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3 Days in Budapest Itinerary: What to See & Do (2024)
Have you been looking for the best 3 days in Budapest itinerary? I’ve got you covered!
With this Budapest 3 days itinerary, you’ll get not just a travel guide, but insights from a seasoned traveler with a special affection for Budapest.
I’ve been to Budapest multiple times and my last visit latest 2 weeks. My love for this beautiful city has only grown. On my most recent trip, I fell head over heels for the city’s famed thermal baths, a gem I hadn’t explored in my previous visits.
Together, we’ll uncover the magic that lies in every nook and cranny of this vibrant city. Let’s create memories that last a lifetime, shall we?
Day 1 Budapest Itinerary: Highlights of Buda
Let’s start your Budapest 3 day itinerary with the top attractions of the Hungarian capital which are located on the Buda side of the city, meaning they are on the west side of the Danube River.
Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the top landmarks in Budapest. The current structure with its seven towers, symbolizing the seven Magyar tribes who founded Hungary, was only finished in 1902.
From the Neo-Romanesque lookout terraces, you get panoramic views of the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Danube River.
Wandering around the bastion is one of the best things you can do in Budapest for free. You only have to pay if you want to walk on the small bastion walls.
Matthias Church
Right next to the Fisherman’s Bastion is the Matthias Church, in my opinion, the most beautiful church in Budapest. You can admire the colourful rooftop and the intricate architectural elements from the outside for free.
If you want to have a look inside this impressive church you have to pay an entrance fee.
So, wander around the Fisherman’s Bastion and the Matthias Church and find the right photo spot in Budapest for unforgettable pictures.
Buda Castle
I’ll be honest with you, Buda Castle is not the most beautiful castle in Budapest but it is the most famous one.
Inside the castle is the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest Historical Museum. However, if you’re in Budapest for only 3 days it’s not worth going inside it in my opinion.
BUT the gardens next to Buda Castles offer panoramic views of the city and you can watch the famous Buda Hill Funicular transport people to the top of the castle hill.
And besides Buda Castle is on the way to our next destination: Géllert Hill.
Géllert Hill
There are multiple attractions on Géllert Hill. At the top of the hill is the Liberty Statue. From there, you have panoramic views of the whole city.
Another attraction on Géllert Hill is the St. Gerard Sagredo Statue. The statue of the Hungarian bishop is surrounded by a semi-circular colonnade and also offers great views of the city.
This is actually my favourite spot on Géllert Hill but it’s so difficult to get a good picture since the statue and columns are so big and you’re standing right in front of them.
One last attraction I want to mention is the Cave Church on Géllert Hill. This church is completely built into the hill. For a small entrance fee, you can visit this carved-out church. I think it’s worth it, it’s one of my favourite alternative things to do in Budapest.
Rudas Baths
The perfect ending to the first day in Budapest is to relax in a thermal bath. Most people recommend the Széchenyi baths but I think the Széchenyi thermal bath is too crowded.
So, we’ll end the day in my favourite thermal bath in Budapest which is located near Géllert Hill: Rudas Baths.
I love the traditional steam rooms at Rudas Baths with the different temperatured pools and the amazing hot tub on the rooftop with great panoramic views.
Day 2 Budapest Itinerary: Highlights of Pest
Hungarian Parliament Building
Let’s start off the second day of our three days in Budapest with the best attraction on the pest side of Budapest, the Hungarian Parliament Building.
The parliament building is one of the most beautiful parliament buildings I’ve ever seen. It’s so detailed from up close, it’s incredible. But if you want a view of the whole building you need to cross the river Danube on the famous Chain Bridge.
Next to the parliament building on the banks of the Danube River, you can find statues of shoes. These shoes by the river are a reminder of the Jewish people killed in Budapest during the Holocaust.
🤩 Check out the inside of the Parliament Building with this guided tour
St. Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest and it’s named after the first king of Hungary. Interesting side note, you can see the hand of the first king inside the church.
But as impressive as the church is, my highlight was the viewing platform on top of the church. You walk up a spiral staircase to the roof and then you have a view past the rooftop sculptures.
🤩 I love this private Budapest tour for the included entry ticket to the basilica!
Ferris Wheel of Budapest
I love the park surrounding the Ferris Wheel of Budapest. Locals and tourists alike meet there, sit in the grass in summer and relax, or try out their skating skills in the dedicated skating area.
