Start your day by exploring the historic Castle District of Budapest. Most buildings date back to the 14th-15th century and are steeped in history. Visit the famous Buda Castle, which houses two museums, the Hungarian National Gallery, and the Budapest History Museum. Take a stroll down the scenic Fisherman's Bastion, which offers panoramic views of the city, and visit the stunning Matthias Church, a historic Roman Catholic Church.
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and Széchenyi is the most popular one. The water in the 18 pools ranges from 68 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and has healing properties. Besides soaking in the geothermal water, you can try the saunas or steam rooms. In summer, there's an outdoor pool and a poolside bar. There's no need to bring towels or swimsuits as they are available for rent on site.
Budapest is a known party city, making it a go-to for bar crawls. The city is famous for \ruin bars," which are built inside abandoned buildings and are incredibly unique. Many have quirky decorations and funky designs, making them popular among tourists and locals. Some famous ruin bars worth visiting include Instant, Szimpla Kert, and Fogas Ház, to name a few.
The Great Market Hall is Budapest's largest indoor market and offers a variety of products, from fresh produce to crafts and souvenirs. Here, you can try locally-made Hungarian dishes, including lángos (deep-fried dough) and goulash (traditional Hungarian soup). Prices here are reasonable, and bargaining is welcome.
If you have more time, consider visiting St. Stephen's Basilica, the House of Terror Museum, or taking a Danube River Cruise. If you have less time, prioritize the Castle District and Széchenyi Thermal Baths, as these are unique Budapest experiences. Additionally, beware of scammers in touristy areas and always use public transportation instead of taxis to save money.