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3 Days in Budapest: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit
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Best Things to Do with 3 Days in Budapest
Itinerary in Budapest: day 1
Ride the Buda Castle Funicular
Your 3 days in Budapest itinerary kicks off on the Buda side of the city. Start your experience by having a look around. You can explore on your own or join a walking tour to get some additional insight into the area. After spending some time exploring, we recommend making your way to the Buda Castle Funicular. To get there, go to Clark Ádám tér. It is next to the tunnel off of the Chain Bridge. This historic mode of transport to the castle has been in operation since 1870. From the station, you will reach the castle in about 2 minutes. Along the way, take in the views of the Danube River and the Chain Bridge.
Buda Castle
Built between 1749 and 1769, Buda Castle is a must-visit location for any first-time visitor to Budapest. The Baroque-style palace is one of the most popular attractions with history lovers since the UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Budapest History Museum, the National Széchényi Library and the Hungarian National Gallery. It is famed for its magnificent buildings, stunning sculptures and historic furnishings. Within the castle's heart, you will also encounter the breathtaking Matthias Fountain. It is often compared to the Trevi Fountain of Rome. From its hilltop location, the structure dominates the surrounding area. Be sure to enjoy the views before you head back down.
Itinerary in Budapest: day 2
The Central Market Hall
The 2nd leg of your 3 days in Budapest itinerary takes you to the Pest side of the city and the iconic Central Market Hall. On its ground floor, you will find an array of groceries on offer. This is the perfect spot to visit to pick up some authentic Hungarian paprika to bring home with you. The market's second level features a range of souvenir vendors and stalls selling prepared foods. During your visit, sample some of the fried bread called langos. It is traditionally served with sour cream and cheese. To get to this wonderful location, head to F?vam Tér 9 near the Liberty Bridge.
St Stephen’s Basilica
St Stephen's Basilica is the largest church in Hungary and another must-visit point of interest for your 3 days in Budapest itinerary. Both inside and out, this structure is sure to wow you with its ornate architecture, marble construction and gorgeous artwork. It is home to the mummified hand of St Stephen, and there are several interior chapels that you can check out. If you visit on Monday, you have the chance to experience the weekly organ concert. The basilica is located next to the Hungarian Parliament and reaches a height of 96 metres. Opening hours for visitors run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
Itinerary in Budapest: day 3
The Hungarian Parliament
Day 3 of your Budapest itinerary starts off at the city's most iconic structure. The Hungarian Parliament Building has been a UNESCO World Heritage site (along with the Banks of the Danube) since 1986, and the wing in line with the Danube is 268 metres long. It has a height of 96 metres. This makes it the world's 3rd-largest parliament building. This fabulous architectural masterpiece is considered to be one of the best examples of the Renaissance Revival and Gothic Revival styles of architecture. Guided tours are available and take around 45 minutes. You can choose a tour with an audioguide, or you can select the option with a professional guide.
Explore Budapest's nightlife
Wrap up your 3 days in Budapest itinerary with an unforgettable evening spent exploring the city's top nightlife hotspots. Check out Király Street and the VI. District if you want to party the night away. You will find an array of pubs, bars, nightclubs and unique cafés. After exploring this area, continue your night out by heading to other popular neighbourhoods like Akácfa Street, Kazinczy Street and Wesselényi Street. Some recommended locations include Cooltour Bar 4, the Rumpus Tiki Bar, High Five Budapest, Wattson Bar, HOPAHOLIC Craft Beer Bar & Food Budapest and the Instant-Fogas Complex.
Places to visit around Budapest
Vác
Located outside of Budapest, you will find the beautiful town of Vác. It is a highly recommended spot for a day trip away from the main part of the city during your 3 days in Hungary. You can get there by taking the train from Nyugati Station. It leaves twice per hour. The journey takes just over 40 minutes. Once you arrive, it only takes 10 minutes to walk to the city centre, where you will find iconic points of interest like the White Church and Monastery, the Wine Museum, the Town Hall, the Diocesan Library and the Tragor Ignac Museum.
Visegrád
Another must-visit day place is the small town of Visegrád. It is located to the north of the city and sits on the right bank of the Danube River. To get there, take the train, which will drop you off on the opposite side of the river. From there, you take the ferry. This journey only takes about an hour. Inside Visegrád, you will find the ruins of Pone Navata and the remains of the Summer Palace of King Matthias Corvinus, which date to the early Renaissance period.
Where to stay in Budapest
1. Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest 5*
The Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest 5* is home to 110 luxurious rooms that have been designed to ensure a comfortable stay during your 3 days in Budapest itinerary. Its location is ideally suited for a city break spent exploring the area.
Notable features of this fabulous property include the Étoile Champagne Bar and the Zafír Spa. You will enjoy additional facilities like a fitness centre, a 24-hour reception desk, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a concierge service. In-room facilities, such as a hairdryer, a coffee machine, a safe and a television, await your arrival.
What we like: We love this accommodation's 5-star level of service, its outstanding location in the heart of Budapest and its fantastic dining and spa facilities.
