Although Budapest is at its most attractive during the summer when it’s frequented by visitors, it’s not always pleasant to walk on concrete surfaces in the sweltering heat. Once you’ve taken in all the architectural sights of the city and visited all the main spots, it’s time to get away from the city center and find some refreshment.

Aquaworld Resort Budapest is one of the greatest water adventure parks in the Central European region, where the whole family is sure to have a great time. A multitude of pools – including wave and surf pools – await visitors seeking refreshment under the spectacular giant dome. Parents can relax in the sauna world, where children will be amazed by the 11 slides, tower jump or the play area specifically designed with the needs of children in mind. The adventure center, open throughout the year, features open-air pools during the summer for visitors between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Let’s face it, there’s nothing better than plunging into a cool pool of water in the summer sunshine. You can experience all of this and more at a 30% discount when you purchase a ticket with a valid Budapest Card. You can experience all of this and more at a 30% discount when you purchase a ticket with a valid Budapest Card.

When it comes to the Budapest Card, you can use the Zugliget Chairlift free of charge with a city card. It’s a real experience to float over the more than one kilometer-long course and take in the views of the capital city from a distance. The Erzsébet lookout tower isn’t far from the station, on the crest of János hill, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Alternatively, you can head towards Normafa to take in the most popular hiking destination for families and taste some of the finest strudel the city has to offer. Whichever way you decide to go, a stroll through the forest in the shade of the trees is a treat for young and old alike. From 1 June it can be visited for free with a Budapest Card.

Between 500,000 and 1 million years old, Szemlő Hill cave is also called the underground flower garden of Budapest. The cavity system was discovered during quarrying in 1930. Following long research and construction works, it was opened to the public in 1986. Part of the cave, explored on a 2,200 metre long section, is open to the public. Walking on an illuminated, paved path, you can gaze in wonder at the pisolites, stone flowers and gypsum crystals, reminiscent of a bunch of grapes, which cover the walls in abundance and are considered rare in Europe. The Szemlő Hill cave is considered one of Budapest’s most valuable natural assets. Its climate – high humidity and dust-free air – is suitable for treating respiratory diseases and people with asthma. The entry fee is discounted from 1 April if you have a Budapest Card.

The Pál Valley cave is Hungary’s longest known cave, it is 28.6 kilometres long. The current hiking trail, which can be used with a guide on a 500-metre section, was finished in 2001. The Pál Valley cave is unusually rich in dripstone formations compared to other caves in Buda. Its features include tall and crack-like corridors, big level differences, and spherical shapes formed by thermal waters. During the nearly hour-long tour, you can admire shell imprints that are several million years old, sparkling calcite crystals and unique rock formations. What’s more, from 1 April it can be visited for free with a Budapest Card.

Photo: Siményi Gergely