Szentendre Day Trip | Top Danube Cruises & Guided Tours

Just 40 minutes from Budapest, Szentendre is an ideal one-day escape. This charming riverside town blends colorful Baroque streets, art galleries, and relaxed cafés. With easy train, coach, or guided tour options, getting there is effortless, leaving you free to explore, wander, and unwind at your own pace.

Overview

Distance from Budapest: ~20 km (12mins)
Typical travel time: 40–60 minutes (by train, coach, or river cruise)
On-site visit duration: 3–5 hours to explore the town comfortably
Cost range: €25–€75, depending on transport, guide, cruise, and inclusions
Best season/time of year: Spring to early autumn (Apr–Oct) for riverside walks and cafés; December for Christmas markets and festive cruises
Meeting/drop-off point: Central Budapest meeting points or Danube river pier (varies by tour)
Key attractions/sites covered: Szentendre Old Town, Main Square (Fő tér), Serbian Orthodox churches, local museums and galleries, Danube river promenade
Recommended tours: From Budapest: Szentendre Day Trip

What to expect on a day trip from Budapest to Szentendre

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Easy transfers

Reach Szentendre from Budapest by coach, train, or Danube cruise with minimal travel time.

Relaxed pacing

Enjoy a well-balanced itinerary with guided orientation and free time to explore independently.

Local insights

Learn about Szentendre’s artistic heritage, Serbian influences, and riverside history from expert guides.

Scenic moments

Walk along the Danube promenade, photograph colorful streets, and soak in small-town charm.

Optional upgrades

Enhance your trip with a Danube Bend extension, traditional lunch, or seasonal Christmas market cruise.

Things to know before booking your day trip from Budapest to Szentendre

Choose the right experience: Szentendre is ideal for travelers who enjoy artsy streets, riverside walks, and relaxed cultural exploration. If you want a broader experience, Danube Bend tours combine Szentendre with Visegrad Castle and Esztergom Basilica, offering more landmarks in a single day.
Coach, cruise, or both? Guided coach tours are the fastest and most structured option, perfect if you prefer commentary and smooth logistics. Danube river cruises offer a slower, scenic journey with views of riverside towns and hills. Some tours combine both, travel one way by coach and return by boat.
Travel time & duration: Szentendre-only trips usually take 4–6 hours, leaving plenty of free time in town. Danube Bend day trips last 8–10 hours, with longer drives but more stops. Travel times remain manageable, with Szentendre reached in under an hour.
Guides, languages & group size: Most guided tours are offered in English, with select options available in other languages. Group sizes vary from standard coach groups to smaller guided experiences, affecting pace and interaction, check tour details before booking.
Inclusions & upgrades: Some trips include only transport and guided orientation, while others add lunch, castle or basilica entry, or seasonal experiences like the Szentendre Christmas Market cruise. Reviewing inclusions helps you choose the right comfort and value level.
Single destination vs. combo tours: If you’re short on time, a Szentendre half-day tour keeps things easy and unhurried. If you want to see more of Hungary beyond Budapest in one go, Danube Bend combo tours offer better value and variety without planning multiple trips.

Which Budapest to Szentendre tour/day trip is right for you?

Experience name	Duration	Inclusions	Transfers	Group size	Food	Best for	Upgrades/add-ons
Szentendre Guided Tour	4–5hrs	Guided tour of Szentendre Old Town, Main Square, local churches, free exploration time	AC coach	10–25 people	Not included	Travelers with limited time or solo explorers	Not included
Danube Bend & Szentendre Tour	8–10hrs	Szentendre, Visegrad Castle, Esztergom Basilica, guided commentary	AC coach	15–30 people	3-course Hungarian lunch	First-time visitors, history & culture enthusiasts	Not included
Szentendre & Danube Bend Tour	9–10hrs	Personalized guided walking tour of Szentendre, photo stops, museum visits	AC coach	1–6 people	Not included	Families, couples, or small groups seeking flexibility	Not included
Szentendre + Christmas Cruise	4–5hrs (seasonal)	Guided town walk, festive Christmas market, Danube river cruise	AC coach + riverboat	10–25 people	Seasonal treats onboard	Holiday travelers, families, festive experience seekers	Hot drinks, souvenir shopping, photo stops

Main stops on your Szentendre & nearby day trips

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Szentendre Old Town

A charming maze of cobbled streets, pastel houses, and Baroque façades. Guided walks introduce the town’s artistic roots, followed by free time to browse galleries, cafés, and souvenir shops at your own pace.

