3 days in Budapest in 2024
Are you wondering what you should do in 3 days in Budapest?
Regardless of if you are looking to party, hike, relax, peruse museums or eat your way through the city, Budapest has it all. On a guided tour of the city, I learned the saying that “you either live on the Buda side or you want to live on the Buda side.” But as a tourist you’ll find plenty to enjoy on both sides of the river.
Things to do in 3 days in Budapest
You can hit the “not to be missed” highlights I have listed below in 2 days or really get to the know city in 3-4 days.
Relax in a thermal bath
There are many options for thermal baths. I went to the most popular one, Szechenyi, which was definitely crowded but I still really enjoyed it. There were several indoor baths ranging in temperature as well as two large outdoor pools. Be sure to bring a swimsuit, a pair of sandals, and a towel. You can rent lockers to keep your stuff locked away while you soak.
A couple other slightly less popular thermal baths are Gellért and Rudas. Gellért is attached to Hotel Gellért and has beautifully tiled indoor pools as well as outdoor pools overlooking the Buda Hills. Take note that Rudas has specific requirements regarding men’s and women’s hours. The timing for women didn’t fit into my travel schedule so I haven’t been yet.
Enjoy the view from Fisherman’s Bastion
You can pay a small fee to go up the lookout towers at Fisherman’s Bastion and it is definitely worth it to get some pictures away from the crowds. There were only a couple other people up there when I went at prime time on a nice summer afternoon.
Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica
This neoclassical cathedral is the largest church in Budapest, sitting at the end of Andrássy Avenue. Be sure to go inside so you see the beautiful 300 foot dome for yourself. You can also climb the stairs of the towers for some magnificent views of the city. Keep in mind you will have to pay a small fee to enter the church.
Walk the Chain Bridge
Spanning the mighty Danube River, the bridge serves as a vital link between the Buda and Pest sides of the city. Its iconic design is characterized by imposing stone towers and intricate iron chains. The bridge offers a pedestrian walkway separate from vehicular traffic, allowing pedestrians to enjoy panoramic views of Budapest’s skyline and the flowing Danube below.
This bridge was under construction for repair work for a while but as of fall 2023 it has re-opened for visitors and locals to enjoy once again.
Walk along the Danube River
The city lights up at night, making a stroll along the river pleasant both day and night. If you are tired of walking, then take tram #2 that runs along the Danube River on the Pest side.
Enjoy a drink at a Ruin Bar
Ruin bars are old abandoned buildings that have been converted into bars. This area is always bumping at night. If you are looking to go out and enjoy the nightlife this is the place! Or if you are looking for somewhere to eat a nice Mediterranean meal along with your cocktails, check out Mazel Tov.
Explore Central Market Hall
Take your time walking around this large indoor market. There are stalls selling local meats, spices, souvenirs, and more. This is the perfect place to pick up some authentic Hungarian paprika as a souvenir.
See the Parliament building
The Parliament Building looms large over the Danube River, with its neo-Gothic architecture adorned with grand details throughout the façade. It’s extra beautiful at night when it’s lit up. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply seeking the top sights in the city, you’ll be impressed.
There are 45 minute guided tours you can take to get a glimpse into Hungary’s political past and present.
Visit Hero’s Square
If you are a history buff, then be sure to plan some time to see this square. In the middle sits Millennium Monument, commemorating Hungary’s 1000th anniversary as a nation. Surrounding the square is Mucsarnok (also called the Palace of Exhibitions) and the Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum).
Visit Dohány Street Synagogue
Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest functioning Synagogue in Europe. You can take a tour, visit the museum and view the Holocaust Memorial to learn more about the history of the Hungarian Jewish community and its cultural significance.
Eat at Kiosk
Enjoy a delicious meal at Kiosk, a restaurant and cocktail bar near the Danube River with indoor and outdoor seating. The menu is made from freshly sourced Hungarian produce. Indoors, the stunning tall ceilings give it an upscale warehouse vibe. It’s a bit on the pricier side but we liked everything we ordered!
Where to stay in Budapest
📍Mid Range: Hotel Memories is a 4 star option that is centrally located. The rooms are cute and clean but small. I stayed here and had no complaints. We picked it because it was a decent price and we could easily walk to many attractions.
📍Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace looks out at the Danube River. It was built in 1906 as a residential and office space for the Gresham Insurance Company. In 2004 the building reopened as a Four Seasons after reconstruction and renovation, while still maintaining its original Art Nouveau architecture.
How to get around Budapest
I highly recommend walking and using public transport as much as possible. There are trams and subways that are pretty easy to navigate and also a great way to sightsee. Tram lines that run along and across the Danube provide some great views, specifically tram #2.
We had several cab drivers who wouldn’t turn on the meter and overcharged us. For this reason I suggest using Bolt, an easy to use app similar to Uber but used to call cabs. This way you know the price is monitored and set fairly.
TL;DR: 3 days in Budapest
Whether you visit for architecture, the ruin bars, or the thermal baths Budapest will keep you smiling. This sprawling city has plenty to do while not feeling too big or overwhelming. If you only have 3 days in Budapest for this trip, I’m sure you’ll find yourself itching to get back to it someday.
Pair a trip to Budapest with a visit to neighboring Bratislava, Slovakia.