A perfect itinerary for 3 days in Budapest (with the best things to see and do, my favourite local restaurants and a map).
Nestled along the banks of the Danube River, Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Central Europe. With its stunning architecture, hot thermal springs, and breathtaking views over the river, it’s a city that never fails to impress. And I have to admit, it’s definitely one of my all-time favourite cities in Europe.
Budapest wasn’t always the city we know today. While settlements in the area date back to the 1st century AD, you won’t find the city on a map before 1873. Before that, Budapest simply didn’t exist at all! It was formed as a union of three smaller cities (Buda, Óbuda and Pest) during the Habsburg rule.
Perfect 3-day Budapest itinerary
Budapest is a city I can never get enough of and every visit feels just as exciting as the first. From the stunning views in Buda to the gorgeous buildings in Pest, there’s so much to see, do, and eat! If you’re planning a trip and want to see the best of it in just three days, I’ve got you covered! This Budapest itinerary, based on my own experiences, is a mix of iconic sights and local favourites.
3 Days in Budapest itinerary (for first-timers)
- Day 1: Shoes on the Danube Promenade, Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Dohány Street Synagogue
- Day 2: Chain Bridge, Buda Castle, Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion
- Day 3: Szechenyi Spa Bath, Vajdahunyad Castle, Heroes’ Square
The Danube River divides the city into two distinct parts – Buda on the west bank and Pest on the east. Both sides have plenty to explore, so I recommend setting aside a full day for each to make the most of your visit. You’ll also need at least half a day for the thermal baths to fully relax and enjoy them. That’s why I think three days is just the right amount of time to see Budapest. But if you’re short on time, don’t worry – I’ve included some tips at the end on how to see the city in just one or two days.
Tips for your 3-day Budapest itinerary
Accommodation – already booked your hotel? Check out my guide on where to stay in Budapest to make sure your hotel is in a great location.
My favourite place to stay in Budapest: Hotel Moments
Why: excellent location, 5min walk to St. Stephen’s Basilica and a metro station
What I like: quiet spacious rooms, great sauna, fantastic breakfast
Sightseeing – While Budapest may be less popular than places like Prague, you’ll still need to book tickets for some attractions well in advance. When I visited Budapest in December, I checked for tickets to the Hungarian Parliament Building a month before my trip. But to my surprise, all tickets for the next two months were already sold out.
Budapest itinerary map
Here you’ll find a map of this 3-day Budapest itinerary, complete with attractions and restaurant links.
3 Days in Budapest itinerary – Day 1
The first day of this itinerary is all about Pest. Sitting on the east bank of the Danube, this area is packed with gorgeous neoclassical and Art Nouveau buildings.
Morning
Breakfast at Artizán Bakery
08:40 AM – 09:20 AM
Start your first day with breakfast at Artizán Bakery. They’ve got some of the best pastries in the city! I especially loved their cinnamon rolls and croissants, perfectly paired with a cup of cardamom latte.
Shoes on the Danube Promenade
09:30 AM – 09:45 AM
I recommend starting your sightseeing with the Shoes on the Danube Promenade. You can easily fit this in right before the tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building. To get there, just use the crosswalk across from the Statue of Count Gyula Andrássy, located next to the Parliament.
The Shoes on the Danube Promenade consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes, placed along the riverbank. It commemorates the victims of the Holocaust, particularly the Jews who were shot by the Arrow Cross Party.
The Arrow Cross Party controlled Hungary from 1944 to 1945. It carried out executions of Jews, both in Budapest and throughout the country. Thousands were taken to the banks of the Danube, ordered to remove their shoes (which were considered valuable at the time), and then shot. The Shoes on the Danube Promenade memorial honours those who perished in this tragic and brutal way.
Hungarian Parliament Building
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
The Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház) is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. With 691 rooms, it’s the third-largest parliament building in the world and the largest in Hungary. Its stunning Gothic Revival architecture is even more impressive when you consider that it took 40 million bricks and 40 kilograms of gold to complete. It is one of those places in Budapest that always leaves me in awe.
