Hey fellow travelers! I’m so excited to dive into our next adventure together—this time in the mesmerizing city of Budapest. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to explore both Budapest and Prague back-to-back, and let me tell you, choosing a favorite between these two stunning cities is nearly impossible! They each have their unique charm and beauty that left me absolutely enchanted. But today, let’s focus on Budapest and uncover all the incredible things this city has to offer. From historic landmarks to thermal baths and mouthwatering cuisine, Budapest promises to be an unforgettable experience. So, grab your virtual passport, and let’s start exploring this gem of a city together!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary, straddling the Danube River in central Europe. It’s a city rich in history, culture, and architecture, with influences from the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires. Budapest is made up of two parts – Buda on the west bank of the Danube, and Pest on the east bank. Together they create a vibrant metropolis filled with stunning landmarks like Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Budapest emerged in 1873 with the unification of three cities – Buda, Pest, and Óbuda. Today it’s Hungary’s political, economic and cultural heart, known for attractions like the famous thermal baths, ruin bars, and lively nightlife. It’s also a hub for music and the arts. Budapest provides endless opportunities to immerse yourself in Hungarian culture, explore architectural treasures, experience thermal baths, and savor delicious food and wine.
Getting There
The main international airport serving Budapest is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). It’s located about 16km southeast of the city center.
Most major airlines fly directly to Budapest from European hubs like London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam. There are also direct flights from several cities in North America and Asia. The airport is serviced by budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air, which offer cheap flights around Europe.
The easiest and fastest way to get from the airport to the city center is by taxi. The fare is fixed based on zones and takes around 20-30 minutes. Public transport is cheaper – you can take bus 200E from the airport to the Kobanya-Kispest metro station, then take the M3 metro line into the city center. This takes around 50 minutes.
Some hotels and hostels offer airport shuttle services which can be booked in advance. Otherwise, many also have partnerships with taxi companies to offer fixed rate transfers. This is often the most convenient option if you have lots of luggage.
When departing Budapest, be sure to allow plenty of time to get to the airport as traffic can be heavy at peak times. At least 1.5-2 hours before your flight is recommended. Check ahead for any public transport delays or road closures.
Getting Around
Budapest has an excellent and affordable public transportation system, making getting around the city a breeze without a car. The backbone of the system is the metro, with 4 lines (M1, M2, M3, M4) that run frequently and cover most major sites and neighborhoods.
The metro trains run from around 4:30am to 11:30pm. Tickets can be purchased from machines at stations, and a single-ride ticket is only 350 HUF ($1 USD). You can also buy 24-hour, 72-hour, and 7-day travel cards for unlimited rides.
Above ground, Budapest has a network of trams, trolleybuses, and buses that fill in the gaps between metro stations. These run from around 4:30am to 11:30pm and use the same tickets and passes as the metro.
Tram number 2 is particularly useful, as it runs along the Pest side of the Danube River past major attractions like the Parliament Building, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle. For crossing between Buda and Pest, you can take metro line M2 under the Danube, or simply walk across landmarks like Chain Bridge.
Budapest also has an extensive bike lane network, making bicycles a great option. Bike-sharing systems include BuBi and MOL Bubi. Taxis are affordable, with fares starting around 450 HUF ($1.50 USD), but the metro and trams will get you virtually anywhere you need to go. With an excellent public transportation system, you can explore Budapest freely without a car.
Where to Stay
During our time in Budapest, we opted for an Airbnb right in the heart of the city, which allowed us to soak in the lively atmosphere and conveniently walk to most attractions. However, Budapest offers a wide array of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the best neighborhoods and hotels to consider for your 2-day stay:
City Center
The city center district is located on the Pest side, situated along the Danube River. It’s a very central and walkable area, close to top attractions like the Hungarian Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and Váci Street. Recommended Hotels:
- Aria Hotel Budapest – This luxury boutique hotel is set in a beautiful 19th-century palace. It has a music theme with each floor dedicated to a different genre. The rooftop offers lovely views.
- K+K Hotel Opera – Elegant contemporary hotel in a heritage building. Well located near the Opera House and Andrássy Avenue. Has a fitness center and restaurant.
Jewish Quarter
Budapest’s old Jewish quarter in District VII is trendy and lively, with ruin pubs, cafes, and restaurants. The Great Synagogue and Holocaust Memorial are located here. Well connected by public transport. Recommended Hotels:
- Prestige Hotel – Contemporary 4-star hotel with Art Nouveau styling. Has a lovely courtyard and provides kosher food options.
- Casati Budapest Hotel – Boutique hotel in a restored 18th-century mansion. Rooms have minimalist, modern decor. Excellent breakfast.
