How to Spend Two Days in Budapest: Itinerary & Things to Do
When it comes to European city breaks, Budapest is such an underrated gem. Budapest is the capital city of Hungary, and it’s one of the most beautiful and unique cities I have ever been to.
Known for its incredible architecture, vibrant nightlife, interesting history, and thermal baths, Budapest is the perfect destination for a short break.
In this guide, I’ve shared exactly how I would spend two days in Budapest, including all the exciting things to see in the Hungarian capital and some optional day trips.
Before we kick off this itinerary, it’s important to know that Budapest can be split into two parts: Buda and Pest.
The city lies on the banks of the Danube River, and the Buda side is on the opposite side of Pest. In this two day itinerary for Budapest, I recommend dedicating a day to each side.
Is 2 days in Budapest enough?
Yes, two days in Budapest is enough to see the highlights, especially if you have an extra morning or afternoon on the days you arrive and leave.
There’s quite a lot to see in just two days, but if you’re like me and enjoy exploring at a fast pace, then you have nothing to worry about.
It’s also worth noting that Budapest is quite a small city, and it’s very easy and quick to get around. It won’t be like London or New York, where you have to plan meticulously where everything is.
While a third day will allow you to explore at a more leisurely pace or even squeeze in a day trip, I don’t think it’s essential. Budapest is the perfect destination for a long weekend in Europe.
I suggest dedicating one day to exploring Pest, and one to Buda.
Budapest itinerary: Day one
Morning (St Stephen’s Basilica & a walking tour)
Okay, fair warning. Today is going to be BUSY. While Budapest is quite a small city, there’s still so much to see.
Stop one: St Stephen’s Basilica
Start your first day in Budapest at St Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika) which opens at 9am (except on Sundays). This is one of the most popular attractions in Budapest, so it’s a good idea to get there nice and early ahead of the crowds.
St Stephen’s Basilica is a striking building right in the heart of Pest. Construction began in the late 1800s, and it’s the largest Roman Catholic church in Hungary.
You can admire the building from the outside or buy a ticket and explore inside. Personally, I think it’s well worth buying a ticket and going inside. I was travelling in Budapest on a budget, but I’m really glad I did this.
You have three ticket options: the church hall, the panoramic tower & treasury, or a ticket that includes everything.
The panoramic tower and terrace is an absolute must in my opinion. There are almost 400 steps, but there is an optional lift that takes you most of the way (but be aware that there are still a few steps).
From the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Budapest, which is a great way to kick off your Budapest itinerary.
Stop two: Walking tour
Next up is my favourite thing to do in a new city – a walking tour!
Walking tours are a great way to get a feel for a new city, learn about its history and most importantly, get orientated.
In Budapest, you can join a free walking tour, a paid walking tour, or even do it solo. The best free walking tour in Budapest is by Free Tour. The meeting point is only ten minutes from St Stephen’s Basilica, and tours are scheduled throughout the morning (I would recommend the 10am or 1030am tour for those visiting the Basilica first).
The tour covers most of Budapest’s key attractions and provides a fascinating insight into the city’s history.
If walking tours aren’t for you, I understand! Here’s where I would walk if I were doing a self-guided tour of Budapest:
- From St Stephen’s Basilica, walk to the famous Policeman Statue (designed by Finnish sculptor Kaarlo Mikkonen)
- Walk towards the Soviet War Memorial, where you’ll find several other notable landmarks, including the Memorial for Victims of the German Occupation, Exchange Palace, the Ronald Reagan Statue and the USA embassy.
- Look out for the mini Kermit the Frog statue. It is one of around 30 miniature statues hidden throughout Budapest.
Side note: If you’re hungry, I suggest a stop at Artizan Bakery for a snack. It’s one of the best bakeries I have ever been to.
- From the Square, walk to the Hungarian Parliament Building and admire it from the outside. This is one impressive building.
- Just a few minutes walk away is ‘Shoes on the Danube Bank‘, a memorial to the Jews who were muederd by the Arrow Cross Party.
- Finally, end your walking tour of Budapest on the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. The famous bridge opened in 1849 and connects Buda and Pest. You can walk across the bridge and admire the views of Budapest.
Stop three: Go inside the Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most distinctive buildings in Europe, and it’s also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Budapest. Situated on the banks of the Danube River, the iconic building was actually inspired by the Palace of Westminster in London, but it has a much more Gothic feel.
