saving combo, go for a rejuvenating experience at the Gellert Thermal Bath and enjoy sightseeing on a river cruise through Budapest.
  • Relax and recharge in a range of spa and pool services at the aesthetically designed Gellert Thermal Bath in Budapest.
  • Take your pick from a private cabin or a locker facility, and relax your muscles on a massage and sauna experience.
  • Go on a day or night cruise with an audio guide that tells you about the attractions along the River Danube and see Budapest in an all-new light.
  • See iconic bridges like the Chain Bridge with guardian lions, the Margaret Bridge, and the Elisabeth Bridge as you float along the city.

Inclusions

Gellert Thermal Bath

  • Full-day ticket to the Gellert Thermal Bath
  • Locker (as per option selected)
  • Private changing & storage cabin (as per option selected)
  • Sauna access

Budapest River Cruise

  • 1-hour day/night sightseeing cruise (as per option selected)
  • Multilingual audio guide

Exclusions

Gellert Thermal Bath

  • Swimming cap
  • Towels, slippers, and swimsuit (can be purchased or rented on-site)

Gellert Thermal Bath

  • Tip: Moisturize yourself with biodegradable lotion to protect the pool area.
  • Pregnant women and guests with medical conditions must consult their doctor before visiting the spa. Massages are not provided to pregnant women.
  • Strict dress code: Swimwear is mandatory and burkinis are not allowed.

Budapest River Cruise

  • Tip: Don't miss out on the Buda castle, a historic castle complex located on the Buda side of the Danube.
  • Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
All photos
Hungarian Parliament Building along the Danube River in Budapest, showcasing its Gothic Revival architecture.
Catamaran sailing in Santorini's caldera with passengers enjoying a meal and drinks.
Cruise ships sailing on the Danube River with Budapest's Parliament building in the background.
Chain bridge and Gresham Palace in Budapest
Couple enjoying candlelight dinner on Budapest Danube River cruise with city lights in the background.
Silverline cruise on the Danube River in Budapest during New Year's Eve with city lights.
Danube River evening cruise in Budapest with dinner and champagne, illuminated cityscape in background.
Budapest Danube River dinner cruise boat docked at night with city lights in the background.
Budapest Danube River dinner cruise with live folklore performance on deck.
Hungarian Parliament Building along the Danube River in Budapest, showcasing its Gothic Revival architecture.
Catamaran sailing in Santorini's caldera with passengers enjoying a meal and drinks.
Cruise ships sailing on the Danube River with Budapest's Parliament building in the background.
Chain bridge and Gresham Palace in Budapest
Couple enjoying candlelight dinner on Budapest Danube River cruise with city lights in the background.
Silverline cruise on the Danube River in Budapest during New Year's Eve with city lights.
Danube River evening cruise in Budapest with dinner and champagne, illuminated cityscape in background.
Budapest Danube River dinner cruise boat docked at night with city lights in the background.
Budapest Danube River dinner cruise with live folklore performance on deck.
Hungarian Parliament Building along the Danube River in Budapest, showcasing its Gothic Revival architecture.
Catamaran sailing in Santorini's caldera with passengers enjoying a meal and drinks.
Cruise ships sailing on the Danube River with Budapest's Parliament building in the background.
Chain bridge and Gresham Palace in Budapest
Couple enjoying candlelight dinner on Budapest Danube River cruise with city lights in the background.
Silverline cruise on the Danube River in Budapest during New Year's Eve with city lights.
Danube River evening cruise in Budapest with dinner and champagne, illuminated cityscape in background.
Budapest Danube River dinner cruise boat docked at night with city lights in the background.
Budapest Danube River dinner cruise with live folklore performance on deck.
4.4(462)

Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Cruise with Drinks

Multilingual audioguide
1 hr. - 1 hr. 30 min.
Free cancellation
5 boarding points available
Choose between 1 drink/3 cocktails/unlimited drinks
View popular sights like Inner City Parish Church, Chain Bridge, Margaret Island, Buda Castle +9 more
All photos
Hungarian Parliament Guided Tour and Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
The House of Peers in the Hungarian Parliament, Budapest
Woman using audio guide inside Hungarian Parliament, Budapest.
River Danube Sightseeing Cruise
Hungarian Parliament Building illuminated at night viewed from a Budapest Danube River dinner cruise.
Hungarian Parliament meeting room with ornate decor and historical significance.
Grand Stairway inside Hungarian Parliament with ornate ceiling and red carpet.
Matthias Church illuminated at night, viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Gellert Bath illuminated at night viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Hungarian Parliament Guided Tour and Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
The House of Peers in the Hungarian Parliament, Budapest
Woman using audio guide inside Hungarian Parliament, Budapest.
River Danube Sightseeing Cruise
Hungarian Parliament Building illuminated at night viewed from a Budapest Danube River dinner cruise.
Hungarian Parliament meeting room with ornate decor and historical significance.
Grand Stairway inside Hungarian Parliament with ornate ceiling and red carpet.
Matthias Church illuminated at night, viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Gellert Bath illuminated at night viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Hungarian Parliament Guided Tour and Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
The House of Peers in the Hungarian Parliament, Budapest
Woman using audio guide inside Hungarian Parliament, Budapest.
River Danube Sightseeing Cruise
Hungarian Parliament Building illuminated at night viewed from a Budapest Danube River dinner cruise.
Hungarian Parliament meeting room with ornate decor and historical significance.
Grand Stairway inside Hungarian Parliament with ornate ceiling and red carpet.
Matthias Church illuminated at night, viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
Gellert Bath illuminated at night viewed from a Danube River sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
4.4(4,871)

Combo (Save 5%): Hungarian Parliament Guided Tour + Danube River Sightseeing Cruise Tickets

Multilingual audioguide
from €37.90
€36

5% off

Live guide
View popular sights like Inner City Parish Church, Parliament, Margaret Island +10 more
All photos
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest in front of Glass Whale Shopping mall
Guests on a boat tour viewing Budapest's historic landmarks along the Danube River.
Guests enjoying the welcome drink during Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest in front of the parliament
Guests enjoying sightseeing during Historic Cruise in Budapest
Guests enjoying the welcome drink during Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in the evening
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest in front of Glass Whale Shopping mall
Guests on a boat tour viewing Budapest's historic landmarks along the Danube River.
Guests enjoying the welcome drink during Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest in front of the parliament
Guests enjoying sightseeing during Historic Cruise in Budapest
Guests enjoying the welcome drink during Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in the evening
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest in front of Glass Whale Shopping mall
Guests on a boat tour viewing Budapest's historic landmarks along the Danube River.
Guests enjoying the welcome drink during Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in Budapest in front of the parliament
Guests enjoying sightseeing during Historic Cruise in Budapest
Guests enjoying the welcome drink during Historic Cruise in Budapest
View of the Historic Cruise in the evening
4.7(13)

Budapest Danube River Cruise in a Historic Paddle Steamer

Multilingual audioguide
1 hr.
Board at Dock 10, Marcius 15. square, Budapest
View popular sights like Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Hungarian Parliament Building, Széchenyi Chain Bridge +12 more
All photos
View if the Sightseeing cruise in front of Hungarian Parliament Building
Group of friends enjoying drinks in cruise
View of the Sightseeing cruise in Danube river
Vltava River cruise boat in Budapest at sunset with passengers enjoying unlimited prosecco.
Chain bridge and Gresham Palace in Budapest
View if the Sightseeing cruise in front of Hungarian Parliament Building
Group of friends enjoying drinks in cruise
View of the Sightseeing cruise in Danube river
Vltava River cruise boat in Budapest at sunset with passengers enjoying unlimited prosecco.
Chain bridge and Gresham Palace in Budapest
View if the Sightseeing cruise in front of Hungarian Parliament Building
Group of friends enjoying drinks in cruise
View of the Sightseeing cruise in Danube river
Vltava River cruise boat in Budapest at sunset with passengers enjoying unlimited prosecco.
Chain bridge and Gresham Palace in Budapest
4.9(141)

Budapest Evening Danube River Sightseeing Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco

1 hr. 25 min.
Board at Silverline
Enjoy Unlimited Prosecco
View popular sights like Chain Bridge, Buda Castle, Statue of Liberty, Fisherman's Bastion +9 more
All photos

Millions love heading out with us

Maria Inês Pimenta
PT

Maria

Portugal
Mar, 2025
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It was good, the view was spectacular, but I booked it with an audio guide and we weren't given one, we just went on a boat watching without knowing what we were looking at all the time
View original review in Portuguese
Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
Alexandra Costa
PT

