More about: Budapest in 3 Days: tips, what to see, and much more
Considered in the top 10 of the most beautiful cities to visit in Europe, Budapest is a destination that will captivate you from the first moment. To enjoy all it has to offer in just three days, I have prepared an itinerary that covers the best of the city with a perfect balance between history, relaxation and local culture. Make the most of each day with clear proposals for the morning, afternoon and evening, and get the most out of your trip. Here we go!
Day 1: Explore the BUDA side of Budapest
Buda is the most historical and monumental part of Budapest. Castles, medieval churches and views of the Danube set the pace for this first day.
In the morning
Climb Castle Hill to visit Buda Castle, and explore some of its cultural spaces such as the History Museum or the Hungarian National Gallery.
Walking to the top will take about 30 minutes, although you can take the funicular from the Chain Bridge.
Afternoon
Have lunch in the Castle Quarter and visit the mysterious Castle Maze, which will transport you to Buda's historic underground.
Afterwards, see the beautiful Matthias Church and finish with the most beautiful viewpoint in the city, the Fisherman's Bastion, perfect for watching the sunset over Pest.
In the evening
Bid farewell to the day with a boat ride on the Danube. You can opt for a simple cruise, an evening cruise or one with dinner and live music such as the dinner cruise or the more informal cruise with pizza and open bar
Interesting information
- Key recommendation: guided tour of Budapest
- Savings: Budapest Card for transportation and entrance fees
- Ideal time: full day for museums, sightseeing and cruise
Day 2: Explore the PEST area of Budapest
This second day takes you to Pest, the liveliest side of the city. Here national monuments, historical memory, gastronomy and nightlife converge.
In the morning
Start at the green Margaret Island, ideal for strolling or cycling. Then walk to the majestic Budapest Parliament and approach the moving Shoe Monument by the Danube.
Afternoon
Have lunch near the Parliament. Then visit the impressive St. Stephen's Basilica and wander down Vaci Utca, Budapest's most commercial street.
Next, head to the Jewish Quarter to see the Jewish Synagogue, one of the largest in the world. I recommend taking a guided tour so as not to miss any details.
In the evening
Enjoy the alternative atmosphere of the Ruin Bars with a night tour that takes you through the most emblematic ones.
Information of interest
- Highlight of the day: guided tour of the Budapest Parliament.
- Local gastronomy: excellent offerings near the Parliament and Basilica
- Bonus: classical music at the Basilica or cocktails at the Ruin Bars
Day 3: Explore Andrássy and enjoy the Spas
The last day is perfect for slowing down. Andrássy, Városliget and a spa offer you a perfect closure to your Budapest experience.
In the morning
Start at the Central Market to experience the local hustle and bustle, have a typical breakfast or buy souvenirs. Afterwards, take the streetcar to Andrássy Avenue and walk to the iconic Heroes' Square.
Afternoon
Enjoy a meal overlooking the lake at one of the restaurants in Városliget Park, such as the Városliget Café or Robinson Étterem.
Afterwards, relax at the Széchenyi Spa, one of the most famous spas in Europe, with outdoor pools and indoor saunas.
In the evening
Before bidding farewell to the city, take a last stroll through the park and approach the Vajdahunyad Castle. The illuminated Heroes' Square is the best way to close your trip.
Useful information
- Ideal to close the trip: Széchenyi Spa + walk in the park.
- Gastronomy in a green area: restaurants inside Városliget
- Nearby museums: Fine Arts Museum, if you have time left