If you’re looking for a city that blends old-world charm with vibrant modern energy, a weekend in Budapest might just be the perfect escape for you. Located on the banks of the Danube River, Hungary’s capital is bursting with architectural wonders, cozy cafés, and thermal baths that are a pureb bliss after a day of exploring. Whether you’re wandering throught the historic Castle District in Buda, or watching the sunset from a rooftop bar in Pest, Budapest delivers the kind of magic that makes you wish the weekend would never end.
In this blog, I’ll share how to make the most of a weekend in this captivating city. You’ll enjoy must-see landmarks, local food spots, and riverfront strolls that’ll steal your heart away. Let’s dive into the perfect weekend itinerary for one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BUDAPEST
Welcome to Budapest, the stunning capital of Budapest and one of Europe’s most unique capitals! Here is a short list of interesting facts about the city.
- Budapest is in fact two different cities. The smaller towns of Buda and Pest merged and formed Budapest in 1873. The Danube River divides them, with Buda being more hilly and historic, and Pest buzzing with nightlife and culture.
- It’s a thermal bath paradise! Budapest sits on a patchwork of thermal springs. This has installed a rich bathing culture in the city.
- Did you know Budapest has the second-oldest metro line in the world? Metro Line 1 opened in 1896 and it is still running today. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- You can party in ruins. Yes, you’ve read this right, Ruin Bars are a Budapest specialty. These are quirky, artsy bars set in abandoned buildings in the Jewish Quarter.
- The Budapest Parliament building is the largest parliament building in Europe.
GETTING TO BUDAPEST
If you’re visiting Budapest for a weekend, most probably you will be getting to the city by plane. Budapest airport (BUD) is located just 16 km away from the city.
Search your flights with Kiwi.com.
GETTING FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTER
There are two possibilities to reach the city center from Budapest Airport.
- Taxi. A taxi ride from the airport will cost you approximately somewhere between 5000 HUF and 8000 HUF (depending on traffic and time of the day). This is an equivalent to something like 12 € and 20 €.
- Bus Express Line. If you want to save some money, then this is your best option. The Budapest Airport Bus Express Line 100E runs every 20 minutes and takes approximately 40 minutes to reach the city center. A single ticket costs 2200 HUF (approximately 6 €).
BEST TIME TO VISIT BUDAPEST
Budapest is always a great idea! It doesn’t matter the season; Budapest will impress you at any time of the year. However, if I had to recommend a season, I would say the best time is spring and early autumn.
From April to June, the city comes alive with blooming flowers, sunny riverbanks, and café terraces full of locals soaking up the gentle warmth. The weather is mild, perfect for walking across the Chain Bridge or hiking up to Fisherman’s Bastion without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s just before peak tourist season, so you can enjoy the sights without the big crowds.
If you’re more into crisp air, fall colors, and fewer tourists, September and October are just as magical. Budapest’s parks turn beautiful shades of gold and orange.
A FANTASTIC WEEKEND IN BUDAPEST - THE BEST ITINERARY
There are plenty of things to do and places to visit in the beautiful city of Budapest. A weekend is not enough to visit them all. But don’t let this discourage you from visiting Budapest. There are still quite a lot of things you can do with just two days in the city.
The following itinerary shows everything we did with two full days in the capital of Hungary.
FRIDAY - FLY TO BUDAPEST
The first day of your trip is all about getting to Budapest, especially if like me, you are flying after a day of work.
STOP 1: LAND IN BUDAPEST AND GET TO YOUR ACCOMMODATION
As soon as you land in Budapest, the first thing you’ll have to do is get to your accommodation from the airport. In my case, I landed almost at midnight. There was a thunder storm in Brussels when our plane was supposed to take off so our flight was delayed for almost two hours.
Since it was so late when we landed, we took an Uber to go directly to our hotel. It was not the cheapest but we were so tired that all we wanted was to get to the hotel as fast as possible.
SATURDAY - EXPLORE BUDA
Rise and shine! Saturday is packed with activities to be able to do the most of our time in the city! In particular, we will focus most of the day to visit Buda side of the city.
STOP 1: SZECHENYI CHAIN BRIDGE
Every visit to Budapest should include a stroll across the iconic Chain Bridge, the city’s very first permanent crossing over the Danube River. This bridge is not just a beautiful piece of architecture, it’s a symbol of unity between Buda and Pest.
Walking across it gives you some of the best panoramic views in town. From here you will be able to see most of the iconic sites in the city such as Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, or the Parliament Building.
Don’t forget to take a photo of the magestic stone lions guarding each end. They have been watching over the city for more than 170 years. Did you know there is a rumor saying that these lions don’t have tongues because the artist forgot to give them one?
STOP 2: BUDA CASTLE FUNICULAR
After you’ve crossed the Chain Bridge, you will find in front of you, the Buda Castle Tunnel and the Buda Castle Funicular. Riding this charming cable car will feel like stepping into a storybook. It’s been whisking passanger up and down the hill in which Buda Castle is located since 1870. It is definitely one of the most scenic ways to reach the historic castle district.
The ride is short but sweet, offering fantastic views of the Danube and the Pest side of the city as you slowly ascend. It is the perfect way for anyone who wants to save their legs from the uphill. And even if you end up by going up to the castle on foot, make sure to stop in one of the bridges that cross the tracks to see the funicular with the Danube and Pest as an amazing backdrop.
Practical information
- Price. Return tickets to ride the Buda Castle Funicular cost 5000 HUF.
- Opening Hours. The funicular rides daily between 8:00 and 22:00, with departs every 5 to 10 minutes.
- Buy tickets online. If you want to avoid any potential waiting line for the tickets, you can buy them online here.
STOP 3: BUDA CASTLE
Once at the top of the hill, it is time to admire Buda Castle, one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for history lovers and view-chasers alike. Once home to the Hungarian kings, the castle complex today houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, making it a great spot to soak up both art and history. But even if museums aren’t your thing, just wandering the castle grounds is a must.
And let’s not forget about the views! From the castle’s terraces, you get some of the most breathtaking panoramas in all of Budapest. You’ll see the Danube winding its way through the city, the sparkling spires of the Parliament building, and the buzzing life on the Pest side, all laid out infront of you like a postcard. Trust me, this is one of those spots that you will not regret visiting.
In our case, we decided to just visit the outside part of the castle and admire the views of the city from here. We would have loved to visit the Hungarian National Gallery but since we were here for only a weekend, we didn’t have enough time for this.
Practical information
- Price. Tickets to visit the permanent exhibition cost 5400 HUF per person. If you want to visit both the permanent and temporary exhibition, the ticket price is 6400 HUF per person. Both tickets include access to visit the Dome.
- Opening Hours. The Gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays) between 10:00 and 18:00. Access to the Dome is open, depending on weather conditions, between 10:00 and 17:00.
- Book your tickets online. To avoid waiting lines to buy the tickets, you can buy them online in advance here.
STOP 4: EXPLORE THE CASTLE DISTRICT
The next activity in our itinerary is to explore the Castle District with its charming cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings. This area is perfect for slow strolls and spontaneous discoveries. You’ll find cozy cafés, hidden courtyards, and stunning viewpoints around every corner.
I recommend you stop for a coffee and a sweet treat at Ruszwurm. It is the perfect place to taste Hungarian cakes and pastries!
STOP 5: MATTHIAS CHURCH
As you walk around the Castle District, you will surely come across Matthias Church, or The Church of our Lady of Buda Castle. This is one of Budapest’s true gems and an absolute must-see when you’re exploring the Buda side of the city. With its colorful Zsolnay-tiled roof and intricate Gothic spires, it stands out like a jewel against the skyline. Before you step inside, make sure to pause and admire all the details on the façade.
On the inside, the church is as outstanding as on the outside. The interior walls are richly painted in warm, earthy tones with delicate patterns that give it a cozy yet majestic feel.
Practical information
- Price. Tickets to visit the church cost 3100 HUF per person. If you want to go up to the tower, you will have to buy a separate ticket that costs 3700 HUF.
- Opening Hours. The church is open Monday to Friday between 9:00 and 17:00. On Saturday’s, it is open between 9:00 and 12:00 and on Sunday’s between 13:00 and 17:00. The openings hours of the church may vary due to religious events, so it is recommended to check in advance the opening hours before buying the ticket.
- Buy your tickets online. You can buy your tickets online here.
STOP 6: FISHERMAN'S BASTION
Right next to Matthias Church, you’ll find Fisherman’s Bastion. A dreamy terrace with turrets, white stone arches, and panoramic views over the Danube. Contrary to what many people think, Fisherman’s Bastion is not a former fortress. It was built in the late 19th century as a monument to conmemorate the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian state. You can wander through its winding staircases, snape postcard-perfect photos of the Hungarian Parliament across the river, or just relax and soak in the views.
