What to Do in Budapest in October – Top Activities for Couples & Groups
Discover the best things to do in Budapest in October: autumn colours, thermal baths, festivals, nightlife, and the city’s top-rated shooting range — Churchill Shooting.

What to Do in Budapest in October 🍂
Budapest in October is a vibe. The summer crowds are gone, the leaves are golden, and the city is buzzing with festivals, baths, wine, and… yes, even guns.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape for two or a cheeky weekend with friends, here’s how to make the most of your autumn adventure.

Why Visit Budapest in October?
- Mild weather: Think 8–16°C by day, crisp evenings perfect for scarves and strolls.
- Fewer crowds: No more elbowing through selfie sticks at Parliament.
- Better prices: Shoulder season = cheaper flights and hotels.
- Autumn colours: Margaret Island, City Park, and the Buda Hills turn into storybook landscapes.
It’s arguably one of the best months to visit the city.
Soak Up the Classics
Even in October, you can’t skip the icons:
- Buda Castle & Fisherman’s Bastion – Romantic cobblestones and fairy-tale views across the Danube.
- Hungarian Parliament & Chain Bridge – Even more stunning at night when everything glows.
- St. Stephen’s Basilica – Climb to the dome for sweeping autumn panoramas.
- Danube River Cruise – Sip wine, snuggle up, and watch the city light up around you.
Warm Up in the Baths ♨️
Budapest is called the City of Spas for a reason.
Széchenyi Baths (outdoor pools steam against the chilly October air).
Gellért Spa (ornate Art Nouveau halls and indoor thermal bliss).
Bring your swimsuit, grab a locker, and spend an afternoon soaking together. Trust me — nothing beats hot mineral water on a cool autumn day.
Churchill Shooting: The #1 Daytime Thrill in Budapest 🔫
Looking for something unforgettable? Skip the usual and head to Churchill Shooting — the highest-rated shooting range in Budapest (and in Hungary overall).
- Run by ex-military instructors.
- A huge arsenal: WWII rifles, legendary AK-47s, modern sniper rifles.
- Perfect for couples or small groups who want to do something different.
👉 Browse the Packages and see which suits your style. First time shooting? No worries — safety briefings and coaching are included.
Pro tip: October afternoons are ideal. After sightseeing in the cool autumn air, head indoors and fire off some rounds — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime memory. Ready to try? Book online here: Book Now.
Eat, Drink & Be Cozy 🍷
October is for comfort food and warming drinks:
- Cafés & Cakes – Duck into the famous New York Café or find a little strudel shop in the Castle District.
- Wine Bars – Harvest season = Tokaji, Bikavér, and crisp whites flowing everywhere.
- Ruin Pubs – Quirky, cosy, and perfect for a nightcap. Grab a pálinka shot at Szimpla and soak up the atmosphere.

October Festivals & Events 🎉
The city doesn’t slow down in autumn.
- Oktoberfest Budapest – Beer gardens, live music, Bavarian vibes.
- Budapest Marathon (Oct 11–12, 2025) – Cheer on thousands of runners as they dash past the Danube.
- Art Market Budapest (Oct 16–19, 2025) – Contemporary art fair for culture lovers.
- Halloween Parties – Ruin pubs throw costume nights, boat cruises get spooky, and the city goes all out.
Quick Tips for October
- Pack layers (and comfy shoes for those cobblestones).
- Book popular activities (like Churchill Shooting or baths) in advance.
- Check October 23 (National Day) — some places may close or have special events.
- Average 6–7 hours of daylight — plan sightseeing earlier, nightlife later.
Final Word
Budapest in October is all about romance, colour, and surprises. From steamy spas to glowing city lights — and the adrenaline rush of Churchill Shooting — it’s a trip you’ll be talking about long after you’re home.
So grab your partner or your crew, and make this October the one you fall in love with Budapest. 🍂