Climb aboard and let yourself be whisked away to Spain—right on the Danube—with Mahart’s one-hour sightseeing cruises. Flamenco, Latin pop, and classic Spanish flavors transform these boats into floating fiestas. That sweeping cityscape of Budapest (Budapest)? Even more dazzling with music and the right drink in hand. Whether you’re a tourist, a local just looking for fun, or on a special date, these Spanish Nights are the ultimate summer adventure for couples and friends alike.
Set Sail at Sunset—Spanish Style
The cruise departs from Mahart’s Batthyány Square (Batthyány tér) dock and floats past Budapest’s most stunning landmarks over a relaxing 50-minute route. You’ll glide by the Parliament, the Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd), Buda Castle (Budavári Palota), and more, catching all the iconic city sights shimmering in the evening light as live Spanish tunes fill the air.
The show isn’t just for your eyes: each ticket includes a glass of classic sangria—fruity, refreshing, and authentically Spanish—and a traditional Spanish snack. It’s a full sensory immersion, with flamenco and Latin pop creating the perfect party vibe aboard.
Sailing dates are set for July 17-19, 2025, and again August 14-16, 2025. Cruises depart three times each night: 7:20 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:40 PM, always from Batthyány Square (Batthyány tér), Mahart dock.
What’s Included and How Much?
Your ticket gets you the whole Spanish experience: the cruise itself, a glass of sangria, and a snack, plus all the vibrant music and atmosphere you can handle.
Pricing is straightforward:
- Adult ticket: $21
- Couple’s ticket: $38
- Group ticket for 10: $180
(Get yours early if you’re planning a group night out on deck.)
Sleep in Style: Budapest’s Luxurious Waterside Hotels
Why end your night at the riverbank? There’s no shortage of atmospheric places to stay nearby. Take the four-star boutique hotel at the foot of Buda Castle (Budavári Palota), with 27 panorama-view rooms right on the riverbank. It’s just a ten-minute stroll to major UNESCO World Heritage sights: Buda Castle (Budavári Palota), Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom), and Fishermen’s Bastion (Halászbástya). The Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) takes you straight to the city’s business district, bustling shops, stylish cafés, and wine bars on the lively Pest side.
Buda Castle Hotel sits in the heart of the castle district, tucked away on a quiet side street but close to every major tourist hotspot. Designated a World Heritage Site since 1987, the neighborhood promises unique dining, cultural adventures, and a sense of old European magic.
A bit further up, Budavár Pension offers tranquility and comfort in the historic district, right by Fishermen’s Bastion (Halászbástya) and just steps from Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom). Rooms here are exclusive and central, with all the charm of a UNESCO setting.
Exe Carlton Budapest and Gold Hotel Budapest offer relaxing, peaceful stays for both vacationers and business travelers downtown—think climate-controlled, stylish rooms equipped with LCD TVs, minibars, hairdryers, and free WiFi.
Experience World Heritage—Up Close and Personal
Hilton Budapest delivers first-class luxury right beside Fishermen’s Bastion (Halászbástya) and Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom). Expect dramatic Danube views from your window: stunning bridges, Margaret Island (Margitsziget), the Parliament, Pest’s grand architecture, and the hills of Buda. The lobby blends sleek modern hotel style with the remains of a 13th-century Dominican monastery—relax or host an outdoor event in the fairy-tale Dominican Courtyard.
Hotel Castle Garden is ideally situated at the entrance to the castle district, making exploration of Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom), Fishermen’s Bastion (Halászbástya), and the Royal Palace (Királyi Palota) a breeze. For green spaces and a little peace along with great food, Hotel Charles should top your list.
For a boutique experience, Hotel Clark Budapest offers sweeping river and city views right next to the iconic Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd). Active travelers can unwind in the sauna or hit the on-site gym before heading out to discover Budapest (Budapest).
Eats, Drinks & Unforgettable Evenings
Savor inventive Hungarian cuisine at 21 The Hungarian Restaurant (21 Magyar Vendéglő), which resurrects forgotten flavors in a lighter, 21st-century style. For coffee connoisseurs, Goosebumps offers specialty brews, Zhao Zhou teas, vegan and gluten-free sweets, and cold-pressed juices.
Classic Hungarian food gets a bold update and top-quality wines fill the cellars of historic castle district venues, tempting guests to stay late. Angelika serves much more than café fare: enjoy world-class desserts and terrace dining overlooking the Danube (Duna), plus homemade breakfasts in a 350-seat restaurant (indoor and outdoor seating combined).
The historic Golden Barrel Restaurant (Arany Hordó Étterem), once the king’s chief cupbearer’s residence, now invites you for candlelit wine tastings in its centuries-old cellar within the Buda Labyrinth (Budai Labirintus). If you’re craving glamour, Arany Kaviár’s lavish Russian-inspired fine dining has been a favorite of Michelin and Gault Millau since 2009.
Want something international? Arriba Taqueria brings fast, fresh Mexican bites in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere, while art bistrobar and Budapest’s first Belgian pub on Bem Embankment (Bem rakpart) offer everything from classic bistro fare to summer terrace beers.
Organizers reserve the right to change schedules and programs as needed, but fun and flavor are always on the menu.