Start your Budapest cultural immersion at Heroes' Square, a landmark of Hungarian history. See the statue complex dedicated to the country's greatest leaders and the Museum of Fine Arts, housing a vast collection of international art. From there, take a scenic walk through City Park to Vajdahunyad Castle, a stunning example of Hungarian architecture and a beloved photo spot amongst visitors. After lunch at a traditional Hungarian restaurant nearby, head to Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the Royal Palace, beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Danube River.
Start your second day with a visit to the Hungarian Parliament Building, an iconic landmark on the banks of the Danube. Take a guided tour of its fascinating history and see the Hungarian Crown Jewels, housed in the central domed hall. From there, take a leisurely stroll to the vibrant Jewish Quarter, home to the largest synagogue in Europe and several museums dedicated to Jewish culture and history. After lunch at a local Kosher restaurant, spend the afternoon exploring the area's unique street art, trendy cafes and independent boutiques.
If you have more time, consider taking a river cruise on the Danube or exploring the famous Budapest ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter. For a shorter trip, skip Vajdahunyad Castle and allocate more time to Buda Castle or the Jewish Quarter. If you're interested in art, visit the Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art or the Hungarian National Gallery instead of the Museum of Fine Arts.