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Magical 7-Day Budapest Christmas & New Year Itinerary

Viewed by 507 travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Budapest, Hungary on December 27, 2024

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive and check-in at your hotel in central Budapest, settling in for your adventure.
Hotel would be located near Deák Ferenc tér for easy access to attractions.
EUR100, 1 hour

11:30AM

St. Stephen's Basilica

Visit Hungary's largest church, renowned for its stunning architecture and Christmas decorations during this festive period.
A pleasant 15-minute walk from the hotel.
EUR3, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Gerbeaud

Enjoy a traditional lunch in one of Budapest's historic cafés, famous for its pastries.
Just a short walk from St. Stephen's Basilica.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Váci Street Shopping

Stroll along Váci Street, exploring shops and festive markets filled with holiday goodies.
A 10-minute walk from Café Gerbeaud.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Danube River Cruise

Experience a magical evening cruise on the Danube with breathtaking views of illuminated landmarks.
Board the cruise near the Elizabeth Bridge, 15-minute walk from Váci Street.
EUR25, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Hungarikum Bisztró

Enjoy an authentic Hungarian dinner at this popular bistro with a cozy ambiance.
A short tram ride from the cruise location to Oktogon square.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Budapest, Hungary on December 28, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a hearty buffet breakfast at your hotel.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fisherman's Bastion

Explore this fairytale-like terrace with stunning panoramic views of the city overlooking the Danube.
Take public transport or a scenic walk along the river.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Matthias Church

Visit the beautiful church next to Fisherman's Bastion, known for its stunning interior and rich history.
Short walk from Fisherman's Bastion.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ruszwurm Confectionery

Enjoy a delicious lunch followed by local desserts in one of Budapest’s oldest cafés.
Located nearby in the Castle District.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Gellért Hill and Citadel

Hike up the hill for breathtaking views of Budapest and explore the historic Citadel.
Use the tram to arrive at the base and hike up.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kiosk Budapest

Savor contemporary dishes in a stylish restaurant with a welcoming vibe.
Easily accessible via tram from Gellért Hill.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 3: Educational and Relaxing Day

Budapest, Hungary on December 29, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at New York Café

Indulge in a luxurious breakfast at the iconic New York Café, known for its opulent interior.
Take a tram or walk from the hotel.
EUR20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hungarian National Museum

Explore the vast collections depicting Hungary's history.
A short walk from your breakfast location.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Borkonyha Winekitchen

Discover a unique dining experience combining Hungarian cuisine with fine wines.
A short tram ride from the museum.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

House of Terror Museum

Visit this poignant museum dedicated to the victims of the fascist and communist regimes.
Accessible via tram from the restaurant.
EUR8, 2 hours

5:00PM

Thermal Bath Experience at Széchenyi Baths

Unwind at one of the largest thermal baths in Europe, surrounded by beautiful architecture.
Metro to Széchenyi Baths stop.
EUR25, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Menza

A trendy place in Liszt Ferenc Square, offering traditional and modern Hungarian dishes.
Metro back from the thermal baths.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 4: Pre-New Year Festivities

Budapest, Hungary on December 30, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Start your day at this charming café, beloved by locals.
A quick tram ride from the hotel.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Heroes' Square

See the iconic square that honors the leaders of the seven tribes that founded Hungary.
Metro or tram to Heroes' Square.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Vajdahunyad Castle

Explore the beautiful castle located in City Park with fantastic exhibits.
Short walk from Heroes' Square.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Paprika

Enjoy homestyle Hungarian dishes at this cozy restaurant.
A quick walk to the restaurant from the castle.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Margaret Island

Wander through the beautiful park where locals relax, and enjoy scenic views.
Take a tram to Margaret Island.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Pre-New Year’s Eve Dinner at Central Market Hall

Experience local markets and grab a light pre-celebration dinner while shopping for some souvenirs.
Take a tram back to the city center.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

New Year’s Eve Party Prep in Budapests’ Ruin Pubs

Explore unique ruin bars like Szimpla Kert, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Budapest nightlife.
Easy access via short walks or trams.
Free (excluding drinks), Rest of the evening
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Day 5: New Year’s Eve Celebration

Budapest, Hungary on December 31, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kávézó C

Enjoy rich Hungarian coffee and pastries for a perfect start to the day.
Walk from the hotel to this local favorite.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

New Year’s Eve Preparations

Relax and prepare for the evening festivities; consider a spa visit for some pampering.
Relax at your hotel or find a nearby spa.
EUR50, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nobu Restaurant

Indulge in a luxurious lunch with a fusion of Japanese and Hungarian cuisine.
Easily accessible by tram.
EUR80, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Christmas Markets

Wander through festive Christmas markets for last-minute holiday shopping and unique souvenirs.
Walking around downtown; many markets are close together.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

New Year’s Eve Dinner at Borkonyha

Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant to indulge in exquisite Hungarian fine dining.
Make a reservation ahead, as it's a popular spot.
EUR100, 2 hours

9:00PM

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Join the vibrant celebrations on the streets of Budapest or select a venue for NYE festivities.
Walking around city center or heading to a hotel party.
Free (varies by venue), Rest of the night
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Day 6: New Year’s Day Relaxation

Budapest, Hungary on January 1, 2024

11:00AM

Brunch at Caffè Piazza

Enjoy a leisurely brunch, perfect for recovering from last night’s festivities.
Short walk from your hotel.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Relaxing Day at the Spa

Treat yourself to a day of relaxation at a local spa, enjoying thermal baths.
Book a spa that offers traditional treatments.
EUR50, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Budapest Eye

Take a ride on the Budapest Eye for evening views of the city as the lights come up.
Short walk from the spa.
EUR10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at La Perle Noire Bistro

Conclude your day with dinner at this bistro that combines French and Hungarian influences.
Walk back into the city center.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Departure

Budapest, Hungary on January 2, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Budapest filled with delightful local dishes.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

A Last Walk Along the Danube

Take a serene walk along the river, reflecting on your memorable journey through Budapest.
Stroll from your hotel to the riverbank.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Check-out and Departure

Check out of your hotel and prepare for your next destination, taking a piece of Budapest with you.
Organize transportation to your next destination.
Varies, 1 hour
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