In front of the Ferris Wheel is also a tree surrounded by a fence full of love locks. So, if you’re in Budapest with a partner you can add a lock or otherwise just browse through the other locks.
Either way, the square is the perfect place to take a break, sit down on the grass and relax while you watch the lively surroundings.
Dohány Street Synagogue
The Dohány Street Synagogue also known as the Great Synagogue is the largest synagogue in all of Europe.
You have to pay an entrance fee to be able to explore the synagogue, but it’s really worth it, especially if you join one of the guided tours inside. I really enjoyed the guided tour, I learned a lot about the Jewish history of Budapest.
After visiting the synagogue you can take a stroll through the Budapest Jewish Quarter to take in the atmosphere.
Szimpla Kert
It’s time to go for a drink! And the best place to go for a drink in Budapest is in one of the famous ruin bars. Ruin pubs are basically run-down buildings which got transformed into a pub.
The most popular ruin bar is Szimpla Kert, it has a big indoor and outdoor area. And around every corner, there’s an art piece waiting to be discovered. If you visit during day time you can admire the artwork but most people only get there once it’s dark.
You can try a traditional Hungarian Pálinka liquor, which by the way also makes for a great souvenir from Budapest. The only downside is that people are allowed to smoke. When I got back to my hotel my whole clothes stank.
Day 3 Budapest Itinerary: City Park and surroundings
House of Terror
The third day of our 3 day trip to Budapest starts with a visit to the House of Terror. This museum reminds everyone of the two terror regimes which ruled Hungary in the 20th century.
The House of Terror is located at 60 Andrássy Avenue. The building was the headquarters of the Nazi and later Soviet regimes, and the museum remembers all the victims tortured and killed in this very building.
As you walk through the exhibits, you’ll be transported into a time of fear and oppression, where every room tells a story of suffering and resilience.
Heroes’ Square
At the end of Andrássy Avenue is the Heroes’ Square, the gateway to the City Park. Take a few minutes at this impressive square before you head on.
As you step into this expansive square, your eyes will be drawn to the iconic Millennium Monument, a tribute to the nation’s founding fathers and heroic figures.
To the sides of the square are the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art.
City Park
City Park is an expansive park where the city’s heartbeat slows down a notch, offering locals and visitors alike a tranquil escape surrounded by nature.
As you wander through this well-maintained park, you’ll discover a delightful blend of leisure and culture. You can go for a stroll around the park’s serene lake, a spot that transforms into a popular ice-skating rink in the winter.
And there are even some landmarks in the park. The Széchenyi Thermal Baths are located in the middle of the park as well as the majestic Vajdahunyad Castle, which seems to have sprung straight out of a storybook.
If you’re looking for another green escape, try visiting Margaret Island, the whole island in the Danube River is basically one giant park.
Vajdahunyad Castle
The Vajdahunyad Castle was initially built of cardboard and wood for the 1896 Millennium Exhibition and was later reconstructed with stone due to its immense popularity.
I mean, look at that picture, the castle looks like out of a fairy tale.
The best part is just to walk around and take in the beautiful castle from the outside. Inside the castle is the Hungarian Agricultural Museum.
🤩 I love this walking tour for the small group sizes
Thai Massage
After exploring Budapest for three days your legs must be tired. The best way to relax is to get a massage.
I was really surprised by the amount of Thai massage places in Budapest. And the prices are quite reasonable, so I took advantage of that and had 4 massages during my time in Budapest. My favourite massage parlour was Chada Emerald Thai Massage.
Best time to visit Budapest
Finding the best time to visit Budapest is not as easy as it seams as every season has its advantages. But I’ve found that the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer the most delightful climate to explore the city.
During these months, the weather is mild and the city blooms in a multitude of colours, with gardens blossoming and these periods avoid the peak tourist season, allowing you to explore the city’s gems without the bustling crowds.
But Winter, particularly December, holds its own charm as Budapest transforms into a festive wonderland, with Christmas markets and the Danube shimmering under the twinkling lights. And in case it gets too cold, you can just visit more thermal baths to warm up.
So, even though my preferred time to visit is the shoulder season, Budapest makes for a great winter destination in Europe as well.
