3 Days In Budapest: Ultimate Itinerary For First Timers

First time in Budapest? We’ll show you exactly how to spend your first 3 days in Budapest.

Budapest is one of the most beautiful and underrated capital cities in Europe, offering the perfect blend of rich history, vibrant nightlife, and stunning architecture. 

Known as the “Pearl of the Danube”, Budapest has a little something for everyone. The actual city is split into two contrasting halves – Buda and Pest – each having it’s own character. Buda is the more historical side, whilst Pest is a little more vibrant and, well, a little wild.

With easy connections to almost every other capital city in Europe, Budapest makes for the perfect city weekend break. 3 days in Budapest is the idea amount of time to visit, as there is plenty to fill your days without making them feel rushed.

We followed almost this exact itinerary when we visited Budapest for Christmas, with a few adaptations based on our personal experiences. So let’s get right into it.

Budapest Itinerary: 3 Days Overview

➡️Day 1 – Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, Gellért Thermal Baths, watch sunset from Gellért Hill

➡️Day 2 – Hungarian Parliament & Shoes on the Danube, St Stephen’s Basilica, Jewish Quarter, Ruin Bars

➡️Day 3 – Margaret Island, Heroe’s Square, City Park, Széychenyi Thermal Baths, Danube Dinner Cruise 

Day 1: Discovering Buda

Your first day in Budapest will focus on the Buda side of the Danube. You’ll spend the day exploring the most beautiful and historical places to visit in Budapest, including starting at one of our absolute favourites.

Morning: Explore Fisherman’s Bastion & Buda Castle

Today, you’re going to want to be up with the sunrise to head to the first spot of the day: Fisherman’s Bastion. 

To get to Fisherman’s Bastion from the centre of Pest, you’ll want to catch the M2 metro to Batthyány Ter. Stop at a cute café for some breakfast before continuing the uphill walk to Fisherman’s Bastion. It should only take around 12 minutes from the metro station. 

Fisherman’s Bastion is one of our absolute favourite places, so it seems only right that you should start your three days in Budapest with this spot. This is where you’ll get the most enchanting views of Budapest, no matter the time of year, with the spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building clearly visible through the white arches.

We recommend getting there as early as possible, to enjoy the golden glow of the sun rising over the city. It is a popular spot and can get busy later in the day, but at sunrise it’s just perfect. 

Fisherman’s Bastion is free to enter and open 24/7, though the upper viewing terrace costs 1000 HUF per person. If you would like to visit the terrace, it is open 9am to 7pm daily.

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After spending some time taking in the incredible views and admiring the enchanting towers of Fisherman’s Bastion, head just a few metres away to Matthias Church. 

We’d recommend booking your entry ticket in advance to save time, or it is included in the 72hr Budapest Card.

Matthias Church is one of the most important Churches in Budapest. Many of the country’s Kings were coronated in this very church. Not only that, but the architecture is stunning, particularly the patterned tiled roof. The inside is equally as beautiful and ornate, and well worth seeing.

Plus, for an additional fee, you can scale the bell tower for another insane view over the city.

➡️Book Your Matthias Church Ticket HERE! ⬅️

After admiring Matthias Church, it is time to head on a short walk to Buda Castle, one of the biggest and most impressive buildings in Budapest.

Perched on the aptly named Castle Hill, Buda Castle offers insane views over the city from the large outdoor terrace. It is free to visit the outside of the castle, however we would highly recommend booking onto a tour of the interior. You’ll get to visit St Stephens Hall, which is absolutely stunning, with ornate details decorating the whole room.

➡️Book Your Buda Castle Ticket HERE! ⬅️

Afternoon: Visit Buda Castle Caves & Relax At Gellért Thermal Baths

After a quick stop for lunch at one of our favourite cafés in the area, it’s time to continue your exploration of the Castle District with a spot many people miss: the castle caves.

Yep, that’s right. Beneath Buda Castle is a network of ancient caves. These caves, formed over thousands of years, have a fascinating history — from their ancient use as shelter to their role as a WWII bunker and even a rumored secret meeting spot for medieval royalty!

You’ll see everything from a mammoth tooth to Cold War remnants, with an informative guide showing you the way. The cave paths are dimly lit and full of twists, which only adds to the mysterious vibe. This is such a fun and unique thing to do in Budapest and we highly recommend it.

➡️Book Your Buda Castle Cave Tour HERE!⬅️

The last thing on the itinerary for your first day in Budapest is one of the best. Let’s face it, you’ve spent a long day on your feet, exploring. You deserve time to relax.

Make your way down to the banks of the Danube, to the Gellért Thermal Baths. It’s a 30 minute walk from Buda Castle, or you can catch the line 19 tram which is free with the Budapest Card. 

Gellért Thermal Baths are continuously voted one of the most beautiful indoor thermal baths in the world. It’s easy to see why. Picture walls covered in intricate, blue and green mosaic patterns, floors lined with detailed tile designs, and tall columns with gold accents around every pool. The high ceilings and large, arched windows let natural light stream in, giving the place an airy, almost magical feel.

There are several different thermal baths for you to enjoy, each heated to a slightly different temperature, ranging from warm to hot. In the summer, there is even an outdoor wave pool. 

The baths are open until 7pm, so spend the rest of your afternoon and evening unwinding in peace.

➡️Book Your Gellért Thermal Baths Ticket In Advance HERE!⬅️

Evening: Watch Sunset From Gellért Hill

To round off the first day in this three day Budapest itinerary, head on a short walk up to Gellért Hill. Catching the sunset from Gellért Hill is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Budapest. 

As you make your way up the hill, the views get more and more impressive, with the entire city gradually unfolding beneath you. As the sun sets, watch as the golden light reflects off the Danube and casts a warm glow over the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the iconic Chain Bridge. 

This is literally the perfect way to wrap up your first day in Budapest.

Day 2: Exploring Pest

On the second of your three days in Budapest, you’ll be exploring the vibrant charm and energy of Pest. This is a whole new side to the city, and completely unlike Buda, though it’s still home to beautiful architecture and iconic landmarks. 

Plus, there is a thriving café culture in Pest, which, if you know me, is an immediate gold star. This day is all about soaking up the culture, trying delicious local foods, and discovering the energy that makes Pest so unforgettable.

Morning: Visit the Hungarian Parliament, Shoes on the Danube, & St Stephen’s Basilica

After a delicious breakfast in a traditional Hungarian café, head straight to the first spot of the day: the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building.

One of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a must-see on your second day in Budapest. This architectural gem, perched right on the banks of the Danube, is as stunning up close as it is from across the river. 

With its intricate spires, the Parliament is breathtaking from every angle. Spend a little time wandering round the outside of the building, taking in it’s beauty.

After you’ve explored the outside of the Parliament Building, take a tour to explore the inside. This allows you to see the ornate golden halls, with towering marble columns and grand staircases. The highlight is the central dome hall, which houses the Hungarian Crown Jewels. 

 ➡️Book Your Hungarian Parliament Entry Ticket & Audio Tour HERE! ⬅️

Following your visit to the Hungarian Parliament Building, head to the banks of the river just outside to reflect at the Shoes on the Danube monument.

This sombre memorial honors the memory of Jewish men, women, and children who were tragically killed along the riverbank during World War II. The victims were forced to remove their shoes before being executed, and the cast-iron shoes scattered along the river represent this heartbreaking moment in history.

Pause here, taking a moment to reflect.

Following the Shoes on the Danube monument, take the scenic 15-minute walk to St Stephen’s Basilica, another of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest.

St Stephen’s Basilica is the third largest Church in all of Hungary, and easily one of the most important and impressive. With a huge dome, two large bell towers, and an intricately decorated interior, it is definitely worth seeing.

Inside the Basilica, you’ll find beautiful artwork, stunning mosaics, marble pillars, and gold just about everywhere. You can also climb the bell tower for insane views over Budapest. We’d recommend booking your entry ticket in advance to make sure you don’t miss out. You also get a 20% discount on admission with the Budapest Card.