One of the most striking features of the Hungarian Parliament Building is its grand dome, which rises 96 meters (315 feet) above the city. The dome’s height symbolises the year 896, when the Hungarians settled in the region, marking an important moment in the country’s history.
The Hungarian Parliament is still an active government building, but you can visit it through a guided tour. The tour takes you through the grand stairway, the Dome Hall, one of the lobbies, the Old House of Lords, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels.
Book in advance (tickets are timed-entry and often sell out)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Hungarian Parliament (no cancellation)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Hungarian Parliament (free cancellation up to 24 hours)
Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as they can sell out fast, especially during peak tourist season. As I mentioned earlier, in the summer and around Christmas, tickets can be sold out 1-2 months ahead of time.
St. Stephen’s Basilica
11:15 AM – 12:10 PM
St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István-bazilika) is the largest church in Budapest. Built in the 19th century, it’s a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. The dome stands 96 meters (315 feet) tall, making it one of the city’s most striking features. Its height intentionally matches that of the Hungarian Parliament Building, symbolising the equality of church and state in Hungary.
Inside, the basilica is equally stunning. Actually, it’s one of the most impressive churches I’ve come across in Europe. So, even if you’re not particularly into churches, I highly recommend stopping by.
The basilica is named after King St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary. His mummified right hand, known as the Holy Right, is displayed in a glass case in a side chapel. This relic is one of Hungary’s most important religious artefacts.
Book in advance (lines are often long)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line St. Stephen’s Basilica (free cancellation up to 24 hours)
Best guided tour: St. Stephen’s Basilica Guided Tour – discover the basilica’s highlights, including the Holy Right relic, the tower, and the treasury
Note, that if you opt to buy tickets on-site, the ticket office is outside the basilica, at Szent István tér 2, 1051 Hungary.
You can also visit the panoramic observation deck on the basilica’s dome. The views from the top offer a 360-degree look at the city, including the Danube River, the Chain Bridge, and the Parliament Building. You can reach the dome either by elevator or by climbing the 364 steps.
St. Stephen’s Basilica is also famous for its remarkable acoustics. The church hosts beautiful organ concerts, with the sound quality inside being exceptional. If you’re a fan of classical music, I definitely recommend attending a concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Lunch at London Coffee Society
12:30 PM – 02:00 PM
For lunch, make your way to London Coffee Society. This cosy brunch spot is conveniently located near the last attraction of the day. I absolutely loved their Salmon Cream Cheese Toast and Eggs Royal, and the coffee is excellent, too!
Another great lunch option is Meron, just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica. I tried their Scrambled Eggs and Amsterdam Eggs, and they were both amazing. I also highly recommend their coffee, it’s some of the best I’ve had in Budapest!
Afternoon
Dohány Street Synagogue
02:10 PM – 03:00 PM
The Dohány Street Synagogue, also called the Great Synagogue, is one of the most unique landmarks in Budapest. It’s actually the second-largest synagogue in the world, but what really makes it stand out is its architecture. Built in 1859, it was designed in a Moorish Revival style, inspired by the Islamic architecture from North Africa and Spain. The moment you see its grand façade and twin domes, you know you’re looking at something special.
Book in advance (lines are often long)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Dohány Street Synagogue (free cancellation up to 24 hours)
The Dohány Street Synagogue isn’t just a place of worship, it’s part of a larger complex. Inside, you’ll find the Jewish Museum, which houses Jewish artefacts and Holocaust exhibits, and the Heroes’ Temple.
What struck me the most was the Tree of Life in the synagogue’s backyard. It’s a stunning metal weeping willow, with the names of Holocaust victims inscribed on its leaves. Some leaves are left blank, honouring those whose names were lost to history. Right next to it, you’ll find a Jewish cemetery, a heartbreaking reminder of the tragic fate of the city’s Jewish community during WWII.
Note, that your entrance ticket includes a free tour that runs every 30 to 60 minutes. I highly recommend taking it if you have the time. I took the tour on my first visit to the synagogue, and it was really interesting, plus I learned a lot from it. Keep in mind that inside the synagogue, men are required to wear a small skullcap (you can get one at the entrance).
