5 Best Dinner Cruises in Budapest in 2023 (Local's Guide)

Summary

Hungaria Koncert offers the most popular dinner cruise experience in Budapest (based on number of reviews) that includes a live performance of Hungarian folk music and dance.

The dinner cruise ship offers a wide range of Hungarian cuisine options (buffet libre) and has a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of a cabaret from the early 1900s.

If you're looking for a captivating two-hour experience to share with your spouse, family, or friends/colleagues, then this cruise is perfect for you.

🎥 Video: Watch my video summary of Hungaria Koncert's dinner cruise to get a feel for this dinner cruise.

About Hungaria Koncert

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

Detailed Breakdown

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.
• The 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.

Dinner cruise menu

Soups

• Goulash soup
• Seasonal vegetable cream soup

Hot Main Course

• Chicken fillet cooked in gravy with ragout
• Beef stew with Villány red wine
• Stuffed cabbage from turkey
• Oven-baked vegetables
• Vegetable couscous

Side Dish

• Rice
• Dumplings
• Roast potatoes with parsley

Dessert

• Variation of strudel
• Somlói Galuska
• Fruit bowl (only on request for those unable to eat other desserts)

Salad

• Mixed salad with pesto
• Pasta salad with yoghurt

Extra Side

• Cucumber salad with sour cream

Quick Facts

• 📅 Schedule: every day at 19:00, and on weekends at 22:00
• 🎟️ 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: no
• ✔️ Baby stroller accessible: yes
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for children (age 0-5)

How to Get There

• 🗺️ Meeting point: Budapest, Id. Antall József rkp., 1051
• ✔️ Centrally located, easy to find and arrive.
• 📘 Use tram line 2 to arrive at Széchenyi István tér stop.  You can find Hungaria Koncert next to Széchenyi Chain bridge.

💡 Pricing 58€ vs. 75€ — What's the difference? Those with a regular dinner cruise ticket (58€) won't be able to see the folk dance show - they need to buy the 75€ ticket if they do. There's nothing stopping you from going over to the other side for a sneak peek, though.

Summary

If you're looking for a romantic dinner cruise in Budapest, look no further than Legenda City Cruises. They offer the best experience for couples seeking an extraordinary night out.

You're in for a romantic treat with an accommodating and professional staff, an elegant and luxurious ambiance, breathtaking views of the Danube and the beautiful cityscape of Budapest, a delicious 4-course catered dinner, and live lounge music.

It's the perfect setting for the most romantic night of your life!

If you want a captivating 3-hour experience with your significant other, this cruise is the perfect choice.

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.

‍What's Included

• You'll be served a 4-course catered dinner. The meals are high quality, but gourmet food lovers will have a better experience with restaurants.
  

• Included drinks: a welcome drink (glass of champagne, wine, beer, a soft drink, or mineral water) (drinks menu)

Live Music

• There's live lounge music played during the cruise and you can event dance during the cruise.

Dinner Cruise Menu

• 4-course dinner for adults, 3-course dinner for children (Romantic Candlelit Dinner Cruise Menu)
• Catering for special diets: gluten-free, lactose free and vegetarian/vegan options are available

‍Cruise Duration

• It lasts 2.5 hours - starting at 7 pm. This gives ample time to enjoy the food, the music performance, and see the sights.
  

The Ship

• Legenda seems to alternate between two different dinner cruise ships. In any case, both have a high-end, elegant, and luxurious vibe. You'll feel like a cherished guest.
  

• The top deck (on both ships) has an open-air dining area. It's coverable in case of bad weather on one of the ships. It's a 360-degree view - great for sightseeing and taking photos.
• See the ship for yourself (virtual tour).

• ‍Tables are couple-sized - there are no larger group-sized ones. The views are magnificent.
  

• Photo takers take heed - the windows are prone to fogging up and also reflect the light. This happens on every ship in winter and rainy weather.
  

• If you're unlucky, you may be seated in the middle row. Aka not with the best views, but they're still good enough. Book early so you can select the best seats.

My Best Friend's Personal Experience Who Proposed to Her Girlfriend on Legenda's Dinner Cruise

"From the moment I contacted the company, their attention to detail was impeccable. They provided attentive and responsive service, making themselves available through both emails and phones well before the actual cruise. The professionalism they displayed left no doubt about their years of experience in handling guests from all over the world. Their approach struck the perfect balance, offering just the right amount of attention without being pushy.

Upon arrival, the crew warmly welcomed us with smiles and displayed professionalism in at least two languages. The food offered on the cruise was above average and perfectly suited for this kind of experience. While some dishes could be improved, certain courses truly stood out and would shine in any restaurant.

However, what I truly cherished was the enchanting atmosphere created by the glass boat, which felt like something out of a fairytale. The mix of international and Hungarian folk music added to the magical ambiance. Not only was the crew friendly, but the fellow guests were also kind and amiable, making the boat's vibe exceptional. The drinks offered were reasonably priced, providing great value for the experience.

