Summer in Budapest is absolutely magical, but July and August can bring intense heatwaves, with temperatures frequently climbing past 35°C (95°F).

If you are joining one of our daily Trip to Budapest Free Walking Tours, we want to make sure you enjoy the city’s incredible history without melting! As a 100% local team operating since 2007, we have survived many Hungarian summers.

A Budapest heatwave doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying the city—as long as you plan your day like a local. Here is our ultimate local guide to staying cool, hydrated, and energized while exploring Budapest in the heat.

Where to Find Free, Fresh Drinking Water Online & On the Street

Staying hydrated is rule number one. During a Budapest heatwave, carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it regularly is one of the easiest ways to stay comfortable. Do not buy overpriced plastic water bottles at tourist shops! Budapest has excellent tap water quality, and you can refill your bottle for free across the city center.

• Look for the Blue Taps (Ivókút): Budapest has converted hundreds of regular fire hydrants into public drinking fountains. They are bright blue and completely free to use.
• Use the Map App: Before you step out, look up the website közkutak.hu and download their app. It shows you every free drinking fountain near your current location.
• Near Our Meeting Point: If you are joining our Budapest Tour, Jewish District Tour, or Communism Tour at Erzsébet tér, there is a public drinking fountain located right in the park area near the Danubius Fountain and the Budapest Eye. Fill your bottle before the tour starts!

Take Advantage of the “Shade Hacks” During the Tours

Our local guides know the city’s architecture inside out, which means they also know exactly where the sun doesn’t shine.

• The Pest Side (Erzsébet tér Tours): When walking through the Jewish District or downtown Pest, our guides intentionally stop the group under the large stone archways, historical awnings, and the shadows of building facades.
• The Buda Side (Castle Tour): The Buda Castle District sits on a hill, which means it catches a beautiful, fresh breeze from the Danube River. The cobblestone alleyways create narrow tunnels of shade that keep the temperature a few degrees cooler than the asphalt streets of Pest.

Our guides have learned exactly where to find shade during a Budapest heatwave, making even the hottest days much more enjoyable.

Cool Down in Budapest’s “Secret” Air-Conditioned Paradigms

Need a 20-minute break to lower your body temperature? Skip the standard fast-food joints and duck into these stunning, air-conditioned local landmarks:

• St. Stephen’s Basilica: Located just a 5-minute walk from our Erzsébet tér meeting point, the massive stone walls of the Basilica keep the interior naturally cool, alongside modern climate management. It’s the perfect place for quiet reflection and a break from the sun.
• Central Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok): If you are heading south toward the Liberty Bridge, duck into the lower level of the Grand Market Hall. The underground sections are wonderfully cool and a great place to pick up fresh, cold Hungarian fruit like watermelon (görögdinnye).

Swap Heavy Meals for Cold Hungarian Specialties

When it is hot, a heavy plate of traditional hot Goulash soup might feel overwhelming. Do what the locals do and order these refreshing alternatives at lunch:

• Hideg Meggyleves (Cold Cherry Soup): This is a summer staple in Hungary. It is a sweet, creamy, chilled soup made from tart sour cherries. It sounds like a dessert, but it is served as an appetizer and is incredibly cooling.
• Fröccs (The Ultimate Summer Drink): If you are relaxing after a tour, head to a ruin bar and order a Fröccs. This is a traditional Hungarian drink combining crisp white or rosé wine with ice-cold soda water. You can order it in different ratios (e.g., Nagyfröccs is 2 dl wine and 1 dl soda) for a super refreshing, light afternoon drink.

5. Join Our Tours Prepared

To make the most of your day, we highly recommend bringing a light hat, high-factor sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

Our guides will be waiting for you at the meeting points, holding our iconic Blue “FREE TOUR” Flags or Blue Umbrellas. We keep a steady, comfortable pace with plenty of shade stops, ensuring everyone stays safe and comfortable. We hope this Budapest heatwave guide helps you explore the city safely while making the most of your walking tour experience.

 Ready to explore the city with a local expert? Click here to view our daily tour schedule and reserve your spot directly on our website!