SUP into Budapest, Hungary

Paddle boarding the Danube is a really great way of exploring the spectacular views and small beaches that are dotted along the riverside, giving a fresh perspective of this beautiful country from its famous waterways.

Launching from the beach at Dunabogdany, follow the river and wind your way down to the pretty Artist’s town of Szentendre, which is situated close to the riverside, a little north of Budapest. This section of the river is a great option for beginners to SUP as the water is relatively flat and calm and makes for an enjoyable cruise, dropping in on beaches and villages along the way.

After paddling the first stretch we recommend stopping off at the village of Tahitothfalu. Here you’ll find ‘Őrház Chill and BBQ’, an ideal place to have lunch as you can leave your boards and walk up with ease.

Once refreshed, paddle onward towards Leanyfalu, a riverside village where you’ll find a few great spots to have a swim or jump in from one of the swings found on the riverbank. During the summer months, the water temperature of the river reaches 20-25°C, so no excuses, get in the water!

The final stretch will bring you past the tiny ‘Lupa Island’ a great place to take some pictures and quench your thirst with some handmade lemonade at the riverside bar.

Finally, you will reach Romai-part, one of the most popular beaches of Budapest where you can enjoy a well-earned beer after a full day paddle boarding.

• Sat nav
  47.79760815104035, 19.024358926186093
• Nearest parking
  

  Parking is available at most hotels

• Launch point
  

  Dunabogdany, next to Forgo restaurant

• Places to stay
  

  The Romai Hotel Budapest is a great place to stay as it is close to the launch point for this paddle and offers great customer service and The Alfa Art Hotel is a large hotel located close to the river in the city. It is reasonably priced and features a uniquely designed garden area.

• Places to eat and drink
  

  Szentendre has various restaurants ranging from tasty street food, traditional Hungarian cuisine right through to the world-famous marzipan, Szamos Marcipán.

  A great restaurant to try in Romai-part is the laidback, riverside bistro called Fillini. Here you can kickback and lounge on a deckchair and take in the riverside views. They offer a varied menu and also host concerts and movie nights throughout the summer months.