Recommended duration: 1.5–2 hours

Danube River Promenade

A relaxed riverside walk with scenic views and photo spots along the Danube. Some tours include a river cruise return to Budapest, offering a slower, more scenic journey.

Recommended duration: 30–60 minutes

Visegrad Castle

Perched high above the Danube, this medieval fortress offers sweeping panoramic views and insight into Hungary’s royal past. A highlight of Danube Bend tours, especially for history lovers and photographers.

Recommended duration: 45–75 minutes

Esztergom Basilica

Hungary’s largest church and a major religious landmark, Esztergom Basilica dominates the Danube skyline. Tours focus on its grand interior, history, and views across the Slovak border.

Recommended duration: 45–60 minutes

Danube Bend (scenic drive & stops)

This picturesque curve of the Danube links Szentendre, Visegrad, and Esztergom. Expect scenic drives, riverside viewpoints, and short stops that showcase one of Hungary’s most beautiful regions.

Recommended duration: 2–3 hours (spread across stops)

Lake Balaton

Often called the “Hungarian Sea,” Lake Balaton features lakeside towns, vineyards, and seasonal boat cruises. It’s a longer but rewarding day trip for nature lovers and summer travelers.

Recommended duration: 3–4 hours

Kecskemet

Known for its Art Nouveau architecture and relaxed town square, Kecskemet offers a quieter, cultural escape from Budapest. Guided walks highlight local heritage and regional character.

Recommended duration: 1.5–2 hours

Your Budapest to Szentendre itinerary

Morning: Depart Budapest by coach, train, or scenic Danube cruise and arrive in Szentendre in under an hour. Begin with a guided orientation through the Old Town, discovering cobbled streets, colorful Baroque houses, and the town’s artistic heritage.
Afternoon: Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, browse galleries, visit a museum, stroll along the Danube promenade, or stop for lunch at a local cafe. On full-day Danube Bend tours, continue to Visegrad Castle and Esztergom Basilica for panoramic views and historic landmarks.
Evening: Relax on the return journey to Budapest, with select tours offering a scenic river cruise back along the Danube. Private tours allow a more flexible pace and custom stops, while guided options ensure smooth transfers and a timely return to the city.

Best time to visit Szentendre

Wooden bridge leading to colorful houses in Szentendre village, Hungary.

Weather: Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures, sunny days, and ideal conditions for walking the Old Town and Danube promenade. Summers are warmer and lively, while winters are cold but atmospheric, especially around the festive season.
Events: Szentendre is known for its summer art festivals and open-air exhibitions, reflecting the town’s creative spirit. In December, the Szentendre Christmas Market and seasonal Danube cruises add a festive touch to winter visits.
Crowds: July and August are peak months, particularly on weekends, when day-trippers from Budapest increase foot traffic. Spring and autumn are less crowded and more relaxed. Winter sees the smallest crowds, except during Christmas market dates.

Helpful tips for a Budapest to Szentendre day trip

Start early: Morning departures are quieter and cooler, giving you more time to explore before day-trippers arrive from Budapest.
Wear comfortable shoes: Expect cobblestone streets and gentle uphill walks in the Old Town; supportive footwear makes exploring far more enjoyable.
Dress for the weather: Bring a light jacket or rain layer, especially in spring, autumn, or on Danube cruises.
Pre-book your tour: Popular Szentendre and Danube Bend tours sell out in peak season; booking ahead saves time and stress.
Carry some cash: Small cafés, artisan shops, and market stalls may prefer cash over cards.
Try local flavors: Stop for Hungarian pastries, lángos, or a riverside coffee during your free time.
Shop local: Look for handmade ceramics, folk art, and gallery pieces, Szentendre is known for creative souvenirs.
Mind peak hours: Midday weekends are busiest; guided tours help you navigate crowds more smoothly.
Photography tip: Late morning light brightens colorful façades, while the Danube promenade is best photographed in softer afternoon light.
Leave buffer time: Traffic or river schedules can vary; avoid tight evening plans after your return to Budapest.