Dinner at Remma’s Bistro
End your first day in Budapest with a dinner at Remma’s Bistro. This modern spot serves up delicious traditional Hungarian dishes. I highly recommend the Breaded Mangalica (pork loin) and Oven-baked duck leg, both were amazing. And definitely save room for the Somlói sponge cake, it’s a real treat!
More ideas for 3 days in Budapest – Day 1
Take a Tipsy tour fun bar crawl
If you’re looking to explore Budapest’s nightlife with a fun twist, this Tipsy Tour is a great choice. With a local guide, you’ll discover hidden bars and enjoy local drinks like fröccs and Hungarian cocktails. The tour includes two drinks, four shots, and a chance to meet fellow travellers.
Chimney Cake Workshop
If you’re looking for a fun, hands-on culinary experience in Budapest, this chimney cake workshop is a must! Guided by an expert chef, you’ll learn how to make this iconic Hungarian treat, from shaping the dough to baking it just right. A great way to dive into Hungarian food culture! Plus, you get a certificate and a recipe to keep.
Wine, Cheese, and Charcuterie Tasting
If you’re a fan of wine, this Wine, Cheese, and Charcuterie Tasting is a must. Led by a sommelier, you’ll discover Hungary’s wine regions and try five different wines, including the famous Tokaji. The best part? You’ll enjoy these wines with delicious local cheeses and charcuterie like Mangalica sausages and buffalo salami.
Try the pastries at Egy Csipet Torta
For some of the best cakes in Budapest, head to Egy Csipet Torta. This charming little café is just a stone’s throw from the Hungarian Parliament Building. Everything is handmade with top-quality ingredients and their pistachio cake and salted caramel cake are fantastic!
Hungarian National Museum
If you love history, the Hungarian National Museum is a must-see. Its collection spans over 2,000 years of Hungarian history, from ancient times to the present. You’ll find everything from Roman relics and medieval artefacts to items from the Ottoman period. There’s also an impressive Egyptian collection, plus sections on the Austrian Empire, World War I, and the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.
3 Days in Budapest itinerary – Day 2
The second day of this itinerary is all about Buda. Located on the west bank of the Danube, Buda was once the royal seat and capital of the Kingdom of Hungary during the Middle Ages.
Morning
Breakfast at VAJ Sas
08:40 AM – 09:20 AM
Start your day with breakfast at VAJ Sas, hands down my favourite bakery in Budapest. I found it during my last trip and loved it so much, I ended up going three times in just two days! Make sure to try the pistachio croissant (one of the best I’ve ever had) and the crème brûlée croissant. I couldn’t resist trying their sandwiches and cakes too, they’re all fantastic.
Chain Bridge
09:30 AM – 09:45 AM
The Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Completed in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge between Buda and Pest across the Danube River. Named after Count István Széchenyi, the bridge is famous for its huge iron chains, which is how it got the nickname Chain Bridge.
The bridge is known for its stunning neoclassical design, featuring stone lions guarding each end. From here, you can enjoy beautiful views of landmarks like the Royal Palace and Parliament Building.
At the Buda side of the Chain Bridge, you’ll find the Zero Kilometre Stone. This oval stone marks the starting point from which all major roads in Hungary are measured.
Getting to Buda Castle
The easiest way to get to Castle Hill and Buda Castle is by taking the castle funicular. It’s a quick ride (about 2-3 min) and the return ticket costs 5,000 HUF (~ €13). I tried the funicular on my first trip to Budapest, but given the current price, I don’t think it’s worth it anymore.
The ride is quite short, and the lines for the cabins are usually long. If you want to skip the wait, walking up is a great alternative, you’ll pass by the funicular and get the same scenic views. Another downside is that you can’t buy a one-way ticket, so depending on your itinerary, you might end up not using the return ride.
Buda Castle
10:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Buda Castle has long been a symbol of Hungary’s royal history. Located on the top of Castle Hill, this historic palace complex offers stunning views of the Danube River. Originally built by King Béla IV, the castle dates back to the 13th century. Over the centuries, it became the residence of Hungarian kings and later the seat of the Habsburg monarchy.
