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5 best budapest dinner cruises, 🚢 tested & compared to help you choose that’s perfect for you.

As local experts , we’re here to guide you through one of the most wonderful experiences this city has to offer – Budapest Dinner Cruises.

Prepare yourself for an enchanting evening filled with

• Delicious food,
• Breathtaking views, and
• Unforgettable memories.

Many companies offer river tours with dinner and it’s not easy for travellers to decide which one to go on. We’ve put together this guide using our personal experiences and local knowledge to help you narrow down your options.

Table of Contents

What are budapest dinner cruises.

Budapest dinner cruises are river cruises that allow you to indulge in a sumptuous meal while enjoying the picturesque beauty of the city from the Danube River. These excursions typically last from 1.5 to 2.5 hours and provide a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks.

It’s a perfect blend of fine dining, entertainment, and sightseeing.

The Setting

Picture this: you’re aboard a beautifully adorned riverboat, gently gliding along the majestic Danube River.

As you sip on a glass of fine Hungarian wine, the sun sets, casting an ethereal glow on the iconic landmarks that line the riverbanks like the

• Parliament Building
• Buda Castle with the Royal Palace and the Matthias Church
• The Chain Bridge and other bridges spanning the river
• Gellért Hill
• Rudas and Gellért Baths
• National Theatre & Palace of Arts
• The brand new Athletic Stadium

This is the backdrop for your Budapest dinner cruise – a truly captivating setting.

Culinary Delights

Hungarian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and unique ingredients, and a dinner cruise offers the perfect opportunity to savor the best of it.

TIP: Most Danube dinner cruises offer traditional Hungarian dishes from goulash and chicken paprikash to delectable pastries like strudel or Somló sponge cake. It is a perfect occasion for tourists wanting to try a variety of local meals all at once. See for example this 2-Hour Evening Cruise with Hungarian Buffet Dinner .

The majority of dinner menus feature a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan choices, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Sights and Sounds

As you indulge in your sumptuous meal, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Budapest’s famous attractions .

Admire the illuminated Chain Bridge, the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building, and the impressive Buda Castle.

The beauty of the city comes alive as you cruise beneath the glittering lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Live Entertainment

To add to your dining experience, many Budapest dinner cruises feature live music performances .

From traditional Hungarian folk music to piano, jazz or classical ensembles, the melodies add an extra layer of enchantment to your evening.

Get ready to tap your feet or even take a spin on the dance floor!

Why Go On A Dinner Cruise?

There are several reasons why taking a cruise with dinner is considered a must-do activity when visiting Budapest.

• Firstly, it offers a romantic and enchanting ambiance, making it an ideal choice for couples celebrating special occasions or looking for a memorable date night.
• Secondly, the carefully crafted menus on these cruises feature a wide range of gastronomy treats , including traditional Hungarian dishes and international cuisine.
• Thirdly, the panoramic views of Budapest’s illuminated skyline create a breathtaking backdrop for an extraordinary dinner on the river.
• Lastly, FREE cancellation : you can cancel each cruise listed in this article free of charge (up to 24 hours or anytime in certain cruises). Simple, no-risk booking.

#1.- Evening Cruise with Folk Show and Hungarian/International Dinner

By hungaria koncert ltd., departure: 19:00 / duration: 2 hours – from €69.

Summary – Highlights

This cruise offers typical Hungarian dinner of 3 courses served buffet style during a two-hour excursion on the Danube between Margaret Bridge and Rákóczi Bridge.

It’s really ideal for those who want to try several local dishes at once – highly recommend the goulash soup, beef ragout with dumplings, – the stuffed cabbage is not bad either though a bit dry due to use of ground turkey – and the selection of strudels for dessert .

Live folk dance shows performed by two very talented dancers and the energetic music of a Gypsy folk band will entertain you throughout the evening.

About The Count Széchenyi Ship

The large, historic Gróf Széchenyi ship accomodates up to 300 guests but due to the spaciousness of the ship it won’t feel crowded even in high season when many tourists choose this program for their evening in Budapest.

Classical Grandeur On Two Levels

As you step aboard you’ll be transported to a world of classical elegance and luxurious ambiance.

The interior of the ship exudes a timeless charm, adorned with magnificent chandeliers, polished teak wood accents, and intricately designed intarsia walls.

The top deck boasts two symmetrical dinner sections , offering a spacious and refined setting for guests to enjoy their meals.

Additionally, there are four outdoor decks on the ship, where you can sit and enjoy the vista as well as take amazing photos:

• Two located on the sides and
• Two at each end.

These open-air spaces are perfect for sightseeing , allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views that unfold along the river.

As I stood on the sides, I was captivated by the sweeping 180° vistas, while at the front and back, the views were a complete 360°.

However, I must note that ther protective railings partially obstructed the view from these angles.

The lower deck is smaller with one open area immediately to the right of the entrance where guests that booked the cruise without dinner are seated.

It features a well-stocked bar with reasonably priced beverages, comfortable tables and you’ll find the toilets on this level too.

After boarding the ship you’ll receive your welcome drink (sparkling wine or fruit juice) then you’ll find a table to sit down and relish your drink.

A bottle of mineral water and a choice another drinks (beer, wine, soft drink) are also included in the package.

You can buy additional beverages – wine, beer, coffee, soft drinks – just choose from the menu placed on every table.

After the cruise departs from the pier located right next to the Chain Bidge in Pest, dinner starts and it’s time for you to savour the flavours of Hungary.

There’s

• Goulash soup for starters,
• Beef stew with dumplings,
• Stuffed cabbage – add a dash of sour cream

The dessert table is packed with a selection of strudels (with apple, cottage cheese or sour cherry filling), Somló style sponge cake dessert in shot glass, and various fruits.

Meanwhile take time to witness the illuminated beauty of Budapest’s most renowned landmarks , including the impressive Parliament – the ship sails at quite a slow space so you’ll have plenty of time to shoot photos, the magnificent Chain Bridge , and the Buda Castle complex or the more modern additions like the

• National Theatre, the
• Palace of Arts or the
• Athletic Stadium finished in summer 2023.

During the program you’ll listen to the enchanting melodies of the traditional cimbalom instrument , and traditional Hungarian music and folk dance. The band even will play contemporary hits if you ask them.

You can even try and learn bottle dancing if you feel up to it. The dancers will be more than happy to show you the steps.

Cruise Details

• Company/Cruise Organiser: Hungaria Koncert Ltd.
• Ship: 2-deck ship for max. 300 guests, with panorama windows, AC in hot weather, heated in winter, 4 decks outside
• Schedule: every day at 19.00 all year round, Note: There’s a late night, 1.5-hour crusie at 22.00 with the same dinner and program
• Boarding Time: 18.30
• Duration: 2 hours
• Itinerary: Chain- Bridge (Pest end) – Parliament – Margaret Bridge – Church of St. Anne – Chain Bridge (Buda end) – Matthias Church – Fishermen’s Bastion – Buda Castle – Elizabeth Bridge – Gellért Hill – Liberty Bridge – Gellért Bath – Petőfi Bridge – National Theatre – Palace of Arts: then back on the same route till the pier next to the Chain Bridge
• Guiding: no guiding
• Wheelchair accessability: only the ground level is asscessible for people in wheelchair or with baby stroller, the restrooms and the upper level aren’t wheelchair accessible
• Overall Ratings : Get Your Guide: 4.2/5 (1400+ reviews), Tripadvisor: 5/5 (3000+ ratings)

✅ Pleasant Atmosphere, Spacious Ship with Lovely Vintage Ambience: The ship boasts large, open spaces suitable for dining in comfort. It has large windows and outside decks from where you can take awesome photos of the city at sunset. TIP: Read also our full review of the Budapest Evening Cruise with Hungarian Dinner and Folk Show

✅ Complete Danube Circuit: The ship travels between the Margaret and Rákóczi Bridges covering all the top landmarks lying on the banks of the Danube.