Frequently asked questions about day trips from Budapest to Szentendre

How long is the day trip from Budapest to Szentendre?

Most Szentendre day trips take 4–6 hours total, including round-trip travel and time in town. Extended Danube Bend tours last 8–10 hours, as they include stops like Visegrad and Esztergom.

What is included in the Budapest to Szentendre day trip package?

Inclusions vary by tour but typically cover round-trip transfers, a guided orientation or walking tour, and free time to explore. Some tours also include river cruises, lunch, or additional stops, check individual tour details for specifics.

What are the different modes of transport to reach Szentendre from Budapest?

Tours offer air-conditioned coach transfers, Danube river cruises, or a combination of both. Independently, you can travel by train or taxi, but guided tours are easier as transport, timing, and commentary are all handled for you.

Do I need to book my Budapest to Szentendre day trip in advance?

Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially April to October and during December Christmas markets. Popular tours can sell out a few days in advance, particularly on weekends.

Can I visit other attractions on this day trip?

Yes. Many full-day options combine Szentendre with Visegrad Castle and Esztergom Basilica as part of a Danube Bend day trip. Seasonal tours may also include Christmas markets or river cruises.

Can I do a Budapest to Szentendre day trip on my own?

It’s possible to travel independently by train or boat, but guided tours save time and effort by handling transport, schedules, and local insights. Tours often work out better value once travel, meals, and planning time are considered.

Where is the meeting point?

Most tours start from a central meeting point in Budapest or a Danube river pier. Exact pickup or meeting details are shared after booking and in your confirmation voucher.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours run in most weather conditions. In case of severe weather affecting cruises or safety, operators may adjust the itinerary, offer an alternative, or provide a reschedule/refund according to policy.

Are restrooms available during the trip?

Yes. Restrooms are available at cafes, restaurants, and museums in Szentendre, and during stops on full-day Danube Bend tours.

Jingle all the way to Szentendre! Scenic Danube cruise + Szentendre’s Christmas Market bursting with gifts & cheer.

Starting point: Mahart Cruises, Vigadó tér (5. ponton), Budapest
Everything you get: Round-trip 6-hour cruise from Budapest to Szentendre, 3.5 hours of free time to explore the Christmas Market and town, scenic river views from the open deck, and the flexibility to discover Szentendre’s museums, art galleries, and riverside cafes at your own pace.
Sights covered: Danube River, Parliament building, Szentendre Main Square, Serbian Orthodox Church, Szamos Marzipan Museum, riverside cafes
Why choose this: Celebrate the season with a relaxing river cruise and festive market visit, perfect for soaking up Hungarian holiday charm and snapping postcard-worthy photos.

Inclusions #

Round-trip Budapest–Szentendre cruise
Free time in Szentendre Christmas market

Exclusions #

Food and drinks
Tour guide
Entry tickets
Ice skating rink entry fee (1000 HUF)
Ice skates rent fee/person (2500 HUF)

What to bring

Carry a valid photo ID, as it may be requested to verify your booking.
Dress comfortably for the weather; the cruise operates year-round, rain or shine.
Bring some cash for optional spending in Szentendre, like food, drinks, or additional attractions (these are not included in the ticket).

What’s not allowed

Non-folding or electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on board.
Pets are not permitted, except registered service animals.
Outside food and beverages are prohibited during the cruise.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the boat.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Only lightweight, foldable mobility aids may be allowed; large or electric wheelchairs are not supported.

