Start your day being pampered with Budapest's famous Thermal Spa in Széchenyi Baths. Enjoy swimming, soaking and relaxing in the thermal waters. After your spa treatment, have lunch at the spa's restaurant. In the afternoon, indulge in the glamor of the New York Cafe, one of the most elegant cafes in Europe. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of cake while sinking into soft cushions. A perfect spot for taking beautiful photos.
Take a boat tour down the Danube River and marvel at Budapest's stunning architecture, bridges and monuments. The tour offers audio guides in different languages and provides drinks and snacks on board. In the afternoon, head up to the Fisherman’s Bastion, a fairytale-like terrace overlooking the Danube. Walk around the pretty turrets and gaze at the breathtaking views of the city. This is a great spot for a sunset drink or for taking Instagram-worthy photos.
Start your day walking across Budapest's most iconic landmark, the Chain Bridge. It is a great way to see the Buda and Pest sides of the city. On the Pest side, visit the Central Market Hall, Budapest's largest indoor market, to taste Hungarian specialties such as langos, goulash soup and chimney cake. This is a perfect place to buy souvenirs too. Afternoon to night, explore Ruin Bars, Budapest's unique nightlife experience. Szimpla is the most well-known one and frequented by tourists. This is the perfect place to have a drink, listen to music, and soak in Budapest's bohemian vibes.
If you have more time, explore Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament Building, or National Museum. If you have less time, prioritize Thermal Spa, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Chain Bridge. Bear in mind that the bath and boat tour get crowded, so book ahead of time. Moreover, Budapest’s nightlife starts late, so take a powernap before heading out to the bars. Lastly, public transport in Budapest is cheap and efficient, take advantage of it to save time and money.