Most of Fisherman’s Bastion is free to explore. However, the upper lookout terraces, charge a small fee to access them (1500 HUF). There’s even a little café tucked into one of the turrets if you feel like sipping a coffee with a view.
STOP 7: SZILAGYI DEZSO SQUARE REFORMED CHURCH
After Fisherman’s Bastion, we started walking down the hill towards the Danube in ordert to visit the Szilágyi Dezső Square Reformed Church. This church stands out with its striking red brick façade and colorful Zsolnay tile roof. Unfortunately, this chuch is only open on Sundays but it is still worth checking out its façade.
In addition, if you turn your back on the church and look accross the Danube, you will get direct views over the Parliament building, Budapest’s most emblematic building.
STOP 8: BUDAPEST PARLIAMENT BUILDING
The Budapest Parliament Building is hands down one of the most jaw-dropping landmarks in the city, and honestly, maybe all of Europe. Sitting proudly on the Pest side of the Danube, it’s hard to miss it with its massive size, Gothic Revival spires, and iconic red dome.
The parliament was built in the late 1800s and it not only symbolizes the architectural grandeur of Hungary but it is also the seat of the country’s government.
If you’re up for a peek inside, it is possible to join one of the offered guided tours. You’ll get to see the lavish main staircase, the richly decorated Dome Hall, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels. This building is not only stunning on the outside, but on the inside as well.
Practical information
- Guided Tours. It is only possible to visit the Parliament by joining a guided tour.
- Price. Tickets to visit the Budapest Parliament Building cost 4550 HUF per person.
- Visiting hours. The timings of the different tours vary from time to time but usually take place between 8:00 and 17:00.
- Book online in advance. It is possible to buy the tickets one month before the specific date but they tend to sell out. Make sure to book the in advance as soon as possible. You can buy your tickets here.
STOP 9: SHOES ON THE DANUBE BANK SCULPTURE
Not far from the Parliament Building, you will find the Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial Sculpture. This simple but powerful sculpture represents features sixty pairs of iron shoes which include men’s boots, women’s heels, and even tiny children’s shoes. They are scattered along the edge of the promenade and it commemorates the thousands of Jews who were executed by the Arrow Cross Party in 1944 and 1945. Victims were orderd to remove their shoes before being shot and their bodies falling into the Danube.
This sculpture will surely make you pause and reflect on these tragic events.
STOP 10: LITTLE PRINCESS STATUE
Locate along the Danube Promenade, the Little Princess Statue is one of Budapest’s most endearing landmarks. Created by sculptor Laszló Marton in 1972, the statue was inspired by his daughter Évike, who loved to play dress-up as a princess using a bathrobe as a cape and a newspaper crown. Though modest in size, the statue has become a beloved symbol of the city, embodying the innoncence and joy of childhood.
STOP 11: SUNSET CRUISE ALONG THE DANUBE
To finish your day, its time to go on a sunset cruise along the Danube. Nothing beats the experience of sailing gently while the sun sets, paiting the historic landmarks of the city in a red and pink light. This was definitely the highlight of our day in Budpates. Sipping a chilled glass of Hungarian white wine while twilight deepens and the ornate façades along the river bank begin to twinkle.
The highlight of the cruise is when you reach the impressive Budapest Parliament Building all lit up in contrast with the dark blue of the night. The whole building glows beautifully under the city lights, reflecting off the Danube like something straight out of a movie.
Tip: Book your cruise a bit before sunset to guarantee you get to see the city light up.
💡 Want to join the same cruise as we did? Then book this Budapest Historic Cruise with a Welcome Drink. The cruise was just fantastic and not too crowded. I could not recommend it more!
SUNDAY - EXPLORE PEST
On Sunday, we will focus on the Pest side of the city. We will go for a stroll along the Andrássy Avenue, full of grand 19t-century buildings, or explore the Jewish Quarter, where history meets hipster cool.
STOP 1: SZECHENYI THERMAL BATHS
We will begin our Sunday by heading to the City Park, where you can find the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. These baths are a must-do that blends old-world charm with pure relaxation. You’ll feel like you have entered a grand palace, with ornate yellow façades and steaming pools that beckon you in, no matter the season. The water, rich in minerals from natural hot springs, is said to have healing properties.
The bathhouse offers indoor and outdoor thermal pools of varying temperatures, saunas, steam room, and even a whirlpool that gives you a gentle spin as you float.
For us, it was the perfect way to start the sunday since the day before had been quite busy. We particularly enjoyed the outdoor pools as well as the cold plunge pool.
