3 days in Budapest, a vibrant city like a fairytale, with a rich history known as the ‘Paris of the East’ , beautiful parks and buildings, bustling food halls, cool underground bars, and centuries-old thermal baths. A city brimming with beautiful architecture, history, and unique cuisine, Budapest (pronounced Boo-Da-Pesht, not Boo-Da-Pest) might seem intimidating to those who have never visited before.
Budapest( Buddah – PESHT), the capital of Hungary, is considered by many to be the “Paris of the East.” Not only is this beautiful city one of the most culturally important metropolises in Eastern Europe, it’s also home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
It’s got everything, old world charm but in a modern city, the architecture is amazing and exactly what you think of when you think European city, it’s very safe, people are friendly, the food is amazing and it’s soooo affordable compared to comparable cities.
It’s cosmopolitan, complicated, and a bit challenging at first. There’s thermal baths, walk around the ruin bars, stomp and slap with traditional dancers, visit the communist all-stars now in a statue park, remember Hungary’s secret police, sample some paprika…and buy some. Cruise under floodlit monuments with a champagne in hand.
Hungary’s beautiful capital city, Budapest has a rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Divided into two parts by the Danube River, Buda and Pest each offer their own unique attractions, including famous landmarks like the Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Buda Castle. Budapest’s renowned thermal baths are a must visit, such as Gellert and Szechenyi Baths, and sample traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash and chimney cake(we binged on it). Budapest’s cultural scene is equally impressive, with numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and concert halls showcasing the city’s artistic heritage. From the Hungarian National Museum to the Hungarian State Opera House, there’s something for every cultural enthusiast. As the day turns into night, experience Budapest’s lively nightlife, with its bars, clubs, and music venues that are sure to keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
With impressive places like the Hungarian Parliament Building, Matthias Church, and even the Széchenyi thermal baths (which are the most popular thermal baths in Budapest), you don’t even have to be an architecture or history lover to appreciate these stunning buildings that make Budapest a sightseeing paradise.Budapest is still one of the cheapest cities to travel in Europe, partially because Hungary is not part of the Eurozone, and the Forint, the Hungarian national currency has decreased in value in the past years to increase the attractiveness for companies to start open up businesses in Hungary.
Best time to Visit Budapest:
In spring and fall — May, June, September, and early October — travelers enjoy fewer tourist crowds and milder weather. This is one of the best times to visit Budapest. However, it’s also prime convention time (especially September), when hotels tend to fill up and charge their top rates.
We went in end of March and early April, it was chilly and we needed layers. It rained a couple of days we were there. Still GORGEOUS.
- Best Time for Sightseeing: The first factor for any person looking to sightsee is the weather. Keeping Budapest’s weather in mind, the summer months of June to August would be a great safe bet. The sun is out but you can still go around the city exploring every nook and cranny to your heart’s content. This is as opposed to the harsh winters the city witnesses, making travel a little difficult.
- Best Time For Festivals in Budapest: If you’re visiting Budapest with the sole purpose of reveling in its many festivals and events, July and August are the months you would want to make that trip. From St. Stephen’s Day, Sziget Festival, the Samsara Festival, Strand Festival, Campus Fesztival, Rockmaraton, Veszprem Street Music Festival, O.Z.O.R.A Festival, Festival of Folk Arts, B.My.Lake and countless others.
Visa: Citizens of the U.S.A., Canada, and Mexico are not required to have a visa to visit the Hungary area for a period of up to 90 days within a 180-day period (except profitable activities) – it is calculated from the date of first entry into any Schengen country.
For more details check this out VISA DETAILS
How many days: I recommend spending at least 3-4 in Budapest if you are visiting for the first time. Four days in Budapest is certainly enough to cover all of the cities highlights. Not only can you cover the hotspots during this time, but you could also squeeze in some of the hidden gems in Budapest. You know, the places you don’t often see on most Budapest itineraries.
Both the Buda and Pest have their charm.
Buda – Definitely the classier and more residential side of the city, Buda is known for being a bit quieter and the place to go for a leisurely sightseeing experience. Pest – Known for being where all of the action happens – the place to be touristy, hang out and have fun. The 5th district is the best overall neighborhood to stay in Budapest for tourists. Plenty of attractions, and loads of restaurants and cafés to enjoy. While it isn’t exactly a nightlife hub, the 5th is well-connected by public transit – you’ll be able to hop over to the Jewish Quarter if its bars you crave.
