BUDAPEST TRAVEL GUIDE

This 4-day itinerary in Budapest is designed to give you a well-rounded experience of the city, from its rich history and iconic landmarks to its hidden gems and scenic views. Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a stunning city divided by the Danube River, known for its historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and famous thermal baths. Highlights include the majestic Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. A blend of rich history and modern charm, Budapest is often called the “Pearl of the Danube”, a must see destination in central europe.

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Airport in Budapest

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

Currency

Hungarian Forint (HUF)

  • 1 HUF = 0.0026 EUR
  • 1 HUF = 0.0028 USD
  • Exchange rates may vary

BEST TIME TO VISIT BUDAPEST

  • Spring (April – June): Ideal for pleasant weather and blooming parks.
  • Autumn (September – November): Mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
  • Summer (July – August): Perfect for festivals but expect crowds and heat.
  • Winter (December – February): Magical atmosphere with Christmas markets and lights.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN BUDAPEST

Historic Landmarks & Architecture

  • Buda Castle – Explore the historic castle complex with breathtaking city views.
  • Fisherman’s Bastion – A fairy-tale-like terrace offering panoramic views of Budapest.
  • Hungarian Parliament Building – One of the most stunning government buildings in the world.
  • St. Stephen’s Basilica – A beautiful cathedral with a panoramic dome view.
  • Heroes’ Square – A major landmark featuring iconic statues of Hungarian leaders.
  • Andrássy Avenue – A UNESCO-listed boulevard lined with luxury boutiques, cafés, and historic buildings.

Thermal Baths & Relaxation

  • Széchenyi Thermal Bath – One of Europe’s largest and most famous thermal spas.
  • Gellért Thermal Bath – A luxurious Art Nouveau-style bathhouse.
  • Rudas Baths – A historic Turkish bath with a rooftop pool overlooking the Danube.

Cultural & Unique Experiences

  • Madame Tussauds Budapest – Meet lifelike wax figures of international and Hungarian celebrities.
  • New York Café – One of the most beautiful cafés in the world, known for its opulent interior and rich history.
  • Ruin Bars (e.g., Szimpla Kert) – Explore Budapest’s famous bars built in abandoned buildings.
  • Great Market Hall – A lively market for traditional Hungarian food and souvenirs.

Scenic Walks & Views

  • Danube River Cruise – A must-do, especially at night when the city lights up.
  • Chain Bridge – Walk across Budapest’s iconic suspension bridge.
  • Margaret Island – A peaceful green oasis perfect for walking, cycling, and relaxing.
  • Gellért Hill & Citadel – Hike up for one of the best views of Budapest.

Day Trips & Hidden Gems

  • Vajdahunyad Castle – A fairy-tale castle in City Park.
  • Szentendre – A charming riverside town known for its artsy vibe and colorful streets.
  • Lake Balaton – A beautiful getaway just a couple of hours from Budapest.

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TOP HOTEL IN BUDAPEST

Luxury & Iconic Hotels

  • Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – A stunning Art Nouveau palace offering unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views of the Danube.
  • The Ritz-Carlton Budapest – A refined five-star hotel in the heart of the city, perfect for an elegant stay.
  • Anantara New York Palace Budapest – A lavish hotel featuring grand architecture and world-class hospitality.

Boutique & Unique Stays

  • Hotel Oktogon – A stylish and modern boutique hotel located in a historic building on Andrássy Avenue.
  • Hotel Párisi Udvar – A spectacular hotel blending historic charm with modern elegance, housed in a former shopping arcade.
  • Aria Hotel Budapest – A music-themed luxury hotel with a rooftop bar offering stunning views of St. Stephen’s Basilica.
  • Mystery Hotel Budapest – A unique, themed luxury hotel with an eclectic mix of historic and mystical design elements.

Classic & Elegant Stays

  • Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest – A sophisticated hotel with contemporary design, top-notch amenities, and fine dining options.
  • Corinthia Budapest – A grand, historic hotel with a stunning façade, luxurious spa, and world-class service.

