How to Spend Two Days in Budapest?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to explore the culture, food, and history of a Central European city. With only two days in Budapest, you will be pressed for time to experience all that this amazing city has to offer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of it! Here are some ideas for how to make the most of your two days in Budapest so that you can get a fuller, more memorable experience.

Day 1

Experience the Magnificent Architecture

Start off your time in Budapest with a tour around some of its most magnificent buildings. Located in the middle of Buda and Pest, Budapest Castle is the symbol of the city and one of the most photogenic locations. Other impressive sites include the Fisherman’s Bastion and St Stephen’s Basilica with its grand golden dome. For a more unique experience, head to Hungary’s largest synagogue, the Great Synagogue of Budapest, or visit the Buda Labyrinth, an underground mazelike network of tunnels and passageways located beneath the castle hill.

Grab Some Lunch

Once you’ve seen your fill of the various historical sites, it’s time for some food. Budapest offers a huge diversity of cuisine, from typical Hungarian to Italian and anything in between. For lunch, stop in for a bowl of goulash at one of the local restaurants, or you can even take a cooking class to learn how to make some of the local specialties. Don’t forget to grab a pastry from one of the shops around the city center before you leave.

Enjoy an Evening Cruise

Once the sun goes down and the city lights up, there’s no better way to end your day than by taking a night cruise along the Danube River. During the cruise, you’ll get to see some of Budapest’s most iconic sights, such as Parliament and Liberty Bridge, as well as stunning views of both Buda and Pest.

Day 2

Climb Gellért Hill

In the morning, take a stroll up to the top of Gellért Hill for some breathtaking views of the city. Along the way, you can take in sights like Citadella and Statue Park before reaching the hill’s peak. Once there, you can stop at the Citadel for one last panoramic view before heading on your way.

Explore City Parks

In the afternoon, take some time to relax and explore one of Budapest’s many green spaces—perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle for a little while. Visit Heroes’ Square for its beautiful architecture and sculptures of Hungary’s seven iconic Magyar chieftains or take a calming walk around City Park. Whatever you do don’t forget to visit Vajdahunyad Castle—an exquisite building with original detailings still intact.

Experience Budapest Nightlife

For the evening, try some of the many bars and clubs around Budapest—from elitist rooftop lounges to humble ruin pubs. If you want something a bit different, try one of Budapest’s thermal spas (like Gellért Baths) for a relaxing end to your two days in Budapest.

Making the Most of Your Two Days in Budapest
These are just some ideas for how you can make the most of your time in Budapest if you’re only there for two days; however, given its richness, there really is no limit on what Budapest has to offer. Whether you’re visiting to explore its history and culture or to party it up at its buzzing nightlife hotspots, there’s something here for everyone. So get ready to soak it all in and start planning your two days in Budapest!
For more information on how to spend two days in Budapest check out Visit Budapest’s guide on Two Days in Budapest.

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering Budapest

As you explore the beautiful city of Budapest, you will discover hidden gems that you didn’t even know existed. Here are my recommendations for an unforgettable two-day trip to the city.

Local Attractions: Discovering the Hidden Gems

While Fisherman’s Bastion and the Hungarian Parliament are incredible tourist attractions, there is much more to discover in Budapest. Take a stroll through the charming alleys of the Jewish Quarter, where you will find an abundance of quirky bars and street food. One of the must-sees there is the famous Szimpla Kert ruin bar, which features a labyrinth of eclectic rooms and vintage décor that promises a unique experience.

Another hidden gem is the stunning rooftop garden of the St. Stephen’s Basilica, giving you a fantastic view of the city’s architecture and the stunning river Danube. And lastly, explore Buda Castle’s secret wine cellars while sipping on some of Hungary’s best wines.

Dining Spots: Indulge in Budapest’s Local Cuisine

Hungarian cuisine offers a delicious blend of flavors, incorporating meat, vegetables, and spices. Spread over various districts and alleyways, Budapest is home to hundreds of fantastic restaurants offering an array of options at a great value. You can’t leave Budapest without trying some of the world-famous goulash soup and stuffed cabbage rolls, which are both as delicious as they are hearty. I recommend trying these dishes at local joints like Cat Cafe or Frici Papa Kifőzdéje. In addition, sample fresh Hungarian pastries at Ruszwurm Confectionery, which has been around since 1827, and serves some of the finest strudels and cakes around.

Local Culture: Immerse Yourself in Hungary’s Heritage

No trip to Budapest is complete without understanding its rich cultural history, ranging from its impressive architecture to its inspiring live music scene. Take a stroll through Liberty Square and the surrounding areas to admire the city’s neoclassical buildings, which are widely regarded as some of the most beautiful in the world. In addition, during the summer, visitors can attend various festivals, including Budapest Beer Week or Budapest Dance Festival, to experience Hungarian culture at its finest.

Local History: Fascinating Stories of Budapest’s Past

Budapest’s history spans back over a millennium, and exploring it will give you much more than just a historical perspective on the city. Visitors can embark on a walking tour, where they will learn fascinating stories such as the one behind the Shoes on the Danube, which commemorates the tragic fate of thousands of Jews shot into the river during World War II. Additionally, take a journey inside the House of Terror, which vividly tells the story of the Hungarian Secret Police and their brutal tactics used during the post-WWII Soviet era.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Explore Budapest’s Quirky Side

Budapest is full of surprises, and there are many unique things to do that are off the beaten path. Test your escape skills and make your way through the hidden rooms of Escapeway or enjoy a swim in one of the city’s natural hot springs. Take a tour of the abandoned Kelenföld Power Station, which is an example of modern industrial architecture or visit the Durer Kert bar for live music and good company.

With these recommendations, you’ll fall in love with Budapest, and your next trip to the city will always offer something new and exciting.