Alexandra

Portugal
Mar, 2025
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The view of the city from the river is incredible, you can see the size of the parliament, the castle... The fact that an audio guide is available is great for understanding the historical landmarks.
View original review in Portuguese
Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
Claudio Paglione

Claudio

Jan, 2025
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+ 1 more

Excellent organization, perfect service, the guided voice was sympathetic and impeccably narrated the history of Budapest Nice idea to present as if the main character the "Danube" was animated.
View original review in Italian
Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Cruise with Drinks
Jo Nash

Jo

Apr, 2018
The ppanorama of the city is best from the open upper deck of the boats! That is the most scenic way of enjoying the cruise
Budapest: Danube River Sightseeing Cruise with Brunch & Prosecco
László Barta

László

Dec, 2021
Great cruise, even better dinner! Loved the hospitality and got some great pictures during the cruise. The only thing I'd recommend is coming before time so that the experience is smooth!
Budapest: Danube Dinner Cruise with 7-Course Menu & Live Piano Music
Kent Wright

Kent

Apr, 2018
This is a great way to have delicious dinner and see the city of Budapest lit up at night. The dueling piano players were so amazing. The food infact was also pretty delicious
Budapest: Danube Dinner Cruise with 7-Course Menu & Live Piano Music
Francisca Pastor Botella

Francisca

Oct, 2022
Un paseo por el Danubio comiendo pizza y toda la cerveza que puedas beber,bastante agradable. Cabe decir que la elección de la música no era todo lo adecuada, pero hay que escuchar de todo.😂
Budapest Pizza Cruise
Ora Dennis

Ora

Apr, 2018
If you love your husband, then you certainly have to take him here. I booked our tickets online from here and surprised him with this cruise once in Budapest. Fab experience for him and me.
Budapest Pizza Cruise
Bodhini Jayawardena
GB

Bodhini

United Kingdom
Mar, 2024
Very enjoyable evening. Loved the food, music and dance. However, the guide was difficult to find. Please ask them to carry a purple flag with readout logo.
Budapest: Danube Dinner Cruise with 7-Course Menu & Folklore Show
Janice Griffin

Janice

Jan, 2024
It was extremely well organised. The food was beautiful and the entertainment was excellent! Would highly recommend this trip to anyone visiting Budapest.
Budapest: Danube Dinner Cruise with 7-Course Menu & Folklore Show

Iconic landmarks by the Danube River

Glide along the Danube River and view the city’s historic sights from a unique perspective on Budapest River cruises. Whether you want to watch the sunset while sipping on a cocktail, indulge in a lavish, candlelight dinner at night, or enjoy a live folklore performance, hopping on a Budapest River cruise lets you do all that and more. If you are planning to spend a full day in the city, you can choose cruise combos that include visits to the Szechenyi Spa, the Buda Castle, and more. 

Read on to discover your best Budapest cruise options, ticket prices, what to expect, and more to plan a hassle-free tour of the city.

Navigate your Budapest River Cruises guide

  1. Why go on a cruise in Budapest?
  2. Things to know before booking your Budapest River boat tour
  3. Which Danube River cruise is best for you?
  4. Find your best Budapest cruise match here
  5. Budapest River cruise map
  6. About the Danube River
  7. Your cruise boarding points
  8. 5 steps to a smooth and stress-free cruise experience in Budapest
  9. Plan your Danube River cruise
  10. Top landmarks to spot on your Budapest cruises
  11. Frequently asked questions about Budapest River cruises

Things to know before booking your Budapest River boat tour

  • Some Budapest cruises focus purely on sightseeing, while others include dinner, live music, or unlimited drinks. Decide whether you’re after a cultural evening, a relaxing boat ride, or a lively social experience with cocktails.
  • Daytime cruises offer clearer views and photo opportunities, while evening or night cruises showcase Budapest’s illuminated landmarks in a magical setting. Choose your cruise based on what kind of atmosphere you’re looking for.
  • Ticket prices vary based on what's included—drinks, food, entertainment, and seating (e.g., window seat upgrades).
  • Budapest cruises, especially evening and dinner options, tend to sell out quickly during peak seasons (April to October). Booking early ensures better availability, preferred time slots, and seating options.
  • Not all boats are fully wheelchair- or stroller-accessible. If this is important to you, be sure to check this at the time of booking.
  • There are multiple boarding points along the Danube. You can choose the one nearest to your accommodation. The Batthyany Square and Jane Haining rakpart are closer to the Buda Castle, while the Duna Cruises boarding point is near Margaret Square. The Vigado Square is one of the most famous markets in the city, offering scores of shopping opportunities.
  • All Budapest cruise boats are luxurious 2-story boats with modern features and a sleek outer build. No matter the route you choose, you can enjoy scenic views from the top decks.

