Description: Budapest is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. From its stunning architecture and world-renowned thermal baths to its thriving food and wine scene, Budapest has something for everyone.
Destinations:
Day 1 - Pest
Day 2 - Pest & The Jewish Quarter
Day 3 - Buda & Castle Hill
Where to stay: This Bright Spacious Basilica Airbnb hosted by Peter
When to go: We visited in mid-July
THE ITINERARY:
THE DETAILS:
DAY 1
Pest
Start your day with a walking tour of Budapest with Sandemans, a well-known tour company that offers a range of walking tours in Budapest. Sandemans tours are led by knowledgeable and friendly guides who will show you the best of Budapest's sights and history. Some of the highlights of the tour include the Parliament Building, Heroes' Square, and the Fisherman's Bastion.
For lunch, head to Retro Langos, a popular street food spot that serves up traditional Hungarian lángos. Lángos is a deep-fried dough that's topped with sour cream and grated cheese, and it's a popular street food in Hungary. Retro Langos is located in the heart of the city and is a great place to try this delicious and filling snack.
After lunch, tour the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. The Hungarian Parliament Building is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture and is located on the banks of the Danube River. It's the seat of the Hungarian government and is open to visitors for tours. The tour includes a visit to the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as the stunning Great Hall and the Crown Jewels.
Next, head to Kadarka Wine Bar for drinks. Kadarka Wine Bar is a trendy spot that specializes in Hungarian wines. They offer a wide selection of wines from different regions of Hungary, as well as cheese and charcuterie boards. It's a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the cozy atmosphere of the bar.
For dinner, head to Café Kör, a cozy restaurant that serves up traditional Hungarian dishes with a modern twist. Café Kör is located in the heart of Budapest and is known for its warm and friendly atmosphere. They offer a wide selection of dishes, including goulash, stuffed cabbage, and pork tenderloin, as well as vegetarian options. It's a great place to enjoy a delicious meal and to experience the local cuisine of Budapest.
DAY 2
Pest & The Jewish Quarter
Make Central Market Hall your first stop of the day, a great place to try Hungarian Strudel for breakfast. A bustling marketplace with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, the Central Market Hall is one of the oldest and largest indoor markets in Budapest, dating back to the late 19th century. It's a great place to explore Hungarian cuisine and culture, with stalls selling traditional dishes like goulash, lángos, and chimney cake. You can also find a wide range of local produce, meats, and cheeses, as well as souvenirs and crafts.
Afterward, visit Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe and a testament to Budapest's rich Jewish heritage. The Dohány Street Synagogue is located in the Jewish Quarter of Budapest and is a stunning example of Moorish Revival architecture. It was built in the mid-19th century and has a rich history, including its use as a Nazi concentration camp during World War II. Today, it's a symbol of Jewish heritage and a place of worship and education.
For lunch, head to Scusi Focacceria, a trendy spot serving up very delicious Italian sandwiches, salads and pastas.
Next, explore St. Stephen's Basilica, one of the most impressive churches in Budapest. The basilica is dedicated to the first king of Hungary, St. Stephen, and features stunning architecture and intricate artwork. It's located in the heart of the city and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Afterward, head to the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace for drinks. The Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace is a luxury hotel located in a historic Art Nouveau building. It's a great place to enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine while taking in the stunning views of the Danube River and the Chain Bridge.
For dinner, head to MÁK restaurant, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up innovative Hungarian cuisine. MÁK restaurant is located in the heart of Budapest and is known for its creative tasting menus that showcase the best of Hungarian ingredients and flavors. It's a great place to experience the culinary scene of Budapest and to indulge in a memorable fine dining experience.
DAY 3
Buda & Castle Hill
Start your morning off with some sustenance at Pantry Brunch, a cozy café serving up delicious breakfast and lunch dishes.
You'll want to have an early start to beat the crowds at Gellért Thermal Bath and to relax in the healing waters of this stunning Art Nouveau bathhouse. The Gellért Thermal Bath is a must-visit attraction in Budapest and is located on the Buda side of the city, close to the Liberty Bridge. This thermal bath has a rich history and features a unique mix of Turkish and Art Nouveau architecture. It's one of the largest thermal baths in Budapest and offers a range of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms.
If baths aren’t your thing, be sure to explore the surrounding landscape of the Gellérthegy Jubileumi park. Take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails that wind through the park, which offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city while providing breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest. The Gellérthegy Jubileumi park is also home to the famous Citadella, a fortress that dates back to the 19th century and offers even more spectacular views of the city. Climb to the top and witness the stunning vistas of Budapest's iconic landmarks, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Chain Bridge.
Now make your way to Buda Castle and Matthias Church, two of Budapest's most iconic landmarks. Buda Castle is a stunning palace complex that dates back to the 14th century and has been the residence of Hungarian kings and queens for centuries. It's located on Castle Hill, which offers stunning views of the Danube River and the Pest side of the city. Matthias Church is located nearby and is one of the most beautiful churches in Budapest, with a stunning Gothic architecture and intricate tile work. It's also known as the Church of Our Lady and has been the site of many royal coronations and weddings throughout history.
If you're a wine lover, stop by Faust Wine Cellar for a tasting before dinner at Halászbástya Étterem, a romantic restaurant with stunning views of the city. Faust Wine Cellar is located in the heart of the Castle District and is one of the best places to taste Hungarian wines. They offer a wide selection of wines from different regions of Hungary and the staff is extremely knowledgeable. Halászbástya Étterem is located nearby and is a great place to enjoy a romantic dinner with a view. It's a fish restaurant with a beautiful terrace overlooking the Danube River and the Parliament Building.
Back in Pest, indulge in some evening drinks at Szimpla Kert. A famous ruin bar located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, Szimpla Kert is a great place to experience the unique nightlife scene of Budapest and to try some Hungarian craft beers or cocktails. The bar is located in a rundown building that has been repurposed to create an eclectic and artistic space with multiple levels, bars, and outdoor seating areas.
Budapest is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers a range of experiences for travelers. From its stunning architecture and world-renowned thermal baths to its thriving food and wine scene, Budapest has something for everyone. By following this itinerary, you'll be able to explore the best of Budapest's sights, sounds, and tastes... enjoy!
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