Pest – Known for being where all of the action happens – the place to be touristy, hang out and have fun. Pest is beautiful as well, and the Parliament building is definite proof of that. There’s also the gorgeous Opera House on the Pest side, as well as the area around Heroes’ Square which includes the famous Széchenyi Baths, Budapest Zoo and Vajdahunyad Castle.
Although we didn’t stay in all, when we researched, these places stuck out and I’ve read reviews and easily can chose any. I looked into all the mid range and splurge hotels when I was visiting, it’s all quite beautiful.
Budget:$$
Novotel Budapest – Great view
Mid range:$$$
Prestige Hotel Budapest – easy accessiblity to everything
Corinthia Budapest – Mid town and beautiful place
Splurge:$$$$
V1 Luxury Apartment – BOOK way ahead, it’s always reserved. THE BEST view.
THINGS TO DO /PLACES TO SEE in BUDAPEST:
Budapest is a European city like no other. It’s known for thermal baths, ruined bars, and world-class street food. It’s a city that captures the heart of anyone who goes here, and once you visit, you’ll understand why.
The city was once home to two cities – Buda and Pest. In the late 19th century, the two cities merged to create Budapest. As you can imagine from two combined cities, there is a plethora of attractions in Budapest to keep you busy.
Overview of What to SEE:
Relax at the thermal bath
Hungarian Parliament Margaret Bridge (Holy Crown of Hungary)
Bar hop a Ruin Bars
Climb the dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica for 360 degree view of the city
Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Funicular Buda Castle
Budapest Castle Hill
Buda Castle museums
Fisherman’s Bastion
Matthias Church
Sunset Cruise in the Danube
Shop souvenirs at Great Market Hall
Hungarian State Opera
Heroes’ Square
Danube river shoes
Explore the city in an electric scooter or cycle
Do not do THIS in Budapest:
- Never make the Hungry Hungary joke to a Hungarian.
2. Never forget to tip. In Budapest and Hungary in general tipping is customary. The acceptable tipping rate is around 15%. Side note: Don’t say thank you until you’ve paid your tab.
3 – Never say Buda-PEST. That’s the quickest way to get on a Hungarian’s bad side. It’s Buddah – PESHT. Side note: DONT CALL IT Bucharest! That’s in Romania!
3 days in BUDAPEST
1.Relax at the Thermal Bath and go to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath
A trip to Budapest wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of its many relaxing thermal baths. There are seven thermal baths in the city, but the most popular and biggest thermal bath is the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. Take a flip flop, towels, robe. You can buy it there, but it’s unreasonably expensive. You can get a locker and put all the valuables in it.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
- Hours: 7.00am – 8.00pm on Monday – Saturday, 9.00am – 9.00pm on Sunday
- Address: Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Budapest
Gellert Thermal Bath
- Hours: 9.00am – 7.00pm
- Address: Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Budapest
Rudas Thermal Bath
- Hours: 6.00am – 8.00pm (also open from 10.00pm-3.00am Friday and Saturday)
- Address: Döbrentei tér 9, 1013 Budapest
If you want to go to the popular SPARTY that happens every Saturday, you have to reserve it. Sparty is the world-famous party series at the largest thermal bath of Budapest. The Bath Party is unique and very popular which makes it the 5th largest event series of Hungary with more 50 thousand people attending every year. It happens on every Saturday night from 9:30 PM until 2:00 AM .
2. Hungarian Parliament
When you see pics of Budapest, this is what will pop up. The Hungarian parliament is one of the most beautiful sights of Budapest. The Hungarian capital has a lot to offer, but this building really stands out. That’s why you shouldn’t miss it during your visit to the city. To help you on your way, I tell you everything you need to know about the Hungarian Parliament.
3. Bar hop at Ruin Bars
Szimpla Kert. Szimpla Kert is the undisputed king of the Budapest ruin bar scene. The outdoor area is huge, and hung with colourful tapestries.