✅ 2-Hour Excursion, Not Pressed for Time: Lots of time to enjoy the evening city scape, a tasty dinner, drinks and take pictures.

✅ Great Value for Money: Buffet style dinner of 3 courses, welcome drink plus additional drink of your choice (wine, beer, soda) coupled with the 2-hour route with folk dance and music performance make it a good, budget-friendly evening program in Budapest.

✅ Courteous, friendly staff: English-speaking personnel is ready to help you with anything.

❌ Not 100% suitable for people in wheelchair or with limited movement.

❌ Food quality is just OK, don’t expect gourmet quality, with the exception of the goulash soup and beef stew. These are really tasty even by local standards.

Meeting Point/Getting There:

• Address: Gróf Szechenyi Ship – Akademia Port (2. ponton), Budapest, 1051 ( View On Google Maps )
• Getting there: Trams 2 , 2B, 23 Szécheniy István tér stop (Chain Bridge), M1, M2, M3 metro at Deák F. tér station (10 min walk)

#2.- Cruise with 4-Course Dinner & Live Piano or Folk & Operetta – BEST VALUE!

By silverline cruises.

• June-July-August: 19.30

Duration: 2.5 hours (2 hours cruising)

Boarding Starts: 30 minutes before departure

• Weekdays: From €91
• Weekends: From €97

Book 4-Course Dinner Cruise & Piano Show

Book 4-Course Dinner Cruise & Folk Show

On this 2.5-hour dinner and river tour

• Catered dinner featuring a curated menu (includes vegan dishes)
• Live entertainment (piano show with singing or folk dance with operetta pieces), and
• Breathtaking views

come together for unforgettable moments in Budapest.

You will be served a sumptuous 4-course dinner at your private table featuring a fusion of local and international flavors.

You’ll start with a bite of

Amuse-bouche: Vegan cranberry pecan cheese ball, then

Choose from 2 soups :

• Traditional Hungarian veal ragout soup with potato dumplings or a
• Seasonal soup

Dinner Menu – Main Dishes – 6 Options (Incl. A Vegan Dish)

• Black sesame crusted salmon steak with chili-mint pea purée and pea fritter
• Chicken breast fillet on celery purée, with bread and spinach dumpling and pickled red onions
• Duck leg confit with gravy sauce and fried cabbage and noodles in chimney cake
• Pork tenderloin wrapped in bacon, served with grilled potato and red onion chutney
• Beef ragout made with dark beer, mushrooms and dark chocolate, served with bread dumpling
• Hungarian vegan ratatouille (known as lecsó: a vegetable ragout made with bell peppers, onions and tomato)

Dessert Choices:

Finally, crown your dinner with one of the 3 dessert selections :

• White chocolate lemon-pistachio sponge cake
• Chili chocolate mousse with pecan nuts
• Strawberry-basil chia pudding

The boat tour begins under the Elizabeth Bridge on the Pest side. You’ll head towards the Margaret Bridge passing by the illuminated Parliament.

Reaching Margaret Bridge the boat turns and cruises to the last bridge of the inner city. At this point, you’ll be able to see the National Theater , the Palace of Arts and the brand new Athletic Stadium .

From here, the boat turns once again and heads back to the starting point.

The romantic atmosphere created by the lit candles at your table and the illuminated city reflecting in the dark water of the Danube make this tour ideal for couples or people celebrating special occasions.

• Company/Cruise Organiser: Silverline Cruises
• Ship size: Modern 2-level safe and stable catamaran cruise ships with all necessary equipments (life jackets, life buoys) and amenities. Cruise with Piano Show has 54 places, Cruise with Folk & Operetta Show can accept 110 guests.
• Schedule: every day at 19.30
• Boarding Time: 19.00
• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Itinerary: Elizabeth Bridge – Chain- Bridge (Pest end) – Parliament – Margaret Bridge (Pest end) – Margaret Island – Margaret Bridge (Buda end) – Church of St. Anne – Chain Bridge (Buda end)- Buda Castle – Elizabeth Bridge – Gellért Hill – Liberty Bridge – Gellért Bath – Petőfi Bridge – National Theatre – Palace of Arts: then back on the same route to the pier at Elizabeth Bridge.
• Inclusions: welcome drink (prosecco or non-alcoholic drink), catered 3-course dinner by candlelight at private table, live piano show and singing, 3-hour sightseeing cruise
• Wheelchair accessability: no
• Overall Ratings : Get Your Guide: 4.2/5 (250+ reviews)

✅ Best Value Dinner Cruise – with table service and high quality food, incl. vegetarian meal choice and intimate atmosphere by candlelight , live piano music and singing this is a complete full evening activity at great price (65 EUR).

✅ 2.5 Hours Is More Than Sufficent Time to leisurely enjoy your dinner, drinks, the entertainment of piano duet and solo singer performance, taking photos and indulging in the night panorama of Budapest.

✅ Contemporary, State-Of-The Art Ships designed and perfectly suitable for dining while river cruising. Guests will have cozy sitting for a convenient eating and romantic experience.

✅ Suitable For Families with Kids : discount price for children is available.

❌ Not a large ship so places are limited 54 guests for the cruise with piano music, 110 people for the folk and operetta show. Arrive early to have a pick where to sit.

❌ Some may find the 3-hour duration a bit long but if you’re after a special, memorable program or want to celebrate a birthday or anniversary this is just the right length considering the catered dinner and piano music and singing performance.

TIP: Add a window seat if you book the cruise with dinner and folklore program. The performance is in a room where there are tables in the middle of the room, away from the windows where the view may be a bit limited.

• Address: Petőfi tér, 1051 Budapest, Dock 11. ( View On Google Maps )
• Getting there: Trams 2, 2B, 23 Vigadó tér or Március 15. tér stops, M1, M2, M3 metro at Deák F. tér station (10-15 min walk), M3 metro (blue line) Ferenciek tere station (5-min walk)

#3.- Cruise with 7-Course Dinner & Live Piano or Folk & Operetta

• June-July-August19.30
• Weekdays: From €107
• Weekends: From €115

This cruise is very similar to the #3.- Cruise with 4-Course Dinner & Live Piano or Folk listed above with the only difference that you’ll get to indulge in a 7-course fine dinner:

• 2 starters (1. Foie gras in its fat with mango chutney and freshly baked bread 2. Amuse bouch,
• 1 soup (choice of creamed sweet potato soup or goulash),
• 1 main course (5 options including vegetarioan risotto dish)
• 1 dessert (out of two choices: tapioca puding or brownie with cachew nut and vanilla ice cream, and
• 1 cheese plate

Treat yourself to an luxurious dining experience on a modern, catamaran cruise ship that will surely leave a lasting impression on your Budapest vacation.

The delightful 7-course dinner by candlelight is paired with an amazing Piano Duet or Folk and Operetta performance if you choose that option.

As you enjoy the mouthwatering dishes and vibrant atmosphere, take in the stunning views of the water and cityscape.

The ship will take you on the same Danube circuit between Margaret and Rákóczi Bridges as the one with the 3-course dinner described above.

