There’s lots to see in the historical city of Budapest, so how should you divide your time? I recommend spending at least 3 days in Budapest. If you have more time, that’s even better.
This itinerary has been made with lovers of culture and history in mind. However, I have weaved together a little bit of everything to ensure you get to experience the highlights of Hungary’s beautiful capital city.
The beauty of Budapest should be experienced at least once in your lifetime. A city of two tales, where the River Danube divides hilly Buda from flat Pest, and old from new.
The Romans, Magyars, Turks, Austrians, and Soviets have all left their influence on the city through a tapestry of eclectic architectural styles. No matter the street, there’s a building on every corner that reveals pieces of the past.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic break, a weekend away with friends, or just a little solo adventure, Budapest offers something for a wide range of interests.
To help you plan your own trip, here’s my 3-day Budapest itinerary.
Day 1: Exploring Buda – The Castle District and Gellért Hill
Morning
I think the best way to get to know the city is by starting at the top and making your way down. Begin at the Chain Bridge to the base of Castle Hill and walk the ascent to the Castle district.
At the top you’re greeted with enthralling panoramic views of the River Danube and the other side of the city (Pest). From this vantage point, the stunning Parliament building comes into full view.
There’s a wealth of attractions to explore within a small radius. Don’t miss:
- Matthias Church – The most famous church in Budapest and for good reason. Whilst churches have a tendency to melt into one this beaut of a building is fabulously unique. The walls and stained glass windows are wonderfully colourful. The intricate craftsmanship is something you have to see to believe. While on the outside, the roof is a masterpiece of tiled precision.
- Fisherman’s Bastion – Built in the early 20th century in a neo-Gothic style, specifically to act as a panoramic viewing platform across the Danube, Margaret Island and Pest.
- The National Gallery – Housed in the former palace, the Hungarian National Gallery is home to a big collection of paintings from Hungary and across Europe.
Lunch
If you want to try authentic dishes, stroll over to Pest-Buda Bistro. It’s hard to imagine a more Hungarian dish than chicken paprika (with the exception of goulash) and the one at Pest-Buda I’m told is exceptional. However, since I’m pescatarian I opted for the catfish paprika which was delicious.
Late afternoon
In the late afternoon take a walk or catch a quick taxi ride to Gellért Hill. Taxis are pretty cheap in Budapest by most European standards. This area is rich in greenery and known for having the best view of Budapest, and home to three impressive monuments for you to explore around for the rest of the afternoon.
Monuments in Buda
- Gellért Statue – Designed by Gyula Jankovits and erected in 1904. It honours the 11th century bishop, St Gellért, who converted the Magyars to Christianity. Legends says that Gellért was put to death by pagans at this spot by putting him in a barrel and rolling it down the steep Gellért Hill and then throwing it into the Danube. Ouch!
- Liberation Monument – Created by sculptor Zsigmond Kisfaludi Strobl, this monument was erected in 1947 by the Soviet’s to commemorate the Nazis’ defeat. Standing at 14 metres tall the statue of a woman bearing a palm leaf is visible from many points in the city.
- The Citadel – A fortress at the top of Gellért Hill, the Citadel is a large U-shaped structure built about a central courtyard and houses sixty cannons. As you can imagine from a place of great strategic importance, the views of Pest are show-stopping..
Afterwards head back to your accommodation. Freshen up and have a little rest before heading back out for the evening.
Now is probably a good time to read more about Budapest’s beautiful architecture here, and which you’ll be seeing more of during your trip
Dinner: If you’re looking for somewhere fancy on your first night book a table at KonyvBar. You won’t be disappointed, especially if you try the tastier menu! If you still have a little room left, take a stroll by Stephan’s Basilica’s to Gelarto Rose and try the beautiful rose ice cream that looks almost too pretty to eat. The lemon and basil flavour is a complete revelation.
Day 2: Tour of Parliament Building & the Jewish Quarter
Now you’ve explored Buda, today is all about Pest. This historic area is known for its ruin bars, St Stephan’s Basilica and of course, the famed Parliament building.
You probably spent a long part of the day yesterday swooning over the House of Parliament, didn’t you? Well, it’s time to go inside now. Kick off the day by taking a tour of this architectural masterpiece.
