BUDAPEST
Budapest is the capital of Hungary, a city renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Divided by the majestic Danube River, which creates a striking contrast between its two distinct sides—Buda and Pest—Budapest is a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences. Buda, located on the western bank, is home to iconic landmarks such as Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, and Matthias Church. Pest, on the eastern bank, is the vibrant heart of the city, featuring Heroes' Square, the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building, and a thriving cultural and culinary scene.
3-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1
THE CHAIN BRIDGE
The Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) is one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks, connecting the two sides of the city across the Danube: Buda and Pest. Although several bridges link the two riverbanks, the Chain Bridge is the oldest and most emblematic, having opened in 1849.
This elegant suspension bridge is renowned for its massive iron chains, striking neoclassical towers, and impressive stone lion statues guarding each end. It offers breathtaking views of the Danube and the city's skyline, making it especially magical after sunset when beautifully illuminated.
The Chain Bridge is also the perfect starting point for exploring many of Budapest's top attractions, including Buda Castle, St. Stephen's Basilica, and the Hungarian Parliament Building.
BUDA CASTLE
Buda Castle is one of Budapest's most captivating landmarks, perched atop Castle Hill and offering breathtaking views of the Danube River and the city skyline. Originally built in the 13th century, the castle boasts a rich history and has been rebuilt and expanded several times over the centuries.
Today, it is home to the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery, making it a must-visit destination for history and art lovers. Wander through its historic courtyards and beautiful gardens to experience centuries of Hungarian heritage in a truly remarkable setting.
The castle is especially enchanting after sunset, when its illuminated façade creates one of the most spectacular views in Budapest.
Opening Hours
March 1 – October 31: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
November 1 – February 29: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Additional Information
Closed: Mondays.
Museum Access: Admission to the museums inside Buda Castle requires a ticket, while the castle grounds and gardens are free to visit.
Ticket Office: The ticket office closes one hour before the official closing time.
Ticket Prices
Hungarian National Gallery: from €9
Guided Tours: from €11
Other Options
Walking to Buda Castle: Free
Buda Castle Funicular (round trip): from €12 (4,000 HUF)
Budapest Card: Includes admission to the Hungarian National Gallery.
THE FISHERMAN'S BASTION
The Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) is one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks. Built in the late 19th century in a Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque style, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Danube River, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the Pest side of the city.
The bastion takes its name from the fishermen's guild, who were once responsible for defending this section of the city walls. With its fairytale-like towers, elegant arches, and decorative terraces, it is one of the most photographed spots in Budapest.
Right next to the bastion stands Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom), one of the city's most important and historic churches. Dating back to the 13th century, the church is renowned for its magnificent Gothic architecture and its distinctive colorful tiled roof, making it one of Budapest's most recognizable landmarks.
Opening Hours
General Access: Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Upper Viewing Terrace:
October – May: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
June – September: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Paid Areas: Certain sections of the Fisherman's Bastion require an admission ticket and are open only during designated visiting hours.
MATTHIAS CHURCH
Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom) is one of Budapest's most important and beautiful landmarks, located in the historic Buda Castle District. Its origins date back to the 13th century, although the church has undergone numerous renovations and transformations over the centuries, giving it its current Neo-Gothic appearance.
The church is famous for its stunning colorful glazed-tile roof, elegant spires, and beautiful stained-glass windows that decorate the interior. Several Hungarian kings were crowned here, and the building has played a significant role in the country's religious and political history.
Inside, visitors can admire richly decorated altars, sculptures, and frescoes depicting biblical scenes and important moments from Hungarian history. The church overlooks Holy Trinity Square in the Castle District and offers spectacular views of the Danube River and the Pest side of Budapest.
Today, Matthias Church is both an active place of worship and one of the city's most visited attractions, representing the history, culture, and artistic heritage of Budapest.
Opening Hours (Approximate):
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Note: Opening hours may vary due to religious services or special events.
Ticket Prices (Approximate):
Adults: HUF 1,800
Students / Seniors: HUF 1,200
Family (2 Adults + 1 Child): HUF 4,200
DANUBE RIVER
A Danube River cruise is one of the most memorable experiences to enjoy during a visit to Budapest. As you sail along the river, you'll admire some of the city's most iconic landmarks from a completely different perspective, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. The experience is especially magical at sunset or after dark, when the city is beautifully illuminated. Relaxing, romantic, and unforgettable, a Danube cruise offers a unique way to discover the beauty of Budapest.
