Budapest is a city that blends elegance, history, thermal baths, and lively culture into one unforgettable experience. With three full days, you can soak in the highlights, explore hidden corners, and still leave time for a relaxing bath or sunset by the river. Here’s a carefully crafted 3-day itinerary in Budapest to help you make the most of your trip.
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Pest
Start your Budapest adventure on the Pest side, home to grand boulevards, cafés, and major landmarks.
Begin at St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of the city’s most beautiful churches. If you’re up for it, climb the tower (or take the elevator) for panoramic views of the city.
Next, walk down to Liberty Square, then on to the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building. Take time to explore the Danube Promenade, where you’ll find the haunting Shoes on the Danube memorial—a tribute to the victims of WWII.
Have lunch at a nearby local restaurant or grab a lángos (fried dough with toppings) from a food stall if you want a quick local snack.
In the afternoon, visit the Great Market Hall to browse souvenirs, local snacks, and spices like paprika. From there, walk along Váci Street, a bustling shopping area filled with boutiques, cafés, and street performers.
As evening falls, enjoy a Danube River cruise—especially magical at night when landmarks like the Parliament, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle are illuminated. Finish the day with dinner in the city center, perhaps in the Jewish Quarter, where you’ll also find ruin bars if you’re in the mood for a fun night out.
Day 2: Buda Castle and Thermal Baths
Cross the Chain Bridge to the Buda side and start your day with a visit to the Castle District.
Explore Buda Castle, then wander around the Fisherman’s Bastion and nearby Matthias Church, where you’ll find one of the best views in all of Budapest. Enjoy coffee or lunch at a café in the area while soaking in the medieval atmosphere.
Next, make your way to Gellért Hill. It’s a bit of a climb, but the Citadel viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas of the entire city. On the way down, stop by the peaceful Gellért Baths—or if you’re near City Park, head to Széchenyi Thermal Bath for a more social spa experience. Either one is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
In the evening, enjoy dinner on the Buda side or return to Pest for more nightlife. The Gozsdu Courtyard is a great spot for hopping between restaurants and bars with a fun, laid-back vibe.
Day 3: Culture, History, and Local Life
Begin your final day with a stroll down Andrássy Avenue, a tree-lined boulevard that’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stop at the Hungarian State Opera House for a quick look inside, then continue toward Heroes’ Square—a vast monument celebrating Hungary’s history.
Behind the square is City Park, where you can visit Vajdahunyad Castle, take a peaceful walk, or rent a boat in summer. This area is also home to the Museum of Fine Arts and Széchenyi Baths, so you can choose between culture or another relaxing dip.
For lunch, check out a traditional étkezde (local lunch eatery) or return to the Great Market Hall for something casual and authentic.
In the afternoon, visit the House of Terror Museum on Andrássy Avenue. This deeply moving museum offers insight into Hungary’s experiences during the Nazi and Communist regimes.
Wrap up your visit with a relaxed dinner and a last walk along the Danube Promenade, taking in the shimmering lights of Budapest one more time.
With this 3-day itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Budapest—its history, grandeur, local flavor, and unmistakable charm. Whether you’re soaking in thermal waters, standing atop a hill with a view, or sipping wine in a candlelit courtyard, Budapest has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left.