Castle District
This scenic area on the Buda side contains landmarks like the Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion. Staying here allows easy exploration, though public transit connections are limited. Recommended Hotels:
- Art’otel Budapest by Park Plaza – Unique art-themed hotel at the foot of the Castle hill. Contemporary rooms, fitness center, bar, and cafe.
- Burg Hotel – Small, cozy hotel in a historic building with traditional decor. Panoramic Castle views from the rooftop and some rooms.
Top Sights
Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament building is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Built in a Gothic revival style, it sits on the Pest side of the Danube River. Guided tours are available to see the lavish interior and learn about the history of the building. Don’t miss the chance to see the Holy Crown of Hungary, the country’s most prized possession.
Buda Castle
Towering over the Buda side of the city is the imposing Buda Castle. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle has gone through many reconstructions over the years. Wander through the grounds to see sites like the Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Budapest History Museum. Be sure to take in the panoramic views of Pest from the castle walls and courtyards.
Thermal Baths
Budapest sits on a wealth of natural thermal springs, and the city has capitalized on this by building many bathhouses. The most famous are the Szechenyi Baths in City Park, the largest medicinal baths in Europe. For a more local experience, head to the Gellert or Rudas baths. Spend a relaxing day soaking in the warm mineral waters, getting spa treatments, or swimming in the pools. The baths offer a unique way to unwind during your visit.
Museums
Budapest is home to many world-class museums showcasing the city’s rich history and culture. Two of the top museums to visit are:
National Museum
The National Museum provides an overview of Hungarian history dating back to the Roman era. Located in a neoclassical building, its extensive collections include medieval artifacts, Renaissance-era weaponry, folk costumes, and relics from the 1848 revolution against the Habsburgs. Don’t miss the ornate Holy Crown of Hungary in the dome hall.
Some key exhibits cover the Roman ruins and artifacts found throughout Hungary, Gothic sculptures and altarpieces, and reconstructions of historical Hungarian interiors from different eras. Allow 2-3 hours to explore the museum’s three floors.
Museum of Fine Arts
Housing over 100,000 works, the Museum of Fine Arts has an impressive collection spanning from Egyptian artifacts to contemporary international art. The museum is located in an elegant Neoclassical building and contains works by old masters like El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya.
The Hungarian collection stands out, with pieces from medieval times through the late 19th century. It provides an overview of Hungarian art history, with altarpieces, Gothic carvings, Renaissance-era portraits, realist genre paintings, and more. The museum also has a substantial collection of French and German impressionist and post-impressionist works. Plan to spend 2-3 hours admiring the varied collections.
With its diverse and extensive exhibits, the Museum of Fine Arts is a must-see for art lovers visiting Budapest. Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long lines. An audio guide can help appreciate the collections.
Food and Drink
Budapest is known for its delicious cuisine featuring hearty stews, savory pastries, and excellent wines. When visiting Budapest, make sure to sample some of the city’s signature dishes to get a true taste of Hungarian food culture.
Goulash
Goulash is Hungary’s most famous dish. This hearty stew is made with beef, onions, paprika, and vegetables. The meat is slowly simmered until tender and the paprika gives the stew its rich, deep red color. Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Try goulash at a traditional restaurant like Kádár Étkezde or make it yourself with a recipe from a local cookbook.
Lángos
Lángos is a savory deep-fried dough that is a popular Hungarian street food. The most classic version is lángos topped simply with sour cream, cheese, and garlic. Other popular toppings include ham, mushrooms, onions, sausage, and spices. Grab lángos from street vendors or restaurants and enjoy this piping hot treat as you explore the city. The freshly fried dough paired with creamy toppings makes for an irresistible snack.
Hungarian Wines
Hungary produces excellent wines, including the famous Tokaji dessert wine. The major wine regions to know are Tokaj-Hegyalja, Eger, and Villány. Tokaji is a sweet white wine made from grapes affected by noble rot. Eger is known for its Bikavér red blend. Villány produces full-bodied reds. Expand your palate by trying Hungarian varietals like Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), Kadarka, and Furmint. Sample wines at local wine bars or visit wineries in the countryside.
With its history of Magyar, Austrian, and Turkish influences, Budapest’s food scene has developed into a delicious fusion of flavors. Indulge in iconic dishes like goulash, lángos, and Hungarian wines to taste the essence of this city.
Nightlife
Budapest is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with ruin bars, opera houses, and concerts that keep the city buzzing well into the night.
Ruin Bars
Ruin bars are a unique Budapest experience. These bars are located in abandoned buildings and courtyards across the city, with a funky, eclectic decor that attracts a young, artsy crowd. Some of the most popular ruin bar destinations include Szimpla Kert, Instant, and Anker’t. Wander through dimly lit rooms, dance halls, and open-air spaces while discovering the city’s creative spirit.
Opera
Budapest is home to the renowned Hungarian State Opera House, which opened in 1884. Take in a performance to experience the opera house’s neo-Renaissance architecture and world-class acoustics. Operas are performed in their original language, though subtitles are projected above the stage. Tickets can be purchased directly at the opera house.
