Budapest is Hungary’s largest and capital city and an important hub in Central Europe. It sits on the banks of the River Danube. With its breathtaking old world grandeur and thriving cultural life, incredible architecture and rich and dramatic history, Budapest deserves its reputation as the "Paris of Eastern Europe". The city is composed of 2 smaller cities split by the river. Buda, on the west bank looks out over the much larger Pest, on the east bank which is the lively city centre. These 2 parts developed separately. Ancient Buda with its palaces and spas, and Pest which is more commercial. Its most famous landmark is the Parliament building on the banks of the Danube. It has a collection of palaces, churches and monuments which have been declared as World Heritage Sites. There is much for the visitor to discover in this beautiful city.

Since September 2002 the age of consent in Hungary is 14 for gays, lesbians and heterosexuals. Same-sex marriage is not possible, but gays and lesbians – just like heterosexuals – can enter into domestic partnerships. Budapest has a very lively gay scene. Known as the gay metropolis of Eastern Europe. It’s common to see same sex couples walking hand in hand. The LGBT crowd all frequent the same places here, regardless of age or preference, you will not find specific clubs such as leather bars or fetish clubs, although some of the bars cater for mostly gay men. All of the gay bars are in the centre of the city on the Pest side, with some of the saunas on the outskirts.

All bars listed are gay venues. Hotels are gay-friendly although there are many gay owned apartments for the LGBT community in Budapest.