Which Danube River cruise is best for you?

Danube River Cruises

Sightseeing cruises

Best suited for: First-time visitors, relaxed sightseeing, and anyone looking to explore the city from the water

  • Budapest Danube River sightseeing cruise offers a relaxed daytime or evening cruise with multilingual audio guides that highlight major landmarks. A great option for learning about the city as you sail.
  • Or opt for a sightseeing cruise with drinks to enhance the experience with your choice of drink ranging from a welcome drink, 3 cocktails, or unlimited prosecco—combining sightseeing with a social, sip-as-you-sail vibe.

Recommended cruises:

  • Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Cruise
  • Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Cruise with Drinks
Danube River Cruises

Night/evening cruises

Best suited for: Couples, photographers, and those seeking a more atmospheric or romantic experience

  • Opt for a night-time sightseeing cruise to enjoy a peaceful ride under the stars with illuminated views of Parliament and bridges, accompanied by informative audio commentary.
  • Choose the cruise option with live music to enjoy soft Hungarian folk music as you glide through the city’s golden-lit riverside—perfect for a scenic and cultural night out.

Recommended cruises:

  • Budapest Danube River Night-time Sightseeing Cruise
  • Budapest Danube River Evening Cruise with Live Music
Danube River Cruises

Dinner cruises

Best suited for: Romantic evenings, special occasions, and guests looking for an all-in-one dining and entertainment experience

  • Choose a dinner Cruise with a folklore show and enjoy a 4-course Hungarian meal paired with live traditional dance and music. Window seating is available as an optional add-on.
  • Or go for a dinner Cruise with live music that swaps folklore performances for elegant piano or acoustic music, creating a refined yet relaxed dining cruise along the Danube.

Recommended cruises:

  • Budapest Danube River Dinner Cruise
Budapest River Cruises

Combo cruises

Best suited for: Travelers short on time who want to combine Budapest’s top experiences in one day

  • Szechenyi Spa + Danube River Cruise lets you relax in thermal baths during the day, then enjoy a 1-hour sightseeing cruise to wind down.
  • Hungarian Parliament Tour + Danube River Cruise combines a guided visit to one of the city's top historical attractions with a scenic river ride—perfect for history lovers and first-time visitors.

Recommended cruises:

Find your best Budapest cruise match here

Experience
Type
Boarding Points
Timings
Inclusions
Book tickets
Day or evening sightseeing cruise with drinks
Sightseeing cruise
Duna Cruises Dock No. 10
Clock icon
1:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Tokaj Premium Frizzante (optional)
Evening sightseeing cruise with unlimited prosecco
Evening cruise
Silverline Cruises Kft.
Clock icon
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Unlimited prosecco
Sunset cocktail sightseeing cruise
Evening cruise
Jane Haining Rakpart, Dock No. 11
Clock icon
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
3 cocktails
Dinner cruise with folklore show
Dinner cruise
Petofi Ter, Dock No. 11
Clock icon
7:30 pm
3 or 6-course menu & live folklore show
Dinner cruise with piano battle show
Dinner cruise
Petofi Ter, Dock No. 12
Clock icon
7:30 pm
3 or 6-course menu with live piano
Party boat cruise with unlimited drinks
Party boat cruise
Vidago Square, Dock No. 11
Clock icon
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
Danube cocktail cruise with live music
Evening cruise
Jane Haining rkp. 11, 1052
Clock icon
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
3 cocktails with live performances

Budapest River cruise map

Budapest River Cruises

About the Danube River

The Danube River is Europe’s second-longest river, meandering through 10 countries. Originating in Germany's Black Forest, it flows southeastward, carving its way through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, and others before emptying into the Black Sea. Renowned for its scenic beauty, the Danube's banks are dotted with historic cities and charming villages. 