Today, Buda Castle is home to the History Museum, St. Stephen’s Hall and the National Gallery. Each of them has its own entrance and requires a separate ticket. Since I love history and art, I visited all three. If you have to choose just one, I highly recommend St. Stephen’s Hall. Originally a reception hall, it’s a stunning example of Baroque style, with beautiful ceiling frescoes and woodwork.
Book in advance (tickets are timed-entry and often sell out)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line St. Stephen’s Hall
The National Gallery was also worth it, with its great collection of Hungarian art from the Medieval period to the 20th century. However, the History Museum didn’t impress me as much, even though I usually enjoy historical exhibits.
While you’re in the area, don’t miss the Changing of the Guard Ceremony. It happens every hour on the hour right in front of Sándor Palace (Sándor-palota). This is the official residence of the President of Hungary and it’s just steps away from Buda Castle.
Lunch at Aranybástya
12:00 PM – 01:30 PM
For lunch, make your way to Aranybástya. This great restaurant offers some of the best views of the Hungarian Parliament and the Danube. I loved their Chicken Paprikash and Beef Cheek Stew, and the Dobos Cake was the perfect way to end the meal.
Just a heads-up – you’ll need to make a reservation in advance here.
Afternoon
Matthias Church
01:40 PM – 02:20 PM
Located in the heart of Buda’s Castle District, Matthias Church, with its white Gothic towers and colourful tiled roof, is hard to miss. Though its official name is the Church of the Assumption of the Buda Castle, it’s known as Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom). This is because King Matthias Corvinus, one of Hungary’s most famous rulers, was married here twice.
Several Hungarian kings were crowned here, including Emperor Franz Joseph I and his wife, Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), in 1867. This was a significant moment in Hungarian history, marking the birth of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Although there is an entrance fee to visit Matthias Church, it’s well worth it. Inside, the church is even more impressive, with medieval frescoes covering the walls and ceiling. The fee also includes access to the church’s museum in the upper galleries, where you can see religious relics and replicas of the Hungarian crown jewels. And the views of the interior are absolutely stunning.
Matthias Church is a great venue for organ and classical music concerts, thanks to its fantastic acoustics. Concerts are held regularly on Mondays and Fridays, and you can reserve your tickets in advance here.
Fisherman’s Bastion
02:20 PM – 03:00 PM
Right beside Matthias Church, you’ll find Fisherman’s Bastion (Halászbástya). With its white towers, it looks almost like something straight out of a fairy tale! From here, you can enjoy some of the best views of the city and the Danube River.
Built in the 19th century, Fisherman’s Bastion is a mix of terraces, towers, and ramparts. Its seven towers represent the seven Magyar tribes who settled here in 896. The name comes from the fishermen who defended this part of the city walls during medieval times.
While the outer viewing platforms are free to access, the upper levels of the Bastion have a small entry fee. The views are pretty much the same, but you’ll get some great photo opportunities from the upper levels. However, if you’re just after a quick selfie with the Hungarian Parliament in the background, you can totally do that without paying.
Dinner at Tulipano Restaurant
For dinner, make your way to Tulipano Restaurant. This casual spot serves delicious, authentic Hungarian dishes with super generous portions! The beef goulash was hands down the best I’ve had in the city. I also really enjoyed the beef stew and chicken paprika.
Take an evening sightseeing cruise
Budapest looks absolutely magical at night when all the landmarks are lit up! And there’s no better way to experience it than on an evening cruise along the Danube. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Hungarian Parliament, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle from the boat’s open-air terrace. And the best part is that the cruise includes unlimited Prosecco!
More ideas for 3 days in Budapest – Day 2
Buda Castle Cave Tour
Do you know that Castle Hill is filled with an extensive network of caves? These limestone tunnels have been used for everything over the centuries, from prisons to wine storage and WWII shelters. You can explore this underground labyrinth by joining the Buda Castle Cave Tour. You’ll discover natural caverns, and ancient man-made cellars, and learn about the caves’ intriguing history.
