Budapest 7 Day Itinerary
Budapest 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the City Center
- Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD).
- Check-in at a centrally located hotel like the Hotel Rum, Budapest or the Apartments Budapest.
- Visit Heroes’ Square and City Park, home to Vajdahunyad Castle.
- Take a leisurely walk along Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Opera House.
- Dine at Zeller Bistro or Costes Downtown.
- Things to know: Hungarian currency is Forint (HUF). English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Day 2: Buda Castle & Surroundings
- Visit the iconic Buda Castle, explore Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church.
- Take a funicular or walk up to Szeklgyari út for panoramic views of Pest.
- Cross the famous Chain Bridge and visit Shoes on the Danube Bank, a poignant Holocaust memorial.
- Dine at Kispiac Bisztró or Központ Börze.
Day 3: Exploring Pest
- Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe.
- Explore the Ruin Pubs of Kazinczy Street, such as Szimpla Kert or Fekete Mese.
- Visit City Park and see the Vajdahunyad Castle from another angle.
- Dine at Bors Gourmet Hétlakományzó or Onyx Restaurant.
Day 4: Thermal Baths & Spas
- Visit the Szechenyi Bath, the largest thermal spa in Europe, or the more intimate Gellért Baths.
- Relax and enjoy the unique spa experience.
- In the evening, dine at Pest-Buda Bistro or Zeller’s Steakhouse.
Day 5: Danube River Cruise & Margaret Island
- Take a scenic river cruise along the Danube, day or night, offering different perspectives of the city.
- Visit Margaret Island, a peaceful green oasis in the heart of the city.
- Dine at Kispiac Bisztró or Costes Downtown.
Day 6: Day Trip to Szentendre
- Take a train from the Budapest-Nyugati Pályaudvar (Western Railway Station) to picturesque Szentendre, a charming town on the Danube Bend.
- Explore its narrow streets filled with art galleries and souvenir shops.
- Visit the Open Air Museum to learn about Hungarian folk architecture and lifestyle.
- Return to Budapest for dinner and enjoy a traditional Hungarian meal at Zeller’s Steakhouse or Pesti Disznó ételpont.
Day 7: Departure
- Spend your last hours in Budapest shopping for souvenirs, revisiting favorite spots, or simply relaxing at a café.
- Head to the airport for departure.
Transportation: Budapest has an excellent public transport system including trams, buses, metro, and a funicular. A travel card (Budapest Card) offers unlimited travel and discounts on attractions. Taxis are also readily available, but ensure they are registered by checking for the ‘Főtáxí’ sign.
Tips: Budapest can be busy during summer and Christmas markets. Book accommodations well in advance. Try local specialties like goulash, chimney cake (kürtöskalács), and Hungarian wine. Enjoy your trip!