Welcome to Budapest, the enchanting capital of Hungary, where history seamlessly blends with vibrant culture and stunning architecture. Along the banks of the Danube River, Budapest is a city brimming with captivating landmarks, thermal baths, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere. Budapest promises an unforgettable experience and adventure! In this guide, we’ll embark on a three-day journey through the heart of Budapest, exploring its iconic sights, hidden gems, and culinary delights. This guide will ensure that you make the most of your time in this mesmerizing city. So, pack your sense of adventure and let’s dive into an immersive exploration of Budapest’s rich heritage and contemporary charm!
Day 1:
-Start your day with breakfast at Cookie Beacon Brunch. This was a short walk from our Airbnb and highly recommended so we decided to check it out! The chicken & waffles I had were absolutely delicious. My sister got the carrot cake French toast and it was so decadent! Such a cute trendy spot with both delicious breakfast & delicious cookies! *Cookies will be shown in a later post! The link to their website: https://www.cookiebeacon.com
-After our delicious breakfast we headed to the Shoes on the Danube memorial. This memorial was both beautiful and heartbreaking! The shoes represent the Jews who were ordered to remove their shoes before being shot at the edge of the river. This powerful memorial serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the holocaust and honors the memory of thousands of Jews. Standing as a symbol of remembrance, I urge you to visit and reflect on the horrors of genocide and the importance of tolerance and human rights! Definitely a must visit, but please be respectful. The address: Budapest, Id. Antall József rkp., 1054 Hungary
-After visiting the memorial head to the funicular. This historic railway system provides transportation up to the steep incline to Castle Hill. This runs from 8am to 10pm otherwise you will have to climb up the many stairs! Not only does the journey up the funicular provide stunning views, but also brings you up to many attractions. These include: Buda Castle, the Royal Palace, Fisherman’s Bastion, and more. There is a small fee to ride the funicular. Information about the funicular: https://www.bkv.hu/en/content/buda_castle_funicular_en
-At the top of the funicular follow the signs towards Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion. Matthias Church is a magnificent church located in the heart of the castle district on the Buda side of the city. It sits atop Castle Hill right near Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion. The exterior of this church is characterized by its striking architecture, including a colorful tiled roof covered with intricate patterns and designs. I highly recommend visitors to come and admire its beauty and learn about its rich history. It also hosts many events throughout the year! There is a small fee to enter inside the church. You can buy your tickets in person or buy your tickets here: https://matyas-templom.hu/en/
-Right next to Matthias’ Church is Fisherman’s Bastion. This is probably my favorite attraction in Budapest! It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. This structure consists of seven towers each representing one of the seven Hungarian tribes that settled in the 9th century. The towers are connected by walkways and staircases which provide visitors with various vantage points to enjoy breathtaking views of the cityscape.
Truly this structure makes you feel like you’re in a fairytale especially with its white stone walls. This is open to the public year-round and the lower level is free to enter! The top level does have a small entrance fee, but it is totally worth it! When we went we had the whole top level to ourselves! For information about ticket pricing and events, visit this website: https://fishermansbastion.com/fishermans-bastion-prices
-After walking back towards our Airbnb, we decided to have lunch at Bastia which was close by. I ordered the French onion soup and vegetables with rosemary and goat cheese. This was such a delicious and light lunch! We sat in an enclosed outdoor area which was lovely. Definitely recommend coming here for a light lunch or dinner! Link to their website/menu: https://bestia.hu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Bestia-Etlap.pdf
Here is the link to make a reservation: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/bestiabudapest
-After lunch we headed to the Great Market Hall to experience Budapest’s vibrant culinary scene. Here you can sample local delicacies and pick up some souvenirs. Inside the Great Market Hall, you will find three floors packed with an array of stalls selling a wide variety of goods. The ground floor is dedicated to fresh produce, meats, cheeses, spices, and other food items. The upper floors feature vendors selling handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and traditional Hungarian products. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, sampling local delicacies, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, a visit to the Great Market Hall is sure to be a memorable experience.
