If you’re looking for a plesant day trip from Budapest, Szentendre is a great choice.
Just a short journey from the capital – cc. 35-40 min by suburban railway -, this picturesque town is known for its
- Mediterranean, artistic atmosphere,
- lovely cobblestone streets, and
- vivid cultural life.
Here’s how to make the most of your day in Szentendre.
Table of Contents – Day Trip to Szentendre
Getting to Szentendre
🚃 By Suburban Railway H5 (HÉV)
The easiest way to get to Szentendre is by taking the HÉV, suburban railway, from Budapest.
The train departs from Batthyány tér in Buda (close to the Chain Bridge) and takes about 40 minutes to reach Szentendre.
You can also get on the train at Margit híd budai hídfő stop (Margaret Bridge, Buda end).
TIP: The M2 metro red line stops at Batthány tér.
Public Transport Ticket To Szentendre:
You need two tickets (four if you plan to return to Budapest on the suburban train as well)
You have to buy a Single ticket (450 HUF, but it’s best to buy a pack of 10 singles, that costs 4 000 HUF) for travelling on the suburban train to the city limit of Budapest.
The city limit is Békásmegyer station.
From there you need a Suburban railway ticket (15 km) to Szentendre: costs 450 HUF.
Both types of tickets can be purchased from the purple ticket vending machines at the Batthyány tér or Margaret bridge stations.
On the trip back to Budapest first you use the Suburban railway ticket (15 km) to Szentendre to Békásmegyer station (the city limit).
From there you need to have a Budapest public transport Single ticket (450 HUF or 400 HUF if you use the block of 10 tickets).
You can validate the two tickets at the same time upon boarding the train just show them to the inspector if asked.
Note: If you have a Budapest Card then you don’t need single tickets just the Suburban railway ticket (15 km).
Please note that the ticket inspector will fine you if you don’t use the tickets as described above.
Cost of Travel To Szentendre and back to Budapest Travelling on the Suburban Train (HÉV):
- 2 x 400 HUF + 2 x 450 HUF = 1 700 HUF
⛴ By Boat – A Slower But More Romantic Way
During the warmer months, between May – October, a scenic boat ride on the Danube is a delightful way to reach Szentendre.
Boats leave from Vigadó tér or Batthyány tér in Budapest and take
- 2 hours to and
- 60-70 minutes back to the capital.
It’s a more leisurely option and offers fantastic views along the way.
Recommended for families with kids since they’ll will see more interesting sights during the cruise along the river compared to a ride on the suburban train.
Departure of Boats To Szentendre:
At 09.00:
- Friday, Saturday, Sunday:
At 10.30:
- From May 01: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday:
- From June 26: Wednesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday, Sunday:
Departure of Boats From Szentedre to Budapest:
At 17.00
- From May 01: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday:
- From June 26: Wednesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday, Sunday:
At 18.30:
- Friday, Saturday, Sunday:
Cost Of Boat Travel To Szentendre:
- Adult: one-way ticket : 4 000 HUF, return ticket: 6 000 HUF
- Students/retirees: one-way: 3 500 HUF, return ticket: 5 000 HUF
- Children (aged 2 – 12): one-way. 3 000 HUF, return ticket: 4 500 HUF
- Free for children under the 2
- Family ticket (2 adults + 2 kids ages 2-12): one-way trip: 12 000 HUF, return trip: 17 000 HUF
TIP: If you choose to go to Szentendre by boat you will also see some of Budapest’s top attractions and bridges, like Buda Castle, the Parliament, the Chain Bridge, the eastern side of Margaret Island, just like you would from a Danube sighsteeing cruise.
Note: During holidays and weekends the boat ride is a popular way to get to Szentendre, so make sure you buy your ticket in time.
🚴♀️ Biking From Budapest to Szentendre
Cycling is also a pleasant and popular way to get to Szentendre.
There’s a fairly decent dedicated bike route leading to the town.
You’ll head north from Budapest’s centre and pass by Római-part, a charming riverside neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere.