DAY 2
THE HUNGARIAN PARLIAMENT
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of Budapest's most spectacular landmarks, majestically located on the banks of the Danube River. Built in the Neo-Gothic style, it is one of the largest parliament buildings in Europe and a true symbol of the Hungarian capital. Home to the National Assembly of Hungary, the building is renowned for its ornate façade, soaring spires, and impressive central dome. During the day, its stunning architecture is beautifully reflected in the waters of the Danube, but it is after sunset that the Parliament truly comes to life. Illuminated by thousands of lights, it resembles a fairy-tale castle glowing at the heart of the city.
Opening Hours
The opening hours of the Hungarian Parliament Building vary depending on the season:
January 1 – March 31: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
April 1 – October 31: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
November 1 – December 31: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
The Parliament can only be visited as part of a guided tour, which lasts approximately 45 minutes. The visitor entrance is located on the north side of the building.
Ticket Prices
EU Adults: approximately €16 (HUF 6,500)
EU Students (ages 6–24): approximately €8 (HUF 3,250)
Please note: Citizens of European Union member states, including Italy, are eligible for the EU Adult or EU Student ticket categories.
Booking Tips
Book your tickets online in advance.
To avoid disappointment, it is highly recommended to book your tickets at least one month in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as guided tours often sell out quickly.
ANDRASSY BOULEVARD
Lined with magnificent Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque buildings, elegant theatres, embassies, and luxury boutiques, Andrássy Avenue is often compared to Europe's grand boulevards, such as the Champs-Élysées in Paris. The avenue is also home to some of Budapest's most important cultural landmarks, including the Hungarian State Opera House and the House of Terror Museum.
Today, Andrássy Avenue is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors an elegant stroll through stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and the vibrant atmosphere of Budapest, both during the day and after sunset.
ST.STEPHEN'S BASILICA
St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church and one of the most important landmarks in Budapest. Dedicated to Hungary’s first king, Saint Stephen, the basilica houses one of the country’s most precious relics: the Holy Right Hand, preserved in a side chapel.
Built in the Neo-Classical style, the building is impressive with its grand columned façade and two symmetrical bell towers. The interior is richly decorated with marble, mosaics, and golden details. One of the highlights is the panoramic dome: visitors can climb (by stairs or elevator) to the observation terrace, where they can enjoy breathtaking views over the Danube River and the entire city.
St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, offering a perfect combination of remarkable architecture, history, and unforgettable views.
Opening Hours (Approximate)
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Ticket Prices (Approximate)
Prices may vary depending on the type of visit:
Basilica + Treasury: ~HUF 2,000
Basilica + Treasury + Dome/Tower: ~HUF 3,200
Combined Ticket (All Areas): ~HUF 4,500 (adults)
VÀCI UTCA
Váci Street is the most famous pedestrian street in Budapest, located in the heart of the city centre, close to the Danube River and the Chain Bridge.
Stretching for approximately 1.5 km, it is lined with international fashion stores, charming craft boutiques, historic cafés, and restaurants. The street is particularly lively during the day and is one of the most popular destinations in Budapest for a relaxing stroll and shopping.
THE BUDAPEST CENTRAL MARKET
The Budapest Central Market Hall (known in Hungarian as Nagyvásárcsarnok) is the largest and most famous indoor market in the city, located near the Chain Bridge and the historic centre.
The ground floor is home to numerous stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, spices, and traditional Hungarian products such as paprika and local salamis. On the upper floors, visitors can find handmade crafts, souvenirs, and small restaurants where they can taste traditional dishes, including the famous Hungarian goulash.
Opening Hours
Monday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday – Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
ELIZABETH BRIDGE
The bridge connects the two main areas of the city, Buda and Pest, making it easier to travel between the hills of Buda and the city centre of Pest.
The bridge is named after Empress Elisabeth of Austria, better known as Sisi, who was deeply loved by the Hungarian people.
The original bridge was built between 1897 and 1903 and was considered one of the most modern suspension bridges of its time. During World War II, it was severely damaged and later demolished.
The current bridge was completely rebuilt with a new structure and officially opened in 1964. Its design is modern, simple, and elegant, very different from the richly decorated style of the original bridge.
Today, Elisabeth Bridge is one of the busiest bridges in Budapest and also offers a beautiful viewpoint over the city and the Danube River.
LIBERTY BRIDGE
The bridge connects the Gellért area in Buda with Fővám Square in Pest.
It was built between 1894 and 1896 to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of the founding of Hungary. The bridge is famous for its decorative green iron structure, featuring elegant Art Nouveau-inspired details.
At the top of the bridge, visitors can admire the statues of the Turul, a mythical bird that is an important symbol in Hungarian culture and mythology.
Originally named Franz Joseph Bridge, in honour of the Austro-Hungarian Emperor, it was severely damaged during World War II but was later faithfully reconstructed.
