The Buda Arboretum and other wonderful botanical gardens of the capital

If you’re craving a scenic, hilly walk, head to the Buda Arboretum on the southern slope of Gellért Hill. Since the plantings began in the winter of 1893–94, this arboretum has grown to become one of Budapest’s most significant. You can wander among nearly two thousand species of trees and shrubs while enjoying the unique, Mediterranean-style microclimate. Here, you can find plants that are rarely seen elsewhere in the city. Admire true Ginkgo biloba trees—also known as maidenhair trees—or the rare bitter hickory. Although its thin-shelled fruits are inedible, you will surely be captivated by the beauty of this uniquely shaped plant beneath its golden canopy. The Buda Arboretum is a place where flowering slopes, shady paths and historic trees await from spring through autumn. If you enjoy photography, picnicking or simply immersing yourself in nature, you’re guaranteed to find a quiet spot here, a mere five minutes from the bustling city.

You will find Hungary’s oldest botanical garden—the Botanical Garden, founded in 1771 and operating at its current location since 1847—in the very heart of Budapest. As you step inside, you’re instantly removed from the city’s noise. You’re surrounded by more than 8,000 plant species and varieties, and you can even wander among orchids, palms and bromeliads in the tropical greenhouse.

Be sure not to miss the enormous Victoria amazonica water lily, one of the highlights of the garden. The arboretum is a spot in Budapest where you can stroll among some three thousand trees and shrubs—and even step into a literary adventure, since several scenes from Ferenc Molnár’s novel The Paul Street Boys take place here. Sit on a bench, read, take photos or simply let nature slow you down for a while.

The Mihály Mőcsényi Botanical Garden in City Park—a true surprise near the city centre—was recently renovated as part of the Liget Budapest Project. Founded in 1967, the “small botanical garden” is now a modern, exhibition-style space where you can stroll among medicinal herbs, spices, vines and fruit trees, as well as aquatic and marsh plants. During the renovation, over 35,000 plants were planted, representing around 335 species. This true oasis is a place to find inspiration for your own garden or balcony, explore fragrant herbs and even plan an enjoyable and educational outing with children.

The Soroksár Botanical Garden, a more than 60-hectare living collection affiliated with Hungary’s largest agricultural university, features unique native and Asian tree species, rare oaks, swamp cypresses and thematic plant collections that reveal a different face with each season. Founded in the 19th century, the Soroksár Botanical Garden’s historic atmosphere, tranquil ponds and nature-like paths make a visit a true exploratory adventure in the southern corner of Budapest.