Despite its importance, you can go inside the building to learn more about its history and the politics of Hungary.
The audio-guided tours take you through various rooms and provide insight into the building’s construction and operation today. This is one of the most popular things to do in Budapest, so it’s essential to book your ticket in advance. The tour takes about 45 minutes.
Stop four: Lunch
Budapest is a haven for foodies, and there is honestly so much to choose from. Here are a few of my favourite spots in the area close to where this Budapest itinerary takes you this afternoon.
- Cookie Beacon (an excellent brunch spot, but don’t forget to try the cookies)
- Blueberry Brunch
- Artizan Bakery (it also serves brunch and lunch)
- Tahina Bite (literally the best falafel I’ve ever had)
- Twentysix Budapest
- Vegan Garden
- Fat Mama
Afternoon (Explore more of Pest)
Stop one: Pop&Roll Art Toilet
I never thought I’d add a public toilet to a travel guide, but here we are.
The Pop&Roll Art Toilet is one of Budapest’s hidden gems. These functioning public toilets are also an art gallery, and inside you’ll find a neo-pop art-themed gallery.
Each of the toilets has a unique style, and using them is certainly an experience.
It costs 1000 HUF to enter, but it really is worth it.
Stop two: Wander down Váci Street (Váci utca)
Váci Street is one of the main shopping streets in Budapest. It’s lined with familiar brands, souvenir shops, and traditional Hungarian restaurants.
The street also has some interesting architecture, and even if you don’t want to shop, I still suggest having a stroll down the street.
Stop three: Visit Central Market Hall
Also known as the Great Market Hall, Budapest’s largest market is popular for tourists and locals alike.
Inside this grand building, vendors sell everything from cheese and meats to t-shirts and souvenirs. There are also several street food stands where you can try some local foods, including langos and goulash.
Side note: Right outside the market is Flatty Coffee Shop, a trendy hole-in-the-wall coffee shop serving interesting coffee concoctions, including Tiramisu.
Stop four: Admire the Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library
Metropolitan Ervin Szabó is arguably Budapest’s most famous library and is known for its impressive interior architecture.
If you enjoy historic buildings and reading, it’s well worth visiting. As of 2025, it costs 2000 HUF to enter.
It’s worth noting that there is some discontent among library users, who are frustrated by tourists visiting and disrupting their work and reading. If you choose to visit, you’ll be told a few rules to minimise disruption.
Stop five: Explore the Jewish Quarter
End your first day of exploring by strolling through the Jewish Quarter. If you’ve followed my Budapest itinerary so far, you’ll have already seen parts of it, but there’s lots more to see.
The Jewish Quarter is the hub for nightlife in Budapest, and it’s where you’ll find many of the city’s famous Ruin Bars and tasty restaurants. My itinerary brings you back here tomorrow night, but it’s worth having an explore during the day too.
One of the most significant landmarks is the Dohany Street Synagogue (the Great Synagogue), Europe’s largest synagogue (and the world’s second largest).
The impressive building is hard to miss, and it has some of the beautiful architecture in Budapest.
You can buy an entry ticket or book a guided tour.
Evening (Enjoy a river cruise)
The Danube runs straight through Budapest, and taking a cruise down the famous river is one of the best things to do in the city.
The boats run throughout the day, but in my opinion, the best time to do the cruise is at sunset or once it gets dark. Once the sun sets, the city lights up, and the views of the iconic city are spectacular.
One of the best evening cruises in Budapest is the prosecco cruise – yes, prosecco cruise! It’s affordable and beautiful, and the best part is that it comes with unlimited prosecco. And let me tell you, they do not go lightly on the prosecco; your glass is constantly topped up.
The Prosecco cruise was one of the best things I did in Budapest (I’m not sure what that says about me), and it’s an absolute must for your itinerary.
If that doesn’t sound like your thing, this cruise is another excellent option.
Budapest itinerary: Day Two
Morning (Explore Buda and the Castle District)
Start your second day in Budapest by exploring the Buda side of the city. This is where you’ll find the famous Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church.
Stop one: Fisherman’s Bastion
I recommend starting your day as early as possible. Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the top things to see in Budapest, and it’s fair to say it draws a crowd.
