How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Budapest Without Missing a Thing

Many people call Budapest the ‘Paris of the East’ due to its charm which, of course, has a lot to do with its character and its culture. Apart from being divided by the Danube river in two distinct areas, that are Buda and Pest (hence the name of the city), this city is a joy to every traveller. There is something magnetic about spending 3 days in Budapest, no matter if you're wandering through ancient castles or soaking in historic thermal baths.

Overview of the 3-Day Itinerary

If you are a first time visitor, it will be worthwhile to outline an excursion plan to avoid overwhelming you into finding things to do, especially for cities full of attractions and activities. Here's a summary of what I think you should expect from each day of my ideal 3-day travel plan:

1. Day 1: Dive into the historical treasures of Buda.
2. Day 2: Immerse yourself in the energetic culture of Pest.
3. Day 3: See the quaint villages and the stunning landmarks in both the banks of the river.

Importance of Planning for a Successful Trip

It's important to plan a good itinerary so that you don't waste any time during your visit. Detailed planning ensures you don't miss iconic sights like Fisherman's Bastion or the Hungarian Parliament Building. This is also beneficial to leaves room for being adventurous and to enjoy other activities you did not plan for, like discovering a hidden café or enjoying an unscheduled sunset cruise on the Danube.

Why is planning so important?

• Minimizes Wastage Of Time: With so much to explore in this area, having a defined structure allows you to accomplish more in a shorter time.
• Enhances Experience: No one likes to waste precious time figuring out where to go next. Planning allows you to explore everything without worrying.
• Budget Management: A plan helps keep track of expenses, avoiding unexpected costs.

So are you eager to have the time of your life (or at least a nice memory)? Then please allow me to present my detailed itinerary of each day’s activities!

Start Your Day with a Visit to Fisherman's Bastion

A visit to the Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest provides one of the most remarkable panoramic views of the city that I've ever seen. It is located in the heart of Buda's Castle district, and this architectural work, which intermingled neo-gothic and neo-romanesque styles, was constructed between 1895 and 1902. The name of this structure stems from the medieval fishermen who used to guard this area. It consists of seven towers representing the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in the year 896 AD.

View of the Fisherman's Bastion.

Key Highlights:

• Panoramic Views: From the terraces, the view of Pest is unsurpassed with the sights of the Hungarian Parliament (I will talk about it a bit later) and St. Stephen’s Basilica to name a few. It is advisable to visit these areas early morning or late afternoon so as to avoid the crowds and to take good pictures.
• Statues and Sculptures: The bastion features numerous statues, including a prominent one of St. Stephen I, Hungary's first king. The statues boost the atmospheric history and are great for photo taking too.
• Café Options: There are a couple of lovely cafes where you get to have a coffee or a light meal while enjoying the view.

There is a difference in approaching Fisherman’s Bastion for a viewing and really taking your time to appreciate everything, including some interesting history. This is where the past meets the present, and that's why I believe it is a perfect start for your journey through Buda.

Explore the Historic Buda Castle

Second on my list is the Buda Castle which is known as one of the attractions that make up the great history of the country. Situated on the Castle Hill, this place has been occupied by the Hungarian kings since the 13th century. Although the castle had to be demolished several times due to the wars and invasions that took place on its territory, today it is an extremely magnificent and beautiful symbol of the resilience of architecture.

Impressive photo of Buda Castle, a must-see during your 3 days in Budapest.

Things You Cannot Avoid When Visiting Buda Castle:

• Hungarian National Gallery: A gallery in the Buda Castle that contains artworks dating back from the Middle ages to the present and these are mainly from Hungarian artists. It is quite helpful in understanding the artistic trends in Hungary.
• Budapest History Museum: A visit here takes you through Budapest’s tumultuous history from Roman times to modern days. The museum is divided into several sections covering different eras, featuring artefacts, interactive displays, and detailed exhibits.
• Matthias Fountain: This is a beautifully decorated fountain that portrays King Matthias Corvinus hunting with his falconers. This is one of the places in the castle that attract numerous photographs and adds the romantic touch to your trip.

