Exploring Budapest to Graz: 3-Day Itinerary

Saturday, December 30, 2023: Budapest, Hungary

Start your journey through Budapest by exploring the historic Buda Castle in the morning. Take in the breathtaking views of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion and visit Matthias Church, known for its stunning architecture. Enjoy a traditional Hungarian lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise along the Danube River to see the city's iconic landmarks, including the Parliament Building and Chain Bridge. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of Budapest by visiting ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter and enjoying a delicious dinner at a traditional Hungarian restaurant.

• Buda Castle: Entrance Fee: Estimated cost - HUF 3000, Time spent - 2 to 3 hours
• Fisherman's Bastion: Entrance Fee: Estimated cost - HUF 1000, Time spent - 1 hour
• Matthias Church: Entrance Fee: Estimated cost - HUF 1500, Time spent - 1 hour
• Danube River Cruise: Estimated cost - HUF 5000, Time spent - 1.5 to 2 hours
• Jewish Quarter ruin bars: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Until late

Restaurants

• Café Gerbeaud: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Gerbeaud, a historic café located in the heart of Budapest. Indulge in their famous homemade pastries and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast at Café Gerbeaud is about 15 euros per person.
• Frici Papa Kifőzdéje: For a traditional Hungarian lunch experience, head to Frici Papa Kifőzdéje. This local favorite serves authentic Hungarian dishes such as goulash, chicken paprikash, and stuffed cabbage. The average cost for a lunch at Frici Papa Kifőzdéje is about 10 euros per person.
• EssZence Bistro: For a memorable dinner, visit EssZence Bistro, known for its innovative fusion of Hungarian and international cuisines. Enjoy dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients while admiring the stunning views of the Chain Bridge. The average cost for a dinner at EssZence Bistro is about 40 euros per person.

Sunday, December 31, 2023: Vienna, Austria

On your second day, take a day trip from Budapest to Vienna. Start your morning at Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Explore the magnificent palace and its beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece located in the heart of Vienna. Wander through the historic center, stopping at cafes to indulge in Viennese coffee and pastries. In the evening, celebrate New Year's Eve at one of Vienna's festive street parties or attend a classical music concert to welcome the new year in style.

• Schönbrunn Palace: Entrance Fee: Estimated cost - EUR 20, Time spent - 2 to 3 hours
• St. Stephen's Cathedral: Entrance Fee: Free (small fee for tower access), Time spent - 1 to 2 hours
• Viennese coffee and pastries: Estimated cost - EUR 10, Time spent - 1 hour
• New Year's Eve street parties: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Until late

Restaurants

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Monday, January 1, 2024: Graz, Austria

Welcome the new year in Graz, a charming city known for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Start your day by exploring the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Graz Clock Tower and take in panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Kunsthaus Graz, a striking contemporary art museum. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Mur River and stop by the Murinsel, an artificial floating island designed by Vito Acconci. End your day with a delicious dinner at one of Graz's traditional Austrian restaurants.

• Graz Clock Tower: Entrance Fee: Estimated cost - EUR 10, Time spent - 1 hour
• Kunsthaus Graz: Entrance Fee: Estimated cost - EUR 12, Time spent - 1 to 2 hours
• Murinsel: Entrance Fee: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Traditional Austrian dinner: Estimated cost - EUR 20, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Budapest, don't miss the Thermal Baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért, where you can relax in soothing hot springs. In Vienna, visit the Naschmarkt, a bustling market offering a variety of international cuisines and local delicacies. In Graz, make sure to explore the Schlossberg, a hill with walking trails and a clock tower offering panoramic views of the city. You can also visit the Eggenberg Palace, a Baroque masterpiece with stunning gardens.

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