So you’ll pass by and have the chance to photograph the same famous attractions.

TIP: There’s a window seat option for extra charge but you don’t need this if you’re going for the Dinner with Piano Music since every table is by a window on the upper deck where this program takes place. On the lower level however where the Folk & Operetta Show is hosted some tables in the middle aren’t by the window. So do arrive early or add the window seat when booking (costs + 20 EUR).

Some of the Delicious Food You’ll Get To Taste During The Cruise

✅ Incredibly Good Entertaining Evening Program in Budapest with fine food and music – according to a reviewer on Tripadvisor

✅ Modern Ships with Romantic Setting and professional pianist duo that play plenty of well-known tunes, accompanied by a skilled vocalist. – A thoroughly enjoyable evening.

✅ Kind, attentive staff, faultless organizing

❌ A bit pricey compared to other dinner cruises but if you want to treat someone to a trully memorable experience you sure won’t regret booking this program.

• Address: Address: Petőfi tér, 1051 Budapest, Dock 11. ( View On Google Maps )

#4.- Evening Cruise with 3 Course Dinner and Prosecco with Folk Dance & Live Music

By eurama sightseeing city tours budapest, departure: 19:30 / duration: 90 min. – from €55.

The Danube river cruise by Eurama – an experienced and reliable sightseeing tour operator in Budapest – is very similar to the one organized by Hungaria Koncert Ltd ( see at the top ) only this one departs half hour later, at 19.30 and offers serviced dinner instead of buffet-style meal.

Live entertainment, folklore performance, and music complements the tasty 3-course meal with vegetarian and gluten-free options. We were also greeted with a glass of sparkling wine upon boarding.

You can pick from three menus:

Traditional Hungarian Menu 1.:

• Goulash Soup
• Grilled Pork Tenderloin wrapped in Bacon with Steak Potatoes and Letcho,
• “Sweet Dream” Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Ragout.

Traditional Hungarian Menu 2.:

• Tarragon Ragout Soup,
• Beef Stew with Wild Mushroom,

Vegetarian Menu:

• Cauliflower Cream Soup Sprinkled withParsley Oil,
• Spring Rolls with Marble Cheese and Rice,
• Strawberry Cheesecake.

There is a special gluten-free and lactose free menu version of the Traditional Hungarian Menu 1.:

Oh the table you’ll find a drink menu that lists a wide selection of beverages at a reasonable price should you wish to have something during or after dinner.

Our Opinion – How Did We Find This Cruise?

The boat trip on the Danube at night is definitely worth it. The city becomes incredibly beautiful with the lights on. We took this boat trip in mid-May so we’ve also managed to catch the sunset which one of thebest times to admire the city.

However, we’ve had mixed feelings about this cruise. Upon arrival, the host handed us a glass of sparkling wine which was a pleasant way to start our evening.

Dinner has started while the ship still stood in the dock, which gave the service a somewhat hurried feel. We had a quick meal – Goulash, pork chop and strudel – served at our table accompanied by a nice folk show presented by two talented dancers and marvellous gypsy music.

Perhaps the dance could have been a bit longer.

Meal quality was OK, with the goulash soup being the best. Pork chop a bit overdone. Strudel is acceptable.

We’ve found the staff attentive and professional. Table service was very good too. Meals were brought in time with not too much lapse in between courses.

The ship is not the most modern but it was spacious enough. Toilets are outside which is OK in good weather but not so much in winter.

All in all we’ve had a great time even as locals being familiar with the dishes and the traditional music and dancing.

• Company/Cruise Organiser: Eurama Sightseeing City Tours Budapest
• Schedule: every day at 19.30
• Duration: 1.5 hour
• Boarding Time: 19.10
• Itinerary: Elizabeth Bridge – Chain- Bridge (Pest end) – Parliament – Margaret Bridge (Pest end) – Margaret Island – Margaret Bridge (Buda end) – Church of St. Anne – Chain Bridge (Buda end)- Buda Castle – Elizabeth Bridge – Gellért Hill – Liberty Bridge – Gellért Bath – Petőfi Bridge – National Theatre – Palace of Arts: then back on the same route till Margaret Island then back to the pier at Elizabeth Bridge
• Wheelchair accessability: except for the restrooms the ship is asscessible for people in wheelchair or with baby stroller
• Overall Ratings : Get Your Guide: 4.1/5 (170+ reviews)

✅ 3- dinner menu choices, ample food portions served at your table.

✅ Entertaining folk dance presentation accompanied by a live band showing a glimpse of Hungarian culture

✅ Overall good value dinner cruise with live entertainment.

✅ The duration of the tour is ideal: It’s not too long naither is too short. So you’ll have eneough time to enjoy everything.

✅ Professional, polite staff.

❌ Food quality is average

❌ Toilets are outside.

• Address: Vigadó tér, Dock No. 6. MAHART PassNave Passenger Shipping Company. Boarding starts at 7:10 PM. ( View On Google Maps )
• Getting there: The dock is halfway between the Erzsébet and Chain Bridges. Trams 2 , 2B, 23 Vigató tér stop, M1, M2, M3 metro at Deák F. tér station (10 min walk).

#5.- Romantic Candlelit 4-Course Danube Dinner Cruise

By legenda city cruise, departure: 20:30 / duration: 150 min. – from €85.

We really loved the Romantic Candlelit Dinner River Cruise by Legenda despite its length – more than 2 hours – and higher price range.

In our opinion it’s very similar to the 4-course or 7-course dinner cruise provided by Silverline (listed #2 and #3 ) both in terms of ambience and food quality.

This evening cruise departs at just a right time in summer to capture the captivating view painted by the setting sun.

It features a

• Welcome drink
• Catered 4-course dinner that you choose from the menu,
• Kids menu (3-course) at discount price, 65 EUR (ages 3-12)
• Live music, and
• 2.5-hour excursion that passes by all the renowned attractions.

The cruise is known for its romantic atmosphere and attentive staff. With positive customer reviews and based on our enjoyable experience we highly recommended this boat tour for those visiting Budapest .

• Company/Cruise Organiser: Legenda City Cruises
• Ship size: 2-deck ship 150 – 250 guests, with 360° panorama windows (removable in good weather), open-air in summer, heated in winter
• Schedule: every day at 20.30
• Duration: 2.5 hour

✅ It’s one of the highest rated dinner cruises in Budapest: 4.7/5 (by 700+ reviewers) 4.5/5 (by 450+ reviewers on Tripadvisor) – fellow travellers’ positive opinion is the best praise.

✅ The floor-to-ceiling panorama windows that are pulled back in good weather allow a fantastic, unobstructed view during the whole trip.

✅ Nice selection of a-la-carte meals. If you come with children they can have a 3-course kid-friendly menu at reduced price (65 EUR)

✅ Great value for money considering food and service quality and duration of the program.

❌ A little bit on the costly side compared to other Danube sightseeing tours.

• Address: Jane Haining rkp. 7, Budapest 1052 ( View On Google Maps )
• Getting there: Trams 2 , 2B, 23 Vigató tér stop, M1, M2, M3 metro at Deák F. tér station (10 min walk)

#5+1.- Late Night Cruise with Hungarian Dinner & Folk Music

Departure: 22:00 / duration: 90 min. – from €69.

This night boat tour by Hungaria Koncert is basically the same as the #1 – Evening Cruise with Folk Show and Hungarian/International Dinner with some minor differences: it lasts 1.5 hours instead of 2 and there is no folk dancing but there is live folk or salon music.

