3 Days in Budapest Things to Do Where to Stay and Must Sees

Travel Tips in Budapest Hungary

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a beautiful city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. To make the most of your trip to Budapest, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

Public Transportation: Budapest has an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, and metro lines. Purchase a Budapest Card for unlimited travel on public transport and discounts on attractions.
Currency: The official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). While many places do accept Euros, it is best to use local currency for transactions to avoid any confusion.
Language: Hungarian is the official language in Budapest, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. It is always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Hungarian to make interactions smoother.
Food and Drink: Hungarian cuisine is a must-try, with dishes like goulash, lángos, and chimney cake being popular choices. Be sure to also sample the local wines and pálinka (fruit brandy).
Safety: Budapest is generally a safe city, but it is always wise to be cautious of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Things to Do in Budapest / Top 20 Sites and Monuments to Visit in Budapest:

Buda Castle: Explore the historic castle complex with panoramic views of the city. Visit the Royal Palace, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church. Pricing varies for individual attractions within the castle complex. You can reach Buda Castle by walking from the Chain Bridge or taking the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular.
(Link: https://budacastle.com/)
Chain Bridge: Walk or drive across this iconic suspension bridge that spans the Danube River, connecting Buda and Pest. Enjoy stunning views of the river and the city skyline. The Chain Bridge is free to access and can be reached on foot or by public transportation.
(Link: https://visitbudapest.travel/budapest-attractions/chain-bridge/)
Parliament Building: Marvel at the Gothic Revival architecture of the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of Budapest’s most famous landmarks. Guided tours are available for a fee, and tickets can be purchased online or on-site. The Parliament Building is located on the Pest side of the Danube River.
(Link: https://www.parliament.hu)
Heroes’ Square: A large square with statues of Hungarian historical figures and the Millennium Monument. A great spot for photos and people-watching. (Link: budapest.org)
Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Relax in one of the largest thermal bath complexes in Europe, with indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and spa treatments. (Link: szechenyibath.hu)
St. Stephen’s Basilica: A stunning neoclassical church dedicated to Hungary’s first king. Climb to the dome for panoramic views of the city. (Link: bazilika.biz)
Great Market Hall: Explore this bustling market hall to sample local produce, street food, and artisanal goods. A great place to shop for souvenirs. (Link: nagycsarnok.hu)
Dohány Street Synagogue: The largest synagogue in Europe and a significant site for Jewish culture and history. Visit the Jewish Museum and Holocaust Memorial. (Link: jewish.hu)
Danube Promenade: Stroll along the banks of the Danube River for picturesque views of the city, including the Parliament Building and Chain Bridge. (Link: visitbudapest.travel)
Gellért Hill: Hike or take the funicular to the top of Gellért Hill for panoramic views of Budapest. Visit the Citadel and the Liberty Statue. (Link: budapestinfo.hu)
Vajdahunyad Castle: A fairytale-like castle in City Park showcasing a mix of architectural styles with exhibitions, a chapel, and a boating lake. (Link: budapestbylocals.com)
Hungarian State Opera House: A grandiose opera house known for its exquisite architecture and world-class performances. Take a tour or attend a show. (Link: opera.hu)
Margaret Island: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with lush gardens, recreational facilities, and thermal baths. Perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. (Link: margaretisland.com)
House of Terror: A museum dedicated to the victims of fascist and communist regimes in Hungary. Learn about the dark history of the 20th century. (Link: terrorhaza.hu)
Matthias Church: A stunning church in the heart of Buda Castle with colorful tiled roof and intricate Gothic architecture. Don’t miss the interior frescoes. (Link: matyas-templom.hu)
Shoes on the Danube Bank: A poignant memorial to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Pay tribute to the lives lost with a visit to this moving installation. (Link: danubeblond.com)
Hungarian National Museum: Discover the history and culture of Hungary through a vast collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and artwork. (Link: magyarnemzetimuzeum.hu)
Rudas Baths: Experience traditional Turkish baths in a historic setting with thermal pools, saunas, and steam rooms. Relax and rejuvenate like a local. (Link: rudashfurdo.hu)
Matthias Fountain: Admire this beautiful neo-Baroque fountain located in the heart of Buda Castle plains, featuring a statue of King Matthias, surrounded by allegorical figures. A great spot for a photo op. (Link: budapest.org)
Vörösmarty Square: A bustling square in the city center lined with cafes, shops, and street performers. Enjoy a cup of coffee and people-watch. (Link: vorosmartyter.hu)

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Day by Day Budapest Visit / Itinerary for 3 Days in Budapest

Day 1:

Morning: Visit Buda Castle and explore the Royal Palace, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church.
Afternoon: Walk across the Chain Bridge to Pest and visit the Parliament Building and Heroes’ Square.
Evening: Relax at a thermal bath, such as Széchenyi or Rudas Baths, to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Day 2:

Morning: Explore St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Great Market Hall for some local shopping and dining.
Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Danube Promenade and visit the Dohány Street Synagogue and Jewish Quarter.
Evening: Enjoy a classical music concert at the Hungarian State Opera House or a leisurely dinner cruise on the Danube River.

Day 3:

Morning: Climb Gellért Hill for panoramic views of the city and visit the Citadel and Liberty Statue.
Afternoon: Discover Vajdahunyad Castle in City Park and wander around Margaret Island for some relaxation.
Evening: Visit the House of Terror museum to learn about Hungary’s tumultuous history and end the day with a visit to Matthias Church and the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial.

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Top Rated Hotels in Budapest / Where to Stay in Budapest

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Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.

We hope this travel guide recommendations for booking your accommodation in Budapest will be of help, enjoy your travels in the capital of Hungary!

For more about Hungary and Budapest, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.

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