MUST TRY FOOD + WHERE TO EAT

  • Goulash (Gulyás) – A hearty stew made with beef, vegetables, paprika, and other spices.
  • Paprikás Chicken (Csirkepaprikás) – Chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with dumplings or rice.
  • Langos – Fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and sometimes garlic.
  • Pörkölt – A stew made with meat (usually beef or pork), paprika, onions, and other spices, similar to goulash but thicker.
  • Főzelék – A thick vegetable stew, often made with peas, lentils, or potatoes.
  • Hortobágyi palacsinta – Savory crepes filled with meat, usually chicken, and served with a paprika sauce.
  • Töltött Káposzta – Stuffed cabbage leaves filled with a mix of meat and rice, cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
  • Kürtőskalács – A sweet chimney cake made from dough rolled into a spiral and baked, then coated in sugar and cinnamon.
  • Dobos Torte – A layered sponge cake with chocolate buttercream and topped with caramel.
  • Rakott Krumpli – A layered potato dish made with sausage, eggs, and sour cream.
  • Lecsó – A Hungarian version of ratatouille, made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and paprika.
  • Jókai Bean Soup (Jókai bableves) – A rich bean soup with smoked pork and vegetables.
  • Pásztor Pite – Shepherd’s pie, a savory dish made with ground meat and mashed potatoes.

Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred Restaurants

  • Costes – The first Michelin-starred restaurant in Hungary, offering an exceptional tasting menu with innovative cuisine.
  • Borkonyha Winekitchen – A Michelin-starred restaurant combining modern Hungarian flavors with an extensive wine selection.
  • Stand Restaurant – A refined Michelin-starred spot celebrating Hungarian gastronomy with a contemporary touch.
  • Salt Budapest – A unique fine dining experience with farm-to-table ingredients and a focus on Hungarian traditions.

Traditional Hungarian Cuisine

  • Hungarikum Bisztró – A cozy restaurant serving authentic Hungarian dishes like goulash and chicken paprikash.
  • Rosenstein Restaurant – A family-run restaurant offering a mix of Hungarian and Jewish cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
  • Gettó Gulyás – Famous for its hearty and flavorful traditional Hungarian stews.

Rooftop & Scenic Dining

  • Leo Rooftop – A stylish rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the Danube and Buda Castle.
  • St. Andrea Wine & Gourmet Bar – A sophisticated dining spot with excellent Hungarian wines and gourmet dishes.

Trendy & Unique Dining Experiences

  • Mazel Tov – A vibrant ruin bar and restaurant serving Middle Eastern cuisine in a stunning indoor garden.
  • New York Café – One of the most beautiful cafés in the world, offering an elegant dining experience with a historic ambiance.
  • ESCA – A hidden gem known for its minimalist approach and focus on seasonal ingredients.

WHAT TO WEAR IN BUDAPEST

  • Layers for Weather: Budapest’s weather can vary greatly throughout the year. In the cooler months (November to February), bring layers, including a good jacket, scarf, and gloves. In summer, lightweight and breathable clothes are best, but be prepared for possible rain.

LOCAL ETIQUETTE AND CUSTOMS

  • Tipping: Tipping is common in Hungary, and around 10% is standard in restaurants, unless service charge is included. It’s also customary to leave a small tip for taxi drivers and hotel staff.

GETTING AROUND IN BUDAPEST

  1. Public Transport: Budapest has an excellent public transport system, including trams, buses, and a metro network. The Budapest Card offers unlimited use of public transport for a set number of days and discounts to many attractions.
  2. Taxis: Taxis are easy to find. Alternatively, use the app Bolt for rides.
  3. Walking: Budapest is a walkable city with many attractions located close to each other. Walking is the best way to explore neighborhoods like Pest and Buda.
  4. Biking: Budapest is bike-friendly, and you can rent bikes or e-scooters for a fun and convenient way to explore the city.

FINAL TIPS FOR VISITING BUDAPEST

  • While many people speak English, learning a few Hungarian words can go a long way:
    • “Köszönöm” for “thank you” , “Szia” for “Hello” , “Viszlát!” for “Goodbye”, “Igen” for “Yes”, “Nem” for “No”

4-Day Itinerary for Budapest

Day 1: Exploring Buda

  • Morning:
    • Buda Castle: Start your day by exploring the historic Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can walk up the hill or take the funicular. Visit the Budapest History Museum and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the castle grounds.
    • Fisherman’s Bastion: Just a short walk from the castle, this fairy-tale-like structure offers some of the best views of Budapest. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the Parliament Building across the river.
  • Lunch: Head to one of the traditional Hungarian restaurants in the Buda district, like Pest-Buda Bistro, for a taste of goulash or paprikás chicken.
  • Afternoon:
    • Matthias Church: Visit this beautiful church, known for its colorful roof tiles and impressive interior.
    • Gellért Hill & Citadel: Take a short walk or a bus up to Gellért Hill for more stunning views of the city, and explore the Citadel fortress.
  • Evening: Relax at one of the cozy cafés or wine bars near the Buda Castle. Consider visiting Szimpla Kert, a popular ruin pub in the Jewish Quarter, for a fun night out.