Additional information

Cruises operate in most weather conditions, including rain and storms.
Departure times and itineraries may change due to extreme river conditions such as high or low water levels.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow smooth boarding.
Final schedule and route are subject to change without notice.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Discover Szentendre’s artistic charm on a guided half-day escape from Budapest, with a scenic Danube cruise included on select days.

Day out to: Szentendre, the ‘Artists Village,’ with round-trip transfers from Budapest by air-conditioned bus.
You’ll get: Live-guided tour in multiple languages, return boat cruise to Budapest on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (May 15–Oct 27), free time to explore galleries, shops, and cafes.
Szentendre: Wander cobbled streets lined with pastel houses, local art studios, and riverside cafés in this historic, creative hub.
Szamos Marcipan Muzeum: Delight in whimsical marzipan sculptures and sweet treats at this unique museum. Don’t miss the optional tasting!

Inclusions #

Szentendre guided tour from Budapest
Spanish, English, French, German & Italian-speaking guide
Transfers by AC bus
Return boat cruise to Budapest on Fri, Sat, Sun (May 15–Oct 27)
Return by bus on Tuesday tours (May 15–Oct 29)

Exclusions #

Hotel pick-up & drop-off
Food and drinks

What to bring

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some paths are cobblestoned.
Dress according to the day’s weather conditions.
Carry a bottle of water for the journey.

Not allowed

Non-foldable wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
Electric wheelchairs are not permitted.
Pets are not allowed, except certified service animals.
Large bags and suitcases cannot be brought on the tour.

Accessibility

Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Additional information

Please arrive at the meeting point (Eurama office) at least 30 minutes before departure.
The tour operator cannot be held responsible for road closures or unexpected disruptions along the route.
Boat return is available only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 21 May to 10 September; on Tuesdays and outside these dates, the return trip will be by bus.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Cruise or coach? You choose

Sail the Danube on a scenic river cruise or travel comfortably by air-conditioned coach, both options get you to Szentendre effortlessly.

Guests walking through Szentendre's medieval old town with colorful buildings and a church tower.

Jingle all the way to Szentendre! Scenic Danube cruise + Szentendre’s Christmas Market bursting with gifts & cheer.

Starting point: Mahart Cruises, Vigadó tér (5. ponton), Budapest
Everything you get: Round-trip 6-hour cruise from Budapest to Szentendre, 3.5 hours of free time to explore the Christmas Market and town, scenic river views from the open deck, and the flexibility to discover Szentendre’s museums, art galleries, and riverside cafes at your own pace.
Sights covered: Danube River, Parliament building, Szentendre Main Square, Serbian Orthodox Church, Szamos Marzipan Museum, riverside cafes
Why choose this: Celebrate the season with a relaxing river cruise and festive market visit, perfect for soaking up Hungarian holiday charm and snapping postcard-worthy photos.

Inclusions #

Round-trip Budapest–Szentendre cruise
Free time in Szentendre Christmas market

Exclusions #

Food and drinks
Tour guide
Entry tickets
Ice skating rink entry fee (1000 HUF)
Ice skates rent fee/person (2500 HUF)

What to bring

Carry a valid photo ID, as it may be requested to verify your booking.
Dress comfortably for the weather; the cruise operates year-round, rain or shine.
Bring some cash for optional spending in Szentendre, like food, drinks, or additional attractions (these are not included in the ticket).

What’s not allowed

Non-folding or electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on board.
Pets are not permitted, except registered service animals.
Outside food and beverages are prohibited during the cruise.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the boat.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Only lightweight, foldable mobility aids may be allowed; large or electric wheelchairs are not supported.

Additional information

Cruises operate in most weather conditions, including rain and storms.
Departure times and itineraries may change due to extreme river conditions such as high or low water levels.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow smooth boarding.
Final schedule and route are subject to change without notice.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Discover Szentendre’s artistic charm on a guided half-day escape from Budapest, with a scenic Danube cruise included on select days.

