How Many Days Should i Spend in Budapest

Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history, stunning architecture, and modern charm. Whether you're strolling along the Danube River, exploring its famous thermal baths, or enjoying the lively ruin pubs, Budapest offers something for every type of traveler.

Table of Contents

• A 2-Day Itinerary: Highlights for a Short Visit
• A 3-Day Itinerary: Ideal for First-Time Visitors
• A 4-Day or Longer Stay: Fully Immersing Yourself in Budapest

A 2-Day Itinerary: Highlights for a Short Visit

If you only have two days to explore Budapest, don’t worry—you can still experience many of the city’s highlights. This itinerary covers the most iconic attractions and experiences on both the Buda and Pest sides, ensuring you leave with a memorable impression of Hungary’s capital.

Day One: Exploring Buda

Start your journey in Buda, the historic and picturesque half of Budapest, known for its cobbled streets, medieval charm, and stunning views.

Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building: Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Parliament Building, a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture that sits proudly along the Danube River. Its intricate facade, towering spires, and massive dome are breathtaking to see up close. If time permits, take a guided tour to admire the grand interiors, including the Hungarian crown jewels.

Shoes on the Danube Monument: A short walk along the river will bring you to the Shoes on the Danube, a deeply moving memorial honoring Jews who were executed during World War II. The simple iron shoes lining the riverbank tell a powerful story and invite visitors to reflect on Budapest’s history.

• Location: Along the Danube Promenade near the Hungarian Parliament Building, 1054 Budapest
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Cost: Free
• Features: A moving tribute to the victims of World War II, featuring iron shoes symbolizing those who were executed along the riverbank.

Cross the Chain Bridge: Walk across the Chain Bridge, a 19th-century engineering marvel that was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest. The bridge offers panoramic views of the Danube River and the cityscape, making it a perfect spot for photos.

Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church: Head up to Fisherman’s Bastion, a fairytale-like terrace that provides sweeping views of the city below. Its turrets and arches create a magical atmosphere, making it a favorite among visitors. Nearby, you’ll find Matthias Church, known for its vibrant tiled roof and intricate Gothic design. Step inside to marvel at the stunning interiors and learn about its role in Hungarian royal history.

• Location: Szentháromság tér 2, 1014 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Cost: Entry tickets start at €6
• Features: Stunning Gothic architecture with a colorful tiled roof and intricate interiors; an important site for royal coronations.

Buda Castle: Spend your afternoon exploring the historic Buda Castle, perched high above the city. The castle complex houses the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery, both worth visiting if you’re interested in Hungarian art and history. Even without entering the museums, strolling through the castle grounds and taking in the views is a rewarding experience.

Take a Danube River Cruise: As evening falls, cap off your day with a cruise along the Danube River. Whether you choose a dinner cruise or a simple sightseeing boat ride, seeing the city’s landmarks illuminated against the night sky is a magical way to end your first day.

Day Two: Delving into Pest

On your second day, explore Pest, the vibrant and modern half of the city filled with cultural landmarks, lively markets, and unique experiences.

Start at the Central Market Hall: Begin your day at the Central Market Hall, a bustling hub of local culture. The market’s ground floor is filled with fresh produce, spices, and Hungarian specialties, while the upper level offers food stalls where you can sample traditional dishes like goulash and lángos. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the flavors and scents of Hungary.

• Location: Vámház krt. 1-3, 1093 Budapest
• Hours: Open Monday to Saturday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Sundays)
• Cost: Free entry; prices for food and souvenirs vary
• Features: Largest indoor market in Budapest with fresh produce, spices, and traditional Hungarian dishes; a great spot for souvenirs.

Liberty Bridge and Cave Church: From the market, cross Liberty Bridge, a striking green structure that connects Pest to Gellért Hill in Buda. Once across, visit the Cave Church, a fascinating religious site built into the rock. The chapel’s unique design and serene atmosphere make it a memorable stop.

Relax at Széchenyi or Gellért Thermal Baths: No visit to Budapest is complete without experiencing its famous thermal baths. The Széchenyi Baths, located in City Park, are one of the largest spa complexes in Europe and offer both indoor and outdoor pools. Alternatively, you can visit the elegant Gellért Baths, known for their Art Nouveau design and therapeutic waters. Spend a few hours here to unwind and recharge.