The same historic Count Széchenyi ship will take you on a late night sightseeing river tour.

The buffet-style dinner is also the same regarding both options and quality. We recommend the Hungarian dishes: goulash, beef stew and stuffed cabbage becuse they are really tasty and you can have as many portions as you like from the buffet spread.

Included are also a welcome drink (sparkling wine or orange juice) and a small bottle of minearl water.

TIP: Please note that the city’s decorative night lighting is turned off at 23.00 every day so be prepared if you want to catch the night cityscape on photo/video.

• Schedule: Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 22.00
• Boarding Time: 21.30
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Overall Ratings : Get Your Guide: 4.1/5 (1400+ reviews),

✅ It’s one of the few late night cruises in Budapest so if you want to see the Danube and the bridges as well as Budapest’s other notable sights illuminated at night then definitely include this one in your itinerary.

✅ If you stick to the Hungarian meal choices you will have a nice, flavorul dinner while cruising past the World Heritage listed cityscape.

✅ Comfortable, roomy ship that exudes classic, timeless charm. Perfect setting for a special celebration or just a romantic night out. The candlelit dinner make the entire program even more enchanting.

❌ City lights are turned off at 23.00 so if you want to see more of nighttime Budapest then pick an earlier boat our.

❌ Travellers have mixed opinions on the food – just don’t expect 1st class restaurant quality and you’ll have a great time.

• Address: Gróf Szechenyi Ship – Akademia Port (1. ponton), Budapest, 1051 ( View On Google Maps )

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Budapest Dinner Cruise

When selecting a Budapest dinner cruise, there are several factors to consider to ensure an exceptional experience.

Cuisine and Menu Options

• Check the cruise’s menu beforehand to ensure they offer dishes that meet your taste preferences. Some cruises specialize in traditional Hungarian cuisine (see #1 – Evening Cruise with Hungarian Dinner& Folk Dancing – while others offer a fusion of international flavors. Consider also your dietary restrictions to make the right choice

Entertainment and Ambiance

• Find out if the cruise provides live music or other entertainment to enhance the overall enjoyment. The ambiance of the cruise is also crucial, as it sets the mood for your evening. Whether you prefer a lively and energetic atmosphere or a more intimate and romantic setting, choose a river tour that aligns with your desired ambiance.

 Reviews and Recommendations

• Read reviews and seek recommendations from previous guests who have went on Budapest dinner cruises. Their insights and feedback can provide valuable information about the quality of service, food, and staff competence and friendliness, and the whole impression they got. Consider their opinions to make an informed decision.

Conclusion – The Top 5 Budapest Dinner Cruises

River cruises with dinner offer a unique blend of gastronomy, breathtaking views, and live entertainment, making them a must-do activity for visitors to this magnificent city.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to immerse yourself in Budapest’s charm, these cruises are sure to leave a lasting impression .

So, pick one that the best suits your needs and budget and let Budapest’s beauty and flavors captivate your senses!

TIP: If you want to have something simple yet tasty instead of a full dinner we recommend Budapest’s only street food cruise: with lángos/pizza and unlimited beer/drinks 🍕🍺

FAQ Related To Dinner Cruises in Budapest

How long do budapest dinner cruises typically last.

Danube river tours with dinner usually last around 1.5 to 2.5 hours , giving you ample time to enjoy your meal, take in the sights, and relax on board.

The minimum duration of cruises without dinner is 1 hour but the whole experience may feel rushed and tours of this length usually don’t cover the full circuit between Margaret and Rákóczi bridges.

In our opinion a 70-80-minute boat trip with meal is an ideal length where you can fully enjoy both the food and the sights.

Are Budapest dinner cruises suitable for families with children?

Yes, most of the dinner cruises – mainly those that start early in the evening, see the Evening Cruise with Hungarian Dinner starting at 7 pm – are a good fit for families with children. Some cruises offer special menus and entertainment options for kids, ensuring an enjoyable time for the whole family.

Can I request special dietary accommodations on Budapest dinner cruises?

Absolutely! Most dinner cruises in Budapest are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions or special requests .

It’s advisable to inform the cruise provider in advance to ensure they can cater to your needs.

Can I enjoy vegetarian or vegan options on Budapest dinner cruises?

Most cruises with meal offer vegetarian menu options. For strictly vegan meals or special dietary requests it’s best to send the organiser a request.

They understand the importance of catering to different dietary preferences and strive to provide a diverse range of dishes to accommodate all guests.

Are alcoholic drinks included in the dinner cruise package?

It depends which cruise you choose. The majority include a welcome drink or a glass of wine with the meal, and you can buy drinks from the beverage menu at additional cost at almost every cruise ship. You can’t bring your own beverages on board the ship though.

See also our main page for Danube cruises in Budapest

BUDAPESTADVENTURES

Home  »  The 10 Best Evening and Night Cruises in Budapest (Personally Tested)

The 10 Best Evening and Night Cruises in Budapest (Personally Tested)

Last updated: Febr 22, 2024

Author: Adam Dimitrov — Budapester, Hungarian & City Expert/Guide

🏆 Editor's #1 Choice

✔️ tested by author

⏳ In a hurry and want a recommendation you can't go wrong with?

• Best all-around sightseeing cruise in Budapest.
• Welcome drink and complementary lemonade.
• Best audio guide in the city.
• Weather-proof waiting area.
• Modern, large, and spacious ship.
• Comfortable chairs and great views.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of boat tour options in Budapest? 

Then let me help you choose the best evening or night boat tour for you, with the best guide on the topic in existence.

To give honest and accurate recommendations on the best river cruises in Budapest, I decided to personally test the most popular cruises of every major cruise company in Budapest, backed up with photos and details and even a video .

That's seven companies and a dozen cruises tested!

As the person with the most boat tour laps on the Danube under his belt, I have handpicked the 10 best night cruises in Budapest from my many voyages based on their exceptional quality, uniqueness, or value for money. ‍

Every cruise has different strengths and weaknesses, so I have curated this list that caters to almost everyone's needs.

Moreover, I have made browsing these cruises easier for you and added informative FAQs to my article containing valuable insights to help you choose the best river cruise for your preferences.

Let's get started!

Disclaimer: This website uses affiliate links. I get paid a small commission if you purchase anything through my links. It costs you nothing and makes my job of creating high quality articles financially sustainable. Cheers!

Best River Cruises in Budapest in 2022

Cheapest: Mahart's Sightseeing Cruise

Best Value: Mahart's Sightseeing Cruise

Most Complete: Mahart's Sightseeing Cruise

Best Dinner Cruise: Mahart's Sightseeing Cruise

Best Party Boat: Mahart's Sightseeing Cruise

Best Vibes: Mahart's Sightseeing Cruise

Summary & Comparison — Top 10 Evening and Night Cruises in Budapest

Reviews calculation: I am using the total review count of the activity from GetYourGuide, Tripadvisor and Viator.

Boat Tour Itinerary & Landmarks

💡 Tip: Remember that the decorative city lights are turned off at 23:00 from Mar 26 to Oct 29 (daylight savings time) and at 22:00 from Oct 30 to Mar 31 (standard time).