Practical information
- Price.Tickets to visit the Szechenyi Baths cost 39 € per person on weekdays and 43 € per person on weekends and holiday season.
- Opening hours. The baths are open on weekdays between 7:00 and 20:00 and on weekends between 8:00 and 20:00.
- Book your tickets online in advance. It is recommended to buy your tickets online in advance to avoid waiting lines. You can book your tickets here.
- What to bring. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, flip flops and a towel.
Photo by Louise Spurgeon on Unsplash
STOP 2: VAJDAHUNYAD CASTLE
Once you’re satisfied with your time in the Szechenyi Baths, it’s time to continue exploring Budapest’s City Park where you will find Vajdahunyad Castle. Built in 1896 for Hungary’s millenial celebrations, the castle is a stunning blend of architectural styles, from Romanesque and Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque.
Fun fact: The castle was originally made from wood an cardboard for the Millenial Exhibition but it became so beloved that the city rebuilt it in stone adn brick!
Inside the castle you will find the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture but we only just admired the castle from the outside. Don’t miss the statue of Anonymous, a hooded figure holding a pen, which is said to be chronicler of Hungary’s early kings. Touching his pen is supposed to bring you writing inspiration.
STOP 3: MILLENNIUM MONUMENT
Next stop in the itinerary is the Millennium Monument, standing at the center of Heroes’ Square, another of the city’s must-see landmarks. This towering monument is both grand and meaninful with a 36-meter column topped with Archangel Gabriel, holding the Hungarian crown and cross, while a semicircle of stautes behind him honors the country’s most important historical figures.
STOP 4: ANDRASSY AVENUE & mETRO LINE 1
Andrássy Avenue begins (or ends, depending on how you see it) right at the Milennium Monument, so if yo want you can walk along it for bit. It is a grand boulevard, with tree-lined sidewalks, stately 19th-century mansions, and designer boutiques.
Alternatively, if you don’t feel like walking, you can take the Metro Line 1, which runs beneath Andrassy Avenue. This Metro Line is the oldest one on the European continent, dating back to 1896. The stations are delightfully retro, with tiled walls and vintage signs. It’s definitely a must-do when in Budapest!
STOP 5: HUNGARIAN STATE OPERA HOUSE
The Hungarian State Opera House is located on the other end of the Andrássy Avenue. It is a a 19th-century neo-Renaissance masterpiece, just as grand inside as it is outside. It has lavish marble staircases, gold accents, and a chandelier that’ll make your jaw drop.
We only visited on the outside due to time constraints but I would have loved to join a one of the existing daily guided tours.
Practical information
- Price. Guided tours to visit the Hungarian State Opera cost 10500 HUF
- Daily English Tours. There are three guaranteed tours every day starting at 13:30, 15:00, and 16:30.
- Buy Tickets. Tickets are available only one week in advance, either at the ticket office or online here.
STOP 6: ST. STEPHEN'S BASILICA
St. Stephen’s Basilica is another must-visit place in Budapest. Named after Hungary’s first king, this grand church took over 50 years to build, and the result is truly magnificent. From its stunning neoclassical façade to the beautifully detailed interior, every corner is filled with artistry and history.
But the real cherry on top (literally) is the panoramic view from the dome. After a quick elevator ride (or a climb of over 300 steps if you’re feeling ambitions), you’re rewarded with one of the best views in Budapest. The rooftops, Danube River, and surrounding hills stretch out in every direction. It’s the perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the cityscape.
Right next to the Basilica we decided to take a break and have one of the traditional Kurtoskalacs or “chimney cakes”, which are a traditional Hungarian pastry.
Practical information
- Price. Tickets to visit the Basilica cost 2400 HUF, or if you only want to visit the Dome and the treasury, you will have to buy a ticket that costs 4500 HUF. Alternative you can buy a combined ticket for 6200 HUF.
- Opening Hours. Access to the church is Monday to Saturday between 9:00 and 17:45 and on Sundays, only between 13:00 and 17:45. Access to the Dome is daily between 9:00 to 19:00.
- Buy your tickets online here.
STOP 7: CENTRAL MARKET HALL OF BUDAPEST
From the Basilica we set off to the Central Market Hall, with the intention of getting something simple to eat since we hadn’t time to stop to eat. Housed in a gorgeous 19-th century building with a colorfu Zsolnay tiled roof, this indoor market is full of flavor, color, and local charm. On the ground floor, you’ll find stall brimming with fresh produce, paprika, Hungarian sausage, and handmade treats.