-You can’t visit Budapest and not get a chimney cake! On our way back from the market, we stopped to get a chimney cake. This traditional Hungarian pastry are made from a sweet yeast dough that is wrapped around a cylindrical spit or mold and then baked over an open flame or in an oven. Typically these are rolled in various toppings including sugar, cinnamon, crushed nut, etc. Some even include nutella, whipped cream, ice cream, etc. I got mine rolled in cinnamon with ice cream and a caramel drizzle. This is a beloved treat among locals and tourists alike. We visited Cafe Molnar Kürtöskalács and loved our experience! Here is the link to their website: http://kurtoskalacs.com/en/
-After a lot of walking and a long day, we went to Tappassio for dinner. From start to finish the service was thorough, professional, and friendly. This tapas style restaurant allows you to order many different foods in smaller portions. This allowed us to try all different Hungarian foods! We ordered the infamous mini Langos, chicken paprikaish, red pepper dip with pomegranate, jalapeño croquettes, polenta, and they even threw in a complimentary shrimp dish. This was such a fun experience and a great way to check off some of the foods we wanted to try when visiting Hungary! Here is the link to their website: https://tapassio.com/en/home/
-After a full day of exploring and site seeing, we decided to spend our night relaxing. We took an unlimited Prosecco cruise along the Danube River and it was worth every penny! This cruise gives you gorgeous views of the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Chain Bridge. Seeing these landmarks from the water provides such a magical experience (especially with the Prosecco!) This provided such comfortability to enjoy the ride both inside the boat and outside! This is in my opinion the BEST way to view the parliament building. This is a must do on your list!
Day 2:
-Start your second day in Budapest off with coffee and a croissant at 9Bar. This place was nothing short of adorable and yummy! The café offers a diverse menu featuring a variety of breakfast items, brunch options, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. They also serve a selection of coffee drinks, teas, smoothies, and alcoholic beverages. The latte I had was delicious and the Nutella croissant my sister and I split was to die for. 9Bar boasts a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends, enjoying a leisurely meal, or getting some work done while sipping on a cup of coffee. Definitely add this coffee shop to your list! The link to their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/9barbudapest/?fref=ts
-After enjoying our morning coffee we headed to our official breakfast spot which Twentysix. This place was covered in beautiful greenery and plants. The inside of this restaurant was worth visiting alone! The shakshuka I had was simply delicious. Not only is this place stunning on the inside, but the food was incredible too!
Twenty-Six Restaurant is a popular destination in Budapest for those seeking a refined and memorable dining experience. With its combination of exquisite cuisine, elegant ambiance, and attentive service, it’s a great choice for any occasion. If you’re planning to visit, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance to secure your table. We visited during breakfast time, but they’re opened in the afternoon as well. This is an absolute must visit when in Budapest. The link to their website: https://twentysixbudapest.com
-After our breakfast we bolted (a form of public transportation similar to Uber) to Heroes’ Square. Heroes’ Square is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s located at the end of Andrássy Avenue and serves as a major hub for cultural and historical significance. Heroes’ Square is not only a place of architectural and historical interest but also serves as a venue for events, celebrations, and gatherings throughout the year. It’s a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Budapest’s rich history and culture. This is a great place to stop and checkout on your way to the Széchenyi thermal baths.
-We then spent a few hours enjoying and soaking up the gorgeous Széchenyi thermal baths. The Széchenyi Thermal Baths is one of the most famous and largest thermal bath complexes in Budapest, Hungary, and indeed in all of Europe. Situated in the picturesque City Park (Városliget) area, the baths are renowned for their healing thermal waters and stunning Neo-Baroque architecture.
The architecture is breathtaking, with intricate details, grand halls, and beautiful courtyards, making the experience of visiting the baths not only therapeutic but also culturally enriching. The water is renowned for its therapeutic properties, containing minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfate, which are believed to offer various health benefits, including easing joint pain, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation.
Széchenyi Thermal Baths feature a vast complex of indoor and outdoor pools, allowing visitors to enjoy the thermal waters in any season. The outdoor pools are particularly popular, offering a unique experience of soaking in warm water while surrounded by steam rising into the crisp Budapest air.
These baths get extremely busy on the weekends so I recommend either going very early or going during the week if you can! There are different locker options you can purchase – I recommend going with the cheapest option and making sure to bring your own towel, swimsuit, and appropriate footwear. Don’t worry if you do forget though because you can purchase all of these things and more at the baths! They made the whole locker experience simple and easy!