Day 2: Pest’s Highlights

  • Morning:
    • Parliament Building: Start your day early with a guided tour of the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building. The tour takes you through the grand halls and chambers, showcasing stunning architecture.
    • Shoes on the Danube Bank: Just outside the Parliament, pay your respects at the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, which honors the Jewish victims of World War II.
  • Lunch: Stop for a light lunch at Café Gerbeaud, one of Budapest’s most famous coffee houses, and try a Hungarian pastry like kürtőskalács (chimney cake).
  • Afternoon:
    • St. Stephen’s Basilica: Visit the impressive basilica and take the elevator up to the dome for spectacular views of the city.
    • Andrássy Avenue: Walk down this grand avenue, passing by beautiful buildings, shops, and cafes. Stop at Heroes’ Square and visit the Museum of Fine Arts or Hall of Art.
  • Evening: End your day at Margaret Island, a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. Rent a bike or take a stroll through the park and enjoy the sunset.

Day 3: Culture & Relaxation

  • Morning:
    • Central Market Hall: Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Great Market Hall. Explore Hungarian food products, pick up some paprika, sausages, or local souvenirs, and enjoy a traditional breakfast at one of the market’s food stalls.
    • Hungarian National Museum: Explore the rich history of Hungary at the Hungarian National Museum. Learn about the country’s history, from ancient times to the present.
  • Lunch: Head to Paprika for a classic Hungarian lunch with dishes like pörkölt (beef stew) or töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage).
  • Afternoon:
    • Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Relax in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths. Széchenyi is the largest in Europe, and its outdoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
    • City Park: After your bath, take a relaxing walk through City Park and visit Vajdahunyad Castle. You can also see the Heroes’ Square again if you didn’t earlier.
  • Evening: For a dinner experience with a view, enjoy a Danube River Cruise that offers a spectacular view of the illuminated Buda Castle, Parliament, and other landmarks. Many cruises also offer dinner or drinks.

Day 4: Scenic Views & Relaxation

  • Morning:
    • Begin with a Relaxing Breakfast: Start your day at New York Café, often referred to as one of the most beautiful cafés in the world. The lavish interior and stunning architecture will make for a memorable breakfast.
    • Váci Street & Central Market Hall: After breakfast, head to Váci Street, a pedestrian shopping street that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visit the Central Market Hall for some last-minute souvenir shopping and a taste of local products, like paprika, sausages, and Hungarian honey.
  • Lunch:
    • Have lunch at Kiosk Budapest, a stylish bistro offering a modern take on Hungarian cuisine. It’s located near the river and provides a great atmosphere for a relaxed meal.
  • Afternoon:
    • Danube River Cruise: After lunch, embark on a Danube River cruise for a unique perspective of Budapest. Opt for a daytime cruise to fully appreciate the stunning sights along the riverbanks, such as the Buda Castle, Parliament Building, Chain Bridge, and Margaret Island. You can choose between a one-hour sightseeing cruise or one with drinks and live music for a more immersive experience.
    • Ride the Budapest Eye (Panoramic Ferris Wheel): After your cruise, make your way to the Budapest Eye, located in Vörösmarty Square. The 65-meter high Ferris wheel offers fantastic panoramic views of the city, including the Buda Hills, Parliament, and St. Stephen’s Basilica. It’s a perfect spot to capture stunning photos and take in the city from above.
  • Evening:
    • Explore the Jewish Quarter: Take a walk through the Jewish Quarter, one of Budapest’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Visit the Great Synagogue (if you haven’t already), and explore the quirky shops, street art, and hidden courtyards.
    • Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant: For your last dinner in Budapest, enjoy a meal at one of the many riverside restaurants. Dunacorso Restaurant or Cipriani are great choices, offering a beautiful view of the Danube and Parliament at night. Try some Hungarian specialties like töltött káposzta or pörkölt.
    • Evening Walk & Drinks at a Rooftop Bar: End your trip with a relaxing walk along the Danube Promenade, where you can enjoy the illuminated Buda Castle, Parliament, and Chain Bridge. Afterward, head to a rooftop bar such as 360 Bar or High Note SkyBar for a final drink with breathtaking views over the city.

Conclusion

Whether you’re exploring the majestic Buda Castle, relaxing at the famous thermal baths, cruising along the Danube River, or taking in the city from above on the Budapest Eye, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories. With a mix of culture, local flavors, and breathtaking panoramas, Budapest offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy your trip and make the most of every moment in this stunning capital city!