Top 6 sport opportunities in Budapest

1. Go to Margit-sziget for a run or swim

Margit-sziget is one of the most ideal places when it comes to outdoor sport opportunities in Budapest. Its 5.3 km (3.3 miles) long running track around the island becomes busy in the early morning hours as hobby runners start their training. Since it’s quite close to the city center, it’s very popular among elite-level athletes as well, so don’t be surprised if you bump into an Olympian during your casual jog.

Margit-sziget has an open-air bath (Palatinus) and the Alfréd Hajós National Swimming Stadium for those who are more into water sports, like swimming, kayaking or canoeing. There are also several outdoor gym equipment at multiple locations, and a huge green meadow in the middle of the island that’s perfect for a few hours of playing frisbee or badminton.

Discover more about what you can do on Margit-sziget if you’re looking for a truly versatile place to spend your time.

2. Skate in the center of the city

Erzsébet tér is practically in the center of the city, and in the hearts of many skaters thanks to its skatepark. So if you feel like hopping on a board and mingling with the local youngsters, this is a great place to go. The park is free, and since Erzsébet tér is full of people having drinks or going to concerts in Akvárium club, you also have the possibility to relax after your skating session.

If you don’t mind traveling a bit further, you could also visit the skatepark at Nehru part, right under the Pest side of the Petőfi bridge. From there the Bálna is in walking distance, and you’ll have an amazing view of the city at sunset.

3. Climb some walls at Mammut

A great opportunity for beginners and experienced climbers alike, the Gravity Boulder Bar in Mammut Shopping Center next to Széna tér will surely keep your adrenaline levels high. There are hundreds of climbing routes available where you can test your abilities and truly defy gravity. There’s a wall for children too, so feel free to bring them along for some fun on the walls.

4. Master the trampolines at Cyberjump

Cyberjump trampoline park is an amazing leisure center in the 11^th district if you have excess energy, and are looking for a not-so-everyday sporting opportunity in Budapest. Jump around in one of Europe’s biggest trampoline facilites with multiple tracks and the opportunity to play dodgeball, slamball, or even battle beam. It’s certainly an exercise you’ll feel in your legs the day after, but it’s all worth it.

5. Go caving under Buda

Craving for some caving? Go to the Buda side of the city and you’ll find exciting subterranean caves, not too far from the city center. Pál-völgyi cave is definitely not for the faint-hearted, the guided tour will take you underground for three hours, where you have to climb and crawl through some of the narrowest passages you’ve seen. The feeling of accomplishment is exhilarating, and you’ll definitely feel a bit different when you come up and see the light again.

6. Slip on a pair of ice skates in the winter

Let’s not forget about one of the most exciting seasonal fun – ice skating. The biggest skating rink in Budapest is right behind the Heroes’ Square you’ve probably been to, but it only functions as a skating rink during winter. Its 12,000 square meter (around 130,000 square feet) surface attracts young and old every day. You don’t necessarily need to bring your own skates, you can rent them on the spot, and then join in on the fun immediately. If you’re getting tired, you can sit down on the benches with a mug of mulled wine and warm up for the next few laps.