Budapest is often called the Queen of the Danube, which is an honest reflection on the city’s unique beauty. However, nearby towns also offer unparalleled experiences to those who chose to venture out beyond the city limits of the capital itself. One of the best and most relaxing activities is to take a river cruise to visit the pearls of the Danube.

With MAHART’s family-friendly cruise boats, you can easily reach Visegrád – a destination much favored by hikers. The citadel ruins on the hill, the Royal Palace or the Salamon Tower – all hark back to the rich history of this one-time royal seat. As well, the bobsled run (open year-round) offers a more exciting activity for children.

Esztergom, home of one of Europe’s biggest basilicas, can also be reached by cruise boat. MAHART’s route includes a stop at the town of Leányfalu, offering a perfect opportunity to try some of the local thermal baths (open year-round) – ideal for those seeking rest and relaxation.

During an hour-long program, valid with a Budapest Card, you can comfortably view a whole range of places of interest on the Danube bank between the Margit and the Rákóczi bridges and enjoy a 40% discount.

Visitors to Szentendre will have a chance to benefit from multiple discounts: the card offers free access to the Urban Public Transport Museum, where over 70 restored historic vehicles can be seen, or you can spend the day at the Skanzen. The latter, also known as the Open-Air Museum of Ethnography, includes 312 buildings on 60 hectares of protected land, as well as a children’s activity center, all in a stunning natural setting. Tickets to the interactive museum (an exhibit that leads visitors on a tour of all the regions of Hungary and presents the country’s varied folkloric traditions) are available at a 20% discount for Budapest Card holders.

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