Budapest Danube cruises: schedules, durations & best times to sail

The final cruises of the day typically leave in the late evening, but exact times depend on the season and operator. Missing the last departure may mean swapping your river views for a riverside walk or tram ride back to your hotel.

For photography and atmosphere, many people love sunset and early night cruises when the sky and city lights share the stage. Daytime sailings, however, often feel quieter and give clearer views of architectural details.

In high season, on holidays and during festivals, booking your preferred time slot in advance is strongly recommended—especially for dinner cruises and packages with reserved seating.

Public transport passes in Budapest generally do not cover private sightseeing cruises. Always check exactly what your existing ticket includes and whether your chosen river tour requires a separate reservation.