My husband and I will be in Budapest at the end of April for 4 1/2 days. We would love to do a River Cruise if it makes sense with the rest of our itinerary. What cruises along the river have you enjoyed pr really disliked and if so why? Other tips or suggestions regarding river cruises? I made the mistake in Amsterdam during a canal ride to sit in the back that was a little higher and had more glass thinking we would get a better view only to find out that sitting at water level instead of below water level meant that the roof cut off visibility lf most of the things to see. I would not have thought of that beforehand hence I would love to learn from those who have gone before me.
Posted by
More in my profile
21746 posts
This is a good company. Poor cell phone site. Use a computer. https://legenda.hu/en/
More to choose from. https://www.budapest-river-cruises.com/
You just want one after sunset for the lights. Dinner or drinks is up to you.
Other option is the river taxi to or from Szentendre (do from, take the train up) https://mahartpassnave.hu/en/budapest-szentendre-budapest-1.
Posted by
OP
5 posts
When (not if) we come back someday, I definitely want to visit szentre and take the river taxi back. That was our original plan for this trip, but a change to travel plans means we only have 4 1/2 days in Budapest and I feel like that is already such a short time that I can't imagine taking a whole day for a sidequest and missing out on all that is in Budapest.
Posted by
More in my profile
21746 posts
Szentendre really not a whole day. Szentendre isnt that large. When I help friends visit I suggest they do the Buda Castle district in the monring. There is so much construction going on up there that its not a place you hang around in unless you want to do some museums of the Hospital in the rock. For most, 9 till noon work. Then down the hill and to the H5 commutter train to Szentendre. Takes about 40 minutes. Lunch in Szentendre and check out the shops and be at the boat at 4:30. Back in Budapest by 5:30. Very few things more impressive than coming around Margrit Island on a boat and seeing the Parliament rise up out of the water before you.
Here is an all day excursion, but one I suspect you would remember: https://www.mavrailtours.hu/hu/programs/show/289 Do use a computer so you can read the Hungarian Language page. They dont market to tourists so the English language page is pretty blank.
But yes, with 4.5 days it really is what interests you that counts.
For the river cruises, they are all glass bubbles. Really no bad seats. But on the river taxi from Szentendre there are only oner or two small outside decks, depending on which boat they are using, and thats where you want to be so board a little early.
Posted by
Boston
143 posts
Hi,
I was there in November, 2024, and took a tour through a company called Legenda [www.legenda.hu] and it was excellent. I went at night, it was an hour long, and came with a complimentary "decent" glass of champagne. I booked a week in advance. The real treat was the view of the Danube, Buda, and particularly the Parliament lit up at night. The boat was crowded in November on a Sunday night, but in no way was it full. Sat inside (due to the weather) and had great views through the glass-enclosure. It was worth EVERY penny.
Good luck