Where to stay in Budapest
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hotel Moments Budapest
Hotel Moments Budapest is located on the popular Andrássy Avenue. My favourite feature of this hotel is that you’d never guess how modern and luxurious the hotel is in this old-school building.
Another great option is the spacious Grand Budapest Penthouse located close to the great synagogue. I always love to stay in apartments since you can make your holiday feel more like home and I especially love that this apartment has a balcony. You can sip your morning coffee on the balcony and feel like a local.
Getting around Budapest
Navigating through Budapest is an experience in itself, adding to the charm of this vibrant city.
The itinerary spots are conveniently grouped close to each other so the best way to get around Budapest is on foot. Walking allows you to admire the intricate details of Budapest’s architecture, stumble upon quaint cafes, and truly immerse yourself in the city’s energy.
However, don’t miss out on the opportunity to ride on the continent’s oldest underground railway, the Millennium Underground Railway (M1), at least once during your stay.
Is 3 days in Budapest enough time?
Yes, I think 3 days in Budapest is the exact right amount of time, especially for the first time in the capital of Hungary.
With this 3-day Budapest trip itinerary, you get the chance to discover the city’s main attractions and you even have time to relax in a thermal bath and to go for a massage.
You definitely shouldn’t spend less days in Budapest. In my opinion, a day trip to Budapest is just not enough time to explore this beautiful city.
Tips for visiting Budapest
- The official currency is Forint and it’s best to have some cash with you. Some places will accept euros but the conversion rates are always very bad so it’s best to have Forint. So, a great way to save money in Budapest is to pay in cash.
- Tab water is drinkable in Hungary, so it’s a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle with you.
- Don’t miss out on the delicious Hungarian dessert, chimney cake. This puff pastry is usually vegan and comes with different toppings. It’s just one of the many delicious vegan dishes you can get in Budapest.
- Many itineraries contain a visit to the New York Café in Budapest, but to be honest, I think it’s not worth it.
FAQs about 3 day Budapest itinerary
Is 3 days enough to see Budapest?
Yes, 3 days is the perfect amount of time to visit Budapest. With a good Budapest three day itinerary you can see the best spots in this beautiful city.
What is the best way to explore Budapest?
The best way to explore Budapest is to just wander around this beautiful city.
Is Budapest a walkable city?
Yes, Budapest is a very walkable city. Everything is within walking distance. The furthest attraction is the City Park, but you can even walk there, otherwise, there’s also an underground.
Does Budapest use euros?
No, Budapest doesn’t use euros. The official currency in Hungary is Forint. In some restaurants and shops, you might be able to pay with Euros but they’ll give you a bad conversion rate.
Which side of Budapest is nicer?
Buda is the more historic side with the castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Pest is the more modern side with a lot more things to do. So I recommend staying on the Pest side and visiting the Buda side for a day.
🤩 Get the most out of your trip with this full-day tour!
Final Thoughts: 3 day itinerary Budapest
I hope this 3-day Budapest itinerary helped you answer the question of what to see in Budapest in 3 days. So you can see the beauty of this city and fall in love with it just like I did.
Maybe strolling along the banks of the Danube River, marvelling at the Hungarian Parliament Building and eating chimney cake will make you fall in love with Budapest as well. And then you can keep coming back and discover more of this beautiful city each time you visit, like me.
But for now, I wish you an amazing time in Budapest! And don’t forget to check out my other posts about Hungary’s capital.
Read more about Budapest:
- 20 Absolute Best Things to Do in Budapest Hungary
- 17 Unbelievable Free Things to Do in Budapest
- 17 Truly Unusual Things to Do in Budapest
- 3 Days in Budapest Itinerary: What to See & Do
- I tried the 4 Best Thermal Baths Budapest
- 10 Best Fully Vegan Restaurants in Budapest
- 3 Best Budapest Tours from Vienna
- Is Budapest Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons Why I Love It
- Best Souvenirs from Budapest to Remember Your Trip
- 15 Best Budapest Instagram Spots to Capture Your Trip
- How to Get to Margaret Island Budapest: Easy Ways
- Ultimate Thai Massage Budapest Guide
- New York Café in Budapest: Is It Really Worth It?
- Can You Drink Tap Water in Budapest? Absolutely!
- Is Budapest Cheap? Yes, But Not as Much as It Once Was
- Belgrade to Budapest by Bus: The WORST Journey
- Hungary
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