Hospital in the Rock
If you’re into WWII history, I highly recommend visiting the Hospital in the Rock. This unique museum is located in the caves beneath the Buda Castle District. Originally built in the 1930s, the facility served as both a hospital and a bomb shelter. During WWII, it treated casualties from air raids. After the war, it stayed in operation as a hospital and later became a military hospital during the Cold War, complete with a nuclear bunker.
Keep in mind that you can only visit the Hospital in the Rock with a guided tour, so make sure to book in advance here.
3 Days in Budapest itinerary – Day 3
On your third day, you’ll get to enjoy Budapest’s famous thermal baths. I suggest having breakfast either at your hotel or somewhere nearby. The area around Széchenyi Spa Bath is more residential, and you won’t find many cafes or bakeries around there.
Morning
Szechenyi Spa Bath
Budapest is famous for its natural thermal springs, which have been used since Roman times. The capital of Hungary sits on more than 100 hot springs, making it one of the largest thermal water reserves in the world! The city’s most famous thermal bath is Széchenyi, located in the City Park. The complex features more than 15 pools, all filled with natural hot spring water, with temperatures ranging from 27°C (81°F) to 38°C (100°F).
Book in advance (lines are often long)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Szechenyi Spa Bath (free cancellation up to 24 hours)
I highly recommend visiting Széchenyi Spa Bath as soon as they open to enjoy the baths without the crowds. It gets really busy around noon and even more so in the afternoon. Also, don’t forget to bring your own towels and flip-flops, or be ready to pay a premium to buy them on-site.
Lunch at Városliget Café
For lunch, make your way to Városliget Café. This cosy cafe, located in City Park, offers stunning views of Vajdahunyad Castle (the next stop on your itinerary). I’d recommend trying the goulash soup and the crispy duck leg, both are delicious!
Afternoon
Vajdahunyad Castle
Located in City Park (Városliget), Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the city’s most unique landmarks. The castle was originally built in 1896 as part of the Millennial Exhibition, celebrating Hungary’s 1,000-year history. What makes it especially interesting is that it combines different architectural styles – Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. The main tower, in particular, is inspired by Dracula’s Castle – the Hunyad Castle in Transylvania (nowadays Romania).
Inside the castle, you’ll find the Hungarian Agricultural Museum. If you’re not particularly interested in this topic, though, I’d recommend skipping the museum. Instead, you can simply admire the castle from the outside.
On the castle grounds, you’ll also find a statue of Anonymus. He was a 12th-century chronicler of a Hungarian king, likely Béla III, but his true identity remains a mystery.
Heroes’ Square
At the end of Andrássy Avenue, right by City Park, you’ll find Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere). It was built in 1896 to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of Hungary’s conquest of the Carpathian Basin. The monument features key figures in Hungarian history, including kings and national leaders.
Dinner at KönyvBár & Restaurant
End your last day with dinner at KönyvBár & Restaurant. It’s one of the most unique places I’ve tried in Budapest! Along with classic Hungarian dishes, this fantastic restaurant offers themed menus inspired by famous books. The book-themed dishes change every few weeks, so there’s always something new to discover.
More ideas for 3 days in Budapest – Day 3
House of Terror
As I am very interested in World War II history, I couldn’t pass up the chance to visit the House of Terror (Terror Háza Múzeum). This museum is dedicated to the victims of both the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary. The building itself was once the headquarters of both the Nazi and Soviet secret police. In the basement, you can even see the original cells that were used for torture and imprisonment. In my opinion, it’s one of the most chilling parts of the museum.
Budapest Christmas Market
If you’re visiting the city in December, make sure to check out its charming Christmas markets. The two main ones are at St. Stephen’s Basilica and Vörösmarty Square. I love how magical the city feels during the holiday season, with festive decorations and beautifully lit buildings everywhere.
Find all you need to know in my complete Budapest Christmas Market guide.
Tickets you must buy in advance
Hungarian Parliament Building – visits are only possible with a guided tour, which sells out months in advance, so be sure to book your ticket here. If there are no spots available on the official website, you can book here instead.
