Budapest, Hungary 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Budapest, Hungary

Day 1: Arrival & City Center

Places to Go

  1. Hungarian Parliament Building: One of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. Don’t forget to take a guided tour inside. (Address: Kossuth Lajos tér, 1055)
  2. Chain Bridge: Cross this historic suspension bridge for stunning views of Buda and Pest. (Address: Széchenyi lanchíd, 1051)
  3. St. Stephen’s Basilica: A major Roman Catholic church in Budapest, offering panoramic views from its tower. (Address: Szent István tér 1, 1051)
  4. Shoes on the Danube Bank: A poignant memorial to the Holocaust victims shot into the Danube by Arrow Cross militiamen. (Address: Szabad Sas u. 2-6, 1051)

Where to Eat

  1. Goulash Central: Try traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash and chimney cake. (Address: Dob utca 22, 1075)
  2. Maczis Bistro: Enjoy delicious Hungarian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. (Address: Király u. 9, 1061)

Where to Stay

Choose from various accommodation options in the city center, such as hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest or Airbnb apartments for a more local experience.

Things to Know

  • Hungarian currency is Forint (HUF). Credit cards are widely accepted but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • English is spoken in most tourist areas, but learning a few basic Hungarian phrases will be appreciated.
  • Budapest is famous for its thermal baths; don’t miss out on visiting one of them!

Day 2: Buda Hill

Places to Go

  1. Buda Castle: Explore the historic castle complex, home to several museums including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. (Address: Szent György tér 2, 1014)
  2. Fisherman’s Bastion & Matthias Church: Enjoy panoramic views of the Danube and Pest from Fisherman’s Bastion, then visit the beautiful Matthias Church. (Address: Szenthármalczy u. 2, 1014)
  3. Szekely Mews: Wander through this charming, cobblestone alley lined with colorful houses and small shops.

Where to Eat

  1. Pest-Buda Bistro: Savor Hungarian dishes in a rustic, yet elegant setting. (Address: Fő utca 5, 1014)
  2. Muller Haus: Enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist while overlooking the city. (Address: Buda side, Szenvárosi u. 6-8, 1014)

Day 3: Thermal Baths & Ruin Bars

Places to Go

  1. Szechenyi Thermal Bath: Soak in natural thermal waters at this beautiful, open-air spa. (Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9, 1146)
  2. Gellért Thermal Baths & Swimming Pool: Another popular thermal bath complex featuring indoor and outdoor pools. (Address: Kelenhegyi u. 4, 1118)
  3. Ruin Bars: Visit one or more of these unique bars located in abandoned buildings, offering a lively, eclectic atmosphere. Some popular ones include Szimpla Kert and Instant.

Where to Eat

  1. Központ Bistro: Enjoy contemporary Hungarian cuisine at this cozy restaurant. (Address: Kazinczy u. 14-16, 1075)
  2. Ekklesia: Tucked away in a courtyard near the ruins bars, this restaurant serves Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes with a modern twist. (Address: Akácfa u. 50, 1073)

Day 4: Margaret Island & Danube Banks

Places to Go

  1. Margaret Island: This peaceful island in the heart of Budapest offers beautiful gardens, monuments, and a musical fountain show.
  2. Danube Banks (Döbrentei tér): Take a leisurely stroll along the Danube, enjoying the views of both Buda and Pest.
  3. Hungarian National Museum: Learn about Hungary’s rich history at this comprehensive museum. (Address: Múzeum krt. 14-16, 1088)

Where to Eat

  1. Kispiac Bisztró: Enjoy contemporary dishes in a casual, lively atmosphere at this street food market-style eatery. (Address: Vámház krt. 3, 1075)
  2. Menza: Savor Hungarian and international street food dishes at this modern eatery located in a former kindergarten. (Address: Kazinczy u. 38, 1075)

Day 5: Day Trip to Szentendre

Places to Go

Take a day trip to the charming town of Szentendre, located on the Danube River north of Budapest. Visit its Open-Air Museum showcasing traditional Hungarian architecture, stroll through its colorful streets, and explore its galleries and shops.

Where to Eat

  1. Fisherman’s Bastion: Enjoy a meal overlooking the Danube in this picturesque town. (Address: Tűzvezeték u. 4, 2500)
  2. Két Forint Bistro: Taste traditional Hungarian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. (Address: Szoborpark u. 3, 2500)

Day 6: Departure

Before leaving Budapest, take some time to browse the vibrant Great Market Hall for souvenirs and try some more traditional Hungarian foods like Langos and Kolbász. Safe travels!