On the first floor, you’ll find traditional street food like lángos (a deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese). Unfortunately, by the time we got there, most of the food stalls were closing so we were not able to taste anything.
STOP 8: budapest synagogue
Next, it’s time to explore the Jewish Quarter and the first stop will be the Dohány Street Synagogue. This building is not onlya stunning architectural gem, but also the largest synagogue in Europe. With its striking twin towers, colorful brickwork, and richly decorated interior, it feels more like a grand concert hall than a place of worship.
Step inside, and you’ll find a beautiful blend of Moorish, Romanic, and Byzantine styles, along with a deep sense of history. The complex also includes the Jewish Museum, a moving Holocaust Memorial, and the peaceful Raoul Wallenber Memorial Garden.
Practical information
- Price. Tickets to visit the synagogue cost 13.000 HUF per person.
- Opening Hours. The synagogue is closed on Saturdays. From Sunday to Thrusday, it is open between 10:00 and either 16:00 (winter), 18:00 (spring and autumn), and 20:00 (summer).
STOP 9: SZIMPLA KERT
Within the Jewish Quarter, you will find the famous Budapest ruin bars. These unique bars poppedin abandoned buildings and courtyards, turning crumbling spaces into creative, artsy hangouts full of character. Think eclectic furniture, graffiti-covered walls, and a laid-back vibe.
The original ruin bar, and the most famous of them all is Szimpla Kert. This colorful and quirky ruin bar built inside an abandoned building is a must-visit in Budapest. Szimpla is packed with mismatched furniture, funky artwork, and random relics. It is the perfect place to grab a drink and soaking in the creative chaos.
STOP 10: DINNER AT MAZEL TOV
To finish your day, and your stay in Budapest, have dinner in Mazel Tov an updated ruin bar, turned into a beautiful urban garden restaurant. This restaurant offers Middle Eastern and Israeli food. From the classic hummus and shakshuka to flavourful shawarma and falafel.
Everything we ate at this restaruant was delicious, and I could not think of a better place to eat in Budapest!
MONDAY - RETURN HOME
Early Monday morning, you’ll have to catch a flight back home after having spent an amazing weekend in Budapest!
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN BUDAPEST
The above is everything we did during our weekend in Budapest. Here are some other ideas you can include in your itinerary, if you have some extra time in the city.
- Géllert Baths. The Szechenyi Baths are not the only ones in Budapest. The Géllert Baths, which are part of the Gellert Hotel are also quite famous, and beautiful baths in Budapest.
- Elizabeth Lookout. Looking to escape the busy city life and relax? Then head to the Elizabeth Lookout, to get beautiful panoramic views and to connect with nature. To reach it, you will have to use a chair lift, or if you are feeling sporty, hike.
ACCOMMODATION IN BUDAPEST
When choosing your accommodation in Budapest, I recommend that you book it in one of these four main neighborhoods or districts.
- District 5 – Belvaros. This is the most centric part of Budapest, on the Pest side of the city and next to St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian State Opera.
- District 1 – Budavar. This is the most frequented part of the Buda side of the city. The main points of interest in this area are Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion.
- District 6 – Terezvaros. This area is a bit farther away from the center but this means it’s a bit less pricey. Nearby sites are Heroes’s Square and Szechenyi Baths.
- District 7 – Erzsebetvaros. Looking for a lively area with a great nightlife? Then this is the district for you. The most famous ruin bars are located here.
La Prima Fashion Hotel Budapest
This hotel has a very central location in Belvaros, not far from the Szechenyi Chain Bridge. It has luxuriously and stylish rooms with all the modern amenities you need to have a fantastic stay in Budapest.
Photos from Booking.com
Monastery Boutique Hotel Budapest
This charming boutique hotel is located within Buda Castle district, only 600 meters away from Fisherman’s Bastion. The area has many shops, bars, cafés and restaurants.
Photos from Booking.com
Mirage Medic Hotel
Mirage Medic Hotel is located just next to Heroe’s Square. Located in a 19th-century classic building, you will fill like you are staying in an old palace.
Photos from Booking.com
Roombach Hotel Budapest Center
Modern and colorful hotel located in the lively Erzsebetvaros neighborhood and the Jewish Quarter. It is the perfect hotel to book if you’re looking to enjoy Budapest’s nightlife.
Photos from Booking.com
MAP WITH ALL LOCATIONS
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I hope you liked my weekend in Budapest blog. Let me know what you thought in the comments.
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