St. Stephen’s Hall (Buda Castle) – tickets are timed-entry, so I’d suggest booking your spot in advance here.
Szechenyi Spa Bath – with nearly 2 million visitors a year, this is the city’s most famous thermal bath. You can book your visit in advance here.
1-day Budapest itinerary
One day in Budapest just isn’t enough to truly enjoy the city and see all the main sights. Even if you just check out the sights from the outside, the biggest issue is how spread out everything is. You’ll end up spending a lot of time just getting around. If I only had a day, I’d start with St. Stephen’s Basilica, then walk across the Chain Bridge and enjoy the views from Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion.
If you’re short on time, I’d highly recommend the Walking Tour of Buda and Pest. This awesome 3-hour tour takes you to all the must-see spots on both sides of the river, Buda and Pest.
One day in Budapest
- Breakfast at VAJ Sas
- Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica
- Cross Chain Bridge
- Visit St. Stephen’s Hall in Buda Castle
- Lunch at Aranybástya
- Enjoy the views from Fisherman’s Bastion
- Admire the Hungarian Parliament Building
- Dinner at Remma’s Bistro
2-day Budapest itinerary
In 2 days, you can easily see Budapest’s must-see spots. Just follow the first two days of this itinerary as planned. If Széchenyi Spa Bath is on your list, feel free to swap out Dohány Street Synagogue for a relaxing soak.
2 days in Budapest
- Day 1: Shoes on the Danube Promenade, Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Dohány Street Synagogue (or Széchenyi Spa Bath)
- Day 2: Chain Bridge, Buda Castle, Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion
Where to stay in Budapest
If it’s your first time in Budapest, I recommend staying in Belváros (District 5). Located on the Pest side of the Danube, it’s the most central district. You’ll be within walking distance of key attractions like St. Stephen’s Basilica, Chain Bridge, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Also, you’ll be just steps away from Deák Ferenc tér, a major transportation hub with three metro lines passing through.
Barceló Hotel – Best 4-star
Perfect location for first-timers, just a 5-minute walk to Deák Ferenc tér and 10 minutes to Chain Bridge and St. Stephen’s Basilica. You can catch the 100E bus to the airport from Deák Ferenc tér, and all three metro lines run through here. And don’t miss the amazing rooftop bar with stunning views of the city!
Aria Hotel – Best rated 5-star
An ideal location for sightseeing, just around the corner from St. Stephen’s Basilica and a 5-minute walk to Deák Ferenc tér. The rooftop bar offers beautiful panoramic views, and the spa is fantastic, featuring a heated indoor pool, sauna, and steam room. Plus, you can enjoy complimentary wine and cheese every afternoon!
12 Revay Hotel – Best 3-star
A great central location, just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica and Deák Ferenc tér. The rooms are modern and cosy, with comfortable beds, and the on-site bar serves excellent craft beer.
Day trips from Budapest
Etyek
Etyek is a picturesque village with a winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times. The region’s cooler climate makes it ideal for producing white wines. And it’s particularly known for its Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines. It’s a must-visit for any wine lover!
How to get to Etyek
I recommend joining the Etyek Wine Tasting Tour, since the village can’t be reached by train (only by car). On the tour, you’ll visit two local wineries and taste four unique wines at each spot. The wineries are known for their boutique wines, which you can only find at selected restaurants. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a tasty 3-course meal with classic Hungarian dishes.
Gödöllő Palace
Just a little over half an hour by train from Budapest is the charming town of Gödöllő. It is home to the beautiful Royal Palace of Gödöllő (Gödöllői Királyi Kastély). This palace once served as a summer residence for Franz Joseph, Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary, and his wife Elisabeth.
Originally, this 18th-century Baroque palace was the manor of the Grassalkovich family, one of Hungary’s most notable families. After the last male heir passed away in 1841, the palace changed hands a few times. Eventually, the Hungarian state purchased it as a coronation gift for Emperor Francis Joseph I and Queen Elisabeth.