2. Hard Rock Hotel Budapest 5*
In an idyllic location on Nagymezo Street, the Hard Rock Hotel Budapest 5* features 136 well-appointed rooms situated in the heart of the city's equivalent to New York's Broadway district. The rock and roll theme adds to the fun and vibrant atmosphere of this property, which features stylish interiors and proximity to top theatres and restaurants.
On-site hotel amenities include a fitness centre, 2 restaurant/bar facilities, Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception desk, luggage storage, air conditioning and multilingual staff. You will also enjoy in-room features like a mini-fridge, a coffee machine and a courtesy tray of tea/coffee.
What we like: We love the rock theme of this fantastic hotel and its excellent location in the heart of one of the city's most vibrant districts.
3. BO33 Hotel Family & Suites 4*
Enjoy 3 days in Budapest spent exploring the city's vibrant culture and storied history when you stay at the BO33 Hotel Family & Suites 4*. Your booking includes breakfast each morning to help you get your day started.
Hotel facilities include bike rental, a fitness centre, a sauna, a lobby snack bar, a breakfast restaurant, a 24-hour reception desk, Wi-Fi, a luggage storage service, a laundry service and indoor parking. You will rest comfortably in a room equipped with features such as air conditioning, a safe, a terrace/balcony, a mini-fridge, a coffee machine and a hairdryer.
What we like: We love this property's luxurious rooftop spa and the stunning views it offers across the city.
4. Hotel Rum Budapest
There are 40 fantastic rooms to choose from at Hotel Rum Budapest. It is another great choice for your 3-day city break and enjoys a location in the city centre. Popular points of interest, such as the Gellért Baths and the Great Market Hall, are only a 10-minute walk from the property.
Enjoy on-site facilities like a 24-hour reception desk, air conditioning, a concierge service, press/magazines, a lift and Wi-Fi during your stay at Hotel Rum Budapest. The property is also home to the Solid Rooftop Wine Bar & Restaurant and Salt Restaurant. You will have in-room features that include a mini-fridge, a kettle, a safe and a hairdryer.
What we like: We love the spacious, elegantly-appointed rooms featured at this luxury accommodation and its proximity to many of the city's top cultural landmarks.
5. Mamaison Hotel Andrassy Budapest 4*
At the Mamaison Hotel Andrassy Budapest 4*, you will find 61 fabulous rooms and 7 luxurious suites. It is another top choice for your 3 days in Budapest booked on Voyage Privé. The property is located just a short walk from top attractions like Heroes' Square and the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
The hotel's facilities include a laundry service, multilingual staff, press/magazines, air conditioning, a 24-hour reception desk, Wi-Fi and the La Perle Noire Restaurant & Lounge. In your room, you will find amenities like a mini-fridge, a terrace or balcony and a safe.
What we like: The list of things we love about this fabulous Budapest accommodation includes its excellent location, its outstanding facilities and breakfast each morning to start your day.
Practical tips for visiting Budapest
We have a few tips for your 3-day getaway to Budapest. This includes picking up a few words and phrases in Hungarian before you leave. You should ensure you pack a high-quality, comfortable pair of walking shoes and clothes for a variety of weather conditions. Keep in mind the fact that it rains often in this part of Europe. Given this fact, an umbrella is another recommended item for your suitcase. The local currency is the Hungarian forint. If you plan to bring along any electronic devices or appliances that require a UK outlet, you will need a travel plug adapter. Another tip is to book tickets for the museums you wish to visit in advance whenever possible. When you go out to explore the local area, consult travel guidebooks and the front desk at your hotel to find out where the locals go. This will give you the chance to have a more authentic experience during your Hungarian holiday spent in the capital of Budapest.
When to visit Budapest
Anytime from May to June and September to early October is what most travellers consider to be the ideal window for 3 days in Budapest. During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller.
How to get to Budapest
There are direct flights from travel hubs across the United Kingdom to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. You can expect an average in-air time of around 2 hours and 40 minutes for direct flights. Upon arrival, you will find it easy to get around the city during your 3-day itinerary. The area is quite walkable, and there are public transport options that include subway and tram lines. There are also bus routes and taxi services operating across the region. You can hire a car for an added level of convenience. This is a great option if you plan to embark on any day trips outside of Budapest.
What to eat in Budapest
Hungary is famed for its unique and mouth-watering cuisine, and Budapest is the perfect place to try some of the most iconic local dishes. We have several recommendations for you to consider. They include the previously mentioned langos flatbread. The city also offers amazing foods like kürt?skalács or chimney cake. This is a sweet treat that is made from strips of sugary dough that are then wrapped around a cone-shaped skewer, brushed with butter and grilled over charcoal. They are dusted with toppings, such as ground walnuts or cinnamon, before serving. You should also sample some authentic gulyás (goulash) during your stay. This is the national dish of Hungary. The iconic stew is made with ingredients that include beef, tomatoes, pepper and onions. The star of the dish is the paprika. Another mouth-watering local speciality to try is the töltött káposzta or stuffed cabbage.