During my visit, I was on a special occasion, a proposal, and despite the boat being full, I found discreet spots to enjoy privacy. The romantic vibes were palpable from the very beginning, which undoubtedly contributed to my wonderful experience. You'll likely feel the same way if you're seeking a romantic dinner.

A crucial aspect to note is that seating is based on the booking order, not the arrival time. However, even those with late bookings still get fantastic 360-degree views, and there's ample opportunity to move around the boat and capture some excellent photos.

The waitresses were both stylishly dressed and highly responsive, maintaining flexibility and punctuality throughout the cruise. While the boat isn't a party vessel, the music gradually energized the atmosphere, with guests swaying to the beat while seated, rather than dancing on the floor.

As the cruise reached its peak, the experience was truly at its highest point, making the stop all the more memorable.

In conclusion, the cruise provided a perfect and exceptional experience, one that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking a magical and romantic journey on the water."

Quick Facts

• 📅 Schedule: every day at 19:00, and on weekends at 22:00
• 🎟️ 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: no
• ✔️ Baby stroller accessible: yes
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for infants (age 0-2), 25% cheaper 3-course children menu available (age 3-12)

How to Get There

• 🗺️ Meeting point: Dock 7, Jane Haining rakpart, 1052 Budapest
• ✔️ Centrally located, easy to find and arrive.
• 📘 How to get there: The dock is located halfway between Széchenyi chain bridge and Elisabeth bridge. Easily accessible via Tram Line 2.

Summary

Are you looking for an authentic folklore dinner cruise experience in Budapest? Look no further than Silverline Cruises! They offer an incredible dinner cruise experience with a Hungarian operetta and folk show for guests looking for a fun-filled night.

Get ready for an amazing adventure with a welcoming crew, a lively cabaret ambiance, and a captivating folk operetta performance.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube River and the magnificent cityscape of Budapest, followed by a mouth-watering dinner featuring a selection of three or six courses.

If you're searching for an unforgettable three-hour adventure to enjoy with your partner, loved ones, or colleagues, this cruise is an ideal choice.

🎥 Video: Watch this teaser video of Silverline Cruises' dinner cruise to get a better idea of what you can expect.

About Silverline Cruises

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.

What's Included

• Indulge in a delicious three or six-course dinner meal prepared on-site for maximum freshness (check out the menu below).
  

Folk Operetta Performance & Music Show

• Witness the vibrantlive performance of traditional Hungarian folk music and dance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of this fascinating country.

Dinner Cruise Menu

• 3-to-6 course dinner for adults, depending on which tier you choose. Additional packages are available with drinks and window table.
• See menu: Silverline Gourmet 3-course Dinner Cruise Menu, Silverline Gourmet 6-course Dinner Cruise Menu)
• Also worth checking out are HQ photos of the gourmet meals courtesy of Silverline Cruises.
• Catering for special diets: gluten-free, lactose free and vegetarian/vegan options are available.
  

Cruise Duration

• The cruise lasts for 3 hours. This gives ample time to enjoy the food, the music performance, and see the sights. ‍

The Ship‍

• The show and dinner take place on the main/bottom deck where you're seated at 2 or 4-person tables. The folklore music show takes place on a small stage.
  

• The upper deck is designed for sightseeing and not for dining. However, the seating rows have limited legroom and can feel cramped if the area is crowded with passengers. Additionally, the views are partially obstructed by the roof and support columns (source: Been on a different cruise offered by Silverline).

Quick Facts

• 📅 Schedule: every day at 19:30
• 🎟️ 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: no
• ✔️ Baby stroller accessible: yes
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for infants (age 0-3), 5% cheaper for young children (age 4-10)

How to Get There

• 🗺️ Meeting point: Budapest, Jane Haining Rakpart, Dokk 11, 1052
• ✔️ Centrally located, easy to find and arrive.
• 📘 Use tram line 2 to arrive at Széchenyi István tér stop. You can find Silverline Cruises closest to Elisabeth Bridge.

Summary

Note: This cruise is a carbon copy of dinner cruise #3, operated by the same cruise company (Silverline Cruises). The difference is that you get to enjoy a piano show instead of a Hungarian folk show. Likewise, there's a 3-course and 6-course option available.

Enjoy a delightful piano dinner cruise in Budapest with Silverline Cruises. They offer an exceptional experience complete with a lively atmosphere and captivating piano music performance for those who prefer more contemporary music.

You can expect to be greeted by a friendly crew, an enjoyable atmosphere, and an enthralling piano performance that will leave you captivated.

Experience Budapest's magnificent cityscape and breathtaking Danube River views while indulging in a mouth-watering dinner featuring a selection of three or six courses.

This three-hour adventure is perfect for couples, loved ones, or colleagues looking for an unforgettable experience.