The Danube River is not just a geographical feature but also a cultural and historical artery that has shaped the identity of the regions it traverses. Along its banks, you'll find architectural marvels like Budapest's Parliament Building, medieval fortresses like the Iron Gate, and charming villages steeped in tradition.

Your cruise boarding points

No matter the cruise you choose, you shall begin your journey from one of these piers. Every boarding point is strategically located in the city hotspots, making it easier for you to explore the shopping corners, night markets, food streets, and more.

Silverline Cruises – Dock 11, Jane Haining Rakpart

This boarding point is centrally located with easy access to riverside cafés, snack stalls, and walking paths. The area offers excellent views of Elizabeth Bridge and Gellért Hill while you wait to board.

Nearest landmarks: Elizabeth Bridge, Vigadó Square
Closest metro station: Ferenciek tere

Vigado Square

This historic square situated along the Danube Promenade is known for its vibrant restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers. Look out for its beautifully designed architecture. 
Nearest landmarks: Vigado Concert Hall and Budapest Vigado
Closest metro station: Deak Ferenc ter, around 500 meters away

Jane Haining Rakpart, Dock 11

This riverside promenade offers stunning views of the Danube River and the Buda Castle.
Nearest landmarks:
Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, and Matthias Church
Closest metro station: Batthyany Square, around 700 meters away

Batthyany Square

This historic vibrant square, situated on the Buda side of the city is famous for its iconic shopping centers, cafes, and restaurants.
Nearest landmarks: Batthyany Square Market Hall and Batthyany Church
Closest metro station: Batthyany Square, situated right next to the port

5 steps to a smooth and stress-free cruise experience in Budapest

  1. Check the ticket details: As soon as you receive the payment confirmation, check your email inbox for a copy of the ticket voucher. 
  2. Arrive early: It is best to arrive at least 15 minutes before the cruise begins to settle in comfortably. 
  3. Carry a valid ID: Make sure to carry a valid ID proof when going on a cruise in Budapest, especially if you are planning to go on a sightseeing cruise with drinks or a Party Boat cruise. 
  4. Collect the boarding pass: Note that your mobile voucher is not a boarding ticket. You have to display your voucher and a valid ID at the boarding point and collect your boarding pass. 
  5. Cruise away: When you receive your boarding pass, make sure to check it to confirm what’s included in your ticket. After collecting your boarding pass, you can get on the boat and explore away.

Plan your Danube River cruise

Timings
Best time to go on a cruise
Getting there
Facilities
Rules & regulations
Tips
Sightseeing cruises
  • Average duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • General timings: Most day sightseeing cruises run between 12pm and 5pm while evening sightseeing cruises run from 5pm to 9pm. Check your mobile voucher for the exact time slot.
Dinner cruises
  • Average duration: 3 hours
  • General timings: Most dinner cruises begin at 7:30pm and run until 9pm and include live folklore shows. Check your mobile voucher for more details. 
Party Boat cruises
  • Average duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • General timings: Party Boat cruises operate between 5pm and 9pm. Take a look at your mobile voucher for the exact time slot.
Best time to go on a Budapest River cruise
Best time of the day

For clear skies and unobstructed views, choose day sightseeing cruises. While day cruises have their charm, we recommend a sunset cruise for gorgeous golden-hour photo opportunities. If you want live entertainment on board, you can opt for dinner cruises.