Walking through Buda Castle feels like stepping back in time. But trust me, your taste of history isn't finished yet. Let's continue with Matthias Church.

Taste the Great Sight of Matthias Church Architecture While Spending Your 3 Days in Budapest

Among the buildings worth visiting in Buda very close to the Buda Castle is the Matthias Church which easily attracts attention due to its beautiful ornaments and colored roof tiles. The church is officially named Church Of Our Lady, but popularly known as the Matthias Church after King Matthias Corvinus (I talked about him earlier, remember?) who reconstructed it in the latter part of the 15th century.

Aerial view of Matthias Church.

Architectural Splendours:

• Gothic Elements: The church is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. The interior is equally impressive!
• Roof Tiles: A unique feature is the Zsolnay roof tiles found on the church which are beautifully set into patterns and ways that glitters due to the sun rays. It really complements the already existing splendour of the building.
• King Matthias’ Legacy: Inside, you'll find references to King Matthias, including his coat of arms, which adorns various parts of the church.

Cultural Significance:

• Coronation Site: This place also has importance as coronation church for more than one Hungarian kings like Franz Joseph I and Charles IV.
• Concerts and Events: This venue is not only used for religious purposes but is also known for hosting classical music performances due to its excellent acoustics.

Although a visit to Matthias Church is quite exhaustive because of its architectural aspects, it also offers an interesting cultural background that helps fill in any gaps you may have about the city during the course of your stay in Budapest for 3 days.

Because of these three well-known attractions: Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, and Matthias Church, the process of getting to know the history of the wonderful city of Budapest gets an excellent start. Each place has something completely new to tell about the history of the great city both on the Danube and across it. Get some rest, because you will need it for day 2!

Magnificence of the Hungarian Parliament Building

The center of Pest is dotted with beautiful buildings and one of the prominent ones (that you surely cannot miss) is the Hungarian Parliament Building. It was built in Neo-Gothic architectural style and was completed in 1904. It is among the largest parliamentary buildings in the world and one of the monuments of political history of Hungary. If possible, try to visit it at night, because look at these colours on the picture below. Stunning!

The Hungarian Parliament Building at night, reflecting on the Danube.

Approaching this fantastic construction, the captivating mosaics will surely amaze you (just as it amazed me). Outside the building there are more than two hundred statues, tall spires reaching towards the sky, and a magnificent dome that dominates the skyline. Its location perfectly enhances the beauty of the structure which is facing the Danube River. Inside, you can join guided tours to learn about Hungary's legislative processes and see historical artefacts. Some notable ones that I found interesting are:

• The Grand Staircase, a beautiful entrance elaborately decorated with magnificent paintings.
• The Dome Hall, in which you will be able to see the Crown Jewels of Hungary.
• The Assembly Halls, which are still used today for parliamentary sessions.

There are usually tours in more than one language making you dive into the history and politics of Hungary. It’s wise to reserve place beforehand as there is too much interest.

Explore the Secret Locations of Gellért Hill During Your 3 Days in Budapest

Hiking up Gellért Hill is not just a physical engagement but also a treat to your eyes due to the views of Buda and Pest, thus making it a perfect spot (and it explains why it's on my list). This hill isn't solely about jaw-dropping views. It has an interesting story and several interesting places within it.

The Statue of Liberty, located at the top of Gellért hill, is a sight not to be missed during your 3 days in Budapest.

Begin from one of the lower levels close to Liberty Bridge and traverse up through the lush greenery until you get to the Citadella Fortress. Constructed by the Habsburgs in 1851 after suppressing the Hungarian Revolution, this fortress has experienced a lot. At present, it is the symbol of the unity and will of the people of Budapest. During your walk, you'll come across:

• The Liberty Statue, erected in 1947 to honour the Soviet liberation from Nazi forces.
• Various elevated locations from where you can have beautiful views of the whole town, which are also ideal for camera lovers.
• Some small portions of land with trees and benches installed where you may consider to relax.

Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with unparalleled views over Budapest. On clear days, you can see far beyond the city's borders. As you make your way down to Pest, you may want to take a break and pop in at one of the pretty flowering cafes or Bistro’s located at the hill’s base and grab a drink (or two) or a bite to eat.

Relax at Rudas Baths

One sure thing that we can all agreed upon is that no one comes to Budapest and does not have a go at any of the famous thermal baths that are in this Beautiful city, and Rudas Baths has to be one of those places. This bathhouse is situated on the hillside of the Gellert Hill, and was built during the Ottoman Empire in the 16 century. It is also easily accessible from Pest via Liberty Bridge, and offers:

• Traditional Turkish Baths: With century-old architecture with octagonal pools under a dome with stained glass windows.
• Thermal Wellness Facilities: Saunas, steam rooms, and treatment massages are available.
• Rooftop Swimming Pool: Offers amazing panoramic views of the city including sunset and night lights views which are breathtaking.

The thermal waters here are well-known for their healing properties, enriched with minerals like calcium, magnesium, sulphate, and fluoride ions (I totally had to google these) that are beneficial for various conditions such as joint problems or stress relief. To ensure a smooth visit:

• Check the opening hours and specific bathing schedules online beforehand.
• If you plan to visit on mixed-gender days, remember to bring swimwear. Otherwise, traditional loincloths are provided.
• Additional items should be prepared such as towels (for rent on site) or summer sandals for better comfort.

After a long day of sight-seeing in Pest during your 3 days in Budapest, a visit to Rudas Baths will help you to unwind while indulging in the spa culture of Budapest that is adored by locals and tourists alike. I hope this will raise your energy level a bit, because I still have to talk about the third day.

Gain Insight into Hungary's Tragic Past at the House of Terror Museum in Pest

Everyone interested in the twisting history of Hungary should take a trip to the House of Terror Museum. It's maybe not the funniest place, but I can assure you that you will learn a lot. Standing in Andrássy Avenue, this museum is a relic of the horrid systems of governance that dominated Hungary in the twentieth century. It was also one of the homes of the secret police, first used by the Nazis and later by the Communists.

Walking into the premises of the museum blows you away with its darkness and interiors. This is quite expected with the dim lights and the dark exhibitions. The museum contains vast amounts of artefacts, photographs, and testimonies which depict the realities experienced during those totalitarian regimes. Another highlight is the Hall of Tears, which entirely consists of photographs and candles commemorating the victims.

The visit to the House of Terror is an unforgettable emotional experience. I consider it as an informative trip, as well as a quiet admonition that it is necessary to defend human rights.

Visit Heroes' Square: A Testament to Hungarian History

Heroes' Square is beautifully nestled at the end of Andrássy Avenue, perhaps the most notable site in Budapest. This huge square is full with statues of notable respected figures from Hungary and marks important milestones in the history of the Hungarian people.

One dominant statue in Heroes' square is the Millennium Monument which consists of a column topped with a statue of archangel Gabriel who bears the Hungarian Holy Crown. At its base are statues representing the seven chieftains who led the Magyar tribes to what would become Hungary in 895 AD.

Statue of the Archangel Gabriel at the top of the Millennium Monument.

Flanking either side of the square are two semi-circular colonnades, each lined with statues of notable historical figures such as King Stephen I, who founded Hungary in 1000 AD, and Lajos Kossuth, a leader during the 1848 revolution against Habsburg rule. These statues not only bear witness to Hungary's great history, but also inspire pride and patriotism in visitors.

That's why a visit to Heroes' Square during your 3 days in Budapest offers an opportunity to reflect on Hungary's storied past while appreciating its enduring spirit.

