Swimming Across the Danube

If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to swim across the Danube through the heart of Budapest, the Danube Crossing 2026 is an event you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced swimmer, this unique challenge offers the chance to complete a short but unforgettable open-water swim in one of Europe’s most spectacular urban settings.

The race starts at the MAHART Pier No. 8, in front of Corvinus University Budapest, while the finish line is located at the event center in front of the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME). Participants will complete an approximately 500-meter open-water swim across the Danube.

On race day, competitors register and change at the event center before being transported by shuttle bus to the starting point. Swimmers begin the course at 15-second intervals, ensuring that no more than 20 participants are in the water at the same time for a safe and enjoyable experience.

To register, participants must have a personal StafétApp profile.

Registration remains open until the 1,000-participant limit is reached or, at the latest, until race day.

What’s Included in the Entry Fee?

The registration package includes:

Entry to the race
A unique finisher’s medal
Race package
Chip timing
Refreshments
Medical support
Swimming cap
Awards

Every finisher receives a unique commemorative medal. The top three overall finishers are awarded trophies as well as an entry voucher for the next event in the Open Water Tournament series.

The Danube Crossing is much more than a sporting event—it’s a truly unique Budapest experience. Opportunities to swim across Hungary’s most famous river under professionally organized and safe conditions are extremely rare, especially while surrounded by the city’s world-famous skyline.

If you enjoy challenges and open-water swimming, this is an event worth adding to your 2026 calendar.

Date: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Event Center: Műegyetem Embankment, Budapest
Start Time: 10:30 AM
Current Entry Fee: HUF 15,900 (valid from July 6 to August 29, 2026)

If you’re looking for active recreation, discover the best programs in Budapest.