3 Barks for Budapest!

I first visited Budapest in July of 2017, without Alice. I’ve been wanting to go back ever since! This year, I convinced my mom and aunt to join us in Vienna and then Budapest (a new city for both of them), and we had the best time. Budapest has a lot in common with Vienna and Prague, but its appearance from the river is more grand and dramatic, in my opinion. Overall, I did find the city to be quite dog-friendly, but we didn’t encounter many other dogs doing touristy things. We went to one restaurant that does not allow dogs (Halászbástya Étterem), and found a couple of rooftop bars during my research that didn’t allow pets. Dogs also are not allowed on the ferris wheel, or on the grounds directly next to the Parliament Building.

Dogs are allowed on public transit - they must be leashed and muzzled, or in a carrier, and you must have their vaccination records with you. Most parks allowed dogs (this is different from Vienna, where dogs are forbidden in many of the city’s parks), and every Uber/Bolt we ordered was fine with driving Alice. We traveled to Budapest from Vienna via train, which is also dog-friendly. I usually keep Alice in her carrier on trains to avoid getting charged for having a pet, so I don’t remember the specific rules for ÖBB train line.

What to Do

River Cruise

A must-do, dog-friendly activity in Budapest is a river cruise! We actually did two - one during the day and one at night. On our first full day in the city we did a sightseeing cruise with Legenda City Cruises. There’s an informational recording that describes what you see on either side of the river, and provides a historical overview of the city. From this cruise, you can also get off to explore Margaret Island and hop on a different boat later to return to the dock. Budapest is stunning at night - the bridges, monuments, and churches are lit up so beautifully! I am really glad we decided to do the Silverline Cruises 10:15pm cocktail cruise on our last night. The staff were so friendly to Alice, bringing her water and giving her lots of attention.

City Park

We stayed near Budapest’s City Park (Városliget) and had a lovely time exploring here. There’s a small lake, a beautiful old castle, and pretty gardens. You’ll also find Heroes’ Square on the edge of the park.

The Opera

No, dogs cannot go to the opera with you (as far as I know)… but the Opera House boasts gorgeous architecture and beautiful, intricate detail at the entrance. In the off-season, the front doors are open and you can go inside the lobby of the building. There weren’t any signs saying “no dogs”, so I picked Alice up and went in to view the ceilings, staircases, etc.

Buda

Most hotels, restaurants, and shops are on the Pest side of the city (the east side of the River Danube). But in Buda on the west side of the river, you’ll find Buda Castle, the Fisherman’s Bastion, and The Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle. Dogs cannot go inside the church or castle, but you can explore around them. The Fisherman’s Bastion has a spectacular view of the Parliament Building, the Chain Bridge, and most of the city. It’s an excellent place to take pictures!

Take the Tram

The above-ground trams are good for sight-seeing, and getting from one area to another. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, or in a carrier, and you must have their vaccination records with you. I particularly like Tram 2 (or 2B or 23), which goes along the river on the Pest side. You can only buy tickets on board if you have exact change, so buy tickets at one of the machines ahead of time!

Walking

Budapest is really beautiful, and there are plenty of sights, shops, etc. throughout the city. Walk around Districst V, VI, VII, and VIII and you’ll find lots to entertain you and your pup!

Where to Stay

While searching for dog-friendly hotels in Budapest, I stumbled upon Alice Hotel. Of course we had to stay here!! It was the most adorable boutique hotel, I am so happy with our stay! The building was once a large mansion, which had been abandoned and became run-down over time. The entire neighborhood is filled with these types of buildings, many of which serve as consulates and embassies.

My mom, Alice, and I stayed in “The Suite of Alice” - a very large room with a huge terrace overlooking the front yard. This very nice room was surprisingly affordable. My aunt stayed in a standard room, which was also quite nice and very affordable. The food at the restaurant downstairs is really good, and the front yard/patio is really nice for breakfast, coffee, or drinks. The staff was so kind, and loved Alice. I will only stay here if we return to Budapest!

Where to Eat/Drink

Halászbástya Étterem - While the restaurant does not allow dogs indoors, you can take your dog to their “rooftop” bar, atop the Fisherman’s Bastion! The views are spectacular.

Spíler Biergarten - Also on the Buda side, lots of beer options and food choices.

Mazel Tov - A Mediterranean restaurant in a ruin bar-like atmosphere! Good for lunch or just drinks.

Vintage Garden - A very cute atmosphere, and they love dogs!

La Lune Café - Cute spot for coffee or breakfast.

Gerlóczy - Good European food with a nice, quiet patio.

Secco Café & Bar - Beautiful hotel bar with air conditioning!

Iguana - If you need a break from European food, this Mexican spot was quite good! Well-air-conditioned inside.

Garzon Café - Good for coffee, breakfast, or drinks. Air-conditioning!