Throughout the year, Széchenyi Thermal Baths host various events, including pool parties, live music performances, and cultural exhibitions, adding to the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of the complex. Overall, a visit to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Budapest. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, wellness, or simply a unique cultural experience, the baths offer a memorable and rejuvenating retreat amidst the bustling city. I recommend booking tickets in advance through their website! Link to their website: https://www.szechenyibath.hu
-After relaxing at the thermal baths for a few hours, we went to Retro Lángos for lunch. Lángos is essentially a deep-fried dough topped with various savory or sweet toppings like sour cream, cheese, garlic, or even Nutella. It’s a must-try when visiting Budapest and Retro Lángos specifically was our favorite spot for both its good flavors and laid back atmosphere.
Retro Lángos offers a fun and delicious way to experience traditional Hungarian street food with a modern and creative twist. Whether you’re craving a classic lángos with traditional toppings or want to try something new and exciting, Retro Lángos is sure to satisfy your appetite for authentic Hungarian cuisine with a retro flair. The link to their website: http://www.retrolangos.hu
-After our lunch we ended up going back to Cookie Beacon Brunch (as shown earlier in this post) to try their infamous cookies. They definitely did not disappoint! We got the chocolate and pecan and the caramel cookie. Both were delicious and I would go back there in a heartbeat! If you have a sweet tooth like myself, I would recommend trying out their cookies!
-After walking off our cookies and Lángos, we made our way to Szimpla Kert ruin bar! Szimpla Kert is one of the most famous ruin bars in Budapest, located in the Jewish Quarter. It’s known for its eclectic and quirky atmosphere, created within the ruins of an old building. The decor is a mishmash of vintage furniture, colorful graffiti, and various eccentricities.
Szimpla Kert offers a unique social experience, with multiple rooms and spaces to explore, including a courtyard and an open-air cinema. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of drinks, including local beers, cocktails, and Hungarian wines. Additionally, the bar often hosts cultural events, live music performances, film screenings, and art exhibitions, making it a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Budapest’s nightlife scene in a one-of-a-kind setting.
-Right near the ruin bar is Karaván Street Food. This is a popular outdoor food court also located in the Jewish Quarter. It features a variety of food stalls offering a wide range of international and Hungarian cuisine, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. From traditional Hungarian dishes like lángos and goulash to international street food favorites like burgers, tacos, and Asian cuisine, Karaván has something to satisfy every craving.
The vibrant atmosphere, with communal seating and outdoor dining, adds to the appeal of this culinary hotspot in Budapest. It’s a great place to sample all different flavors in a casual and lively setting. We didn’t up eating here because we had other plans for dinner, but it was definitely a popular spot when we visited!
-For dinner we went to a Georgian restaurant called Hachapuri. It specializes in traditional Georgian cuisine, with a focus on dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings), and various meat and vegetable dishes.
The restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with decor that often reflects Georgian culture and hospitality.
Hachapuri is known for its authentic flavors and generous portions, making it a favorite among locals and visitors looking to experience the taste of Georgia in Budapest. We ordered the beef dumplings, a salad, and the cheese & spinach pie. Everything was delicious and the portions were huge! The link to their website: https://hachapuri.com
Day 3:
-Starting off Day 3 we decided to visit St. Stephen’s Basilica. We were fortunate enough to have St. Stephen’s Basilica right outside our Airbnb! This iconic landmark is absolutely stunning and even allows visitors to climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. However there is a small fee to do this. This is a short, but well worth detour when visiting Budapest. The link to our airbnb (highly recommend staying here): https://abnb.me/lU90vhCPKHb
-Next we made our way to a Transylvanian coffee shop called Meron Coffee. It was minimalistic, aesthetic, and served delicious coffee! Although this was right near a Starbucks, I personally like to visit smaller coffee shops when I travel! Definitely consider going here over the Starbucks next store, it was definitely worth it!
-After our coffee we walked to our next activity. My sister and I decided we wanted to attend a strudel making class. We saw this class was offered inside a local Hungarian’s home on Airbnb experiences and we HAD to try it! They guide you through the whole process of strudel making from prepping ingredients, stretching and forming the strudel, to filling and cooking.
We were fortunate enough to be the only people in the class! While we waited for our strudel to bake our instructor (who was lovely) prepared us a charcuterie board alongside Hungarian wine and bread to snack on. This was very hands on and felt truly unique and fun! I couldn’t recommend this experience enough! Link to the experience: https://abnb.me/xvwBdUlQKHb
-The strudel making class was somewhat nearby the Parliament building so we decided to take the time to visit! The Hungarian Parliament building is impossible to miss when visiting Budapest. One of my favorite ways to see it is by taking a river cruise (which I mentioned earlier in this post). This is truly one of the most iconic landmarks in Hungary.