I was already thrilled to find out there was a royal palace so close to Budapest, so it quickly made it onto my list. Even more exciting was learning that it was Sisi’s favourite residence in Hungary! The estate truly felt like a Habsburg palace, with its golden chandeliers, silk-covered walls, and velvet chairs.
How to get to Gödöllő Palace
Take the HÉV 8 suburban train from Örs vezér tere to Gödöllő Szabadság tér (40min ride). From there it’s less than a 5-minute walk to the palace.
Getting around in Budapest
The best way to explore Budapest is on foot, as the city is full of stunning buildings just waiting to be discovered. However, there are times when you’ll want to use public transportation, like to reach Buda Castle or Széchenyi Thermal Bath. In those cases, I’d recommend taking the metro, it’s a quick and easy way to get around.
Budapest has four metro lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4). The M1, also known as the Yellow Line, is the oldest and takes you from Vörösmarty tér to Mexikói út. I personally find the M1 and M2 (Red Line) the most useful since they take you to almost all the popular attractions.
I recommend buying a 24-hour or 72-hour travel card, or a block of 10 tickets to save some money. Just keep in mind, whether you buy a paper or mobile ticket, you’ll need to validate it before entering the metro system. During my last trip, my ticket was checked at almost every metro station. No validation is required for the travel card, though.
For the most scenic ride in Budapest, hop on tram 2. It runs along the Pest side of the Danube River, giving you stunning views of landmarks on both sides. The route starts at Jászai Mari tér, follows the riverbank, and goes all the way to Közvágóhíd.
How to get to Budapest
By air
Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is located about 16 kilometres (10 miles) southeast of the city centre. The easiest way to get to the city centre is to take the 100E Airport Express bus, which takes you to Deák Ferenc tér. The buses run every 10 minutes, and the journey takes about 35 minutes to the city centre. Another option is to grab a taxi from Főtaxi, the official airport taxi service, for about €30.
By train
Budapest has three main train stations: Keleti (Eastern Railway Station), Déli (Southern Station), and Nyugati (Western Station). All three are easily connected to the rest of the city by the metro. If you’re coming from Vienna, for instance, you’re most likely to arrive at either Keleti or Déli station.
If you’re travelling between Budapest and Vienna, I recommend booking your tickets on the MÁV official website. You’ll often find cheaper prices there compared to the ÖBB site, even though it’s the same train service.
By car
Budapest is divided into four large parking zones. Zone A, which covers most of the city centre, only lets you park for up to 3 hours between 8 AM and 10 PM, and it’s subject to a fee. That’s why, I recommend booking a hotel with parking or using a parking garage for convenience.
Best time to visit Budapest
For nice, warm weather, April, May, September, and October are great times to visit Budapest. If you can, avoid June, July and August – that’s when it’s the busiest.
If you’re in Budapest in mid-September, make sure to check out the Wine Festival at Buda Castle. It’s a great opportunity to try premium local and international wines.
Winters can be very cold, but it’s the perfect time to relax in the hot thermal springs. Plus, Budapest’s Christmas markets are wonderful, and the city looks stunning with all the lights.
FAQs about visiting Budapest
In Budapest, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If the service is good, a 10–15% tip is standard. Check your bill first, as some places add a 12.5% service charge (no need to tip extra in this case).
Yes, tap water in Budapest is safe to drink and meets high-quality standards. You can refill your bottle from the tap without any worries.
Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Budapest. You’ll want one full day to explore Buda and another for Pest. Plus, set aside at least half a day to fully relax and enjoy the thermal baths.
Yes, Budapest is definitely worth visiting! It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Central Europe, packed with stunning landmarks like the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Fisherman’s Bastion. The city is also famous for its thermal baths with healing waters.
Dedicate the first day to Pest, where you can visit the Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the ruin bars. Spend the second day exploring Buda, with highlights like Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion. On the third day, relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Yes, 3 days in Budapest is enough to see the main sights and enjoy the local food. You can explore Buda and Pest, visit all iconic landmarks (such as St. Stephen’s Basilica and Buda Castle) and relax at the thermal baths.
Pin for later