Day out to: Szentendre, the ‘Artists Village,’ with round-trip transfers from Budapest by air-conditioned bus.
You’ll get: Live-guided tour in multiple languages, return boat cruise to Budapest on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (May 15–Oct 27), free time to explore galleries, shops, and cafes.
Szentendre: Wander cobbled streets lined with pastel houses, local art studios, and riverside cafés in this historic, creative hub.
Szamos Marcipan Muzeum: Delight in whimsical marzipan sculptures and sweet treats at this unique museum. Don’t miss the optional tasting!

Inclusions #

Szentendre guided tour from Budapest
Spanish, English, French, German & Italian-speaking guide
Transfers by AC bus
Return boat cruise to Budapest on Fri, Sat, Sun (May 15–Oct 27)
Return by bus on Tuesday tours (May 15–Oct 29)

Exclusions #

Hotel pick-up & drop-off
Food and drinks

What to bring

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some paths are cobblestoned.
Dress according to the day’s weather conditions.
Carry a bottle of water for the journey.

Not allowed

Non-foldable wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
Electric wheelchairs are not permitted.
Pets are not allowed, except certified service animals.
Large bags and suitcases cannot be brought on the tour.

Accessibility

Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Additional information

Please arrive at the meeting point (Eurama office) at least 30 minutes before departure.
The tour operator cannot be held responsible for road closures or unexpected disruptions along the route.
Boat return is available only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 21 May to 10 September; on Tuesdays and outside these dates, the return trip will be by bus.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Sightseeing Cruises

From Budapest: Szentendre Christmas Market Cruise

Jingle all the way to Szentendre! Scenic Danube cruise + Szentendre’s Christmas Market bursting with gifts & cheer.

Starting point: Mahart Cruises, Vigadó tér (5. ponton), Budapest
Everything you get: Round-trip 6-hour cruise from Budapest to Szentendre, 3.5 hours of free time to explore the Christmas Market and town, scenic river views from the open deck, and the flexibility to discover Szentendre’s museums, art galleries, and riverside cafes at your own pace.
Sights covered: Danube River, Parliament building, Szentendre Main Square, Serbian Orthodox Church, Szamos Marzipan Museum, riverside cafes
Why choose this: Celebrate the season with a relaxing river cruise and festive market visit, perfect for soaking up Hungarian holiday charm and snapping postcard-worthy photos.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

6 hr.

Day Trips

From Budapest: Szentendre Day Trip

Discover Szentendre’s artistic charm on a guided half-day escape from Budapest, with a scenic Danube cruise included on select days.

Day out to: Szentendre, the ‘Artists Village,’ with round-trip transfers from Budapest by air-conditioned bus.
You’ll get: Live-guided tour in multiple languages, return boat cruise to Budapest on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (May 15–Oct 27), free time to explore galleries, shops, and cafes.
Szentendre: Wander cobbled streets lined with pastel houses, local art studios, and riverside cafés in this historic, creative hub.
Szamos Marcipan Muzeum: Delight in whimsical marzipan sculptures and sweet treats at this unique museum. Don’t miss the optional tasting!

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

4 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers available

Budapest to Szentendre Day Trips

Top things to do in Budapest

What to expect on a day trip from Budapest to Szentendre

Easy transfers

Relaxed pacing

Local insights

Scenic moments

Optional upgrades

Things to know before booking your day trip from Budapest to Szentendre

Which Budapest to Szentendre tour/day trip is right for you?

Main stops on your Szentendre & nearby day trips

Szentendre Old Town

Danube River Promenade

Visegrad Castle

Esztergom Basilica

Danube Bend (scenic drive & stops)

Lake Balaton

Kecskemet

Your Budapest to Szentendre itinerary

Best time to visit Szentendre

Helpful tips for a Budapest to Szentendre day trip

Frequently asked questions about day trips from Budapest to Szentendre

Budapest to Szentendre Day Trips

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

Not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

Not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Budapest: Szentendre Christmas Market Cruise

From Budapest: Szentendre Day Trip