Budget Bliss in Budapest: A 5-Day Adventure

Experience the magic of Budapest without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Experience Hungarian culture on a budget by visiting Budapest's beautiful landmarks, such as the Fisherman's Bastion and the Chain Bridge. Indulge in local cuisine by visiting inexpensive restaurants, and take advantage of the city's public transportation system to explore other areas. For affordable accommodations, stay in a hostel or Airbnb.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Budapest

  • Check-in at the Aquarius Hotel, conveniently located with a friendly staff
  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Fruccola, a local favorite for fresh and healthy eats
  • Take a stroll along the Danube Promenade and snap some pictures with the iconic Chain Bridge
  • Dive into Hungarian history with a visit to Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion
  • Reward yourself with a slice of chimney cake (kürtőskalács) from any of the street vendors
Day 2

Exploring the Jewels of Pest

  • Breakfast at the cozy Espresso Embassy, a coffee lover's paradise
  • Spend the morning at the grand Hungarian Parliament building and marvel at its Neo-Gothic architecture
  • Soak up some culture at the Hungarian National Museum and the Hungarian State Opera House
  • Have lunch at the bustling Great Market Hall, famous for its traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash soup and lángos
  • Take a dip in the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the largest medicinal bath in Europe, and relax like a local
Day 3

Adventure in the Hills of Buda

  • Enjoy a lovely breakfast at Törökméz, tucked away in a cozy courtyard with delicious Hungarian specialties
  • Take a scenic hike up Gellért Hill and admire the panoramic views of Budapest and the Danube river
  • Indulge in a slice of traditional dobos cake at Ruszwurm, the city's oldest café
  • Visit the Hospital in the Rock Museum and gain a deeper understanding of Budapest's past
  • Have dinner at Muzeum Café and enjoy a performance by local musicians while savoring Hungarian cuisine
Day 4

Discovering Margaret Island

  • Start the day with a cappuccino at Fekete, known for its quality coffee and friendly staff
  • Explore the lush greenery of Margaret Island, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city
  • Rent a bike or take a stroll along the island's paths and stop by the musical fountain
  • Have lunch at Két Szerecsen, a trendy bistro with delicious vegan options
  • Take a sunset cruise along the Danube and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city's landmarks
Day 5

Saying Goodbye to Budapest

  • Enjoy breakfast at the Parisi Udvar Hotel's Paris Budapest Restaurant, a luxurious and elegant setting
  • Visit the Hungarian National Gallery and immerse yourself in Hungarian art and culture
  • Have a last meal at the quirky Szimpla Kert ruin bar, filled with unique decor and a bohemian atmosphere
  • Finish the trip with some sweet treats at Auguszt Cukrászda, a traditional pastry shop with mouth-watering cakes and pastries
  • Depart from Budapest with memories to last a lifetime.

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.

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