 ➡️Book Your St Stephen’s Basilica Ticket HERE!⬅️

After taking in the beauty of St. Stephen’s Basilica, head to Váci Street (Váci utca), one of Budapest’s most famous shopping streets. Here, you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques, local shops, and classic Hungarian souvenir stalls. 

It’s also a great place to sample local cafes and pastries, or to stop for a traditional Hungarian lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. Plus, if you’re visiting Budapest around Christmas, Váci Street is beautifully decorated.

Afternoon: Discover the Jewish Quarter

After stopping for a traditional Hungarian lángos for lunch, it’s time to head to the Jewish Quarter. This historical part of Budapest is filled with a buzzing atmosphere and a truly artistic vibe.

The first stop this afternoon is the Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe. Built in 1859, this synagogue can seat 3000 people, which is just insane to think about. 

Not only that, but the Dohány Street Synagogue is of huge historical importance, with the street marking the edge of the Jewish Ghetto in the Second World War. The garden of the synagogue is the final resting place of more than 2600 Jews who perished in the ghetto during the war.

The Hungarian Jewish Museum is attached to the synagogue, and both are well worth taking the time to visit. We would recommend booking skip-the-line tickets in advance as it can get quite busy.

 ➡️Click HERE To Book Your Skip-The-Line Tickets⬅️

Next, treat yourself to a coffee break at the New York Café, which is possibly the most beautiful café in the world. Honestly, as you step inside, it feels like you’re entering a royal palace, with stunning chandeliers and intricate frescoes across the ceilings.

Order a coffee and an indulgent slice of cake and soak up the luxurious atmosphere. We recommend the classic Dobos torte – it’s delicious. 

After a leisurely coffee and cake at the New York Café, it’s time to hit the streets and dive into the magic of Budapest’s historic Jewish Quarter. Wandering through these old streets, you’ll see everything from charming baroque facades to crumbling courtyards with hidden corners and ivy-covered balconies. 

Take your time exploring side alleys and tucked-away shops, where locals go about their day. You’ll stumble upon artisan shops, vintage bookstores, and the occasional quiet café where time seems to stand still. 

This is the real heart of Budapest: lively, textured, and full of stories just waiting to be uncovered. I find that the best way to explore here is to wander without a set plan, letting curiosity guide the way. It’s this unplanned exploration of Budapest that truly captures the city’s spirit — rich in history, yet brimming with life and creativity at every turn.

Evening: Experience The Ruin Bars

As the sun starts to set, and you’ve found your feet in the city, there is no better way to spend the evening than experiencing Budapest’s legendary ruin bars. These unique pubs, tucked into abandoned buildings in the Jewish Quarter, combine history and creativity in a way you’ll only find here.

Start your night at Szimpla Kert, the original ruin bar. As you enter, you’ll be met with mismatched furniture, colourful lights, and eclectic decor, each room offering something new and different. 

If you’re up for more, hop over to Instant Fogas on Akácfa Street, an expansive maze-like bar with multiple installations that create a surreal, funhouse vibe.

Each bar has its own style, but they all share the same bohemian spirit, where locals and travellers alike gather to unwind, dance, and enjoy a vibrant, unforgettable night out in Budapest.

If you’d like to see more of Budapest’s ruin bars, a good option is to book a ruin bar pub crawl. This can be so much fun and is a great way to meet other travellers whilst experiencing the best of Budapest’s nightlife.

 ➡️Click Here To Book Your Ruin Bar Pub Crawl⬅️

Day 3: Culture, Cuisine, and Scenic Views

The last of your three days in Budapest will see you hitting all the key spots you’re yet to see, from the Central Market Hall to Heroes Square. There’s plenty of sightseeing, plus some incredible activities to finish your time in Budapest.

Morning: Margaret Island & Heroe’s Square

A three-day Budapest itinerary would not be complete without visiting Margaret Island, a green oasis right in the middle of the Danube. 

