Budapest is a striking European city that has been attracting avid travellers for years. The unique layout of the city and its impressive historical buildings have granted it UNESCO World Heritage status, which is a testament to its exceptional culture. But how long should you spend in Budapest?
In this article, we present a packed itinerary that will ensure you have the best 3 days in Budapest. The city is split into two parts by the Danube, so you’ll spend the first 2 days exploring Buda and Pest. We then leave the absolute must-do attractions in Budapest for the last day.
We also include some top tips that will help you prepare for your Budapest trip and make sure you have a fantastic stay in Hungary’s vibrant capital.
For your first day on this Budapest itinerary, we’re taking you through some of the best places on the Buda side of the city. With ancient castles, stunning views and a glorious cruise along the Danube, the first day of your Budapest trip promises to be sensational.
Start your Budapest adventure by crossing the iconic Szechenyi Chain Bridge to reach Castle Hill. This is one of the 8 bridges that connect the ancient cities of Buda and Pest and even walking along it provides an immersive experience of the city’s diverse history.
Once you’ve crossed the bridge and taken some excellent Instagram-worthy photos, it’s time to head up to Buda Castle. To reach the top of Castle Hill you can walk up the steps or jump on the historic funicular railway. Once you’ve reached the top, head left where you’ll find the magnificent Buda Castle.
This historic complex houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. These museums showcase Hungarian art and history, making them excellent places to delve into the country’s culture. While exploring the castle grounds, be sure to make time to visit the stunning Matthias Church known for its intricate Gothic architecture.
After you’ve spent time wandering the courtyards and galleries, dine at a local café in the Castle District. There are a variety of eateries that will see you savouring traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash and chimney cake while enjoying the charming cobblestone streets.
After lunch, visit Fisherman’s Bastion which is next to Matthias Church. This impressive lookout tower seems as though it was lifted straight out of a fairytale and is one of the most popular attractions in Budapest. The magical structure boasts 7 turrets which represent the 7 tribes who founded Hungary, they also provide immaculate views of the Danube, Pest and the Parliament building.
The balconies are open all day and are free for visitors to enter as they wish. If you want a more spectacular view with the best panoramic photo opportunities, you can pay a small fee to access the top of the turrets.
After enjoying the breathtaking views, continue on the tram to Gellért Hill. This is another iconic Budapest landmark, named after Saint Gellért who died on the hill in the 11th century. There are some amazing experiences to be had here which will leave you with an unforgettable first day in Budapest.
One of the best things to do at Gellért Hill is to visit the Liberty Statue. This impressive monument stands at the top of the hill and looks out onto the entirety of Budapest. It was erected to commemorate Hungary’s liberation from Nazi occupation and holds a palm leaf, symbolising peace.
One of the more unusual aspects of Gellért Hill which is definitely worth experiencing is the natural cave systems. Many of these can be visited for free, but for a small entry fee, you can explore the Gellért Hill Cave. Housed within the subterranean chamber is a serene chapel dedicated to Saint Ivan, offering a glimpse into Hungary’s religious history.
To wrap up your first day in Budapest, we recommend dining in style with a memorable dinner cruise on the Danube. As the sun sets and the city lights begin to sparkle, you’ll embark on a luxurious cruise ship, equipped with panoramic windows and an open-air deck, offering unobstructed views of Budapest’s iconic landmarks.
As you glide along the shimmering water you can savour Hungarian cuisine while admiring the beautifully illuminated skyline along the riverbanks. Most dinner cruises offer a buffet-style meal, allowing you to sample an array of appetisers, main courses and desserts. You can enjoy flavourful local specialities while listening to live music, which creates the most magical ambience.
As your first day was spent exploring Buda, we’ve dedicated your second day in Budapest to discovering the Pest side of the city. Often referred to as the heart of Budapest, Pest is located on the eastern side of the Danube and boasts historical landmarks, cultural attractions and a vibrant nightlife scene.
To begin your exploration of Pest, start your day at Heroes Square. Situated on Andrássy Avenue, the square is the largest in Budapest and was created to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of the city’s founding. It is easily accessible on foot or you can jump on the Millenium Metro Line to ‘Hősök tere’.
This grand square is adorned with statues of historical Hungarian leaders and the Millennium Memorial which celebrates the country’s foundation. It’s a perfect spot to learn about Hungary’s robust heritage and take memorable photos.
Adjacent to Heroes’ Square is City Park, a sprawling green oasis that is a great place for an early morning stroll. As you explore the park, be sure to visit Vajdahunyad Castle, a picturesque architectural marvel showcasing different styles from Hungary’s history.
After a leisurely walk through City Park, head towards St. Stephen’s Basilica, a magnificent neoclassical church named after Hungary’s first king. On a tour of the Basilica, you can marvel at its ornate interior and don’t miss the panoramic views of Budapest from the dome terrace.
You can elevate your visit by attending one of the many events that are held in the basilica. One of the best things to do in Budapest is to watch a classical music concert inside St. Stephen’s Basilica. The exquisite architecture combined with the soothing classical notes culminates in the most appealing sensory experience.
