Budapest is the perfect place for a short getaway! I spent 3 days there over New Year’s Eve, and it was just what I needed. 3 days were enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed or bored.
What stood out to me the most was the food. There are so many great restaurants that I wish I had stayed longer just to try more of them.
Here’s my simple 3-day Budapest itinerary to help you plan your trip!
- How many days do you need to fully enjoy Budapest?
- What is the best area to stay in Budapest?
- When is the best time to visit Budapest?
- How to get around in Budapest?
- DAY 1 – Exploring Historic Buda
- DAY 2 – Exploring Pest
- DAY 3 – Culture and Relaxation
- Where to eat in Budapest?
- Best Instagrammable Spots in Budapest
How many days do you need to fully enjoy Budapest?
Budapest deserves at least 2 full days to explore, especially if you’re planning to prioritize certain spots and keep a steady pace. If you want to take things slower and truly immerse yourself in the city, plan for 3 or even 4 days. With extra time, you can also fit in some exciting day trips.
What is the best area to stay in Budapest?
Budapest is divided into 23 districts, with the Danube River splitting the city into two main areas: Buda on the west side and Pest on the east.
Three districts, in particular, stand out for tourists. In Buda, District I, known as the Castle District, is a must-see. It’s home to landmarks like Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion, offering a glimpse into the city’s history along with incredible panoramic views.
Over in Pest, District V, Belváros-Lipótváros, is the city’s lively center. This area is where you’ll find iconic spots such as the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the popular Váci Street, known for its shopping and dining options.
Another highlight in Pest is District VII, Erzsébetváros, which is famous for its energetic nightlife and the historic Jewish Quarter. Here, you can visit the Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe, and experience the trendy atmosphere of the city’s iconic ruin pubs.
I stayed in District I, right in the heart of the city, and it turned out to be the perfect location. Fashion Street, the main shopping area, is just a 10-minute walk away, while St. Stephen’s Basilica was only a 15-minute stroll from where I stayed.
When is the best time to visit Budapest?
Budapest is beautiful year-round, and the best time to visit depends on the experience you’re looking for.
Winter: The city is magical during Christmas, with one of Europe’s top Christmas markets featuring local artisan gifts, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine. While it’s cold, the festive atmosphere makes it worth visiting. For a quieter and more budget-friendly trip, consider November, January, or February. Though the weather can be grey, you’ll find great deals on flights and hotels. Plus, Budapest’s museums, theaters, and nightlife keep the city lively, though some attractions may close earlier in winter.
Summer: Summer is hot but vibrant in Budapest, as the city thrives with festivals and long sunny days. While prices are higher, you’ll experience Budapest at its liveliest. Key summer events include Budapest Beer Week in May, the Night of Museums and Budapest Pride in June, the Danube Carnival celebrating Hungarian folklore, and the famous Sziget Festival, one of Europe’s biggest music festivals.
How to get around in Budapest?
Budapest is a fantastic city to explore on foot if you don’t mind a bit of exercise! Walking allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and develop a better sense of direction. Most of the main attractions are conveniently located within walking distance of each other, no more than a 45-minute walk apart.
For longer distances, public transport is a great choice. You can easily buy tickets at machines using cash or card. The best option is the 24-hour ticket, which costs 2,500 HUF (€6.60) and gives you unlimited travel across the city.
If you prefer something more active, Budapest is a bike-friendly city. Joining a guided bicycle tour is a fun way to cover more ground and see the highlights.
The taxi service “Bolt” is an excellent and affordable option. You can get to a destination 15 minutes away for as little as €5!
Finally, there’s always the hop-on-hop-off bus. While it’s definitely a touristy option, it’s a fun and convenient way to explore.
DAY 1
Exploring Historic Buda
Here’s a compact 3-day itinerary to explore Budapest’s top sights entirely on foot!
Morning:
- Start at Buda Castle and explore its courtyards and museums.
- Visit Matthias Church, known for its intricate design and stunning interior.
- Walk to Fisherman’s Bastion for breathtaking views of Pest across the Danube.
Afternoon:
- Take a stroll along the Tóth Árpád Promenade for panoramic views.
- Stop by the Hospital in the Rock Museum for an insightful and unique experience.
Golden Hour:
Hike up Gellért Hill to visit the Citadella and the Liberty Statue, the perfect spot for a stunning sunset.
DAY 2
Exploring Pest
Morning:
- Begin at the Hungarian Parliament Building, a neo-Gothic masterpiece. If possible, take a guided tour inside or book your ticket well in advance!
- Walk to Shoes on the Danube Bank, a poignant Holocaust memorial.
- Continue to Szabadság tér (Liberty Square), home to the Soviet War Memorial.
Afternoon:
- Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica and climb the dome for panoramic views over the city.
- Stroll along Andrássy Avenue, Budapest’s most elegant street.
- Explore Heroes’ Square and City Park.
Evening: - Head to the Jewish Quarter, visiting the Great Synagogue.
- Wrap up the day with drinks at a ruin pub like Szimpla Kert, experiencing the area’s buzzing nightlife.
DAY 3
Culture and Relaxation
Morning:
- Visit the House of Terror Museum for a deep dive into Hungary’s 20th-century history.
- Take a walk to Városliget (City Park) and visit the charming Vajdahunyad Castle.
Midday:
- Unwind at Széchenyi Thermal Baths, enjoying the outdoor thermal pools and spa treatments; or
- cross the Liberty Bridge to Buda and visit the stunning Gellért Thermal Baths, known for its Art Nouveau interiors and soothing waters.
Golden Hour and Evening:
- Take a relaxed walk along the Danube Promenade, soaking in the beautifully illuminated city.
- End your trip with a dinner cruise on the Danube, taking in the lit-up Parliament, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle.
Where to eat in Budapest?
As mentioned earlier, Budapest is a true culinary delight! While I didn’t have the chance to try every spot, here’s my personal list of must-visit hungarian and international restaurants, brunch spots, and fine dining options. Be sure to check the ratings yourself before heading out, and I strongly recommend booking most places in advance, as many are popular and often have long wait times.
Best Brunch & Coffee Spots in Budapest
- Cake & More by Garannikova
- Cookie Beacon Brunch
- Blue Bird Brunch
- Lions Locker
- Cosy Cafe
- VAJ
- Norma Grand
- New York Cafe
- Madal Cafe
- Café Gerbeau
Best Hungarian Restaurants in Budapest - Városliget Café
- Marischka Restaurant
- Karavan Food Market
- Central Market Hall
- Chimney Cakes
Best International Restaurants in Budapest:
- Hotsy Totsy
- Yamato Étterem
- Pastamore
- Smashy
- Beast Rami BBQ
Fine Dining in Budapest:
- Parisi Passage (c.f. picture)
- 360 Rooftop Sky Bar
- Aranybástya
- Bestia
- Nightingale by Beefbar
- Leo Rooftop
- Spago Budapest by Wolfgang Puck
- Kollázs
Best Instagrammable Spots in Budapest
Here are 10 stunning instagrammable spots for capturing the perfect photo. Keep in mind that these locations are quite popular, so the best times to visit are at sunrise, sunset, or even late at night under the city lights.
- Fisherman’s Bastion
- Hungarian Parliament
- Széchenyi Chain bridge
- Liberty bridge
- Gellert Hill and Liberty Statue
- New York Café
- Szimpla Kert Ruin Bar
- Széchenyi Thermal Baths
- Gellert Spa and hotel
- Central Market
