Hungary 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Wonders of Hungary

This itinerary assumes you’ll be flying into Budapest.

Day 1: Arrive in Budapest & Buda Castle Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). Take the 100E airport bus to reach the city center and your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Settle into your hotel/apartment and explore Buda Castle. Visit the:
    • Matthias Church: A stunning Gothic church with intricate stained glass and a colorful tiled roof.
    • Fisherman’s Bastion: Enjoy panoramic views of Budapest from this fairytale-like bastion.
    • Buda Castle History Museum: Learn about the history of Buda Castle and the city itself.
  • Evening:

Dinner in Buda:

  • Things to know: Explore the cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, and enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine at one of the many restaurants within the castle district.

Day 2: Danube River Charm & History

  • Morning: Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, a breathtaking neo-Gothic masterpiece.
  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely cruise on the Danube River to see the city from a new perspective and enjoy its iconic bridges.
  • Evening: Stroll along the Danube Promenade for stunning views of the Danube River and the city lights reflecting off its waters.

Day 3: Ruin Bars & Thermal Baths

  • Explore Budapest’s unique “ruin bars” in the Jewish Quarter, like Szimpla Kert or Instant (remember to check their opening hours as they vary).
  • Relax and rejuvenate at one of the famous thermal baths in Budapest.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious Hungarian meal at a “ruin pub” – experience the vibrant nightlife while savoring traditional dishes.

Day 4: The Jewish Quarter & Hungarian Folklore

  • Visit the Szimpla Kert, the most well-known ruin bar in Budapest, and enjoy its eclectic atmosphere.

  • Experience a cultural performance. The Hungarian State Opera House offers world-class opera, ballet, and classical music concerts.

  • Things to know:

    • You can buy tickets for the “Opera Nights” program (discounted) which offers standing room only tickets for popular performances.
    • Consider visiting a ruin pub in the evening, as they are known for their unique atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.

Dinner & Activities: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Budapest’s famous “ruin pubs” and experience the city’s rich history of music, dance and folk traditions.

Day 5: History & Architecture in Budapest

  • Explore the Buda Castle District: Visit the Matthias Church, the Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Hungarian National Museum (for a deeper dive into history).

  • Take a guided tour of the city to learn about its past as a Roman settlement and the legacy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

  • Enjoy a traditional meal with live music in a charming restaurant.

  • Things to know:

    • Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
    • Look for historical buildings and landmarks: Budapest is full of them!

Day 6: Exploring the Danube Bend & Relaxing with Wine

  • Take a day trip to the Danube Bend: This picturesque region of the Danube River offers stunning views and charming towns.

  • Enjoy a boat trip on the Danube River, exploring the beautiful Danube Bend region.

  • Visit a local winery and sample Hungary’s famous wines.

  • Enjoy the scenery: Drive through the scenic countryside along the Danube River.

  • Dinner: Visit a traditional “csárda” (Hungarian inn) for hearty goulash or other local delicacies.

Day 7: Departure & Last Bites of Budapest

  • Morning: Enjoy one last delicious Hungarian breakfast and explore the Great Market Hall, a beautiful market building with local produce, souvenirs, and delicious food stalls.

  • Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the Hungarian thermal baths in the afternoon (there are many to choose from!), then grab a final bite at a local eatery.

  • Things to know:

    • Transportation: You can easily get to the Danube Bend by taking a scenic train ride, bus, or even a boat trip.

Things to see and do in Budapest:

  • Stroll along the Danube Promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the city’s landmarks, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Chain Bridge.
  • Visit the Buda Castle: Explore the historical significance of the castle district and enjoy the panoramic views from the Fisherman’s Bastion.

Things to know about Budapest:

  • Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF) as its currency.
  • Ensure you have a valid passport for travel.

Pro-tip: Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available in many cafes and public spaces in Budapest.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Transportation: Purchase a Budapest Card for free public transportation and access to museums, discounts and more.
  • Budgeting: Consider your budget when deciding on accommodation (hostel vs. hotel) and factor in costs for meals, attractions and activities.
  • Food & Drink: Enjoy the local cuisine! Try traditional Hungarian dishes, but be sure to **check for “látógató” (tourist) menus as these are often more expensive.

This is just a sample itinerary. You can customize it based on your interests and travel style.

Things to Consider:

  • Transportation: Budapest has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro.
  • Accommodation:
    • Book in advance, especially during peak season (May-September).
  • Budget: Prices for attractions, meals, and activities can vary depending on the time of year and popularity.

Enjoy your trip!