Best time in a year
  • March to May: These months offer mild temperatures, lighter crowds, and beautiful cherry blossoms along the bank of the Danube River. 
  • June to August: The longer daylight hours during these months offer perfect conditions for day sightseeing.
  • September to November: During this period, the temperatures are mild. You can witness gorgeous fall foliage along the Danube banks. 
  • December to February: Enjoy the festive atmosphere, witness special events, and immerse yourself in the unique charm of Budapest’s snow-covered landmarks on a Christmas cruise.
Silverline cruises
  • By metro: M1
  • By tram: 2
  • By bus: 15 or 115
Vigado Square
  • By metro: M2
  • By tram: Line 19
  • By bus: 108E
Jane Haining Rakpart, Dock 11
  • By bus: 133E, 5, 7, 8E, and 9
  • By train: Number H5 and H7
  • By light rail: Line 2 and 2B
Batthyany Square
  • By metro: M2
  • By tram: Line 19
  • By bus: Line 990
Antall Jozsef Rakpart, Port Academia, Dock 3
  • By bus: Number 105, 15, 210b, 72, and 9
  • By train: H5 and H7
  • By metro: Line M2 and M3
  • By light rail: Line 2, 23, and 2B
Budapest River Cruises facilities on board
  • Open decks: The Budapest River cruises feature vast open decks to ensure that you can catch unobstructed views of the scenic Danube River and the iconic landmarks on its banks. 
  • Seating arrangements: There are tables and chairs on the decks and interiors of the boat. You can relax under the sun, enjoy drinks, or have dinner at these tables. 
  • Restrooms: There are accessible washroom facilities on board for your convenience. 
  • First-aid kits: There are first-aid kits and staff available on board to help you in case of medical emergencies.
  • Life jackets: These Danube River cruises in Budapest also have life jackets on board to ensure your safety. 
  • Live music (on dinner cruises): Depending on the type of cruise you book, you can enjoy a 3 or 6-course candlelight dinner on board.
Budapest River Cruises rules and regulations
  • Arrive early: We recommend you arrive at least 15 to 30 minutes before departure to ensure that you can settle in comfortably before embarking on your Budapest cruise.
  • Follow the boarding procedures: Bring a valid ID, download your mobile voucher, and show it at the boarding gate to avail yourself of your boarding pass. 
  • Inform dietary restrictions: If you have any dietary requirements or food allergies, please inform the staff as soon as you board the cruise. 
  • No outside food and drinks: Do not bring food and drinks from the outside on board.
  • Note the pet policy: Most Budapest cruises do not allow pets, except for service animals on board. 
  • Avoid large suitcases: Do not bring large suitcases or backpacks on board.
Tips to note when going on Budapest River Cruises
  • Book evening cruises: The golden hour casts beautiful sun rays over the iconic sights along the Danube River. Booking an evening or nighttime cruise will make for gorgeous photo opportunities and allow you to soak in the views. 
  • Try Hungarian cuisine: Danube Cruises in Budapest allow you to experience a slice of Hungarian culture by offering a 3 or 6-course meal on their dinner cruises. They also offer live folklore shows to acquaint you with their heritage. 
  • Carry a valid ID: Make sure to carry a valid ID to get your boarding pass from the boarding point before embarking on your journey.
  • Support local businesses: The boarding points like Vigado Square and Batthyany Square are lined with historic restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers. You can purchase them and support local owners. 
  • Reserve tickets in advance: Book Budapest River cruise tickets in advance to ensure that you get guaranteed access to the cruise, no matter the crowd on the day of your visit. 

Frequently asked questions about Budapest River cruises

What are the different types of boat tours in Budapest?

There are a variety of boat tours or cruises in Budapest- sightseeing, dinner, sunset, and evening cruises. Depending on your likes, you can choose among these options. Make sure to book tickets in advance to reserve your spot.

How much do Budapest River cruises cost?

Budapest cruises are available online starting from .

What is the best time to go on a Budapest River cruise?

April to August are the best months to go on a cruise on the Danube River. The temperatures are bearable and the longer daylight hours ensure that you can enjoy your sightseeing cruises to the fullest.

What can I see on a boat tour in Budapest?

Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, Erzsebet Bridge, Gellert Thermal Bath, Petofi Bridge, Central Market Hall, Szechenyi Chain Bridge, shoes on the Danube bank, and Hungarian Parliament building are some iconic landmarks that you can see as you sail along the Danube River.

How long is a typical cruise in Budapest?

Most Budapest sightseeing cruises, evening cruises, and Party Boat cruises run for around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The Budapest dinner cruises last for around 3 hours and include live folklore performances.

Are Danube River cruises suitable for children?

You can bring your children on Danube cruises in Budapest. Only party boat cruises have mandated that a visitor must be above 17 years of age to get on board.

Is there a dress code for Danube cruises?

While there is no strict dress code to abide by to cruise along the Danube River, we recommend you stick to smart casuals.

Can I bring luggage on a Danube boat tour?

Please avoid bringing large backpacks and suitcases on board. There is limited storage space on Danube River cruise boats.