Once you’ve explored St. Stephen’s, wander down to the Danube Promenade. This scenic riverside walkway offers captivating views of Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and the majestic Chain Bridge. It’s a great place to enjoy a stroll while soaking in the beauty of Budapest’s skyline, especially enchanting during sunset.
One of the most poignant features of the promenade is the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial. This chilling memorial was created to honour and remember the Jewish people who were executed in Budapest during World War II. The memorial consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes, as the victims were ordered to remove their footwear before being shot and falling into the river.
After exploring the Promenade, it’s time to venture into the Jewish Quarter; a district teeming with history, culture and vibrant nightlife. An unmissable site is the Great Synagogue (Dohány Street Synagogue), Europe’s largest synagogue, renowned for its intricate Moorish Revival architecture. Nearby, you’ll find the Jewish Museum and the profound Holocaust Memorial, honouring the lives lost during World War II.
As evening descends, you can immerse yourself in Budapest’s unique nightlife by visiting the famous ruin bars that are abundant throughout the quarter. These unique bars, set in abandoned buildings adorned with eclectic decor, create an unforgettable ambience.
Szimpla Kert, the pioneer of ruin bars, is a must-visit. Alongside drinks, visitors can enjoy live music, art installations and a diverse crowd of locals and tourists alike. It’s an excellent way to experience Budapest’s alternative scene and socialise with fellow travellers.
As you’ve spent your first 2 days in Budapest exploring the highlights of each side of the city, we’ve dedicated your last day to seeing the top sights that are absolute must-dos. From the stunning architecture of the Parliament Building to the soothing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, your last day in Budapest will reveal the magnificence of the city.
Start bright and early for your last day and head to the hallowed halls of the Hungarian Parliament Building, an architectural marvel along the Danube. It is recommended that you book your tickets in advance to ensure entry as this is a very popular tourist attraction.
Visitors can admire its magnificent facade adorned with intricate details, towers and spires. Guided tours provide access to the grandiose interior, including the impressive staircase, ornate chambers and the Holy Crown of Hungary, adding historical depth to the experience.
After a morning of exploring the elegant chambers of the Parliament building, it’s time to immerse yourself in the local culture by making a trip to Budapest’s Great Market Hall. This vibrant hub of culinary delights and cultural experiences is an absolute must for any Budapest itinerary.
The bustling market, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, offers a feast for the senses. Visitors can explore stalls brimming with fresh produce, local delicacies, spices, wines and traditional Hungarian crafts. It’s an ideal place to sample authentic Hungarian cuisine, including hearty goulash, sausages and pastries.
End your Budapest adventure with a relaxing soak at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Europe’s largest and most famous thermal baths. It’s the perfect way to unwind before you depart home, just be sure to book in advance to avoid waiting in long queues.
As one of Budapest’s most famous thermal baths, Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a luxurious retreat and a testament to Hungary’s spa culture. The bath complex, located in City Park, boasts a magnificent Neo-Baroque architectural style. Visitors can indulge in a relaxing soak in the numerous indoor and outdoor thermal pools filled with mineral-rich waters sourced from natural springs.
The experience is enhanced by the grandeur of the surroundings, including intricately designed columns, statues and thermal cabins. Széchenyi Thermal Bath offers a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind and rejuvenate.
Now that you understand what 3 days in Budapest looks like, we’ve also got some useful tips that will help you plan your visit. We discuss the best time to visit Budapest, what to pack and provide some insights about getting around the city.
The best time to visit Budapest is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather in Budapest is pleasant and the city is much less crowded. From May, you can enjoy daily highs of 23°C which is perfect for exploring the city on foot.
June to August can be very hot and busy with tourists, while December to February offers a magical atmosphere, especially during the holiday season. If you do visit Budapest in winter, be sure to visit the charming Christmas markets that pop up around the city.
For starters, pack comfortable walking shoes as Budapest is best explored on foot. You should also bring weather-appropriate clothing that will suit the season of your visit. Layers are advisable, especially in spring and autumn when temperatures can vary.
Additionally, you should pack a Type C or F power adapter to charge your electronics. You will also need to bring swimwear for the thermal baths, as it is not provided.
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is the primary airport serving the city, located about 16 kilometres southeast of the city centre. Various airlines offer direct flights to Budapest from other major European cities.
Budapest has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and a metro. You can take full advantage of this by purchasing a Budapest Card for unlimited travel within the city. We highly suggest using the tram network as it is especially scenic when sightseeing in Budapest.
Budapest is a city of contrasts, seamlessly blending its fascinating history with vibrant modernity. In just three days, you can savour its architectural wonders, soak in thermal baths, taste delicious cuisine and immerse yourself in the unique culture.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie or a party enthusiast, Budapest offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the magic of Budapest—one of Europe’s most captivating destinations.
Thinking about visiting Europe sometime soon? Check out our other posts like Eastern European City Breaks Off The Beaten Path for more amazing travel tips.
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