From their thirst and shallow pockets, some of the most lively and stylish places to drink in Budapest were born – the so-called ruin bars. Derelict buildings and unused outdoor spaces have been transformed into friendly, pleasingly chaotic bars where you can still get a large beer for less than $2.
Hungary. Unless you want to be considered offensive, don’t clink your glass during a toast. The rule is supposedly linked to the 1849 executions of Hungary’s 13 Martyrs of Arad. Legend has it a group of Austrian generals celebrated by clinking their beer glasses as the Hungarian revolutionaries perished.
4. Climb the dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica for 360 degree view of the city
5. Széchenyi Chain Bridge & Margaret Bridge (Holy Crown of Hungary)
The Chain Bridge is the oldest suspension bridge in Budapest and is the Danube’s most renowned, connecting both sides of the city, Buda and Pest. The bridge’s real name is Széchenyi, in memory of the Count István Széchenyi, who helped build it, but is commonly known as the Chain Bridge. The picturesque historic stone bridge straddles the Danube between Széchenyi Square on the Pest side and Clark Ádám Square in Buda. You can walk across it from Buda to Pest and back – an excellent way to absorb the World Heritage-protected sights and panorama and to take wonderful photos.
Margaret Bridge is a Scenic arch bridge (circa 1876) connecting the southern part of Budapest with Margaret Island, the city’s popular island park and recreation area. Margaret Bridge (sometimes Margit Bridge) is a three-way bridge in Budapest, Hungary, connecting Buda and Pest across the Danube. It is the second northernmost and second oldest public bridge in Budapest.
6. Funicular Buda Castle, Buda Castle, Buda Castle museums
The Budapest funicular is 95 meters long, with a hight of 51 meters and a maximum slope of 48%. Each of the two working cabins on the double binary can carry 24 passengers. Cabins leave evert 5-10 minutes from 7.30 am to 10pm. The Budapest card does not cover the cost of the funicular ride.The Budapest Castle Hill Funicular opens at 7:30 am and closes at 10 pm. A roundtrip ticket costs 3,000 Ft ( US$ 8.70) for adults or 2,000 Ft ( US$ 5.80) for kids.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic castle was first constructed in 1265. Later a royal palace was added, now housing the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum, but there’s just as much to see around the castle grounds – for free! The Palace’s home style and furnishings have a long history. Magnificent structures, spectacular buildings, and sculptures provide tourists with glimpses into the national past and architectural features. It’s a fantastic site to go to if visitors are interested in history or learning more about Budapest.
Permanent collections at this prestigious museum include the Medieval Royal Palace of the Buda Castle, Budapest In the Middle Ages and Gothic Sculptures from the Royal Palace of Buda. Admission: adult: 2 000 HUF, FREE with BP. Card. student (6 – 24 years old), retirees (62 – 70 years old): 1 000 HUF, FREE with Budapest Card.
7. Sunset Cruise in Danube
When in Budapest one cannot miss out on sailing past the architectural wonders of the Hungarian Capital. The Castle district, the Citadella or the House of Parliament are just a few of the numerous gorgeous attributes the embankment of river Danube flaunts. And whether it is sightseeing, a refreshing warm – up session before a fun night out or indulging in Hungarian cuisine while sipping at the finest local wines, Silverline Cruises got it covered.
You can book the tour HERE VIA VIATOR
8. Fisherman’s Bastion & Photo shoot during sunrise
The Fisherman’s Bastion – world famous for its turrets and for spires – is one of the most well-known attractions of the Buda Castle area, and provides perhaps the most beautiful panorama of the city from the Buda side over the river Danube and its attractions in Budapest. Fisherman’s Bastion is located in Buda, on the edge of the Castle District. There are a number of ways to get to Fisherman’s Bastion, and depending on your location, a visit here should take no more than 30 minutes. You can walk, take a bolt there. Get there early morning for the best views during sunrise and pictures there are a dream.
If you want to get a professional to click some pictures, look no further than Tulip Photography
9. Shop souvenirs at Great Market Hall
The Great Market Hall or Central Market Hall, Market Hall I (Hungarian “Nagyvásárcsarnok”) is the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest, Hungary. The Central Market Hall is the largest and most impressive indoor market in Budapest. It is located on Fővam Tér 9, on the Pest side of the Szabadság Híd (Liberty Bridge).