From there, you’ll follow a tranquil bike path that winds through a unique floodplain forest, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
TIP: You can go on your own (bike rental in Budapest is fairly easy) or choose an organized bike tour. We recommend the latter since you don’t have to worry about the route, getting lost, navigating in Budapest, renting a bike etc. Here’s reputable bike tour to Szentendre organized by a experienced guides.
What’s more, you also get to see the Parliament and other sights before leaving the capital. You’ll stroll around Szentendre while your guide will tell you all you need to know about this cute Baroque town.
You return to Budapest by boat so that you won’t get to tired by theend of the excursion A lángos – a typical local street food of deep fried savoury pastry – is included in the price..
🚌 By Bus
Buses depart in the direction of Szentendre and Esztergom from Árpád Bridge coach station. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
🚗 By Car
If you prefer driving, Szentendre is about a 30-minute drive from Budapest on the M11 Motorway. Parking is available, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.
Main Attractions In Szentendre
Szentendre boasts a well-preserved 18th century Baroque townscape.
1. Main Square (Fő tér)
Start your visit at the Main Square, the heart of Szentendre. Surrounded by colorful Baroque buildings, it’s a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the town’s atmosphere.
The Baroque cross stading in the middle of the plaza was erected in 1763 to commemorate the lucky fact that plague avoided the town.
Winding streets lead off from the Main Square packed with architectural masterpieces, museums, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops.
Local artisans often set up stalls here, showcasing their handcrafted souvenirs and artwork.
You might find anything from traditional Hungarian embroidery to unique jewelry pieces.
Downtown Szentendre – Photos
TIP: Old but well-kept merchant houses encircle Main Square like the block on the eastern side of the square (2-5. Fő tér) that was rebuilt under the same roof after a fire.
On the ground floor the Új Műhely Gallery (open: Tue-Sun: 10.00-18.00) provide exhibition opportunites for artsists working in the town.
You can relax on the terrace of the gallery’s cafe on Main Square or in the inner courtyard by a cup of coffee, lemonade, craft beer grilled sandwich or cake.
Opening Hours:
(Temporarily closed due to refurbishment):
- Friday – Sunday: 11.00 – 18.00
2. Umbrella Street (Esernyős utca)
The visually striking street just off the main square has become synonymous with the town.
You’ll easily spot the overhead display of colorful umbrellas.
These umbrellas aren’t just for decoration; they change seasonally, creating a constantly evolving spectacle.
Imagine strolling under a vibrant canopy of red, yellow, and orange in summer, or a sea of warm tones like gold and brown in autumn.
Perfect Photo Spot
The colurful display provides a picture-perfect backdrop for capturing memories of your visit to Szentendre.
With the charming pastel-colored buildings lining the square as a background, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your social media feeds.
3. Greek Orthodox Church
Szentendre has a rich Serbian heritage, and the Serbian Orthodox Church is a beautiful evidence of this.
The interior is adorned with stunning frescoes and icons.
Out of the 9 churches of Szentendre the Baroque-Rococo Greek-Orthodox Blagovestenska church is the best known, built in the mid 18th century by settlers living in the Greek quarter next to the church.
Above its wooden gate frescoes of St Helene and St Constantine greet you while inside you can admire the magnificent Rococo iconostasis, a collaborative effort crafted in 1802-1803 by the celebrated icon painter, Michael Zivkovic.
The church is open daily during the tourist season and can be visited for an entrance fee.
Some Other Churches of Szentendre You Might Want to Visit:
Belgrade Cathedral
Address: Alkotmány utca 2000, Szentendre (View on Map)
This house of worship, also known as the Saborna cathedral, has served as a bishop’s seat since its construction in the 18th century.
Built by refugees fleeing the Belgrade region, the cathedral stands out for its brick and stone construction, unlike Szentendre’s typical wooden churches.
Completed in 1764, the cathedral boasts a later-added steeple, a symbol of the town’s artistic and spiritual life.
Its richly decorated interior features a grand iconostasis painted by Vasa Ostojić.