Today, Liberty Bridge is one of the most charming and photographed bridges in Budapest, used by vehicles, trams, cyclists, and pedestrians.
JEWISH QUARTER
Budapest’s Jewish Quarter is one of the city’s most unique and lively neighborhoods, where the history of the Jewish community blends with one of the most modern and vibrant sides of Budapest.
The area is home to the Great Synagogue, one of the largest synagogues in Europe, highlighting the neighborhood’s important historical and cultural heritage.
Walking through its streets, you’ll find a fascinating mix of historic buildings, cafés, colorful murals, and especially the famous ruin pubs — unique bars located inside old, often abandoned buildings that have given the district its distinctive character.
The neighborhood changes dramatically throughout the day: quieter and more reflective during the day, and much livelier at night, while always maintaining an authentic atmosphere that makes it a must-visit area in Budapest.
MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES IN BUDAPEST
NEW YORK CAFE
The New York Café is one of Budapest’s most famous and historic cafés. Opened at the end of the 19th century, it is renowned for its luxurious Neo-Renaissance interiors, featuring golden stucco decorations, frescoes, magnificent chandeliers, and elegant marble columns. In the past, it was a major meeting place for Hungarian writers, artists, and intellectuals, becoming an important center of cultural life in the city. Today, it is considered one of the most beautiful cafés in the world, attracting visitors from around the globe who come to admire its extraordinary elegance and enjoy traditional Hungarian desserts, pastries, and culinary specialties
DAY 3
HEROES' SQUARE
Heroes’ Square is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, located at the end of Andrássy Avenue. At its center stands the impressive Millennium Monument, featuring statues of the seven Magyar chieftains who led the Hungarian tribes into the Carpathian Basin.
On both sides of the square are two magnificent buildings: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art (Műcsarnok). The spacious square is surrounded by elegant avenues and commemorative statues, making it a perfect place for a walk and memorable photographs.
Combining history, art, and monumental architecture, Heroes’ Square is a powerful symbol of Hungarian identity and one of the must-see attractions in Budapest.
VÀROSLIGET
Városliget (City Park) is one of Budapest’s most popular green spaces, perfect for relaxing walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. Located near Heroes’ Square, this vast urban park offers a mix of nature, culture, and entertainment.
Inside the park, visitors can discover the Vajdahunyad Castle, a unique building combining different architectural styles, the Budapest Zoo, the Botanical Garden, and the picturesque lake, where visitors can enjoy boating in summer and ice skating in winter.
Városliget is also home to the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths, one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Combining relaxation, sports, and impressive landmarks surrounded by greenery, Városliget is the perfect place to experience a different and more peaceful side of Budapest..
General Information About the Park
Park access: Free of charge and open 24 hours a day.
Main attractions inside the park:
Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Vajdahunyad Castle
Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
Heroes’ Square
Museum of Agriculture
House of Music Hungary
Ice Skating Rink (during the winter season)
Opening Hours of Main Attractions
(Always check official websites for the latest updates)
Széchenyi Thermal Baths: Generally open from 9:00 AM, with closing times between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, depending on the day.
Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden: Usually open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in winter and until 6:00 PM in summer.
Vajdahunyad Castle (Museum of Agriculture):
Closed on Mondays
Opening hours vary, but generally around 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ice Skating Rink: Open only during winter, usually with afternoon and evening opening hours.
Budapest is world-famous for its historic thermal baths, fed by numerous natural hot springs beneath the city. Places such as the Széchenyi Thermal Baths and Gellért Thermal Baths offer a unique experience of relaxation, combining warm thermal pools, elegant architecture, and a truly atmospheric setting. After a day spent exploring the city, soaking in the thermal waters is the perfect way to unwind and experience one of the most important traditions of Hungarian culture. Visiting the baths is an unforgettable experience and a must-do activity for anyone traveling to Budapest.
SZÉCHENYI THERMAL BATHS
WHAT TO DO IN BUDAPEST INSTEAD OF VISITING THE THERMAL BATHS
ISOLA MARGHERITA
Margaret Island is a peaceful green oasis located in the middle of the Danube River, between Buda and Pest. Measuring approximately 2.5 km long and 500 meters wide, it is the perfect place for relaxing walks, jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying nature away from the city’s busy streets.
The island features beautifully maintained gardens, fountains, rose gardens, and charming attractions such as the Japanese Garden and the remains of medieval ruins. Visitors can also find quiet relaxation areas, cafés, and picnic spots, making Margaret Island an ideal escape for those looking to slow down and enjoy a different side of Budapest.
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