Budapest Hungary 6 Day Itinerary

Budapest: A 6-Day Itinerary

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Maverick City Lodge (stylish hostel with private rooms), Wombats City Hostel Budapest
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Parlament, Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection
  • Luxury: Four Seasons Gresham Palace Budapest, Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest

Transportation:

  • Public Transport: Budapest has an excellent public transport system including buses, trams, trolleybuses and a metro. Purchase a travel card for unlimited rides during your stay.
  • Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other in the city centre.
  • Taxis: Easily available but more expensive than public transport.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
  • Language: Hungarian, English widely spoken in tourist areas
  • Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants.

Day 1: Arrival & Buda Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). Take the 100E bus to the city centre.
  • Afternoon: Check into your accommodation. Explore Buda Castle Hill, visit Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion for panoramic views. Enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner at Halászbástya Restaurant.

Day 2: Pest Delights & Thermal Baths

  • Morning: Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building (book tickets in advance). Stroll along Andrássy Avenue, stopping by Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica.
  • Afternoon: Relax and rejuvenate at one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths like Széchenyi or Gellért. Have dinner at Frici Papa, known for its delicious goulash.

Day 3: Art & Jewish Heritage

  • Morning: Explore the Hungarian National Museum or the Museum of Fine Arts.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue, Europe’s largest synagogue. Take a guided tour to learn about Budapest’s Jewish history. Enjoy dinner at Mazel Tov, a hip restaurant serving modern Israeli cuisine.

Day 4: Danube River Cruise & Ruin Bars

  • Morning: Take a scenic Danube river cruise. Admire the Parliament Building, Buda Castle and Margaret Island from the water.
  • Evening: Explore Budapest’s unique ruin bars like Szimpla Kert or Instant. Enjoy craft beers and live music in these eclectic venues. Have dinner at a nearby traditional Hungarian restaurant.

Day 5: Day Trip to Szentendre

  • Take a short train ride to Szentendre, a charming town known for its art galleries, cobblestone streets and riverside cafes.
  • Visit the Marzipan Museum or explore the colourful houses in the Old Town. Enjoy lunch at Kisvendéglo, a traditional Hungarian restaurant with outdoor seating.

Day 6: Departure & Last Minute Shopping

  • Morning: Explore the Great Market Hall for souvenirs, spices and local produce.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD).

Tips:

  • Purchase the Budapest Card for discounts on attractions and public transport.
  • Learn a few basic Hungarian phrases.
  • Try traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash, chicken paprikash and chimney cake.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.