This island is 1.6 miles long, and offers everything from scenic walks to convent ruins, a Japanese garden, and even a small petting zoo. It’s also popular amongst runners, with a running track extending all the way around the outside of the island.

To get to Margaret Island, take tram line 4 or 6 and get off at the Margaret Bridge stop, then walk onto the island from the bridge.

Spend a few hours enjoying the lush nature and beautiful scenery. Make sure to head to the end of the island to watch the musical fountain show. If you’re feeling active, consider hiring a bike to explore, or head to the Palatinus Strand waterpark for some summer fun.

 ➡️Click HERE To Book Your Palatinus Strand Tickets In Advance⬅️

After a relaxing few hours exploring Margaret Island, it’s time to head back into the city to Heroe’s Square. This one of Budapest’s most significant and iconic landmarks. 

From the island, you can catch tram line 4 or 6 at Margaret Bridge, switch to the M1 metro (the oldest metro line in Budapest) at Oktogon, and take it to the Hősök tere (Heroes’ Square) stop. This journey will take roughly 35 minutes.

Located at the end of the beautiful Andrássy Avenue, Heroe’s Square is framed by the Millennium Monument, a towering column topped with the Archangel Gabriel, and surrounded by statues of Hungarian leaders and national heroes.

The square is surrounded by two of Budapest’s most beautiful museums – the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art. These are definitely worth visiting if you have an extra day or two in Budapest.

However, for now, admire the museums from the outside and spend a bit of time in the area taking photographs.

Afternoon: City Park & Széchenyi Thermal Baths

After lunch looking over a beautiful lake with views of Vajdahunyad Castle, head across to City Park, located just behind Heroe’s Square. City Park is Budapest’s largest and most popular green space, with a little something for everyone.

This is where you have a few options of what you could do, depending on your interests and travel preferences. If you’re visiting in winter, we’d highly recommend ice skating at City Park Ice Rink, the largest open-air ice rink in Europe. In summer, the ice rink turns into a boating lake which is also super fun.

If you’re travelling with little ones, consider visiting Budapest Zoo and Botanical Gardens, located within City Park. Or, if you’re on a budget, simply stroll around the park, stop for a picnic under a tree, and explore the beautiful Vajdahunyad Castle.

After spending some time exploring City Park, it’s time to head to the next destination, and one of my personal favourites: Széchenyi Thermal Baths. This is the perfect way to unwind on your last day in Budapest.

This is one of Budapest’s most beautiful thermal baths. Although you’ll have already visited Gellért Baths on this itinerary, Széchenyi offers a completely different experience. 

This is one of the largest thermal bath complexes in Europe, with 18 pools (both indoor and outdoor), and the iconic yellow architecture.

The waters are heated to different temperatures so you’re bound to find the perfect one. Even on a freezing winter’s day, you’ll warm up quickly even in the outdoor pools. The waters are said to contain healing properties and are great for relieving joint aches and stress. One of the outdoor pools has fountains and a little whirlpool which is so much fun.

We would highly recommend booking your Széchenyi Thermal Bath tickets in advance, as it can get busy at certain times of year.

➡️ Click Here To Book Your Széchenyi Thermal Bath Tickets In Advance ⬅️

Evening: Dinner Cruise on the Danube

To round off your three days in Budapest, you’ll be doing one of the most romantic and unforgettable things there is to do in the city: a Danube river cruise. 

This is the perfect way to see Budapest’s most beautiful sights twinkling in the dark, from the comfort of a luxury boat.

This elegant cruise includes a welcome drink as you’re shown to your table, setting the mood for a cozy, candle-lit evening. You’ll get to enjoy a delicious 4-course meal whilst being serenaded by live music performed by talented Hungarian musicians.

As the boat glides along the river, you’ll see all of the most famous sites, including Margaret Island, Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the Chain Bridge.

This is the most magical and beautiful experience to round off your time in Budapest.