To truly immerse yourself the breathtaking beauty of the city , there's no better way than embarking on a river cruise. During such cruises, you'll be treated to a captivating array of iconic landmarks and attractions in Budapest , including:

• Hungarian Parliament
• Buda Castle
• Matthias Church
• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Gellert Hill/Citadella
• Gellért Spa
• Budapest University of Technology and Economics
• A host of historic bridges, including the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Margaret Bridge, Liberty Bridge, and Petőfi Bridge
• Margaret Island
• Palace of Arts
• National Theatre

Most cruises follow a circular route between the southern end of Margaret Island at Margaret Bridge and just south of Liberty Bridge. This route covers most of the significant landmarks in Budapest.

South of Liberty Bridge are two nice-to-see-but-not-obligatory landmarks, the National Theatre (below) and the Palace of Arts (above), which are as beautiful as the Parliament and Buda Castle. However, they are not included in every boat tour's itinerary - check before booking your cruise.

Some cruises, like Legenda,Hungaria Kooncert and Silverline, have a complete itinerary that includes these offbeat landmarks. ‍ ‍

💡 You can optionally disembark on Margaret Island on Legenda's daytime cruise and the BKK-Mahart cruise , stroll around the island, and rejoin the next cruise later.

Video — Best River Cruises in Budapest

Types of River Cruises in Budapest

By time of day.

Daytime Cruises

• During the summer, daytime cruises are a great way to beat the heat and take a break. Standard sightseeing cruises typically run from 10 am to 10 pm.

Sunset Cruises ‍

• As mentioned earlier, cruises run throughout the day. However, you can turn it into a sunset cruise by booking it specifically for that time. To time your cruise accurately, search Google for "Budapest Sunset Time + Date".

Evening & Night Cruises ‍

• The city's main attractions are illuminated 30 minutes after sunset . Take an evening or night cruise for a chance to see the stunning illuminated sights of Budapest.

By Drink Type

Prosecco Cruises

• ‍ Welcome drinks on cruises usually come in 80ml glasses and offer a selection of sparkling wine, prosecco spritzer, mineral water, and soft drinks.

Cocktail Cruises

• ‍ This cruise offers  3 cocktails , while the other includes  2 cocktails and a folk show .

Beer Cruises ‍

• You can choose between two beer cruises. The first offers unlimited draft beer and a pizza of your choice , while the second includes 5 craft beers with a folk show .

Wine Cruises ‍

• If you love wine, you can enjoy a special wine-tasting cruise . This cruise offers the opportunity to try seven different types of Hungarian wines , each with its own unique flavor and characteristics.

By Activity Type

Sightseeing Cruises ‍

• These cruises offer best way to enjoy the beautiful cityscape of Budapest. Typically, these cruises will provide you with a welcome drink and offer the option to buy other beverages while onboard.

Dinner Cruises ‍

• Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner cruise with your partner, a buffet libre dinner cruise with a Hungarian folk performance, and more.

Booze & Party Cruises ‍

• Have a blast on a  booze cruise with unlimited prosecco  or on a dedicated  party boat .

Food Cruises ‍

• Satisfy your foodie cravings with a lunch or dinner cruise . However, the quality of the food may be mediocre compared to restaurants.

Private Cruises ‍

• Book a boat tour all four yourself, perfect for couples, families or groups.

Detailed Breakdown — Top 10 Evening and Night Cruises in Budapest

1. best sightseeing night cruise with welcome drink and audio guide.

✔️ Best All-Around  — This cruise has it all for a complete sightseeing experience.

✔️ Welcome Drink  — Choose champagne, wine, beer, a soft drink, or mineral water.

✔️ Great Ship  — Modern, spacious, and well-kept, offering superb views from both decks.

✔️ Audio Guide  — Crystal-clear sound quality via headphones, and available in 30 languages.

✔️ Full Danube Curcuit  — Covers all the must-see and off-beat landmarks, from Margaret Island to the National Theatre/Palace of Arts.

❌  Pricy  — It's a bit more expensive than other cruises, but the added value makes up for it.

❌  Missing Free Lemonade  — It's not highlighted that the free lemonade is only offered in the summer season.

❌  Headphone Challenges and Hiccups  — The first pair didn't work, the second had a cable that was too short for my height (I'm 190cm), and the third functional pair lacked optimal comfort.

💡 Tip: All cruises have a generous cancellation policy , allowing a full refund if canceled 24 hours before the activity. Additionally, they offer a reserve now, pay later flexible payment scheme.

Legenda's river cruise offers a complete sightseeing experience with a  welcome drink  and an  audio guide in 30 languages.

Their  ship is modern and spacious , providing excellent views from both decks.

The  itinerary covers the iconic sights from Margaret Island to the National Theatre and Palace of Arts.

This cruise is  pricy but offers more value that backs up the higher price. The audio guide has clear sound quality through headphones but needs improvement in content quality and headphone comfort.

Overall, this cruise provides a  high-quality sightseeing experience with no major negatives , which is why it's number one on this list.

Their main cruise listing only allows bookings for night hours, but there is a separate listing for  daytime/evening cruise for only 15€.

🎥 Video: Watch my video summary with footage of Legenda's sightseeing cruise.

About Legenda City Cruises

Legenda is the oldest and most reputable cruise company in Budapest. They’ve been operating since (at least) 1990 and are still going strong.

Detailed Breakdown

Sightseeing & views.

• Like on any boat tour in Budapest, the cityscape is breathtaking throughout the trip. The  best spot for sightseeing  on this cruise is the  top deck .
• The cruise itinerary covers all of Budapest's landmarks, including the National Opera and the Palace of Arts.

💡 Tip:  For the best sightseeing and photo opportunities , choose a ship with large open-air decks that offer unobstructed 360° views like Legenda, Rubin Group, and Portum.

• The Gondola is a modern vessel that offers spacious seating, openable windows during the summer, a bar, an audio guide with headphones, and AC/heating.

The Weather-Proof Waiting Area

• Legenda is the only company in Budapest with a floating dock & waiting area that completely shields you from the elements .

• The cruise kicks off with receiving a complimentary welcome drink – choose from champagne, wine, beer, a soft drink, or mineral water. You also get to enjoy an extra free lemonade in the summer season.

The Lower Deck

• The lower deck has a cozy bar at the back, near the stairs to the top deck. Rows of comfy seats offer plenty of room to move about, and the large windows guarantee fantastic views .

The Upper Deck

• It's spacious with unobstructed 360° views from every angle. Ideal for photography and soaking in the city's beauty. Blankets are available upon request.

The Audio Guide

• This was the only audio guide could actually be heard out of all the cruises, thanks to the headphones, as the other ships have loudspeakers.
• The audio quality was excellent , and the narration was available in 30 languages.
• There's room for improvement contentwise. Around half of the mentioned sights aren't relevant to riverside attractions. Plus, the c ontent could dive deeper into the city's history, culture, and be more historically correct instead of telling stories, trivia and myths.
• I encountered some issues with the headphones - the first set was defective, the second set had a cable that was too short, and the third set was uncomfortable and hard to wear.

💡 All the other cruises offer loudspeaker audio guides. Loudspeaker audio guides are often inaudible due to passenger noise. Other common issues include un-synced commentary, irrelevant sights/details mentioned, and infrequent audio.

Quick Facts

• 📅 Schedule: every day from 10:00 to 22:00 (varies)
• 🎟️ Ticket type: mobile or printed
• ✔️ Onboard wi-fi: yes
• ✔️ Open air deck: yes
• ✔️ Air conditioning/heating: yes
• ❌ Pets allowed: no, only service animals
• ✔️ Smoking: yes, outside
• ✔️ Wheelchair accessible: yes
• ✔️ Baby stroller accessible: yes
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for children (age 0-9), about ~35% discount on ticket for children (age 10-14)

How to Get There

• 📍 Meeting point: Dock 7, Jane Haining rakpart, 1052 Budapest
• ✔️ Centrally located, easy to find and arrive.
• 🗺️ The dock 7 is conveniently located halfway between the Mahart kiosk and Elisabeth Bridge , easily accessible via Tram 2 .

