3 day itinerary for Budapest

Itinerary

Budapest is a stunning city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food. With three days to explore, you can really get a taste of what this beautiful city has to offer. Let’s dive into your itinerary!

## Day 1: Buda Side Wonders

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Gerbeaud: Start your day with a traditional Hungarian breakfast at this iconic café. Try the chimney cake (kürtőskalács) or a slice of their famous cake.
• Buda Castle: After breakfast, hop on the tram (Line 2) to the Buda side and head to Buda Castle. Explore the castle grounds and enjoy the stunning views of the Danube and Pest across the river.

Afternoon:

• Fisherman’s Bastion: Just a short walk from the castle, this fairy-tale terrace offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget your camera!
• Matthias Church: Right next to Fisherman’s Bastion, this beautiful church is a must-see. The interior is just as stunning as the exterior, so take your time exploring.
• Lunch at a local eatery: Try a traditional Hungarian dish like goulash at a nearby restaurant.

Evening:

• Gellért Hill: Take a leisurely walk or a bus (Line 27) to Gellért Hill for sunset. The views from the Citadel are breathtaking!
• Dinner at a Ruin Bar: Head back to the Jewish Quarter and experience the unique atmosphere of a ruin bar like Szimpla Kert. Enjoy some local craft beers and street food.

## Day 2: Pest Side Highlights

Morning:

• Breakfast at New York Café: Known as the most beautiful café in the world, it’s a perfect spot to start your day. Indulge in a coffee and a pastry.
• St. Stephen’s Basilica: After breakfast, take a short walk to this magnificent basilica. Climb to the dome for a fantastic view of the city.

Afternoon:

• Andrássy Avenue: Stroll down this UNESCO World Heritage site, lined with beautiful buildings, shops, and cafes. You can hop on the metro (Line 1) to get to the Opera House.
• Hungarian State Opera House: If you’re interested in opera, consider taking a guided tour of this stunning building.
• Lunch at a nearby bistro: Grab a quick bite at a local bistro or café.

Evening:

• Heroes’ Square and City Park: Take the metro (Line 1) to Heroes’ Square. Spend some time exploring the square and then head into City Park (Városliget) for a leisurely stroll.
• Dinner at Paprika: Enjoy a hearty Hungarian meal at this cozy restaurant known for its authentic dishes.
• Thermal Baths: If you’re up for it, end your day with a relaxing soak at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, located in City Park. It’s open late, and the atmosphere at night is magical!

## Day 3: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a local bakery: Try some fresh pastries and coffee at a local bakery.
• Great Market Hall: Head to the Great Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok) to explore local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up some snacks for later!

Afternoon:

• Danube River Cruise: Take a scenic boat cruise on the Danube. It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective. Many cruises offer lunch options, so you can enjoy a meal while you’re on the water.
• Visit the House of Terror: After your cruise, take the metro (Line 2) to the House of Terror museum. It’s a poignant and powerful museum that tells the story of Hungary’s turbulent history.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Danube-side restaurant: Treat yourself to a lovely dinner with a view of the river. There are plenty of options along the waterfront.
• Evening stroll along the Danube: After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank. The city is beautifully lit at night, and you can enjoy views of the Parliament building and the Chain Bridge.

Tips for Public Transport:

• Budapest has an excellent public transport system, including trams, buses, and the metro. Consider getting a travel card for unlimited rides during your stay.
• The tram line 2 runs along the Danube and offers some of the best views of the city, so it’s a great option for getting around.

Enjoy your trip to Budapest! It’s a city that will capture your heart with its beauty and charm. If you have any more questions or need further recommendations, feel free to ask!