Saint Peter and Paul Church – Largest Church In Szentendre
Constructed in 1750 by Serbian refugees, this grand church stands as Szentendre’s largest. Its bell tower was completed in 1753, and the church served worshippers from 1791 until its consecration in 1796 to Saints Peter and Paul.
After a decline in the Greek Orthodox community in the early 20th century, the church was temporarily repurposed.
However, through the combined efforts of the town and the Catholic Church, it reopened for masses in 1944.
The late Baroque-style church features
- Twin pillars,
- aArched windows, and a
- Roman Doric cornice.
The interior, adorned with modern furnishings, is a tribute to artistic excellence, including a
- Painting of Christ by Ádám Nagy Kisléghi,
- Reliefs by Róbert Csíkszentmihályi depicting the Stations of the Cross, and a
- Ceramic Easter Lamb by László Borsody and Teréz Urbán.
A three-ton bell and a newly installed organ in 2008 complete the church’s rich cultural heritage.
St. John The Baptist Catholic Parish Church
Address: Temlomdomb (Church Hill), Szentendre 2000 (See on Map)
This Roman Catholic church, consecrated to Saint Andrew, is Szentendre’s oldest and most significant architectural monument.
Though its origins date back to the 13th century, the church we see today reflects its 18th-century Baroque reconstruction by the Zichy family.
Standing out is the unique 14th-century sundial carved into the church’s buttress.
Inside, the 18th-century nave features fascinating frescoes painted by the Szentendre Artist Colony, depicting biblical scenes against Szentendre’s own backdrop.
The church is open all year round (except during masses).
Danube Bank – Promenade
The Danube flows serenely along the bank right in the town centre.
The paved promenade offers a place for a leisurely walk or biking after the commotion of the busy Main Square and its neighbourhood.
You might even catch a glimpse of artists painting the picturesque scene.
Several cafes and restaurants line the promenade, offering a chance to grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while enjoying the riverside setting.
Museums In Szentendre
Szentendre has a bunch of museums so if you’re an art lover devote at least a day or two to visit the town and most of its museums and art galleries.
The exceptional atmosphere of Szentendre has inspired many Hungarian artists both some decades ago and today.
It’s not a surprise that the town abounds in art museums and galleries.
1. Margit Kovács Ceramic Museum
Located in a baroque merchant house the museum is dedicated to the works of renowned ceramic artist Margit Kovács, this museum houses an impressive collection of her sculptures and pottery.
The works represent a combination of traditional folk life with a modern touch.
It’s a must-visit for art lovers.
Address:
- Vastagh György utca 1., 2000 Szentendre (entrance form Görög utca)
Opening Hours:
- Mon – Sun: 10.00 18.00
2. Czóbel Museum
The Czóbel Museum at 1 Templom tér exhibits works of Béla Czóbel (1883-1976) : portraits, still lives and landscapes.
Considered the most French of Hungarian painters, Béla Czóbel is a celebrated figure in modern Hungarian art.
Notably, he was the first artist in Hungary to have a museum dedicated to him during his lifetime.
This very museum, located in Szentendre – his adopted home and honorary citizenship town – recently underwent renovations and now presents the “Czóbel Reconsidered” exhibition.
The chronological exhibit offers a captivating journey through the artist’s prolific career.
Address:
- Templom tér 1., Szentendre 2000
Opening Hours:
- Tue – Sun: 10.00 – 18.00
3. János Kmetty Museum – Kerényi Collection
Nestled in a charming 18th-century building on the town’s main square, the Kmetty Museum stands as a testament to the life and work of Hungarian modernist painter János Kmetty (1889-1975).
Upon his passing in 1975, Kmetty’s widow bequeathed a remarkable collection of 275 works to the Ferenczy Museum, which led to the establishment of the Kmetty Museum in 1981.
Along with the works of painter János Kmetty the museum’s cellar now gives home to sculputures by Jenő Kerényi.
Address:
- Fő tér (Main Square) 21.