Concerts
For live music, Budapest has no shortage of concert venues. Enjoy concerts at the Palace of Arts, Budapest Sportarena, Akvárium Klub, A38, and the Budapest Jazz Club. Programs range from classical music to rock, pop, jazz, and more by both Hungarian and international artists. Check venue websites for upcoming events and ticket information. Festivals like Sziget and Balaton Sound also bring major headliners to Budapest each summer.
Day Trips from Budapest
Budapest makes an excellent base to explore some of the nearby towns and cities in Hungary. Here are some of the top day trips to consider from Budapest:
Szentendre
Szentendre is a picturesque riverside town located just 20km north of Budapest. Known for its Serbians influences, Szentendre has a rich history and beautiful architecture, including ornate Baroque houses and churches. The town is home to numerous museums and art galleries, making it a popular destination for artists and art lovers.
Top attractions include the Open-Air Ethnographic Museum, which recreates Hungarian village life, and the Margit Kovács Ceramic Collection. The winding cobblestone streets are fun to explore by foot. Don’t miss out on trying some traditional Hungarian fare at one of the local restaurants.
To get to Szentendre, take the H5 HÉV suburban train from Batthyány tér in Budapest. The journey takes around 40 minutes.
Visegrád
The small town of Visegrád, located about 50km north of Budapest, offers spectacular views of the Danube River bend. Perched on a hill is the medieval Visegrád Citadel, which contains the remains of a 13th century castle and palace.
There is a rewarding hike up to the citadel ruins with panoramic views. The Renaissance-style Royal Palace, located lower down by the river, houses the Museum of Hungarian Kings, featuring artifacts from the Middle Ages. The Sibrik Hill excursion train is a fun way to ascend the hillside for views.
Buses run frequently between Budapest and Visegrád, taking around an hour.
Eger
The historic town of Eger, located about 90km northeast of Budapest, is famous for its iconic castle, thermal baths, and full-bodied red wines.
Eger Castle is an imposing site atop a hill, with tours available inside to see the exhibits and take in the views. The castle has a turbulent history, having survived a major Ottoman attack in 1552.
The popular thermal baths provide relaxation in mineral-rich waters. Eger is also at the heart of a major Hungarian wine region, known for its Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood). Local wineries offer tastings and tours.
Direct bus connections make Eger an easy day trip from Budapest, taking around 1.5 hours each way.
Itineraries
48 Hours in Budapest
Budapest is a city that begs to be explored, with architectural and cultural treasures around every corner. Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Hungary’s capital:
Day 1
Start your day on the Buda side of the Danube River, taking the funicular up to Castle Hill to explore the area’s medieval streets and Baroque architecture. Don’t miss visiting Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion for panoramic views over the city.
Afterwards, cross the Chain Bridge to the Pest side and head straight for the opulent Hungarian Parliament Building. Take note of the intricate details of this Neo-Gothic masterpiece. Then walk over to St. Stephen’s Basilica, Budapest’s largest church, to take in the ornate interior and climb up to the observation deck.
In the afternoon, unwind at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, where you can soak in the warm mineral waters. Re-energize with a traditional meal at Kárpátia Restaurant before experiencing Budapest’s nightlife. End your day bar-hopping in the Jewish Quarter.
Day 2
On your second day, start by learning about Hungary’s 20th-century history at the fascinating House of Terror museum. Then take a walk down Andrássy Avenue to admire the lavish Opera House and historic architecture.
Afterward, head to Heroes’ Square to see the grand Millennium Monument and explore City Park. Don’t miss Europe’s largest medicinal bath at Széchenyi Baths.
In the evening, take a relaxing river cruise for gorgeous views of the Danube and city sights illuminated at night. End your last night with a meal in the Great Market Hall to try authentic Hungarian dishes.
With an efficient 48-hour itinerary focusing on Budapest’s top highlights, you’ll get a wonderful taste of all the city has to offer. This fast-paced guide hits the can’t-miss attractions to maximize your limited time.
Conclusion
As our whirlwind two-day adventure in Budapest comes to an end, I find myself already yearning to return to this dynamic city. While we managed to cover some of Budapest’s highlights, there is still so much left to explore and experience.
From the grandeur of Buda Castle to the soothing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, each moment spent in Budapest was filled with wonder and excitement. Whether indulging in delicious Hungarian cuisine or wandering through the charming streets of the Jewish Quarter, every corner revealed a piece of Budapest’s rich history and culture.
Two days may have been a tease, but it’s only sparked my curiosity further. Until we meet again, Budapest! I’ll be dreaming of our next visit, ready to uncover more hidden gems and create even more unforgettable memories in this vibrant city. Until then, farewell and köszönöm Budapest!
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