Weekend road trips from Budapest: 5 getaways under 2 hours

Hungary

Are you spending a few days in Budapest and feel like exploring the surrounding areas? Less than a two-hour drive away, you'll find a wide variety of perfect day-trip destinations away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Charming villages, peaceful lakes, fortresses, and castles—there's something for everyone. In our guide, we present 5 getaways less than 2 hours away to discover a different side of Hungary by car without venturing too far. Let's go!

How to get around Budapest's surroundings

Budapest boasts an excellent public transport network, but when it comes to exploring the regions beyond the Hungarian capital, options become somewhat limited. Public transport outside the city can be less flexible, meaning you'll be restricted by available schedules and routes. Another option is to join an organised bus tour, which will take you to multiple destinations; however, keep in mind that this often means rushing through stops and not being able to enjoy each place at a leisurely pace.

For maximum freedom while exploring the surroundings of the Hungarian capital, hiring a car in Budapest is the most practical option. With CarJet, you can choose the rental car that best suits your needs. We focus on providing the best rates on the market for a stress-free journey.

5 getaways less than 2 hours’ drive from Budapest

Get ready to explore 5 incredible escapes less than 2 hours from Budapest. Let's hit the road!

Discover the charming city of Szentendre

Located just a 35-minute drive away, Szentendre is one of the most enchanting destinations for a day trip. With its cobbled streets, colourful houses, and bohemian atmosphere, this small town on the banks of the Danube is renowned for its artistic scene and cultural heritage. Don't forget to visit the Church of St. John the Baptist, which offers stunning views of the city, and an opportunity to take a walk along the Danube.

Szentendre invites you to wander through its picturesque alleys and soak in the town's beauty at your own pace. You'll easily find your way to the main square, Fo tér, where, if you're lucky, you might catch a live music concert, enjoy festival activities, or sample seasonal delights at the Christmas market.

If you're passionate about art, Szentendre has a thriving artistic atmosphere. We recommend the Margit Kovacs Museum, showcasing works by one of Hungary's most important ceramic artists, or the Ferenczy Museum, where you can admire key pieces from the nation's artistic history. Finally, if history fascinates you, the Szentendre Open-Air Museum (Skanzen) recreates traditional Hungarian villages, featuring houses, churches, and windmills.

Visit Visegrád and its mediaeval fortress

Jump into your rental car and head towards Visegrád, just 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Budapest. This getaway is a must for history and nature lovers alike. Nestled along the banks of the Danube, the imposing medieval fortress offers breathtaking views that will leave you speechless. To complete the experience, there's nothing better than a boat trip to admire the fortress from a different perspective.

Every summer, Visegrád comes to life with its famous mediaeval festival—jousting tournaments, traditional dances, and other period activities that will transport you straight back to the Middle Ages. If you're looking for tranquillity and a deeper connection with nature, this area also features scenic hiking trails and viewpoints with spectacular views of the Danube.We recommend the Apátkúti-völgy Trail, perfect for discovering the Ördögmalom waterfall, or climbing to the Zsitvay-kilátó Lookout, where you can enjoy breathtaking 360° views across the entire region.

Be amazed by Hollóko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Located about 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Budapest, Hollóko is the perfect representation of a traditional Hungarian village. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands out for its wooden houses with thatched roofs, typical of Palóc rural architecture. The heart of the village, known as Ófalu, is ideal for a peaceful stroll along its cobbled streets, where you can admire the charming wooden church.

Perched atop a hill, the Hollóko Castle, built in the 13th century, offers magnificent views over the village and the surrounding landscapes—a must-see! Don't forget to visit the local museum, where you can learn more about the daily lives of the villagers through traditional and historical artefacts. If you're passionate about history and folk culture, this experience will captivate you.

Visit the Lake Balaton and enjoy nature

The Lake Balaton, known as the 'Sea of Hungary', is the largest lake in Central Europe and a perfect destination for a summer getaway. By car, you can reach the lake from Budapest in just an hour and a half. Its shallow waters are ideal for family swimming or for enjoying water sports like sailing or paddleboarding.

On the northern shore, you'll discover picturesque towns such as Tihany, famous for its Benedictine Abbey offering breathtaking views of the lake, and Balatonfüred, a charming spa town perfect for relaxation. If you're looking for nature and hiking, the Balaton Uplands National Park (Balaton-felvidéki Nemzeti Park) is a fantastic choice.

Finally, you can't leave Budapest without trying Balaton trout, a local lake fish that is often grilled or baked in parchment, best enjoyed with a regional wine.

Discover Esztergom, the former Hungarian capital

Esztergom, located on the banks of the Danube near the Slovakian border, is a city rich in history and culture. You can reach it from Budapest in just over an hour.

Once the royal capital of Hungary, its stunning Esztergom Basilica—the largest in the country—offers breathtaking views of the river and its surroundings. A major highlight is the Maria Valéria Bridge, which connects Esztergom with neighbouring Slovakia. This bridge symbolises the friendship between the two countries, so don't hesitate to cross it! To check if crossing the border with your rental car is allowed, be sure to review the terms of your booking.

As you explore the city, you can wander through its quaint streets, visit the RoyalCastle, and discover its museums, which showcase the fascinating history of this key Hungarian landmark. It's an ideal destination for lovers of culture and tranquillity.

Hire a car in Budapest and explore Hungary at the best price

Book your rental car in Budapest with CarJet and enjoy a smooth, fast, and hassle-free process! How do we do it? Our comparison tool analyses hundreds of options for you, showing only the best deals tailored to your budget and needs. Thanks to our wide range of vehicles, you can rent everything from compact cars and SUVs to luxury models and even electric vehicles for a more sustainable journey. Find the perfect car now and start discovering everything Hungary has to offer!