The Ultimate 5-Day Budapest Adventure Guide

Experience the charm of Eastern Europe's crown jewel in Budapest.

22 April 2023

Budapest, Hungary is a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and relaxing thermal baths. A trip to this destination offers the chance to explore landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion, and Buda Castle. With world-class restaurants, nightlife, and cultural events, Budapest is a must-visit city for any tourist.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Budapest!

  • Check into your hotel at the iconic Corinthia Budapest
  • Head to the Hungarian State Opera House for a tour
  • Explore the charming Andrassy Avenue, lined with fancy cafes and designer boutiques
  • Grab a bite at Klassz, a trendy restaurant known for its local cuisine
  • End the day with a relaxing soak in one of the thermal baths, like Gellert or Szechenyi
Day 2

Buda or Pest? Let's do both!

  • Take the funicular up to the Castle District for stunning views of the city
  • Visit the historic Buda Castle and the Fisherman's Bastion
  • Cross the Danube on the iconic Chain Bridge to Pest
  • Walk along the lively Vaci Street for shopping and people watching
  • Try the traditional chimney cake at Molnar's, a popular pastry shop
  • End the evening with a cocktail at the 360 Bar, offering panoramic views of the city
Day 3

Jewish Heritage and Ruin Bars

  • Visit the Dohany Street Synagogue and the Jewish Museum
  • Take a stroll around the vibrant Jewish Quarter, full of street art and hidden courtyards
  • Have lunch at Mazel Tov, a trendy restaurant offering modern Israeli cuisine
  • Explore the famous ruin bars, like Szimpla Kert or Instant
  • Grab dinner at Spiler, a restaurant housed in a former Jewish bathhouse
Day 4

Art and Culture

  • Visit the Hungarian National Museum, hosting exhibitions on Hungarian history and culture
  • Explore the Museum of Applied Arts, showcasing Hungarian design and craftsmanship
  • Have lunch at Book Cafe, a beautiful Art Nouveau coffeehouse with live classical music
  • Visit the Hungarian National Gallery for a display of Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to modern times
  • Wander around the Margaret Island, a charming green oasis in the middle of the city
Day 5

Goodbye, Budapest!

  • Take a relaxing cruise on the Danube River to see the city from a different perspective
  • Grab lunch at the iconic New York Cafe, known as the most beautiful cafe in the world
  • Visit the Heroes' Square, with monuments representing Hungary's historical figures and events
  • Shop for souvenirs at the Central Market Hall, full of local delicacies and handmade crafts
  • End your trip with a fancy dinner at Onyx, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Hungarian cuisine.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Budapest by plane is by flying into Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). Many airlines fly directly to this airport from major cities around the world.

Car

One can drive to Budapest from neighboring countries like Austria, Slovakia, and Romania. The main highways into Budapest are the M1, M3, and M5. However, driving in Budapest city center can be difficult due to heavy traffic and limited parking.

Train

Travelers can reach Budapest by train from several European cities such as Zurich, Vienna, and Munich. The main railway station in Budapest is Keleti Station, which is well connected to the Budapest metro network.

Boat

Although Budapest is located on the river Danube, there are no regular boat services into the city. However, it is possible to arrive by river cruise boats that usually dock at the Vigadó tér or Jászai Mari tér ports, located on the Pest side of the city.

Bus

There are several bus companies that operate services to Budapest from neighboring countries such as Austria, Croatia, and Slovakia. The main bus station in Budapest is Népliget, which is easily accessible by metro.

More travel plans

Budapest Bliss: A 3-Day Romantic Escape

. Budapest is the perfect European destination for a romantic getaway thanks to its stunning architecture, hot springs, and an abundance of romantic restaurants, cafes and bars for intimate dates. Gellért Hill offers a breathtaking panoramic view especially at sunset, while walks by the Danube River offer romantic ambience with lights reflected on the water surface. Stroll through the beautiful Buda Castle district and the vibrant Jewish Quarter for an experience that is both historic and magical.

Budapest Bliss: A Budget-Friendly 3-Day Family Adventure

Embark on a family-friendly adventure in Budapest, Hungary, a city bursting with history, culture, and countless attractions for all ages. Explore magnificent landmarks such as the iconic Chain Bridge or immerse yourselves in the magic of Buda Castle. Unwind at one of the city's many thermal baths, offering a rejuvenating experience for both parents and children.

Budapest in a Weekend: Sights and Culture

A romantic trip to Budapest would be incomplete without visiting the gorgeous sites of Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion and the Danube Promenade, all of which offer stunning views of the city. To add to the romantic experience, couples can enjoy a relaxing bath in one of the many thermal baths, like Gellert or Széchenyi, followed by a candlelit dinner at a local family-owned restaurant, serving traditional Hungarian cuisine. To end the perfect day, a stroll around the charming streets of the city, listening to the sound of the Danube River, would be an ideal end to a dreamy day.

Buda-budget: The Perfect Day Trip to Budapest

Budapest is a great destination for travelers on a budget. The city is packed with affordable attractions, from visiting the stunning Budapest Castle to strolling along the Danube river. You'll also find plenty of delicious and budget-friendly eats, including traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash and chimney cakes.