Opening Hours:
- Till March 31: Sat – Sun: 14.00 – 16.00
- From April 01: Thurs – Sun: 14.00 – 18.00
4. Ferenczy Museum Center – Art Mill (Művészetmalom)
Housed within a late 19th-century former sawmill, the MűvészetMalom stands as one of Hungary’s most unique and intriguing exhibition spaces.
Born from the vision of painters Dezső Korniss and Pál Deim, the MűvészetMalom was initiated by the Szentendre Art Foundation and the Szentendre Architects’ Association and opened to the public in June 1999. The founders’ aim was to establish a modern art center, and the museum currently hosts temporary exhibitions.
Address:
- Bogdányi utca 32, Szentendre 2000
Opening Hours:
Wed – Sun: 10.00 – 18.00
5. National Wine Museum
Since 1993, the National Wine Museum Szentendre has welcomed visitors eager to explore Hungary’s rich wine culture.
Nestled within a winding cellar system, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of Hungarian winemaking, highlighting the unique characteristics of each of the 22 wine regions.
Experienced guides conduct wine tastings, featuring both award-winning wines from renowned wineries and selections from promising private growers.
The museum also hosts special tasting programs tailored to experienced wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
Paired with delectable snacks, the wine tastings provide an comprehensive journey into the world of Hungarian wines.
Address:
- Bogdányi utca 10., Szentendre 2000
Opening Hours:
- Every day: 10.00 – 20.00
Find out more about the wine tasting programs on the museum’s website.
6. Szentendre Skanzen Village Museum
A short distance from the town center, this open-air ethnographic museum introduces traditional Hungarian village life.
You’ll find historical buildings, folk art, and regular demonstrations of crafts and customs.
Address:
- Sztaravodai út 75, Szendendre 2000 (See on Map)
Opening Hours:
- March 28 – October 31: Tues – Sun: 09.00 – 17.00
- The musuem is closed on Mondays exc. holidays such as Easter Monday, Whitmonday and August 19 (Aug 20 National Day celebrations)
Tickets:
- Full price: 3 000 HUF
- Students, retirees: 1 500 HUF
7. Marzipan Museum & Confectionery
For something quirky, check out the Marzipan Museum, where you’ll find intricate marzipan sculptures, including replicas of famous landmarks and figures.
Born from the collaboration of two Hungarian confectionery giants, Mátyás Szamos and Károly Szabó, the Szamos Marzipan Museum in Szentendre showcase their artistry and dedication to their profession.
Wandering inside museum you’lllearn about the history of marzipan making in Hungary, including the unique techniques and artistry that have made Szentendre marzipan world-renowned.
There’s also a shop where you can buy sweet treats.
Address:
- Dumtsa Jenő utca 14., Szentendre 2000 (See on Map)
Opening Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 10.00 – 19.00
- Fri – Sun: 10.00 – 20.00
Admission:
The Marzipan Museum Inside:
8. Christmas Museum (Hubay House)
For something even more quirkier but also cute don’t miss the Christmas Museum in the Hubay House.
Open year-round, the twon’s most enchanting museum offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors, especially as the festive season approaches.
Step inside and be transported to a world of Christmas magic, where every corner exudes the spirit of the holidays.
Whether you’re a true Christmas enthusiast or simply seeking a delightful escape, the Christmas Museum is a must-visit in Szentendre.
Conveniently located in the heart of the town, just steps from the main square, the museum welcomes you to a wonderland of festive cheer.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by a charming scene reminiscent of Santa’s workshop, setting the stage for a magical journey through the traditions and wonders of Christmas.
Address:
- Bercsény utca 1, Szentendre 2000
Opening Hours:
- Every day: 10.00 – 18.00
Entry: FREE
Where to Eat in Szentendre? –
The small and compact town centre is packed with resturants and cafes. Many of them serve Hungarian specialties along with traditional gypsy music, but you can find Greek, Italian and other nations’ cuisine too.
TOP Restaurants and Cafes:
Teddy Beer
Address:
- Péter Pál utca 2
This homey gastropub in a small side street oofers slow-smoked BBQ and a vast selection of 110 craft beers from small breweries.
