More about: Budapest in 3 Days: tips, what to see, and much more
Ranked amongst the top 10 most beautiful cities to visit in Europe, Budapest is a destination that will captivate you from the very first moment. To help you enjoy everything it has to offer in just three days, I’ve put together an itinerary that takes in the best of the city, striking the perfect balance between history, relaxation and local culture. Make the most of every day with clear suggestions for the morning, afternoon and evening, and get the most out of your trip. Let’s get going!
Day 1: Explore the BUDAPEST side of Budapest
Buda is the most historic and monumental part of Budapest. Castles, medieval churches and views of the Danube set the tone for this first day.
In the morning
Head up Castle Hill to visit Buda Castle, and explore some of its cultural attractions such as the History Museum or the Hungarian National Gallery.
Walking to the top will take you about 30 minutes, although you can take the funicular from the Chain Bridge.
In the afternoon
Have lunch in the Castle District and visit the mysterious Castle Labyrinth, which will transport you to the historic underground of Buda.
Afterwards, visit the beautiful Matthias Church and finish with the city’s most stunning viewpoint, the Fishermen’s Bastion, perfect for watching the sunset over Pest.
In the evening
Round off the day with a boat trip on the Danube. You can choose between a standard cruise, a night cruise, or one featuring dinner and live music, such as the dinner cruise or the more informal pizza cruise with an open bar.
Useful information
- Top tip: guided tour of Budapest
- Savings: Budapest Card for transport and admission
- Ideal time: a full day for museums, sightseeing and a cruise
Day 2: Explore the PEST side of Budapest
This second day takes you to Pest, the liveliest part of the city. Here, national monuments, historical heritage, gastronomy and nightlife all come together.
In the morning
Start on the leafy Margaret Island, ideal for a stroll or a cycle ride. Then, walk towards the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building and visit the moving Shoes on the Danube Memorial.
In the afternoon
Have lunch near Parliament. Then, visit the impressive St Stephen’s Basilica and lose yourself in Váci Utca, Budapest’s main shopping street.
Next, head to the Jewish Quarter to explore the Jewish Synagogue, one of the largest in the world. I recommend taking a guided tour so you don’t miss a thing.
In the evening
Enjoy the alternative atmosphere of the Ruin Bars with a night-time tour that takes you round the most iconic ones.
Useful information
- Highlight of the day: guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament
- Local cuisine: excellent options near the Parliament and the Basilica
- Bonus: classical music at the Basilica or cocktails in the Ruin Bars
Day 3: Explore Andrássy Avenue and enjoy the thermal baths
The last day is perfect for taking it easy. Andrássy Avenue, Városliget and a thermal bath offer the perfect end to your Budapest experience.
In the morning
Start at the Central Market to soak up the local hustle and bustle, have a traditional breakfast or buy some souvenirs. Afterwards, take the tram to Andrássy Avenue and walk towards the iconic Heroes’ Square.
In the afternoon
Enjoy a meal overlooking the lake at one of the restaurants in Városliget Park, such as the Városliget Café or the Robinson Étterem.
Afterwards, relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, one of the most famous in Europe, with outdoor pools and indoor saunas.
In the evening
Before saying goodbye to the city, take one last stroll through the park and visit Vajdahunyad Castle. The illuminated Heroes’ Square is the perfect way to round off your trip.
Useful information
- The perfect way to round off your trip: Széchenyi Thermal Baths + a stroll through the park
- Dining in a green setting: restaurants within Városliget
- Nearby museums: Museum of Fine Arts, if you have time