This historical monument was built in the early 1900s as a viewing platform over Budapest, and it offers beautiful views of the city.
To really get ahead of the crowds, consider visiting Fisherman’s Bastion at sunrise. It has incredible views over Pest and the Danube River and is the perfect spot to watch the city come to life.
Alternatively, aim to get there before 8 a.m. During the day, it costs 1200 Huf ($3/4) to access many of the terraces and photospots. But, if you arrive early enough, you don’t need to pay to enter.
It also means you’ll have more space to get the perfect photo.
Make sure you have comfortable walking shoes on today. There are quite a few steps up to Fisherman’s Bastion. Alternatively, take the Buda Funicular, which operates from 8 a.m.
Stop two: Matthias Church
Right next door is the famous Matthias Church, an incredible piece of architecture built in 1255. I’m not usually one for this type of thing, but the building is beautiful and has a Gothic-like feel.
You can admire the church from the outside or buy a ticket to explore it indoors. You can also purchase a ticket to the tower, which offers panoramic views. However, be aware that you’ll need to climb almost 200 steps.
Stop three: Coffee break
I don’t usually include coffee breaks on my itineraries as it’s an entirely personal thing. However, I must mention 4Minutes Cafe, which serves some of the best coffee in Budapest.
It’s right down the road from Matthias Church, so it’s in the perfect spot for a mid-morning coffee break.
Stop four: Lookout point
The Toth Arpad Promenade is a short walk from the Matthias Church.
Here, you’ll find several viewpoints of the city and the Buda Hills, as well as a few historical monuments and statues.
You don’t need to spend much time here, but it’s worth taking a look as you make your way to the next stop.
Stop five: Buda Castle
Make your way across Buda Castle Hill towards Buda Castle. Here, you’ll find some epic views of Budapest, including Chain Bridge, St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Parliament Building.
You can spend about thirty minutes exploring the various viewpoints and historical monuments, and then there are a few options for what to do next.
The area is home to several notable museums, including the Castle Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.
You can also join a tour that takes you beneath the surface into the Buda Caves and bomb shelters.
If you’re not in a museum mood, skip this and continue on with the itinerary. Whatever you do, don’t miss witnessing the Buda Funicular (Budavari Siklo). You can ride this up or down the hill, but I think the best view is from the walkway.
As you walk down towards Széchenyi Chain Bridge, you cross a bridge that gives you the perfect view of the Funicular in action.
Where to have lunch
If you want to try something on the Buda side of the river (which would make sense), consider finding somewhere close to Fisherman’s Bastion before you make your way down the hill (there isn’t much on the riverfront).
For restaurants with Hungarian and international options, consider Ramazuri Bistronomy, The Royal Guard, or Spiler Biergarten.
Afternoon (Relax in the thermal baths or visit a museum)
Stop one: Visit Hősök Tere (Heroes’ Square)
After lunch, take the Metro or bus to Heroes’ Square, a significant historical part of the city found at the end of the iconic Andrássy Avenue.
Here, you’ll find a beautiful monument commemorating the seven chieftains of the Magyar tribes that founded Hungary.
Stop two: Explore Vajdahunyad Castle
Over the road is Vajdahunyad Castle, a Gothic meets Renaissance castle found in City Park. The castle was built in 1896 to celebrate 1,000 years of the Hungarian State.
The castle grounds are open to the public, and you don’t need a ticket to enter. There’s a beautiful pond to walk around, and you can also explore the wider City Park.
The Castle is also home to the Hungarian Museum of Architecture. If you have the time, spend some time exploring the wider City Park area, there is a small botanical gardens and several notable sculptures.
Tip: If you visit in the winter, don’t miss ice skating. The giant ice skating rink is right outside of Vajdahunyad Castle and is the largest in Europe.
Stop three: Relax in the thermal baths
Have you even been to Budapest if you haven’t experienced the thermal baths?
Budapest is built on thermal springs, and relaxing in the mineral-rich waters has been a popular activity dating back to the Roman times. So, it seems only fitting to end your 2-day Budapest itinerary by relaxing in the thermal baths.
The most popular thermal baths in Budapest are the Szechenyi Baths. If you’ve just been to Vajdahunyad Castle, you’ll be pleased to hear the baths are right across the road.
Word of warning: the Széchenyi Thermal Bath is popular with tourists and locals alike, and it can get very, very busy.
