Often called the “Budapest Sea,” Lupa Beach is a large man-made lake with white sandy shores and clear water. It feels like a seaside resort, complete with beach clubs, water sports, and international food stalls.
Where: Just north of Budapest, near Budakalász
Getting There: Shuttle buses from Budapest or 20 minutes by car
Best For: Swimming, water sports, beach parties
Facilities: Bars, restaurants, water sports rentals, sunbeds
This riverside stretch along the Danube is a favorite among locals for casual summer days. It’s more about the atmosphere than swimming, with food stalls, outdoor bars, and shaded areas to relax.
Where: Northern Budapest, along the Danube
Getting There: Bus or bike ride from the city center (~30 minutes)
Best For: Picnics, riverside dining, relaxed evenings
Facilities: Open-air bars, food stalls, bike paths
Located on Margaret Island, Palatinus is one of Budapest’s most iconic summer spots. It’s a massive open-air bath complex with pools, slides, and areas for sunbathing, blending thermal spa culture with beach vibes.
Where: Margaret Island, central Budapest
Getting There: Accessible by foot, bike, or bus from the city center
Best For: Families, swimming, spa-meets-beach experience
Facilities: Thermal pools, wave pool, water slides, restaurants
This newer urban beach on the Pest side of the Danube offers a trendy city-beach vibe with loungers, a sandy riverside, and a bar. It’s especially popular with younger crowds looking for music and cocktails by the river.
Where: Pest side of the Danube, near Rákóczi Bridge
Getting There: Easily reachable by tram or metro from central Budapest
Best For: Socializing, riverside sunsets, cocktails
Facilities: Beach bar, loungers, event space
A green peninsula along the Danube, Kopaszi Dam offers landscaped lawns, small sandy stretches, and a promenade with cafes and restaurants. It’s great for a leisurely riverside day out.
Where: Southern Budapest, Újbuda district
Getting There: Metro Line 4 or car (~15 minutes from city center)
Best For: Families, jogging, riverside dining
Facilities: Cafes, restaurants, walking and cycling paths
Budapest may be inland, but its lakes, riverside hangouts, and island complexes provide plenty of places to enjoy the sun. From the resort-style Lupa Beach to the classic Palatinus Baths and lively riverside bars at Római Part, the city offers a mix of relaxation, culture, and fun that makes summer here unexpectedly beachy.