Budapest is a city full of history, charm, and incredible experiences. In just three days, you can explore iconic landmarks, relax in thermal baths, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of both Buda and Pest. Here’s how to make the most of your trip!

Day One: Exploring Pest

Morning:

• When you arrive, the first thing you should do is make your way to the Hungarian Parliament. This is truly one of the most stunning buildings in Budapest. Consider booking a canal cruise to scope out a more memorizing view of the beauty, as it glows in the darkness
• Stop by Liberty Square and check out the Ronald Reagan statue, as well as other historical monuments.

Afternoon:

• The Chocolate Museum in Budapest is a small but mighty museum and a must-visit for chocolate lovers (including me)! The museum displays several chocolate sculptures and at the very end you can treat yourself to delicious Hungarian chocolate.
• Relax at a Local Café and sip on Hungarian coffee while soaking up the city vibes.
• Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica and admire the beauty while you sit and soak in the immense dome hovering just above your head, with detailed designs.

Evening:

• Explore the immersive Retro Museum for a run way to learn about Budapest’s past.
• Treat yourself to authentic Hungarian goulash at a cozy restaurant.

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Day Two: Thermal Baths & A Night on the Danube

Morning & Afternoon:

• Unwind at the Szechenyi Baths
  • Buy tickets at the spa to find the best bundle option.
  • We chose general entry, which included access to all baths and a private locker.

Evening:

• Booze Cruise on the Danube River
  • Book in advance via GetYourGuide. They offer cruises ranging from party vibes to relaxed dinners.
  • We chose a sunset cruise with three drinks included. If you’re a slow drinker than get ready to change that.
  • Pro tip: Arrive early to find the right pier (we learned this the hard way).
• Dinner After the Cruise
  • If you didn’t do a dinner cruise, find a nearby restaurant.
  • We ate at Salt & Pepper (Italian), but I recommend trying more goulash or Hungarian delicacies.

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Day Three: Crossing into Buda

Morning:

• Enjoy a pleasant breakfast at New York Café, known for it’s prestigious decor with high ceilings and stunning gold details.
  • Tip: Arrive early (before 9 AM), the line get’s very long!
  • While pricey, even a simple coffee and pastry is worth the experience
• Cross the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to Buda and spend the rest of the day exploring

Afternoon: Buda

• Explore Buda Castle, although closed during our visit, I recommend taking a tour inside to learn more about the history.
• Discover the Labyrinth, an underground museum and maze that stretches beneath the streets of Buda. Although eerie, you can feel the energy shift each step down to the underground.
• Visit Fisherman’s Bastion & Matthias Church where you can grasp the best views of the Parliament, especially framed through the arches!

Evening:

• Stop for a quick peek of the Hungarian State Opera. Even if you don’t see a show, the entrance hall alone is breathtaking!
• Visiting the Pinball Museum was a quirky, nostalgic way to end the trip. We spent quite some time here, trying all the machines, before heading to dinner.
• For our last dinner, we wrapped up with a delicious Thai meal, perfect for a food coma before heading home.

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Final Thoughts

Three days in Budapest felt like the perfect amount of time! We checked off all our bucket-list experiences while still leaving time to relax and soak in the atmosphere. It’s truly an ideal weekend getaway.

Have you visited Budapest? Let me know if you tried the Labyrinth maze, I’m so curious!