Explore the Ruin Pubs: Conclude your Budapest adventure with a night out at one of the city’s famous ruin pubs. These eclectic bars, created in abandoned buildings, are filled with mismatched furniture, quirky decor, and vibrant energy. Szimpla Kert, the most well-known ruin pub, offers a lively atmosphere and a true taste of Budapest’s creative nightlife.

A 3-Day Itinerary: Ideal for First-Time Visitors

With three days in Budapest, you have enough time to delve deeper into the city’s history, explore its unique neighborhoods, and experience its vibrant culture. This itinerary ensures that each day offers something new—iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences.

Day One: The Iconic Landmarks of Buda and Pest

Start your trip with the most famous sights on both sides of the Danube, soaking in Budapest’s history and grandeur.

Morning: Hungarian Parliament Building and Shoes on the Danube: Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture that sits proudly along the Danube River. Its intricate facade, towering spires, and massive dome are breathtaking to see up close. If time permits, take a guided tour to admire the grand interiors, including the Hungarian crown jewels.

• Location: Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily, tours available from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Cost: Guided tours starting from €18 per person
• Features: Iconic neo-Gothic architecture, home to the Hungarian crown jewels, and located along the Danube River; tours available in multiple languages.

Midday: Chain Bridge and Buda Castle District: Cross the Chain Bridge, an architectural marvel and one of the city’s most recognizable symbols. Once on the Buda side, take a leisurely walk to the Buda Castle District, where cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings await. Explore the Hungarian National Gallery or simply admire the city views from the castle grounds.

Afternoon: Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church: Nearby, visit the picturesque Fisherman’s Bastion, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Pest skyline. Don’t miss Matthias Church, with its strikingly colorful tiled roof and rich interior decorations that reflect Hungary’s royal past.

Evening: Danube River Cruise: As the day winds down, embark on a Danube River cruise. Seeing Budapest’s landmarks illuminated at night, including the Parliament and Buda Castle, is an unforgettable experience that perfectly caps off your first day.

Day Two: Budapest’s Culture and Relaxation

Dedicate your second day to exploring Budapest’s vibrant culture, indulging in local food, and enjoying its world-famous thermal baths.

Morning: Central Market Hall: Start your day at Central Market Hall, where you can immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and tastes of Hungarian cuisine. Browse the stalls for fresh produce, paprika, and handmade souvenirs. Try a lángos, a deep-fried bread topped with sour cream and cheese, for an authentic breakfast.

Midday: Thermal Baths and Liberty Bridge: Spend a relaxing morning at one of Budapest’s renowned thermal baths. The Széchenyi Baths, located in City Park, are a grand and popular choice, with outdoor pools that steam even in winter. Alternatively, the Gellért Baths offer an Art Nouveau atmosphere and a more intimate experience. Afterward, walk across Liberty Bridge, a charming green bridge that connects Gellért Hill with Pest.

Széchenyi Thermal Baths

• Location: Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Cost: Entry starts at €20
• Features: One of Europe’s largest thermal bath complexes, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and spa treatments; located in City Park.

Gellért Baths

• Location: Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Cost: Entry starts at €19
• Features: Famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, natural thermal waters, and tranquil atmosphere; includes a wave pool and massage services.

Afternoon: Cave Church and Citadel: Venture up Gellért Hill to visit the Cave Church, a unique place of worship carved into the rock. If you’re up for a hike, continue to the Citadel at the hill’s summit, where you’ll be rewarded with some of the best panoramic views of Budapest.

Evening: Dinner and Hungarian Wine Tasting: In the evening, treat yourself to a traditional Hungarian dinner paired with local wines. Many restaurants offer wine-tasting experiences that showcase the best vintages from Hungary’s renowned wine regions.

Day Three: Hidden Gems, Neighborhoods, and Nightlife

On your final day, explore Budapest’s lesser-known attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and lively nightlife.

