One Day in Budapest Itinerary

  1. 9:00 AM: Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya)
    10 minutes (by foot) from Batthyány tér metro station

    Fisherman's Bastion is a historic lookout with stunning views of Budapest. Built in neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque style at the turn of the 20th century, it offers the perfect start to your day. Explore the seven towers and take in the panorama of the Danube, Margaret Island and Pest.

  2. 10:30 AM: Buda Castle
    5 minutes (by foot) from Fisherman's Bastion

    Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit attraction in Budapest. Built in the 14th century, this iconic castle served as the residence of Hungarian kings for centuries. Walk through the palace grounds and enjoy the beautiful architecture and gardens.

  3. 12:00 PM: Lunch at Central Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok)
    15 minutes (by bus) from Buda Castle

    A visit to Budapest is incomplete without sampling local Hungarian cuisine. Head to the Central Market Hall, the largest indoor market in Budapest, to sample some of the local delicacies. Try lángos (deep-fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese), goulash soup or chimney cake.

  4. 2:00 PM: Széchenyi Thermal Bath
    20 minutes (by metro) from Central Market Hall

    Relax and rejuvenate your senses at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest medicinal baths in Europe. Choose from a range of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and steam rooms. The beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and hot mineral springs make it an unforgettable experience.

  5. 4:30 PM: Heroes' Square (Hősök tere)
    15 minutes (by metro) from Széchenyi Thermal Bath

    Heroes' Square is one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks. Admire the statues of famous Hungarian leaders and visit the nearby Museum of Fine Arts or Vajdahunyad Castle. The square also serves as the entrance to Budapest's City Park, which offers a great escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

  6. 6:30 PM: Danube River Cruise
    20 minutes (by metro) from Heroes' Square

    End your day with a relaxing and scenic evening Danube River Cruise. Enjoy Budapest's stunning cityscape from the water, with illuminated landmarks such as the Parliament Building and the Buda Castle. The 1-hour tour includes a welcome drink, and an option for a romantic dinner and live music for extra charges.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) (1-2 hours, free)
  • Buda Castle (2-3 hours, 4000 HUF for an adult ticket)
  • Lunch at Central Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok) (1 hour, meals start at 2000 HUF)
  • Széchenyi Thermal Bath (2-4 hours, 6400 HUF for an adult ticket)
  • Heroes' Square (Hősök tere) (1-2 hours, free)
  • Danube River Cruise (1 hour, starting from 3500 HUF)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 16100 HUF

Useful Tips

If you have more time in Budapest, consider visiting other landmarks such as St Stephen's Basilica, Parliament Building, or Margaret Island. If you have less time, skip the museums at Heroes' Square or the thermal baths, and opt for a walking tour of the city center, taking in the best of street art and architecture.

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