Budapest-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Budapest

  • Morning: Arrive at Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) and take a taxi or bus (E100/E200) to your accommodation. Check-in at your hotel, preferably one with a great location.
  • Afternoon: Start your exploration of the city from Pest side (Eastern part). Visit:
    • Széchenyi Chain Bridge (free entry): Take in the stunning views of the Danube River and Buda Hills.
    • Parliament Building (guided tour, ~10 EUR): Learn about the history and architecture of this iconic building.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine at:
    • Café Gerlóczy (Hungarian food, moderate prices): A cozy spot for dinner and dessert.
  • Things to know:
    • Budapest has two distinct sides: Buda (Western) and Pest (Eastern).
    • Hungary uses the Euro currency.

Day 2: Pest Side Exploration

  • Morning: Visit:
    • Hungarian State Opera House (guided tour, ~10 EUR): Marvel at the stunning architecture.
    • St. Stephen’s Basilica (free entry): Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
  • Afternoon: Explore:
    • Great Market Hall (free entry): Sample local food and drinks while shopping for souvenirs.
    • Shoes on the Danube Bank (free entry): Reflect on the city’s history at this poignant memorial.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner and live music at:
    • Fonó 2P- A2 (Hungarian folk music, moderate prices): Immerse yourself in traditional Hungarian culture.

Day 3: Buda Side Adventure

  • Morning: Take a funicular ride to the top of Castle Hill and visit:
    • Buda Castle (free entry): Explore the stunning architecture and enjoy panoramic views.
    • Matthias Church (guided tour, ~5 EUR): Admire the beautiful Gothic architecture.
  • Afternoon: Visit:
    • The Hungarian Museum of Transport (~10 EUR): Learn about the country’s rich transportation history.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner and a relaxed atmosphere at:
    • PestBuda Borkereskedőház (Hungarian wine, moderate prices): Savor local wines and cuisine.

Day 4: Thermal Baths and Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit one of the many thermal baths in Budapest. We recommend:
    • Széchenyi Thermal Bath (~15 EUR): Soak in the warm waters and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Take some time to unwind and explore your hotel’s surroundings or visit:
    • Museum of Fine Arts (free entry): Discover an impressive collection of art from around the world.

Day 5: Day Trip to Eger

  • Full-day trip: Visit the charming town of Eger, famous for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
    • Eger Castle (~10 EUR): Explore the stunning castle and enjoy the surrounding views.
    • Valley of the Beautiful Women (free entry): Marvel at the unique rock formations.

Day 6: Jewish Quarter and Shopping

  • Morning: Visit:
    • Ruin Bars: Experience Budapest’s vibrant nightlife in these quirky bars.
    • Jewish Museum and Memorial Centre (~10 EUR): Learn about the history of Judaism in Hungary.
  • Afternoon: Explore:
    • Shoes on the Danube Bank (free entry): Reflect on the city’s history at this poignant memorial.
    • Markthalle Budapest (food market, free entry): Sample local food and drinks while shopping for souvenirs.

Day 7: Last Day in Budapest

  • Morning: Visit:
    • St. Stephen’s Basilica (free entry): Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
    • Andrássy Avenue (free entry): Admire the stunning architecture and enjoy a leisurely walk.
  • Afternoon: Spend your last hours in Budapest exploring any last-minute sights or shopping for souvenirs.

Transportation:

  • Public transportation: Buy a Budapest Card (~10 EUR) for 24/48/72 hours of unlimited public transport, including buses, trams, and metro lines.
  • Taxi: Use licensed taxis, such as City Taxi or Főtaxi, to get around the city.

Tips:

  • Budapest is a pedestrian-friendly city: Explore on foot whenever possible.
  • Cashless payments are common: Make sure your bankcard or mobile payment method is working.
  • Learn some Hungarian phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic greetings and phrases.

Other things of interest:

  • Christmas markets: Visit Budapest’s festive Christmas market in December.
  • Concerts and performances: Check out the city’s vibrant cultural scene, including concerts, theater productions, and dance performances.