It’s renowned for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, grand scale, and intricate details. Visitors can admire its exterior beauty and take guided tours to explore its impressive interior, including the main hall, grand staircase, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels on display. This building is so stunning and worth taking an up close visit (especially when it’s lit up at night!)
The illuminating of the Parliament Building contributes to the city’s vibrant nighttime atmosphere and tourism appeal, attracting visitors who can admire its beauty even after dark. Overall, the nighttime lighting adds to the allure and grandeur of the building, making it an iconic feature of Budapest’s skyline.
-We decided to make out way across the The Széchenyi Chain Bridge. This is one of the most famous landmarks in Budapest, Hungary, spanning the Danube River and connecting the two halves of the city, Buda and Pest. It was the first permanent bridge to link the two sides of Budapest, completed in 1849. It features massive stone pillars and ornate iron chains, giving it a majestic appearance.
The bridge has become an iconic symbol of Budapest and is especially beautiful when illuminated at night. Although we walked across this bridge many times, I enjoyed it most at night. If you’re able to, definitely take the time to walk across this bridge because there is something truly magical about it!
-Belvárosi Auguszt Cukrászda was next on our list! This historic pastry shop located in the heart of Budapest’s downtown area, known as Belváros. It is part of the Auguszt family’s confectionery legacy, which dates back to the 19th century. The shop offers a wide range of traditional Hungarian pastries, cakes, and desserts, including classics like Dobos torte, Esterházy torte, and strudels.
Belvárosi Auguszt Cukrászda is celebrated for its commitment to quality and tradition, using time-honored recipes and techniques passed down through generations. It’s a popular spot among locals and tourists alike who seek to experience authentic Hungarian sweets in a charming and regal setting. This cake was everything I wanted it to be and more! Definitely plan on making a stop at this iconic and delicious shop!
-I would recommend visiting Buda Castle when you visit the other castles in this area. However, we didn’t have the time so we ended up coming back here. Buda Castle, also known as the Royal Palace or Buda Castle Palace, is a historic castle complex located on Castle Hill in Budapest, Hungary. It houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Széchényi Library.
Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, admire its architectural features, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its elevated position. The surrounding area, also known as the Castle District, is home to charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares. This is a must visit just for the views alone!
-Probably our favorite spot for dinner was at Mazel Tov! Mazel Tov is a popular restaurant located in the Jewish Quarter of Budapest, Hungary. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious Israeli and Mediterranean cuisine, and stylish design. The restaurant is housed in a renovated courtyard with an open-air setting, adorned with greenery, fairy lights, and a retractable glass roof.
Mazel Tov offers a diverse menu featuring a variety of dishes such as hummus, falafel, grilled meats, fresh salads, and vegetarian options. They also serve a selection of cocktails, wines, and craft beers to complement the dining experience. The restaurant’s lively ambiance, combined with its flavorful cuisine and trendy setting, made it our favorite restaurant during our entire trip! I highly recommend ordering the shakshuka, it was to die for!!! Definitely make a reservation here. The link to their website: https://mazeltov.hu/en
-Gelarto Rosa is a popular gelato shop located in Budapest, Hungary, known for its unique and beautiful rose-shaped gelato cones. The shop offers a wide variety of gelato flavors made with high-quality ingredients, including classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla, as well as more adventurous options such as lavender and mango.
What sets Gelarto Rosa apart is its signature technique of sculpting the gelato into delicate petals to create the appearance of a rose flower. Customers can choose multiple flavors to create a colorful and visually stunning gelato cone. Aside from its artistic presentation, Gelarto Rosa is praised for its delicious and creamy gelato, making it a must-visit destination for gelato lovers exploring the streets of Budapest. This was located right outside our Airbnb and we couldn’t help but visit multiple times! The link to their website:https://gelartorosa.com/en/
This was my 3 Day Itinerary when visiting Budapest, Hungary! More itineraries coming soon!
If you’re interested in visiting and want some more tips, please feel free to leave a comment below or direct message me on Instagram @smilesmilesaway Also check out my Amazon Storefront where I share all of my Amazon favorites: My Amazon Storefront . If you’ve already visited Budapest, please comment below one of your favorite memories. I can’t wait to read your comments!
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