2. Best Value Night Cruise With Welcome Drink

✔️  Exceptional Value  — Costs 40-50% less than Legenda, while still offering a stellar experience, albeit with fewer non-essential amenities (such as audio guides and complimentary lemonade).

✔️  Fun and Lively — This cruise attracts a younger crowd, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.

✔️  Welcome Drink  — Options include prosecco, a seasonal cocktail, mulled wine, or a soft drink.

✔️ Great Ship  — The ship is modern, spacious, and well-maintained, with excellent views from both its decks.

❌  Inconvenient Location  — The meeting point near Margaret Island is not in the city center, thus getting there is a hassle.

❌  Prone to Crowding — The ship may feel cramped during peak travel times, especially the top deck.

❌  Limited Open Air Seats  — The coveted open-air tables on the top deck are claimed quickly and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

❓  Is it possible to reserve seats on river cruises? 💡 Seats on most river cruises are assigned on a  first-come, first-served  basis. But some dinner cruises might let you reserve a specific spot.

Portum Lines Cruising is an excellent  alternative to Legenda , offering a  lively and fun  sightseeing experience that's especially  popular with younger crowds .

Upon arrival, guests receive a  complimentary welcome drink of  prosecco, seasonal cocktails, mulled wine, or a soft drink.

While they  don't offer  amenities like an  audio guide or complimentary lemonade , the ship is modern and well-maintained, with  excellent views  of Budapest's top sights.

The  top deck  offers both open-air 360° and weather-protected roof-covered sections. While the  lower level  is cozy and comfortable, it's  best to head upstairs  to enjoy the views.

Reaching the  meeting point is inconvenient , and the  ship can get crowded  due to its popularity, especially on the top deck.

Overall, Portum Lines offers an  exceptional river cruise  experience at  great value , perfect for those seeking a fun atmosphere.

🎥 Video: Watch my video summary with live footage of Portum sightseeing cruise.

About Portum Lines

Portum Lines is a solid company operating since (at least) 2014. Their offerings are pretty slim compared to others but still superb in quality.

• During the boat tour, you can enjoy the flawless cityscape of Budapest from certain spots with clear 360° views .
• The cruise itinerary covers most of Budapest's landmarks, except the National Opera and the Palace of Arts.

• The ship is spacious and well-maintained , with two levels similar to Legenda's sightseeing ship.

The Top Deck

• The top deck is divided into three areas - the front, middle, and back.
• The front and back sections are open-air , with perfect 360° views - these are the best places to be.

💡 Tip: The best open air seats go fast! You must arrive early and be at the front of the line to snatch them.

• There is a wide indoor section in the middle with tables and chairs lining both sides near the windows.
• Although the views from here are good, they are even better outside in the open air section.

• The lower level is comfortable, cozy, and spacious, with heating and air conditioning to provide a pleasant experience, even on rainy or cold days.
• The lower deck is an indoor space similar to the upper deck's covered section.
• Additionally, there is a small bar on board.

• The cruise includes a free welcome drink of your choice - a sparkling wine, a seasonal welcome drink, or a soft drink.
• 📅 Schedule : every day from 17:00 to 22:00 (varies)
• 🎟️ Ticket type: mobile, printed
• ❌ Pets allowed: no, only services animals
• ✔️ Children discount: free for infants (age 0-2), only on viator
• 📍 Meeting point: Budapest, Dock 42 port, Szent István park, 1138 Hungary ‍
• ❌ The meeting point is north of Margaret Bridge , which is slightly out of the way compared to other centrally located cruises.
• 🗺️ Use the 2 or 4/6 tram line  and get off at Jászai Mari tér . From there, walk 500 meters towards the north of Margaret Bridge until you spot the Dock 42 sign .

3. Budapest Night Cruise with Unlimited Prosecco and Lemonade

✔️  #1 Most Affordable Booze Cruise  — Experience Budapest's most economical unlimited prosecco cruise on the Danube.

✔️  Excellent Ship — The ship features a charming open-air top deck and two indoor decks with a sophisticated cocktail party-like ambiance.

✔️  Unlimited Drinks  — Drink all the prosecco and lemonade you want.

✔️  Leisurely 90-Minute Ride  — More than enough time to savor your drinks, though drinking responsibly is advised by Prosecco and Co.urge you to drink responsibly)

❌ Mediocre Food Platter — For an extra 10€, the food platter is disappointing and hardly qualifies as 'gourmet.'

❌ Remote Meeting Point — The departure area near Margaret Island is not easily accessible.

❌ Inaudible Audio Guide — The ambient noise from passengers drowns out the audio guide, but most are too busy enjoying their drinks to notice.

❓ Is buying food or drinks while on a river cruise in Budapest possible? 💡 Food is not typically included on standard sightseeing cruises. However, you can purchase snacks and drinks at the ship's kitchen bar.

The Rubin Group's boat tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable cocktail-party atmosphere with unlimited prosecco and lemonade. The attentive servers are always on hand to keep guests' glasses full.

The top deck boasts breathtaking 360° views of the cityscape during the 90-minute river cruise, while the two indoor decks offer a cozy and inviting ambiance.

As for the less rosy aspects of this cruise, the optional food platter isn't worth the 10€ price, and the audio guide may be difficult to hear over the party noise. Additionally, the meeting point is further from the city center, so getting there may take some extra time and effort.

Overall, if you're looking for a leisurely cruise centered around drinks and stunning views, the Rubin Group's boat tour is an outstanding choice.

🎥 Video: Watch my video summary with live footage of Rubin Group's booze cruise.

About Rubin Group

Rubin Group   is another solid company, operating since (at least) 2015. They specialize in gastro-themed events rather than standard sightseeing cruises.

• The ship was impressive with a spacious 3-level design and a cocktail party atmosphere . Passengers were seated at 2-person tables .

• The top deck offered stunning, unobstructed 360° views . It was the perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the sights . This is the best place to be during the warmer months.

‍ The Mid and Bottom Deck

• There are two indoor decks with  plenty of seats and tables  where the atmosphere is  cozy and inviting .
• The first passengers to board tend to get the best top deck spots, so it's  worth arriving early   if you want a prime spot .

The Drinks Refills

• The  servers were   attentive , constantly  refilling glasses  with prosecco as soon as they were empty.
• Self-service lemonade  is available in two flavors — regular and one with a strange cucumber taste.

The Assorted Food Platter

• The optional assorted food platter for 10€ wasn't what I wasexpecting.
• It didn't match the advertised images and wasn't gourmet but ordinary , including simple fruits and vegetables, cheese and ham with two sauces, and a pastry dessert. The portion size was smaller than expected.
• Save your money and skip the platter.
• The loudspeaker  audio guide was inaudible  due to the passengers crowding out the narration.
• They increased the volume upon my request, but the  audio guide's content was too basic .
• 📅 Schedule: every day at 19:00 and 21:00
• ❌ Pets allowed: no, except service animals
• ❌ Wheelchair accessible: no
• ✔️ Baby stroller accessible: yes (at least the bottom deck)
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for children (age 0-3)
• 📍 Meeting point: Budapest, Szent István park 5, 1137
• 🗺️ Use the 2 or 4/6 tram line  and get off at Jászai Mari tér . From there, walk 500 meters towards the north of Margaret Bridge until you spot a large red "0" sign .