When most visitors first see the impressive Great Market Hall, they always seem to ask, “Was it built as a train station?”. Although the structure of this gorgeous building is very similar to classic train stations, the answer is no.
It was built as foodie heaven in the magical year of the Millenium (the 1,000 anniversary of Budapest), 1896, when Budapest was growing as fast as Chicago, becoming one of the most modern cities in Europe. And such a modern city couldn’t allow chaotic open-air markets anymore!
Shop Hungarian Paprika, cheese, honey and truffles to bring back. Have Goulash, yum!
10. Heroes’ Square
(Heroes’ Square) is one of the main squares in Budapest. It houses one of the city’s iconic symbols, the Millennium Memorial, which includes the seven chieftains of the Magyar tribes that founded Hungary and other important heads of state. In between the statues is a large column crowned by Archangel Gabriel.
The square lies at the end of Andrássy Avenue, one of the city’s most important boulevards. The plaza and Andrássy Avenue were both recognized as World Heritage Sites in 2002.
The most emblematic building in Heroes’ Square is the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the best museums in Budapest.
12. Shoes by the Danube River
On the banks of the Danube, just in front of the Hungarian Parliament Building, stand 60 pairs of iron shoes, pointed towards the river. Poignant in their simplicity, a tragic story lies behind this memorial to the hundreds who lost their lives as a result of the atrocities committed by Budapest’s Arrow Cross militiamen during the Second World War. n memory of those who lost their lives during the Arrow Cross rule, the “Shoes on the Danube” memorial was erected on April 16, 2005. Created by film director Can Togay and sculptor Gyula Pauer, it takes the form of 60 pairs of shoes cast in iron and anchored to the ground. Different styles and sizes can be seen, showing that nobody was safe – not men, women or children. Today, candles are placed in the shoes, flowers are laid alongside them and a plaque reads “To the memory of the victims shot into the Danube by Arrow Cross militiamen in 1944–45. Erected 16 April 2005.”
12. Explore the city in an electric scooter or cycle
Budapest has altogether 200 km pathways designated to cycling. This includes the cycling paths, cycling lanes and side streets designated as suitable for cycling. The best way to move around Budapest
It’s a flexible, affordable and convenient way to get around. In the app, book a bike in one click and enjoy your ride!
Renting a bike during your stay in Budapest is easy, especially since you’ll find a number of companies offering bike rentals for reasonable prices per day. Budapest Bike or Yellow Zebra offer bikes and even bike tours, but one of the easiest ways to grab a bike and go is with the MOL BuBi bikes.
If you wander around the city, you’ll see these apple green bike stations all around. This bike sharing system is easy to use. You can either buy a single use ticket for 24 hours to a week, or get a pass for longer periods, such as a month to a year. You simply use the ID and PIN code with your ticket on the bike at the depot and then dock it when you’re done at another bike station. The great thing about the MOL BuBi bikes is you can simply take it, ride it to another part of the city and then leave it at one of the 112 docking stations all over the city.
ENJOY!!!
WHAT TO EAT/WHERE TO EAT:
From Goulash, the national dish of Hungary to chicken paprikash, Kürtőskalács (Chimney bread), there’s a lot for you meat eaters. The hungarian sausage is famous. Bambi is the soda of Budapest, do try it out. BUT PLEASe get your reservations, otherwise you might not get seated and have to wait a long time. We ate a lot and in all of the places and more. I’ve written down the best of best that we’ve had. Also food is really affordable(cheap).
Ruin bars- (no reservations) It’s funny that they call them “ruin bars” – because for their founders, the venues generally lead to good fortune. It started around 2001, so the story goes, with a bunch of young men looking for cheap places to drink.
Szimpla Kert is the undisputed king of the Budapest ruin bar scene. The outdoor area is huge, and hung with colourful tapestries. Each table has its own umbrella. Most of the inside looks like a circus, and there’s two floors to explore (for some sense of the scale, Szimpla Kert’s two floors boast nine bars, serving over 400 drinks).
The bar was actually set up in 2002, but has continued to evolve since then. Now, it’s a cultural and social hub in the city, with concerts and live theatre four nights a week from 8pm. Plus there’s a wholesome organic farmers’ market there every Sunday, if that’s what you’re into, plus the occasional flea market in the bar’s central courtyard. Basically, you could spend every day of the week here, and you’d have a great time.
