Budapest is really two cities on either side of the Danube. Buda, on the west bank, is hilly and quiet, with the castle and old streets. Pest, on the east, is flat, busy and full of grand buildings, cafes and bars. The river between them is the city's centrepiece.
It is known for its thermal baths, its elegant architecture and its lively evenings. It is an easy city to enjoy at a relaxed pace, with a lot to see on foot.
How many days: 3
Three days covers the castle district, a bath, the main sights in Pest and an evening out. It is a good city for a long weekend.
If you have more time, add a Danube cruise or a day trip. The town of Szentendre is reachable from the city by suburban rail, and the Danube Bend is a popular excursion.
What to do in Budapest
- Soak in a thermal bath
- The city sits on natural hot springs, and bathing is part of local life. The best-known baths are large historic complexes. Bring swimwear and book ahead if you can.
- Walk up to Buda Castle
- The castle district has wide views of the river and Pest. Walk up, take the funicular, or ride a bus. Fisherman's Bastion is nearby.
- See the Parliament building
- One of the largest parliament buildings in Europe, best seen from across the river in the evening when it is lit. Check the official site for visiting arrangements.
- Cross the Chain Bridge
- The first permanent bridge across the Danube, linking Buda and Pest. Walk across for the view.
- Visit the Great Market Hall
- A large covered market with food stalls, produce and souvenirs. A good place for lunch.
- Spend an evening in the Jewish Quarter
- A district of bars, restaurants and 'ruin pubs' built in old courtyards and buildings. Busy at night.
- Walk the Danube embankment
- The riverside promenade on the Pest side has views of the castle and the bridges. The Shoes on the Danube memorial stands along it, honouring victims of the Second World War.
- Take a Danube cruise
- Evening cruises show the Parliament and the bridges lit up. Check the length and what is included before you book.
What to eat and drink
- Goulash
- A beef and paprika soup, eaten as a main course. Hungarian paprika is central to the cuisine.
- Lángos
- Deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese. A popular street food, and filling.
- Chicken paprikash
- Chicken in a creamy paprika sauce, served with small dumplings. A staple of home cooking.
- Chimney cake
- A sweet pastry baked on a spit and rolled in sugar or cinnamon. Sold from stalls around the centre.
- Dobos torte
- A layered sponge cake with chocolate cream and a caramel top. A classic of the city's cafes.
- Tokaji wine
- A sweet wine from north-east Hungary. A good way to end a meal.
- Pálinka
- A strong fruit brandy, served as an aperitif or digestif. It is a Hungarian tradition, and worth tasting in small amounts.
Getting around
The central districts are walkable, and the trams along the river are scenic as well as useful. Tram 2 runs along the Pest bank with views across to the castle.
The metro is simple and has one of the oldest underground lines in continental Europe. Check the transport operator's website for the current ticket options.
From the airport, a direct bus connects to the metro, and taxis are available. Use an official taxi or a ride-hailing app, and agree the fare first.
Good to know
- Hungary uses the forint, not the euro. Cards are widely accepted, but exchange booths often give poor rates.
- Bring swimwear and a towel for the baths, and check the rules for each venue before you go.
- The Jewish Quarter gets loud at night. If you want quiet, choose accommodation outside it.
- Use official taxis or a ride-hailing app, and agree the fare in advance.
- The city is busiest in summer and around Christmas. Spring and autumn are quieter and mild.