4. Historic 19th Century Steam Boat Cruise

❓ Should I book river cruise tickets in advance? Is it worth it? 💡 Yes  — It's worth reserving your ticket in advance to ensure your place on the ship, although you can purchase tickets in person.

This is Budapest's only boat tour offering an authentic 19th-century historic cruise experience . The ship is a replica of the Hungarian paddle steamer , the Kisfaludy, which operated between 1847 and 1887 on Lake Balaton thanks to the initiative of István Széchenyi.

The cruise includes a welcome drink and an English audio guide (via loudspeakers).

The ship features an open-air panorama deck at the front (the best place for 360° views), a semi-covered rear area , and a small top deck near the captain's cabin.

There's also a must-see maritime museum on the bottom deck.

In summary, this cruise provides a high-quality sightseeing experience infused with historic flair you can't get elsewhere in Budapest.

🎥 Virtual tour: take a look at the ship through their interactive virtual tour .

About Dunai Sétahajózási Ltd.

Dunai Sétahajózási Kft. was founded in 2021 by Gergely Fogasy, who also operates a successful cruise company on Lake Balaton since 2019.

• Like on any boat tour in Budapest, the cityscape is breathtaking throughout the trip. The best spot for sightseeing on this cruise is the front panorama deck , where you board the ship.

• The boat tour offers an authentic historical experience aboard a replica of a 19th-century paddle steamer , the Kisfaludy, that once sailed Lake Balaton.

19th Century Maritime Museum

• On the lower deck, there is a captivating maritime museum that displays the lifestyle of 19th century sailors .

• The cruise includes a complimentary welcome drink of your choice - water, prosecco, orange juice or beer.

• The small top deck has four tables , but the chimney and captain's cabin somewhat block the view .
• The orientation of half the tables is perpendicular to the Danube, so one side of the city is always behind your back . The main deck doesn't have this issue.

The Main Deck

• The main deck has a front open-air area with a 360° panorama . Additionally, there is a roof-covered rear area with equally splendid views.

• You can take a closer look at the paddle wheel in the middle or visit the maritime museum on the bottom deck.
• You can also find free umbrellas , which they likely hand out during rainy weather.
• During the cruise, you can enjoy an English-speaking audio guide through loudspeakers.
• The guide was synchronized with the attractions we passed by and provided brief introductions, trivia, and historical information about the landmarks.
• Sometimes loudspeakers can get drowned out by the noise of a crowd, which makes them hard to hear. I didn't experience this during my daytime cruise, but it may be more challenging to hear during the more popular night cruise .
• In between the narration, there's a pleasant classical piano music playing.
• 📅 Schedule: every day at 4:30pm, 5:30pm, 7:00pm, 8:30pm, 10:00pm.
• ❌ Air conditioning/heating: no
• ✔️ Pets allowed: yes
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for children (age 0-6)
• 📍 Meeting point: Budapest Jane Henning rakpart 10, Dock 10, 1052
• 🗺️ Use tram line 2 to arrive at Széchenyi István tér or Március 15 tér stop . Go towards Elizabeth bridge (white suspension bridge) and look for Duna Cruises .

5. No Frills Budget Sightseeing Night Cruise

When it comes to Budapest cruises, Silverline Sightseeing Cruise is a solid choice with friendly staff and a comfortable meeting point, but it doesn't quite stand out from the crowd.

Unlike most cruises, Silverline's cruise ticket does not include a welcome drink . However, the price is on the low-end . If it were not for their out-of-the-way location, I would recommend the Portum's similarly cheap cruise in a heartbeat.

With a relaxed 70-minute cruising time, this ride offers a leisurely pace that allows you to take in the sights and enjoy the moment.

They used to offer an audio guide , but it suffered from the common issue of being drowned out by the crowd's noise and not being in sync with the landmarks. They seem to have done away with it altogether.

In summary, Silverline's sightseeing cruise provides a leisurely tour of Budapest's iconic landmarks on the Danube. While not exceptional, it offers a decent experience.

About Silverline Cruises Ltd.

Silverline is a solid company operating since (at least) 2011. They have a decent range of cruise offerings, and run popular cruises in the sightseeing category.

• Like on any boat tour in Budapest, the cityscape is breathtaking throughout the trip. However, Silverline's ships have a roof and support columns on the top deck which means they do not provide a clear 360° view .

• The ship itself is decent , but it doesn't claim the title of the most modern or spacious vessel on the waters. It gets the job done without being overly impressive.
• Silverline rotates boats frequently, so you may not get the same one I did.

• During my trip, I was on the larger two-level boat that previously had rows of seats, but has since been replaced with tables and chairs (according to photos).
• The smaller boat now has the rows of seats , which I found to be cramped and lacking in legroom .
• Both ships have roofs and support columns which partially block the view .

• The main deck offers comfort with ample space, heating, and air conditioning . While indoor views are average , better panoramas await at the front chairs or the open-air section.
• Welcoming and friendly staff at the entrance make a positive impression. I haven't interacted with the ship's crew so I cannot comment on that.

Unneccesary Stop

• During my cruise, we made a stop at Batthyány tér (Buda) , even though no passengers got on or off.
• 📅 Schedule: every day at 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm, 7:00pm, 7:30pm, 8:30pm, 9:00pm.
• ✔️Air conditioning/heating: yes
• 📍 Meeting point: Budapest Jane Henning rakpart 10, Dock 11, 1052
• 🗺️ Use tram line 2 to arrive at Széchenyi István tér or Március 15 tér stop . Go towards Elizabeth bridge (white suspension bridge) and look for Silverline Cruises .

6. Best Cocktail Night Cruise With Three Cocktails

Enjoy the stunning river views of Budapest while sipping on three delicious cocktails with Silverline's cruise.

However, it's important to note that there is no audio guide available and some of the views may be partially blocked by side columns.

🎥 Video: Take a look at the teaser video for the cruise to get an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that the Cocktail Cruise and Pizza & Beer cruise are happening at the same time and place.

• The scenery is breathtaking and you're taken all the way down to the Palace of Arts & National Theatre .
• For the best views, head to the top deck . However, taking great photos can be challenging due to the roof and side columns obstructing the view.
• The lower deck doesn't offer great opportunities for sightseeing or taking photos.

• The ship is functional , but it is not the newest, most modern, or luxurious vessel available.

Drinks Menu

• You can choose three cocktails from the options displayed in the image above.
• Your cocktail may be served in plastic pint glasses instead of the fancy cocktail glasses shown in the picture.
• 📅 Schedule: every day 16:00, 18:00, 20:00, 22:00
• ❌ Baby stroller accessible: no
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for children (age 0-6) but food/drinks aren't included.
• 📍 Meeting point: Budapest, Jane Haining Rakpart, Dokk 11, 1052
• 🗺️ Use tram line 2 to arrive at  Széchenyi István tér stop . You can find Silverline Cruises closest to Elisabeth Bridge.

💡 Cruise alternative : Check out Hungaria Koncert's drinks cruise , which offers a cocktail cruise with folk music, onboard an atmospheric and luxurious ship.

7. Budapest Dinner Night Cruise with Buffet Libre, Folk Dance Show & Music

✔️  Buffet Libre  — this dinner cruise is a great way to taste various Hungarian dishes.

