Budapest, Hungary-7-day-itinerary

August 4, 2024

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

Morning:
- Arrive at Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)
- Take a taxi or public transportation (bus #26) to your accommodation
- Check-in at Hotel Moments (3-star, central location, ~€60/night)
Afternoon:
- Visit the Hungarian State Opera House (~€20/person for guided tour)
- Walk along the Pest side of the Danube Promenade (Liget Square, etc.)
- Enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine at Gundel restaurant ( Michelin-starred, ~€50-60/person for dinner)
Evening:
- Explore the lively nightlife in the Jewish Quarter ( Kazinczy utca, especially around the Synagogue)

Day 2: Buda Hills and Castle District

Morning:
- Take a scenic bus tour ( #16) or walk up to the top of Gellért Hill (~10-15 min)
- Visit the stunning St. Stephen’s Basilica (free admission, ~€5/person for panoramic elevator ride)
- Explore the picturesque Castle District (Wine Shop, Statue Park, etc.)
Lunch:
- Try traditional Hungarian dishes at Fészek restaurant in the Castle District
Afternoon:
- Visit the famous Buda Hills’ zoo (~€10/person)
- Stroll through the lovely Margaret Island (~free admission)
Evening:
- Dine at Émile (Michelin-starred, ~€80-100/person for dinner)

Day 3: Parliament and National Museum

Morning:
- Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building ( guided tour ~€15/person)
- Stroll along the Pest side of the Danube Promenade to Fisherman’s Bastion
- Explore the impressive Hungarian National Museum (~free admission)
Lunch:
- Enjoy a picnic in the nearby City Park or grab food at Rétes street food stall
Afternoon:
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) (~€10/person, ~20 minutes from the National Museum)
- Relax in the beautiful Vajdahunyád Castle gardens

Day 4: Thermal Baths and Aquatics

Morning:
- Soak up the relaxation at Széchenyi Thermal Bath (one of Europe’s largest and most famous baths, ~€15/person)
- Visit the nearby Aquaworld Budapest (~€20/person for aquatic activities)
Lunch:
- Try the local cuisine at Aquaworld Budapest’s restaurant
Afternoon:
- Take a stroll around Lake Hévíz (Hungary’s largest natural hot spring lake, ~10 minutes from Széchenyi Bath)

Day 5: Ruin Pubs and Markets

Morning:
- Explore the eclectic ruin pubs in the Jewish Quarter (e.g., Szimpla Kert, Klungyü
- Browse the bustling Great Market Hall (~free admission)
- Visit the nearby Central Market Hall ( St. Stephen’s Square, ~free admission)

Day 6: Palace and Gardens

Morning:
- Visit Schönbrunn Palace in the Buda Hills (~€15/person for palace tour)
- Explore the stunning gardens and grounds of Széchenyi Castle
- Stop by the charming Kálvin ter (~10 minutes from Schönbrunn Palace)

Day 7: Relaxation Day

Morning:
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Hotel Moments
- Take a stroll along the Danube Promenade or explore a nearby park (e.g., Margaret Island)
Afternoon:
- Visit the Budapest Museum of Transport (free admission, ~20 minutes from Hotel Moments)
- Explore the charming neighborhood around Király udvar (Royal Court)

Practical Information:

Getting Around: Buy an Mvz 3-day ticket (~€14/person) for public transportation. Walk or use taxis for shorter distances.
Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF), ~1 EUR 290 HUF
Safety: Budapest is generally a safe city, but be mindful of your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

Tips and Essentials:

Weather: Pack layers for spring or fall visits; summers can be hot.
Language: Hungarian (~40 million speakers), English widely spoken among locals
Tap Water: Safe to drink, but tap water tastes different from bottled water.
Vegetarian Options: Widely available in restaurants and cafes

Other Recommendations: