Start your Budapest tour by visiting the historic Castle District, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some of the must-visit sights in the area include the immense Royal Palace, the 700-year-old Matthias Church, and the Fisherman's Bastion lookout. Take in the stunning panoramic views of the Danube River and the city from the Fisherman's Bastion.
Explore the stunning Art Nouveau architecture found throughout Budapest. Some of the top buildings to see include the Hungarian State Opera House and the Gresham Palace. Take a leisurely walk along the tree-lined Andrássy Avenue, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the House of Terror Museum to learn about the city's past under communist rule.
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, so take a day to relax and unwind in one of the many spas around the city. Some of the top choices include Gellért Baths, Széchenyi Baths, and Rudas Baths. Soak in the hot, mineral-rich waters and enjoy a massage or other spa treatments.
The Central Market Hall is the perfect place to start the day, and here you can find a wide selection of traditional Hungarian foods, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Then, head over to the Jewish Quarter to explore the area's rich history and vibrant nightlife. Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe, and the Raoul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park.
Getting around Budapest is easy thanks to its excellent public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, and metro lines. A single ticket costs £1.20, and a 24-hour travel card costs £5.50. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also widely available, but can be more expensive.
If you have more time, consider taking a river cruise along the Danube to see the city from a different perspective. The Margaret Island is also a great place to escape the bustle of the city and enjoy some nature. For a shorter trip, you can also combine certain activities to make the most of your time. If you have less time, consider skipping some of the sights or shorten your visits to the thermal baths.
Budapest is served by Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), which is located about 16 miles southeast of the city center. The airport is well-connected to the city via public transportation, including bus and metro lines. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also widely available from the airport.