Jókai Garden Budapest
Urban natural reserve
The Jókai-kert (garden) may be small, but it belongs to the Duna-Ipoly National Park, and is, as such, a protected area which gives a home to several species of birds, insects and inquisitive squirrels as well. The garden belonged to famous novelist Mór Jókai, who bought the abandoned stone quarry in 1853. He then proceeded to plant vines and fruit trees, and also encircled the garden with large trees, such as maples and ash trees, to protect it from the strong winds which are still typical for the area-something you will find out if you make the rather arduous climb on foot: moving westwards from Déli station, it takes you through scenic neighbourhoods with great vistas and lasts about an hour and a half at a leisurely pace. Lazier nature lovers can take buses 21/21A or 212, getting off at the Városkút stop.
The garden can be visited for free during opening hours, but there is a small fee (600 forints) for the bird exhibition. Guided tours, birthday events and wedding photography packages are also available for those interested. On the Pest-facing slope, which comes with a fabulous view of the city, there is a small vineyard, with vines brought from several famous vineyards from within the current Hungarian borders and beyond. The aim is to recreate the once-famous Buda red wine, a mixture of the Csóka grape type, traditionally found in the area, the Kadarka, brought from south of the Danube by Serbian settlers and the Kékfrankos.
About this spot
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Budapest guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Budapest
Foodie MinuteBistro – Budapest gastronomic hotspot
MinuteBistro has a “daily menu” option, which can come with a soup combined either with salad or pasta/risotto (gluten-free pasta option is available too).
By
Betti
Galos
Bakáts tér – Tranquility in Budapest
Whether you're seeking a moment to relax or simply admiring the beauty of the area, the square will offer an escape from the chaos of everyday life.
By
Betti
Galos
Kisperec Pékség – Bakery perfection - Budapest
Take a seat right by the window where you can enjoy your treats with your morning coffee while looking outside at how the world moves at a different pace.
By
Betti
Galos
Dynamo Bike and Bake – Coffee heaven in Budapest
I make sure to visit this place, at least once per month and always eat the same Gallet cake and drink some coffee or tea from their selections.
By
Betti
Galos
Flatty – Extraordinary coffee in Budapest
Imagine a coffee with a small doze of mascarpone topping up with an espresso, which is a real delight for your taste buds, and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
By
Betti
Galos
Big Ben Teaház – Heavenly Hideaway
On the menu there is a lot of different and unique sounding teas, and I would recommend trying the dark chocolate tea with a sip of cream on the side.
By
Betti
Galos
Petruska Ètkezde – Comfort food in Budapest
This is a family-owned business, where the food tastes homemade. Every meal you choose feels like your family cooked it with so much love.
By
Betti
Galos
Say Cheese – An honest smile on your face
You can find many different kinds of cheesecakes here but one standout recommendation is the cottage cheese and raspberry, a unique Hungarian taste.
By
Betti
Galos
Habos Gofri-Waffel – My memorable waffle
This place might seem a bit retro to the people who pass by, but one thing is certain: some things are always great, no matter how much time passes.
By
Betti
Galos
KÉK – Co-working on a vibrant street in Buda
In search for a warm environment to work remotely? KÉK – Contemporary Architecture Center has it all, a hub for creativity, connection, and inspiration.
By
Eszter
Baracskai
Arquitecto Pitpit – The secret garden
In the place of a former canteen, a tapas bar opened, with the cute name of Arquitecto Pitpit, recalling the birds that often chirp in this leafy court.
By
Claudia
Leporatti
Csendes Vintage Bar & Café – Surrealist blast
"Csendes Vintage Bar & Café" in Budapest means 'quiet' but the name is a bit misleading - it's a buzzy ruin bar without the rains & a comfortable eatery...
By