Leisure
Ideas for the Perfect First Date
A lot can hinge on a first date. This is when you find out how well your personalities mesh, how easily you can converse, and whether you have common interests.
Choosing a location and activity where you can relax and have ample opportunity to get to know each other is crucial. Our student union has some suggestions for programs and why they might be great for a first date!
Outdoor Cinema
If you both enjoy good movies, classics, or blockbusters, going to the movies is a great option for a first date! This ensures you won't run out of conversation topics, and it’s not mainstream if you choose an outdoor cinema.
In Budapest, there are numerous options, many of which are free. KOBUCI Garden, Fellini Római Kultúrbisztró (Partmozi) on Római-part, and Hippie Island on Margaret Island all offer free screenings. If you have a summer job and can afford a paid ticket, we recommend the Várkert Cinema or the Budapest Rooftop Cinema on top of Mammut II this year.
Boat Ride
A cool breeze over the Danube, the timeless city panorama, and you two – doesn't that sound amazing? The good news is, if you have a BKK pass, this program is free on weekdays, but if not, the 750 HUF ticket might be manageable.
For a more elegant and romantic option, you can opt for a sightseeing cruise instead of the crowded BKK boat, either within the city, to the Danube Bend, or just to Szentendre. There are often coupon deals available, so it's worth looking around beforehand.
Hiking
If you love nature, a light hike on a pleasant summer day can be a perfect first date. A classic combo like Normafa and the Chairlift is a great start to step out of your comfort zones while getting to know each other better.
If you have more time or don’t want to say goodbye too soon, you can take a detour to the Erzsébet Lookout on János Hill or the Tündér-szikla – the stunning panorama is sure to bring you closer together! If you’ve been there many times, Hármashatár-hegy won’t disappoint either. Don’t miss the Árpád Lookout if you choose this route!
Picnic
If you want to focus solely on each other and create a light, romantic memory, a picnic is the best choice. Prepare delicious dips, cut lots of veggies, cheese, cold cuts, and bring sliced baguette. Don’t forget utensils, plates, napkins, and a large blanket! To help you relax, pack a well-chilled bottle of wine or another drink you both like, and don’t forget two glasses!
Budapest has many beautiful parks perfect for making your first shared memories: City Park, Garden of Philosophers, Nehru Park, or Margaret Island can all be the perfect backdrop for a perfect first date.
Beach
The more adventurous might even start collecting their first shared adventures at the beach on the first date. If you prefer pool locations, check out Budapest’s baths or choose a nearby aquapark. If you prefer lake swimming, you have plenty of options: the popular Rukkel Lake with its water slides, the trendy Lupa Beach, or the familiar Lake Velence can all be reached within 1-2 hours from the city.
Throughout the trip, you can chat casually, and playing together in the water is sure to help shed any inhibitions.
To ensure money doesn’t stand in the way of shared experiences, visit our student union!