Morning: Budapest’s Caves or Szabó Ervin Library: Begin the day with an adventurous tour of Budapest’s cave systems, such as the Pál-völgyi Cave, where you can marvel at unique formations and learn about the city’s geology. Alternatively, visit the Szabó Ervin Library, a hidden gem known for its beautifully ornate reading rooms that feel like stepping into a palace.

Midday: St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Budapest Eye: Head to Pest to visit St. Stephen’s Basilica, a grand church dedicated to Hungary’s first king. Climb to the dome for sweeping views of the city. Nearby, take a ride on the Budapest Eye, a giant Ferris wheel that offers a bird’s-eye view of the city center.

Afternoon: Andrássy Avenue and the Hungarian State Opera House: Stroll along Andrássy Avenue, Budapest’s elegant boulevard lined with boutiques, cafés, and historic buildings. Stop by the Hungarian State Opera House to admire its stunning architecture. If time permits, take a guided tour of the interior.

Evening: Ruin Pubs and Nightlife: End your Budapest adventure in style by visiting a ruin pub, one of the city’s most iconic nightlife experiences. These quirky bars, housed in abandoned buildings, are filled with eclectic decor and vibrant energy. Szimpla Kert is a must-visit, offering an unforgettable introduction to Budapest’s creative spirit.

A 4-Day or Longer Stay: Fully Immersing Yourself in Budapest

If you have four or more days to spend in Budapest, you’re in for a real treat. With extra time, you can slow down your pace, explore off-the-beaten-path attractions, and dive deeper into the city’s rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural experiences. This itinerary helps you make the most of a longer stay, offering a mix of iconic sights, local treasures, and day trips.

Day One: The Essentials of Budapest

Focus your first day on the must-see landmarks that define Budapest.

Begin with a tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of Europe’s most stunning architectural gems, before taking a reflective walk along the Danube to see the Shoes on the Danube memorial. Cross the Chain Bridge to explore the Buda Castle District, where you can visit Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and Buda Castle. Conclude your day with a Danube River Cruise, watching the city’s landmarks light up under the night sky.

Day Two: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

Spend your second day immersing yourself in Budapest’s cultural treasures and indulging in its world-famous baths.

Start your morning at the Central Market Hall, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for Hungarian paprika and handmade crafts. Afterward, cross the Liberty Bridge to visit the Cave Church and relax in the thermal waters of the Gellért Baths. Wrap up your day with dinner at a traditional Hungarian restaurant, where you can enjoy dishes like goulash and stuffed cabbage.

Day Three: Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Explorations

With the major landmarks covered, day three is all about uncovering Budapest’s hidden gems and exploring its unique neighborhoods.

Begin with a visit to the Szabó Ervin Library, a beautifully ornate library that feels like stepping into a palace. Afterward, head to St. Stephen’s Basilica to marvel at its grandeur and climb to the dome for panoramic views. For lunch, try a historic coffeehouse like Central Café, known for its elegant interiors and delicious pastries.

• Location: Szent István tér 1, 1051 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Cost: Entry starts at €3; dome climb €5
• Features: Grand cathedral dedicated to Hungary’s first king; climb to the dome for panoramic views of the city.

In the afternoon, take a stroll down Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with historic buildings and luxury shops. Stop by the Hungarian State Opera House for a tour or to catch a performance if time allows. End your evening at one of Budapest’s famous ruin pubs, like Szimpla Kert, where you can enjoy a lively and creative atmosphere.

Day Four: Day Trips and Deeper Exploration

With a fourth day, you can venture beyond the city center or dive deeper into local experiences.

Option 1: Day Trip to Szentendre

Take a short train ride to the charming town of Szentendre, known for its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and vibrant art scene. Spend the day wandering its galleries, shops, and riverside cafés.Venture beyond the city with a day trip to Gödöllő Palace or the charming town of Szentendre.

Option 2: Explore Budapest’s Underground and Natural Wonders

For an adventurous day, join a tour of Budapest’s cave systems, such as the Pál-völgyi Cave or the Szemlő-hegyi Cave, where you’ll explore unique rock formations and learn about the city’s geology. Alternatively, hike up to the Citadel on Gellért Hill for stunning views and a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.