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Arrival and First Impressions

When you arrive in Budapest, you’ll feel excited right away! The airport is easy to navigate, and you can catch a bus or taxi to take you into the city quickly. Budapest has lots of great places to stay, whether you want a fancy hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or an apartment in the heart of the action. Find your perfect stay at Vrbo.com

On your first evening, take a relaxing walk along the Danube River. The city’s lights reflect beautifully on the water, especially around the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant where you can try delicious Hungarian dishes like goulash or chimney cake.

Buda Side: History and Hills

Start your first full day on the Buda side of Budapest, which is known for its hills and history. Visit Buda Castle, where kings once lived, and check out the Hungarian National Gallery and History Museum to learn about the city’s past.

Take a stroll through the Castle District, with its charming streets and colorful buildings. Stop by Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion for amazing views of the city. If you’re up for it, hike up Gellért Hill to the Citadella for a fantastic sunset view.

Pest Side: Culture and Modern Life

On day two, explore Pest, the livelier side of the city. Begin at Heroes’ Square, a big plaza honoring Hungary’s most important figures. Then, head to City Park for some peaceful walking and a look at the fairytale-like Vajdahunyad Castle.

Walk down Andrássy Avenue, a fancy street filled with grand buildings, and visit St. Stephen’s Basilica. Stop for coffee and cake at the New York Café, one of the most beautiful cafés in the world. At night, check out a ruin bar like Szimpla Kert. These bars are in old buildings and are super fun and unique!

Thermal Baths and Tasty Treats

Day three is for relaxing! Visit the Széchenyi or Gellért Baths, where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich water. These baths are beautiful and feel amazing after days of walking.

In the afternoon, visit the Central Market Hall. Try foods like lángos, a fried dough snack, and chimney cakes, a sweet pastry. You can also shop for paprika and other cool souvenirs. End the day with a dinner cruise on the Danube, where you can see the city’s lights while enjoying a tasty meal.

Jewish Quarter and Meaningful Moments

The Jewish Quarter is full of history and life. Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue, the biggest in Europe, and learn about the past at the Holocaust Memorial. The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a moving memorial to those lost during World War II.

After learning about the area’s history, explore its cool cafés, street art, and unique shops. The Jewish Quarter is a mix of old and new, and it’s one of the most interesting parts of Budapest.

Day Trips to Nearby Towns

For day five, take a trip outside the city. Visit Szentendre, a colorful town with lots of art and fun shops. You could also see Gödöllő Palace, where a famous queen once lived. Another option is Visegrád, with its old castle and amazing views of the Danube River.

After your day trip, return to Budapest for a relaxing evening.

Exploring Hidden Gems

On your last day, check out some of Budapest’s less crowded spots. Walk through Kerepesi Cemetery, a peaceful place with beautiful statues. Explore the city’s underground caves, or visit Óbuda, a quiet neighborhood with lots of charm.

As you pack your bags, think about all the great memories you’ve made. Budapest is a city full of surprises, and it will leave you wanting to come back again someday.