Are they worth it? I can’t say it’s my favourite thing to do, but it’s certainly fun to experience a different side of the city.
Tip: Remember to take flip flops and a towel. It’s very expensive to rent them at the baths.
If you’re not keen on the baths, consider one of Budapest’s famous museums. The Hungarian National Museum is one of the most famous museums in the city and offers fascinating insight into Hungarian history.
Evening (Explore the Jewish Quarter and visit a Ruin Bar)
On your final night in Budapest, tuck into some local food.
I was genuinely surprised at how much of a foodie city Budapest seems to be. Not only is there delicious Hungarian food, but you’ll also find trendy and upscale restaurants serving up a variety of international favourites.
One of the best ways to experience local food is to join a food tour. This popular tour includes a variety of tastings, including street food, restaurants and drinks. After the tour, visit one of Budapest’s famous ruin bars.
If you’d prefer to explore on your own, I suggest heading to the Jewish Quarter. This district of Budapest is filled to the brim with tasty restaurants serving incredible food (don’t miss Mazel Tov), plus there are plenty of famous ruin bars to choose from.
Ruin bars are an iconic part of Budapest. They are found in abandoned buildings and have a great atmosphere. One of the most famous ruin bars is Szimpla Kert, found in the Jewish Quarter. Although a bit “TikTok famous”, it’s easy to see why and well worth a visit.
I also suggest visiting Street Food Karavan. Annoyingly, I didn’t find this spot until my last day. But it’s a food court surrounded by a network of narrow streets lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes.
If you want to finish your time in Budapest with drinks and delicious food, look no further than spending your last night exploring the vibrant nightlife of the Jewish Quarter.
Other things to do in Budapest
Hike Gellért Hill
I highly recommend the walk up Gellért Hill. It takes about forty minutes, and the views of Budapest from the top were the best I experienced.
The hike begins on the Buda side of the river. The path weaves up to the top, rewarding you with several stunning viewpoints.
The path can be a little confusing sometimes, but try to keep going to the left (we made the mistake of going right and walking the long way around).
Gellért Hill is also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Budapest. You can fit this in nicely on day two after exploring Buda Castle.
Explore Buda Caves
I briefly mentioned this above, but exploring the Buda Castle Caves is one of the most unique things to do in Budapest.
Budapest is built upon a network of caves, and it’s possible to explore these with a guide. You can even book a caving tour if you’re feeling extra adventurous.
Ride on the Ferris Wheel of Budapest
For a bird’s eye view of Budapest, consider riding on the city’s giant Ferris wheel right in the heart of the city.
When I visited Budapest during the winter, the wheel was closed for maintenance, but I can imagine the views from above are spectacular.
Visit the National Theatre Monument
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Budapest, consider visiting the Memorial of the Old National Theatre.
This unique statue, found outside the National Theatre, is a memorial to the original theatre building. The statue shows part of the old building submerged under water.
It’s a bit of a trek to reach, but I’ve never seen anything quite like it.
Watch an Opera Performance
The Hungarian State Opera House is one of the most famous in Europe.
The Opera House regularly hosts performances by well-known artists and local artists. You can also book a tour of the building.
Day trips from Budapest
If you have more than a couple of days in Budapest, consider adding a day trip to your itinerary.
One of the best day trips from Budapest is to Szentendre, a small traditional town less than an hour away from the city.
Another option is to visit Visegrad Castle, which is about one hour by train from Budapest.
For an organised tour, consider this tour down the Danube Bend.
Should you get a Budapest Card?
I’ve discussed the Budapest Card in my Budapest travel guide, so you can find more information about the card there.
Whether it’s worth it for this itinerary entirely depends on the activities you want to do.
My itinerary covers the main attractions in Budapest, but you won’t necessarily want to go inside of all of them. It’s also worth noting that the Budapest City Card doesn’t include entry to things like the Széchenyi Thermal Bath or the Parliament Building.
Personally, I’m not convinced that this card is worthwhile. If you plan to visit several of the museums and make extensive use of public transport, then it might be, but it’s certainly not the best value card.
The best thing to do is add up the entry cost to everything you want to do that’s included on the card, and see what’s cheaper.
Thanks for reading this two-day itinerary for Budapest. I hope you’ve found it helpful.
