Begin your Budapest adventure by visiting the Castle District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several family-friendly attractions. Start at the stunning Buda Castle, known for its grand architecture and impressive history. Next, take a stroll on the Chain Bridge, one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks. Finally, don't miss out on the Fisherman's Bastion, which offers panoramic views of the city and is perfect for stunning photos.
For day two, venture out to Margaret Island, a peaceful park in the middle of the Danube River, perfect for enjoying the day with family. Explore the beautiful parks and gardens, play a game of mini golf, or rent bicycles to take in the sites at your own pace. After lunch, head to Heroes' Square, one of the grandest public squares in Europe, located in the emblematic Pest side of the city.
Spend day three exploring Budapest's famous thermal bath scene. First, visit Szechenyi Thermal Bath, known for its medicinal properties and opulent architecture. After indulging in the waters, continue the day at the Central Market Hall, a beautiful and historic marketplace. End the day at Margaret Island Musical Fountain, a truly magical display of water lights and music.
When traveling around Budapest with your family, consider purchasing the Budapest Card for discounted travel costs and free entry to many city attractions. Public transportation is affordable and extensive, with many options for buses, trams, and metro lines. Taxi services and ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Bolt are also available. The costs for public transit and taxis range from $1-$3 per ride, with most city attractions within reach of a short ride.
If you have extra time in Budapest, consider visiting the Hungarian Parliament Building, a beautiful Gothic Revival site located along the Danube River. Or head to St. Stephen's Basilica, a stunning Roman Catholic church that you can climb to get breathtaking views of the city. If you have less time, don't miss the Castle District and its many landmarks at the heart of the city, as well as the thermal baths and parks.
Budapest Airport (BUD) is the primary international airport located approximately 16 km southeast of the city center. It offers direct flights to major cities around the world, including London, Paris, New York City, and Los Angeles. The airport is easily accessible by public transportation, taxi, or private shuttle services, with travel times from the city center ranging from 20-45 minutes depending on the type of transportation.