For the full works, I recommend this Parliament tour that also includes a grand tour of the Castle District (duration 4.5 hours). If you decide to do this guided tour, you might wish to rejig this itinerary to ensure that you’re not recover the same ground.
After your tour make the short walk to the Jewish memorial titled Shoes on the Danube Bank. This simple yet very moving memorial is dedicated to those that perished in the last years of the war at the hands of Hungary’s far right fascists.
The shoes are all life-size which makes the tribute feel heartbreakingly personal. Prior to visiting it’s really worth doing a little bit of background reading to contextualise the sculptures.
You’ve probably worked up an appetite by now. Make your way in the old Jewish neighbourhood, where you’ll find the most unique eateries and watering holes. While you’re wandering around you’re going to notice quite a few abandoned buildings. These are actually the famous ‘ruin pubs’ of Budapest which I recommend visiting at night.
There’s much history to discover and so much character, so it’s a great area to find the smaller wonders of this city. Full of curiosities and narrow cobbled streets. Don’t miss the Great Synagogue in Dohány utca, it’s the second largest and arguably most beautiful synagogue in the world.
More highlights in Pest
- St Stephan’s Basilica – The construction of Budapest’s largest church was started by Jozsef Hild in 1851 and finished by Miklos Ybl in 1905. Make sure you leave enough time to go inside the Basilica and head up to the top for panoramic views of the city. In a place so beautiful it’s only natural that it has inspired a few proposals over the years.
- Museum of Applied Arts – Housed in a marvellous Secessionist building, this museum is a feast for the eyes both inside and out. Built in 1896 by architect Ödön Lechner, who was given the nickname the ‘Hungarian Gaudi’.
- Hungarian State Opera House – Compared to other opera houses this one looks quite simple and understated. However, once you enter I’m sure your opinion will soon change…
Evening: Experience the ruin pubs of Budapest. Dilapidated houses have been furnished with thrift-style treats and turned into bars. Each are full of character but have their own personalities so to speak. Grab a drink, soak up the atmosphere and mix with locals and tourists alike.
A friend of mine recommended that I go Szimpla Kert. He had spent a lot of time in Budapest so I figured he would know best. As soon as I entered I knew what the fuss was about. The atmosphere was great and so too is the interior. It retains a lot of character from its former days as an old factory.
Day 3: Margaret Island & Budapest Baths
Your final day is an eclectic mix of things to see and do before you leave this fabulous city.
Begin your day by taking in local life at the Great Market Hall which sells lots of food and souvenirs across 3-floors of a huge Victorian-style building with colourful Zsolnay tiling from Pécs, similar to that of Matthias Church.
It’s probably fair to say that the produce isn’t as mouth-watering as you might find in other famous food market across Spain or Italy, but where is? This doesn’t mean it’s short on tasty treats, however, and certainly offers some great photo opportunities.
Its location nearby Liberty Bridge offers beautiful views across the Danube too.
After exploring the market I recommend hopping on a tram and making your way across the city to Margaret Island. On the island you’ll find one of the most beautiful parks in the city, a great place to escape the crowds of tourists and busy city life.
On the island you’ll also find some medieval ruins, swimming pools, a small zoo. There’s also pretty gardens and a picturesque fountain. Why not rent a pedal car? I didn’t do it myself but it looked fun.
After exploring Margaret island you’re probably ready to relax and soak your muscles in a spa… I know you’ve been waiting for exactly that!
Budapest is in fact known as the ‘city of baths’. In the city you have the choice of visiting Széchenyi Baths, Gellért Baths or Rudas Baths. Széchenyi Baths is the largest medicinal bath in Europe, but it’s also the busiest so I’d bare that in mind if you prefer to escape the crowds.
Spoilt. For. Choice.
How to plan your trip to Budapest
Getting there: From the UK most airports fly to Budapest. If you live in Europe, a great option is to travel by train. You can check departure dates, check prices, and book online via the Trainline.
Stay at: The Three Corners Hotel Anna in Pest offers superb value for large stylish rooms situated within walking distance to all main attractions. Breakfast is packed with a variety of dishes to kick start your day.
Want to extent your trip? See my detailed rail itinerary that takes you on an exciting journey through Budapest – Bratislava – Vienna.
Want to book a guided tour? Take a look at everything that’s available for you to get the most out of your trip to Budapest fuss free by booking one of these tours.