Karavan Budapest– Great food market with a wide range of products. Can get very crowded on popular/hungry moments of the day. Nice place to try different kinds of food.
New York Cafe– Words cannot adequately describe New York Cafe, one Budapest’s most famous attractions. Built in neo-renaissance style, with marble columns, sparkling chandeliers, stunning frescoes, and gilded details, the cafe transports you to another era. The place and interiors make up for the food. Get your reservations.
Leo Rooftop Bar – A rooftop view in Budapest can amount to an impromptu 20th-century history lesson of Hungary. Scan the Danube’s bank from atop, and you’ll see classically-proportioned, grand buildings alternating, seemingly randomly, with glass and concrete boxes
Twenty Six -Twentysix Budapest is the first of its kind, a cozy urban jungle and feel-good hub for all the nature and gastro friends located in the real heart of Budapest with 4 elements. GARDEN° is a nutritious, soulful Mediterranean restaurant. SHOP° is our wine & fresh, handmade pasta bar and gourmet delicates. LOVED IT.
Mazel Tov -This Mediterranean, ruin bar style restaurant opened in 2014 in the historic Jewish quarter. Beside its meals and exquisite interior, its main peculiarity is that the fragments of the former ghetto wall are placed at the end of the courtyard garden. This room operates in winter and in summer as well. In summer, the garden provides a perfect Mediterranean atmosphere, and in winter, we can taste the specialties of Jewish cuisine in the charming, heated garden.
The restaurant is dedicated to diversity and acceptance; it is one of the venues of the Jewish Summer Festival, while concerts and other cultural programs are also held here.
Highnote sky bar – The High Note SkyBar is a full-service, lushly landscaped rooftop garden which was named as one of the Top 10 Best Rooftop Bars in the World by Conde Nast Traveller in 2018. The skybar offers fine-drinking cocktails, exciting barfood selection and extensive wine list, all while granting a breathtaking view of Budapest and a front-row ticket to St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Matilda palace -Fabulous location. The food is so tasty and great for vegetarians too. Extensive menu. Came for lunch but will come later in the trip for dinner. Staff have been very helpful and friendly. Definitely recommend.
Intermezzo rooftop7 -The 360° open-air panoramic terrace of Hotel President is the touristic hotspot of Budapest that functions as a lookout point where tourists can admire the view of the city and the neighboring Zsolnay decorated Hungarian Treasury. In summer the terrace turns into one of the most exclusive eateries in the city.
Intermezzo Roof Terrace offers light snacks and grill dishes and awaits its guests with cocktails as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Blue bird Cafe – Food was fabulously fresh and unusual ! Very tasty and good quality Felt very Mediterranean but with a Hungarian touch.. Omelette was perfect I love it when the eggs are slightly runny so it suited me down to the ground !
360 Bar – This is an iconic rooftop terrace in Budapest, boasting a 360° panorama over the city, which makes everyone’s jaws drop in awe. 360 Bar is found atop the highest building on august Andrássy Avenue, thus it provides a perfect view to the St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Citadel, the Parliament and basically all of Budapest. Homemade cocktail concoctions, flavorful lemonades served in a jar, vegetable plates, BBQ ribs, and many other tasty meals await everyone here. It is worthwhile to visit around sunset, as the moment when the slowly sinking sun paints all kinds of colors on the sky above the city is truly magical. After sunset they turn on the lovely light garlands, and live music or a DJ set entertain crowds. There is no dress code to fear, as 360 Bar promotes a free, urban spirit of living.
TOKIO – We stumbled upon this place on our last night. It was right across our hotel and wow wow wow, it was one of the best food I had in Budapest. Located on the Pest side of the Chain Bridge, it is worthwhile to visit once. The food was Michelin star equivalent. Trendy and Tokio offers its visitors to try Japanese cuisine. Make a change from your customary meal and taste nicely cooked calamari, tuna sashimi and pad thai.
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I eagerly wait for your write up whenever I see your insta updates what a beautiful heartfelt writing .. this has so much of info and the pics are wow just chumeshwari muuah . I live gregariously through your travel and pin them up hope I get to enjoy everything like you did ..
aww thank you so much.