🎥 Video: Watch this teaser video of Silverline Cruises' dinner cruise to get a better idea of what you can expect.

About Silverline Cruises

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.

What's Included

• Indulge in a delicious three or six-course dinner meal prepared on-site for maximum freshness (check out the menu below).

Piano Music Show

• Enjoy a captivating piano "battle" performance where two skilled musicians compete in a thrilling display of musical talent along with a female singer.

Dinner Cruise Menu

• 3-to-6 course dinner for adults, depending on which tier you choose. Additional packages are available with drinks and window table.
• See menu: Silverline Gourmet 3-course Dinner Cruise Menu, Silverline Gourmet 6-course Dinner Cruise Menu)
• Also worth checking out are HQ photos of the gourmet meals courtesy of Silverline Cruises.
• Catering for special diets: gluten-free, lactose free and vegetarian/vegan options are available.
  

Cruise Duration

• The cruise lasts for 3 hours. This gives ample time to enjoy the food, the music performance, and see the sights. ‍

The Ship

• The show and dinner take place on the main/bottom deck where you're seated at 2 or 4-person tables. The folklore music show takes place on a small stage.
  

• The upper deck is designed for sightseeing and not for dining. However, the seating rows have limited legroom and can feel cramped if the area is crowded with passengers.
• The views are partially obstructed by the roof and support columns (source: Been on a different cruise offered by Silverline).

Quick Facts

• 📅 Schedule: every day at 19:30
• 🎟️ 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: no
• ✔️ Baby stroller accessible: yes
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: free for infants (age 0-3), 5% cheaper for young children (age 4-10)

How to Get There

• 🗺️ Meeting point: Budapest, Jane Haining Rakpart, Dokk 11, 1052
• ✔️ Centrally located, easy to find and arrive.
• 📘 Use tram line 2 to arrive at Széchenyi István tér stop. You can find Silverline Cruises closest to Elisabeth Bridge.

Summary

Experience a wonderful evening of traditional folk music and dance while cruising along the Danube River in Budapest with Eurama.

Their dinner cruise promises a lively atmosphere and a captivating gypsy performance, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy the stunning cityscape of Budapest and the breathtaking views of the Danube River while treating yourself to a delicious three-course dinner.

This 1.5-hour adventure is ideal for couples, loved ones, or colleagues seeking a memorable experience.

🎥 Video: Watch this teaser video of Eurama's dinner cruise to get a better idea of what you can expect.

About Eurama

Eurama has been running a tour agency since at least 2003, and they offer a variety of tours in addition to their dinner cruise.

What's Included

• Enjoy a tasty three-course dinner meal catered to your taste buds, featuring authentic Hungarian dishes. They also cater to special diets, with detailed menu options provided below.

Gypsy Music and Dance Show

• Enjoy a delightful dinner cruise while being entertained by traditional Gypsy music and dance performances.

Dinner Cruise Menu

• 3-to-6 course dinner for adults, depending on which tier you choose. Additional packages are available with drinks and window table.
• Traditional Hungarian Menu 1: Goulash soup, Roast duck leg with oniony crushed potatoes and stewed cabbage, Apple, sour cherry strudel with cinnamon dressing
• Traditional Hungarian Menu 2: Clear chicken soup „Újházi style” with vegetables, Veal stew with egg noodles, Somlói galuska
• Vegetarian Menu: Green pea cream soup, with cilantro cottage cheese dumplings, Grilled goat cheese with sweet potatoes and raspberry vinegar salad, Traditional Gundel pancake
• SPECIAL Gluten free Menu: Goulash soup (of course without bread), Roast duck leg with oniony crushed potatoes and stewed cabbage, Chia Seed pudding with strawberry pith
• SPECIAL Lactose free Menu: Goulash soup, Roast duck leg with oniony crushed potatoes and stewed cabbage, Chia Seed pudding with strawberry pith
  

Cruise Duration

• The cruise will take 1.5 hours, which may seem shorter than other cruises that last 2-3 hours. However, in my experience, anything over 2 hours can be excessive.
• Nonetheless, 1.5 hours is enough time to enjoy the food, music performance, and beautiful scenery.‍

The Ship

• The show and gypsy music band is main deck, so choose your seats accordingly. Seating depends on the size of your group. Both decks have ample space to move around, and the upper deck offers a stunning 360-degree view.

Quick Facts

• 📅 Schedule: every day at 20:00
• 🎟️ 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: no
• ✔️ Baby stroller accessible: yes
• ✔️ Infant/children discount: none

How to Get There

• 🗺️ Meeting point: Budapest, Jane Haining rkp., Dock 6, 1051
• ✔️ The meeting point is conveniently located in the center and easily accessible.
• 📘 To get to Vigadó tér tram stop, you can either take tram line 2 or walk. Eurama is located near the BBKK-Mahart kiosk.