➡️ Book Your Tickets Now So You Don’t Miss Out ⬅️

Where To Stay In Budapest

Budapest is quite a large city and choosing where to stay can make all the difference to an itinerary. To maximise time, we recommend staying in Pest. 

This puts you in the heart of the city, with a buzzing atmosphere, plenty of restaurants, and many of Budapest’s most iconic sites. It means you can walk to many places in this itinerary, and there are plenty of public transport options for those further afield.

✅Best Budget Stay – Metropolis Budapest Boutique Hotel

Metropolis Budapest Boutique Hotel features uniquely decorated rooms that combine classic and modern styles. Its location offers easy access to public transportation, with stylish bars and restaurants just a short stroll away.

Book Your Stay At Metropolis Budapest By Clicking HERE

✅Best Mid-Range Stay – Gerlóczy Boutique Hotel

Gerlóczy Boutique Hotel is a charming oasis in the heart of Budapest, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. With its unique design and character, it’s a lovely place to stay, within walking distance of major attractions.

Book Your Stay At Gerlóczy Boutique Hotel By Clicking HERE

✅Best Luxury Stay – Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa

Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa is the epitomy of luxury with exceptional amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and gourmet dining options. Some rooms even come with private jacuzzis, offering an extra touch of indulgence. With world-class service and a prime location, it’s one of Budapest’s top hotels.

Book Your Stay At Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa By Clicking HERE 

Getting Around Budapest

Getting around Budapest is easy and convenient, thanks to its well-connected public transportation system. The city offers trams, buses, and an efficient metro, including the historic M1 line, the oldest in mainland Europe. 

You can purchase single tickets, day passes, or multi-day passes from machines at most metro stations or newsstands, making it simple to hop between sights. Unlimited public transportation is also included with the Budapest Card.

➡️Click Here To Purchase Your Budapest Card ⬅️

Trams are especially scenic, particularly line 2, which follows the Danube and passes major landmarks. Taxis and rideshare options are also available, though be sure to use licensed taxis, as they’re safer and more reliable. 

For an eco-friendly option, Budapest has a popular bike-share program called MOL Bubi, allowing you to rent bikes from docking stations across the city. 

Walking is another great way to explore, especially in the central areas where many major attractions are within easy reach.

FAQs

Still have some questions about spending three days in Budapest? We’ve rounded up the most commonly asked questions below.

Is 3 Days In Budapest Enough Time?

Yes! While there’s plenty to explore in Budapest, 3 days is perfect for seeing the city’s main highlights. In three days, you can cover historic landmarks like Buda Castle and Heroes’ Square, unwind in the thermal baths, and enjoy a Danube dinner cruise. It’s just enough time to get a feel for Budapest’s unique vibe and see its top sights without feeling too rushed.

What Are The Must-Try Foods In Budapest?

Budapest has a fantastic food scene! Be sure to try gulyás (goulash), a flavorful Hungarian stew, and lángos, a popular street food made of fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese. 

For dessert, try chimney cake (kürtőskalács) or a slice of the traditional Dobos torte. You can even take a class to learn how to make your own chimney cake here!

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Budapest?

Budapest is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. 

Summer is popular but can be hot and busy, while winter offers a charming holiday atmosphere with Christmas markets and ice skating, though temperatures can drop significantly.

Is Budapest An Expensive City To Visit?

Nope! Budapest is quite affordable compared to other European capitals. You can find reasonably priced accommodations, meals, and transportation options. Street food, local restaurants, and free or low-cost attractions (like walking tours and scenic viewpoints) help you enjoy the city without breaking the bank.

Wrap Up: 3 Days In Budapest

Budapest is one of our favourite capital cities in Europe, combining rich history with vibrant culture and stunning architecture. From the beautiful Buda Castle to the bustling energy of Pest, the soothing thermal baths to the insane views, Budapest offers something for everyone.

In just three days, you can experience all the major attractions this city has to offer. This is the same itinerary we used on our trip to Budapest, and we know you’ll love it as much as we did. 

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