Best Budapest Attractions in Just 3 Days!

Planning a trip to Budapest, Hungary? Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply looking to explore one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, there’s no shortage of Budapest attractions to fill a 3-day itinerary. In April 2018, we spent three unforgettable days discovering the Budapest best places. From iconic landmarks like the Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building to hidden gems in the city’s historic districts, there are countless things to do in Budapest. We’ll take you through our journey, highlighting the top Budapest attractions, places to see in Budapest, and even the vibrant night clubs in Budapest. Join us as we explore the rich culture and stunning architecture of this incredible city.

Travel Trivia:

• Flights: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) serves as Hungary’s primary airport, with direct and connecting flights to major cities worldwide.
• Visa: EU citizens can travel to Hungary with a valid ID card, while non-EU citizens may require a Schengen visa for entry.
• Currency: The official currency of Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF), and credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments.
• Weather: Budapest experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons:
  • Spring (March to May) – temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).
  • Summer (June to August) – temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) or higher.
  • Autumn (September to November) – temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).
  • Winter (December to February) – temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F).
• Neighboring Countries: Hungary shares borders with Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, offering opportunities for cross-border exploration.
• Languages Spoken: Hungarian is the official language, but English and German are widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Stay – Avenue Hostel

Day Wise Itinerary to explore the best Budapest attractions:

Day 1: Discovering Buda and Pest

Morning:

1. Buda Castle: Our day began with a visit to the illustrious Buda Castle, perched majestically atop Castle Hill. The panoramic vistas of the Danube River and Budapest’s skyline from the castle’s terraces were simply breathtaking, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past and scenic beauty.
2. Fisherman’s Bastion: Next, we explored the whimsical architecture of Fisherman’s Bastion, a fairytale-like structure with seven turrets representing the seven Magyar tribes that settled in Hungary. The intricate details and panoramic views from the bastion made it a highlight of our morning.

Afternoon:

1. Lunch at Szimpla Kert: We savored a hearty Hungarian lunch at Szimpla Kert, one of Budapest’s renowned ruin bars. The vibrant ambiance, eclectic decor, and delicious local dishes made it a memorable culinary experience.
2. Matthias Church: Post-lunch, we admired the Gothic splendor of Matthias Church, known for its stunning architecture, colorful roof tiles, and historical significance. The interior adorned with frescoes and stained glass windows was a sight to behold.

Evening:

1. Danube River Cruise: As the sun began to set, we embarked on a romantic Danube River cruise, gliding past Budapest’s iconic landmarks bathed in golden hues. The illuminated Parliament building, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle created a magical ambiance, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.
2. Dinner at Gundel: Our evening culminated with a gourmet dinner at Gundel, a legendary restaurant renowned for its traditional Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist. The elegant setting, live music, and exquisite flavors elevated our dining experience to new heights.

Day 2: Immersing in Thermal Baths and History

Morning:

1. Széchenyi Thermal Bath: We indulged in relaxation at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, immersing ourselves in the healing waters of Europe’s largest medicinal bath. The thermal pools, saunas, and ornate architecture provided a rejuvenating start to our day.
2. Heroes’ Square: Adjacent to the baths, we explored Heroes’ Square, a monumental plaza honoring Hungary’s national heroes and showcasing the iconic Millennium Monument. The grandeur of the square and its historical significance were awe-inspiring.
3. St. Stephen’s Basilica: The basilica is a magnificent testament to both the city’s rich history and its enduring architectural grandeur, and beckoned us with its awe-inspiring beauty and spiritual significance.
4. Gelarto Rosa: We tried their rose ice-cream which is made exclusively from the finest imported and local ingredients.

Afternoon:

1. Lunch at New York Café: We dined in opulence at New York Café, often referred to as the “Most Beautiful Café in the World” The grandiose decor, rich history, and delectable Hungarian pastries made it a culinary delight.
2. Hungarian Parliament: Post-lunch, we marveled at the Hungarian Parliament building, an architectural masterpiece on the banks of the Danube. The intricate Neo-Gothic design, towering dome, and riverside location made it a symbol of Budapest’s grandeur.

Evening:

1. Stroll along Váci Street: We took a leisurely stroll along Váci Street, Budapest’s renowned shopping and dining boulevard. The bustling street lined with boutiques, cafes, and street performers offered a vibrant glimpse into Budapest’s urban life. We even tried the famous Lángos which is a typical Hungarian food. It is made of deep fried bread topped with cheese, onions and sour cream.
2. Dinner at Onyx Restaurant: Our evening concluded with a fine dining experience at Onyx Restaurant, a Michelin-starred culinary gem specializing in Hungarian gastronomy. The innovative dishes, impeccable service, and elegant ambiance made it a fitting finale to our second day in Budapest.

Day 3: Embracing Nature and Cultural Heritage

Morning:

1. Margaret Island: We spent the morning exploring the serene Margaret Island, a verdant oasis in the heart of Budapest. The island’s lush gardens, historical monuments, and recreational facilities provided a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
2. Margaret Bridge: Crossing the Margaret Bridge, we admired panoramic views of Budapest’s skyline, the Danube River, and the iconic Parliament building. The bridge’s architectural elegance added to the scenic beauty of our morning.

Afternoon:

1. Lunch at Rosenstein Restaurant: We relished authentic Hungarian Jewish cuisine at Rosenstein Restaurant, known for its flavorful dishes and cozy ambiance. The culinary heritage and cultural richness of Hungarian cuisine were evident in every bite.
2. Dohány Street Synagogue: Post-lunch, we delved into Budapest’s Jewish heritage with a visit to the Dohány Street Synagogue, Europe’s largest synagogue. The synagogue’s architecture, history, and poignant memorials offered insights into Hungary’s Jewish community.

Evening:

1. Opera House: Our cultural exploration continued with a visit to the Budapest Opera House, a magnificent venue showcasing opera, ballet, and classical music performances. The opulent interiors, exquisite performances, and rich artistic heritage were a testament to Budapest’s cultural legacy. We watched GOLDEN AGE – YBL210 and it was an amazing experience.
2. Farewell Dinner at Spoon The Boat: We bid farewell to Budapest with a memorable dinner cruise aboard Spoon The Boat, sailing along the Danube amidst Budapest’s illuminated landmarks. The scenic views, delectable cuisine, and festive atmosphere provided a fitting conclusion to our Budapest adventure.

Our three-day adventure in Budapest, Hungary, was a whirlwind of stunning sights and unforgettable experiences to discover the best Budapest attractions. From the historic sites to the lively night clubs in Budapest, we found endless things to visit in Budapest. Whether you’re looking for Budapest attractions, the best places to see in Budapest, or unique sites to see in Budapest, this city has something for everyone. Our Budapest itinerary covered all the must-see spots and left us with memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re planning your own trip, be sure to include these top things to do in Budapest on your list. There’s no doubt that Budapest, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is one of the most captivating places to see in Hungary.