✔️  Two Welcome Drinks  — you can choose from various alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

✔️  Great Atmosphere  — you feel like you're in an early 20th century cabaret and forget about the outside world for 2 hours.

✔️  Folk Dance and Music Show  — features one of the best live folklore music and dance shows with authentic and award-winning performers.

✔️  Full Danube Circuit  — the cruise covers everything worth seeing, from Margaret Island all the way down to the National Theatre/Palace of Arts.

✔️  Long Cruise  — the cruise lasts 1.5-2 hours, which gives ample time to eat, drink and see the sights at night.

❌  Not Great for Sightseeing  — the views from the ship are mediocre (no 360°, fences blocking the view), spaces for sightseeing are both few/small, the dinner and folk show are more interesting so you'll focus on that and won't see the sights.

❌  Not Fine Dining Quality  — the food is fine, but mid-range restaurants (and up) serve better quality food.

Hungaria Koncert runs this excellent dinner cruise with live Hungarian folk music and dance performance.

There's an unlimited buffet of various Hungarian dishes and a vibe that’s comparable to an early 20th century cabaret.

🎥 Video: Watch my video summary with live footage of Hungaria Koncert's dinner cruise.

About Hungaria Koncert

Hungaria Koncert is a cruise operator and organizes different touristic activities. They've been operating since (at least) 1995.

Cruise Duration

• This cruise lasts 1.5 or 2 hours depending on which cruise you choose — 7 pm or 10 pm . This gives ample time to enjoy the delicious food, the unique folk performance, and explore the ship.

What's Included

• You get to enjoy the show of award-winning music and dance performers who are going to give you an amazing time.

• ‍ You get access to a buffet libre of a variety of Hungarian dishes . Meals include goulash soup, stuffed cabbage, beef stew, somlói Galuska, a variety of strudels, and more.
• The quality of the food is good but isn’t Michelin 2-star grade. Even so, it’s a great way to try out a variety of Hungarian dishes at once.

Dance and Music Performance

• On the top deck, there are folklore dance and music performances for dinner guests only.
• The music gave the trip an early 20th century cabaret vibe .

• The interior of the ship has a classical and luxurious feel , including chandeliers, a teak wood interior, custom-made floor carpet, intarsia decorated walls, and more.

• There are two symmetrical indoor sections on the top deck and a total of four outdoor areas - two on the sides and two at each end of the ship.

• The outdoor side areas are available for sightseeing guests; the rest of the level is reserved for dinner guests.
• T he sides have 180° views , while the front and back are 360° , but fences obstruct the view.

• The lower deck has the same look and feel as the rest of the ship. There is only one area accessible - immediately to the right of the entrance. This area is for people with non-dinner tickets. It includes a bar with reasonable prices, tables with chairs, and a folklore trio performance.
• 📅 Schedule: every day at 19:00, and on weekends at 22:00
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for children (age 0-5)
• 📍 Meeting point: Budapest, Id. Antall József rkp., 1051
• 🗺️ Use tram line 2 to arrive at Széchenyi István tér stop.  You can find Hungaria Koncert next to Széchenyi Chain bridge.

💡 Pricing 55€ vs. 72€ — What's the difference? Those with a regular dinner cruise ticket (55€) won't be able to see the folk dance show - they need to buy the 72€ ticket if they do. There's nothing stopping you from going over to the other side for a sneak peek, though.

8. Best Cocktails, Craft Beer or Wine Tasting Night Cruise

I have already mentioned the dinner cruise offered by Hungaria Koncert.

However, they also offer a more affordable boat tour with drinks , which takes place on the same ship.

The only difference is that this event is on the ship's lower deck and features a live folk violin trio to entertain you.

There is also an open-air area where you can drink and enjoy spending time.

The basic ticket is reasonably priced and includes a drink . You can also upgrade to options offering craft beer, cocktails, exquisite wines, or even unlimited drinks .

The atmosphere is reminiscent of an early 20th-century cabaret.

🎥 Video: Watch my video summary with footage of Hungaria Koncert's cruise. Even though this is about their dinner cruise, you'll be on the same vessel.

Indoor Area

• The bottom deck area has the same 20th-century cabaret feel as the rest of the ship.

Outdoor Area

• The sides of the view offer 180° views, so unfortunately you can't see both Buda and Pest at the same time.

• The basic ticket is reasonably priced and includes a drink .
• You can also upgrade to options offering craft beer, cocktails, exquisite wines, or even unlimited drinks .
• If you buy the more expensive tickets you will be seated upstairs in the dinner guest area instead of slightly less luxurious bottom deck area.

9. Best Pizza and Unlimited Beer Night Cruise

Enjoy the stunning river views of Budapest while sipping unlimited beer and one pizza with Silverline's cruise.

🎥 Video: Take a look at the teaser video for the cruise to get an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that the Cocktail Cruise and Pizza & Beer cruise are happening at the same time.

The Food and Drinks

• Indulge in a delicious pizza of your choice such as Hawaii, Hungarian, Salami, Ham and Corn, and Quattro Formaggi.
• During the cruise, you can enjoy unlimited draft beer and soft drinks .
• ❌ Infant/children discount: no

10. Best Party Boat Night Cruise in Budapest

Enjoy an unforgettable time on Budapest's famous party cruise .

Choose from various ticket packages , including a  basic ticket  to purchase drinks at the bar or an  unlimited drinks  option.

The ticket offers a  cloakroom ,  free bottled water ,  party bus transfer  to a nightclub, and  skip-the-line entry . All included in the price.

🎥 Video: Watch this teaser video of the party cruise to get an idea of what to expect.

About Budapest Boat Party Ltd.

BP Boat Party is a cruise operator who organizes - you guessed it - party cruises. They've been operating since at least 2009. They are the best rated in the Budapest.

• The ship has the capacity to accommodate 400 guests and features two dance floors , one open-air and one indoor.

The Cloakroom

• You will have free access to a secure cloakroom where you can leave your clothes and enjoy the party without any worries . Your belongings will be safely stored.

• Four ticket packages range from a basic entry ticket with no drinks included to an unlimited drinks ticket and everything in between.
• Drink options include a selection of beer, sparkling wine, vodka, rum, gin, and whisky.

• The music selection offers a blend of 90s classics and contemporary EDM tunes.

Party Bus Transfer and Nightclub Skip-The-Line-Ticket

• Your ticket includes entry to the after-party at a nightclub , and you'll get a free party bus ride with skip-the-line entry to it.
• 📅 Schedule: only on weekends at 21:30
• 🗺️ Meeting point: Budapest Jane Henning rakpart 9. dock, 1052
• 📘 Use tram line 2 to arrive at Széchenyi István tér stop. You can find Budapest Boat Party between Legenda and Silverline cruises (Zsófia event ship).

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i prepare for a river cruise during the winter or summer.

Summer: Have sunscreen, water, an umbrella, and sunglasses for daytime cruises in the warmer months.

In rainy weather, the open-air deck may be closed. In stormy weather, cruises are canceled. They'll either refund you or offer an alternative cruise if this happens. ‍

Winter: The heated cabin's windows tend to fog up, blocking the views, depending on how well the windows are insulated.

You can always go out to get a few photo shots, then rush back to the safety of the heated cabin. Open-air sightseeing during the winter can be less enjoyable due to cold weather and winds, so it's best to dress warmly, wear layers, and protect your face.

How can I avoid overcrowded boat tours?

If you want to avoid crowded boat tours, you can follow these steps: visit during the off-season, choose daytime tours instead of night tours, or opt for more expensive cruises.

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