Note: service can be slow.
Dalmát Szamár (Dalmatian Donkey)
Address:
- Bartók Béla utca 8, Szentendre 2000
The bistro takes its name from its unique location on Szamárhegy, one of Szentendre’s oldest and most secluded hills.
The name itself reflects the area’s rich history: “Szamárhegy” translates to “Donkey Hill,” alluding to the time when donkeys were used to transport drinking water to the area.
The “Dalmát” part of the name pays homage to the Dalmatian people who once inhabited this region.
The lovely place has been open since 2016 and known for its affordable breakfast, tapas and eclectic menu as well as great local wines.
Álomlángos
Address: Váralja lépcső, Szentendre 2000 (See on Map)
Open:
- between March 15 – November 15: every day: 11.00 – 18.00
This is the place to try Hungary’s famous street food, lángos (Hungarian deep-fried flatbread). The family owned place has been in business for more than five decades.
A wide variety of savory and sweet toppings are available so it’s best to arrive hungry. Besides lángos, they also make pabcakes.
Fantázia Lángos
Address:
- Duna Korzó 14 (on the Danube bank)
Open: every day: 11.00 – 22.00
Located on the riverbank this buffet is the only lángos place that is open in the winter months.
If you’re adventureous choose one of the unique topping combination of flavors like the
- “májas-lilahagymás” (chicken liver and purple onion) – 1950 HUF or
- “baconos-kapros juhtúrós” (bacon and dill sheep’s cheese) – 1 900 HUF – lángos variations.
There are several stuffed lángos options too and pancakes.
Kacsakő Bisztró
Address:
- Duna korzó 21 (Danube bank)
Opening Hours:
- Pre-season: Thurs: 13.00 – 20.00, Fri: 13.00 – 20.00, Sat: 10.00 – 21.00, Sun: 10.00 – 20.00
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back place drop by Kacsakő, a street food pub right on the bank of the Danube.
The menu includes burgers, fries, falafel, grilled sausage in lepinja (Balkan flatbread) and salads.
Relax in a hammock with a cold glass of craft beer or lemonade!
Görög Kancsó
Address: Duna korzó 15, (See on Map)
Opening Hours:
- Mon – Sun: 10.00 – 22.00
Located in Szentendre’s oldest street, Görög Kancsó (Greek Pitcher) is known for its quality and authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality.
The terrace of the restaurant overlooks the Danube so you can enjoy the Greek flavours as well as the pleasant panoramic view.
It has been operating since 1961 so it’s a reliable and well-loved spot among both locals and tourists.
Try the moussaka, gyros plate or souvlaki for a fulfilling Mediterranean meal.
Panificio il Basilico
Address:
- János u. 2, Szentendre 2000 (See on Map)
Opening Hours:
- Bakery: every day: 08.00 – 19.00
- Restaurant: Mon – Tues: 08.30 – 20.00, Wed – Thurs: 07.30 – 20.00, Fri – Sat: 07.30 – 21.00, Sun: 07.30 – 20.00
- Pizza: everday from 12.00
This fine artisan bakery and pizza place by Szabi a Pék – a well-known, self-made Hungarian baker – is a bit out of the town center but well worth a visit.
The water-mill turned rustic place offers
- Freshly baked sourdough bread,
- Traditional Hungarian pastries like cocoa snail as well as
- Pizzas baked in traditional Neapolitan wood-fired oven.
FAQ – Day Trip To Szentendre
Q: How much time do I need to explore Szentendre?
A day trip is usually sufficient to see the main attractions and enjoy the town’s atmosphere. Plan for at least 6-8 hours to make the most of your visit.
If you go by boat calculate with 2-hours tarvel time to and cc. 1 hour back to Budapest. Suburban train get you to Szentendre in 40 minutes.
Q: When is the best time to visit Szentednre?
During summer flock of tourists flood Szentendre so if you don’t like crowd time your visit during spring or autumn. The town hosts a