Now that we've seen what needs to be done, the question you're asking is where am I supposed to stay? When it comes to choosing a place to sleep in Budapest, your choice will definitely add a good value towards your excellent experience in Budapest. Here are some of my top options that can suit to various categories.

Hotel Moments Budapest

Hotel Moments Budapest is notable for its sophisticated architecture and the location close to popular Andrássy Avenue. Each room includes modern conveniences like free internet connection, flat screen television and a mini bar alonside spacious areas. The hotel has a fitness center, sauna and a restaurant serving both national and international dishes. The quality of the breakfast is very high which lets you prepare for the day ahead with a full stomach. Its central location means you are just steps away from major attractions like St. Stephen's Basilica and the Hungarian State Opera House.

Luxurious Stay at the Grand Budapest Penthouse

In case someone wishes to add a little luxury to their vacation, the Grand Budapest Penthouse stands unparalleled. Grandeur of the accommodation is equally portrayed in large sitting rooms encompassed with private balconies overlooking the beautiful city. The modern day facilities in each penthouse cater for the business travelers who are on a longer term stay or the travelers who prefer to self-cater. It is close to the active Jewish Quarter, you will therefore have easy access to trendy bars, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Other Accommodation Options

If these two doesn't suit you, I perfectly understand. But I still have some ideas for you:

• Budget-Friendly: Hostels like Maverick City Lodge offer clean rooms and social atmospheres.
• Mid-Range: Boutique hotels such as Bohem Art Hotel combine comfort with unique art-inspired designs.
• Family-Friendly: Apartments like 7Seasons Apartments provide the convenience of home with full kitchen facilities.

Whether relaxing in a five star hotel or staying in a place at seven euro a night, it does not matter. The city of Budapest will provide anything you want to the fullest.

Best Time to Visit Budapest

Budapest is a delightful city for visitors all throughout the year, depending on the season. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions. Summer months (June to August) bring warmer temperatures and a bustling atmosphere with numerous festivals. For those who enjoy a festive ambiance and don't mind the cold, Winter is magical with Christmas markets and thermal baths providing a warm escape.

Local Currency: The Forint

Hungary’s official currency is hungarian forint (HUF). Whereas credit cards are accepted in many places, I think that carrying cash is advisable for smaller places. You can find ATMs almost everywhere in the city. I recommend you to use official currency exchange offices or banks while exchanging money in order to avoid bad terms and overpaying fees. A useful suggestion is to skip changing currency in airports as their rates are generally more stringent.

Essential Travel Guide for a 3-Day Trip

Planning your itinerary efficiently ensures you make the most of your 3 days in Budapest. A quick recap of what I've said:

1. First Day: Enjoy Buda’s famous sights such as Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, and Matthias Church.
2. Second Day: Get engaged with Pest culture - Parliament building, Gellert Hill, and bathing at Rudas Baths.
3. Third Day: Get lost on the picturesque streets of Budapest visiting the House of Terror museum, Heroes square (and why not Széchenyi Thermal baths).

Buses, trams and metro in Budapest are efficient and extensive. If you are planning to use public transport, a Budapest Card may be handy as it offers unlimited travel on public transport and give discounts to many places. This card can be relatively helpful in terms of money and time in the city.

There are few places in the world that can match the experience of spending 3 days in Budapest. This exciting cosmopolitan city with features of both the old and the new, never runs short of things to do, with all types of travellers in mind. You may stroll through Buda’s ancient ruins or enjoy the bustle of Pest, whatever you do the city never ceases to surprise.

I hope that it will help you make the most of your holiday of 3 days in Budapest while hoping to visit all the interesting places. From great sightseeing such as the stunning pictures of the Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion to enjoying a wonderful time in Széchenyi Thermal Baths, every little day will come with exhilarating activities (and pictures that will last forever).

Why wait? Start planning your journey now and see the charm of Budapest yourself. With careful planning and a well-thought-out itinerary, your visit will be nothing short of perfect. I wish you the best of the travel experience!