3 DAY BUDAPEST ITINERARY
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This post is about how to spend 3 days in Budapest and provides the ultimate 3 day Budapest itinerary
Budapest in Hungary makes for the perfect weekend city break. 3 days in Budapest is the perfect amount of time to see the main sights and I’m going to share this perfect 3 day Budapest itinerary.
Budapest, often called the "Paris of the East," is actually two cities - Buda and Pest - divided by the majestic Danube River. Each side has its own vibe: Buda is hilly, historic and regal, while Pest is bustling, flat, and teeming with energy. In three days, you’ll crisscross between these two worlds, experiencing the best of both.
If you’re travelling on a budget you’ll be pleased to learn that Budapest is one of Europe’s more affordable cities. Accommodations and eating out are both pretty cheap.
Let’s dive into this great 3 day itinerary in Budapest for solo female travellers.
Planning your trip? Use my favourite resources!
🏨 Accommodation : I recommend Booking.com
✈️ Flights : for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Car : I recommend Rental Cars
🛡️ Travel Insurance : for the best deals I rely on HeyMondo
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This post is about how to spend 3 days in Budapest and provides the ultimate 3 day Budapest itinerary
Budapest 3 Day Itinerary – Quick Tips
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Best Hotels in Budapest
Best Experiences in Budapest
If you’re planning to visit more attractions, you can save a lot of money by purchasing a Budapest Card With this you can enjoy unlimited public transportation and free entry to more than 30 attractions.
PLANNING YOUR BUDAPEST ITINERARY
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Planning a 3-day trip to Budapest might seem like trying to fit a castle into a backpack—daunting at first, but totally doable with a little strategy. When I started planning my trip, I felt like I had to choose between diving into the city’s history, indulging in its food scene, or just soaking up the atmosphere. Spoiler: you don’t have to pick. You can do it all with a bit of planning (and comfy shoes).
How many days to spend in Budapest?
If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Budapest, let me save you some time: three days is just right for most travellers - which is why I’ve written this 3 day Budapest itinerary. It’s the sweet spot to explore this stunning city without feeling rushed or missing out on the essentials. Whether you’re drawn to Budapest’s rich history, jaw-dropping architecture, or its famous thermal baths, a well-planned three-day trip gives you the perfect mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and a little room for spontaneity.
Here’s why three days works so well. The city is split into two main parts - Buda and Pest - each with its own vibe and must-see attractions. With three days, you can dedicate time to both sides, enjoy a few iconic experiences, and even sprinkle in some downtime to soak in the city’s charm.
You can click below to see some of the top attractions in Budapest.
Getting to Budapest
Let’s talk about how to get to Budapest. Whether you’re flying, taking a train, or even cruising down the Danube, getting to Hungary’s capital is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s what you need to know to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
By air : Flying is the most common way to get to Budapest, and Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is where you’ll land. It’s about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from the city center, so getting into town is easy. Most major airlines, including budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air, fly here, so you can often find great deals if you book in advance. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates.
Once you land, you have several options for getting to the city:
Airport shuttle: The official miniBUD shuttle is convenient and fairly priced. It’ll drop you off right at your accommodation.
Public bus: For budget travelers, the 100E bus runs directly from the airport to the city center for just a few euros. It’s reliable and a great option if you’re packing light.
Taxi or ride-sharing: Taxis are available outside the terminal, but use an official service like Főtaxi to avoid scams. Alternatively, Bolt (Europe’s answer to Uber) is affordable and easy to use.
By train : If you’re travelling from another European city, the train is an excellent option. Budapest is well-connected to neighbouring capitals like Vienna, Prague, and Bratislava. Book trains using Omio. Trains arrive at one of three main stations:
Keleti (Eastern) Station: The busiest and most common for international arrivals.
Nyugati (Western) Station: Another central hub, designed by the same company that built the Eiffel Tower.
Déli (Southern) Station: Smaller, but occasionally used for connections from southern Europe.
By bus : If you’re traveling on a budget, long-distance buses like FlixBus are a great choice. They’re slower than trains but often much cheaper, with routes connecting Budapest to cities all over Europe. You can book cheap buses using Flixbus.
The main bus station, Népliget, is easily accessible by Metro, making it a convenient option for travelers.
By car : Driving into Budapest is possible, especially if you’re coming from a nearby country. Hungary’s highways are well-maintained, but you’ll need a vignette (a road toll sticker) to use them. Parking in the city center can be a headache, though, so I’d recommend sticking to public transportation once you arrive. If you do want to rent a car and drive in I recommend RentalCars.com
Getting around Budapest
Once in Budapest, the next question is: how do you get around this sprawling city? Budapest has an excellent public transportation system. Here’s everything you need to know about getting around Budapest.
Public Transportation : Budapest’s public transit system, operated by BKK, is one of the best in Europe. It’s affordable, easy to use, and covers virtually every corner of the city. You’ve got plenty of options:
Metro: Budapest’s Metro system has four lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4) that connect major attractions. The M1, also called the Millennium Line, is the oldest metro in continental Europe and feels like stepping into a time capsule.
Trams: The trams are a personal favourite. Tram 2, which runs along the Danube, offers stunning views of the Parliament, Buda Castle, and Gellért Hill. If you’re looking for both convenience and sightseeing, this is it.
Buses and Trolleys: Buses and trolleybuses fill in the gaps where trams and metros don’t go. The 100E bus is especially handy for getting to and from the airport.
A single ticket costs about 350 HUF (just over €1), but you’ll save money with a travel pass. The 72-hour pass or Budapest Card includes unlimited rides and discounts on attractions - worth it if you plan to explore a lot.
Walking: Budapest is an incredibly walkable city, especially in the central areas. The streets are filled with history, charming architecture and hidden gems that are easy to miss if you’re whizzing by on public transport. You can stroll across the Chain Bridge, wander through the Jewish Quarter, or explore Buda’s Castle District on foot. Just make sure to wear comfy shoes - Buda’s hills and cobblestones are no joke!
Biking around Budapest : Biking is a fun and efficient way to get around Budapest. The city has an expanding network of bike lanes, and you can rent bikes through the public MOL Bubi bike-sharing system. It’s great for short trips, especially along the Danube Promenade or through Margaret Island.
Boats: One of the most unique ways to get around Budapest is by boat. Public ferries, operated by BKK, connect several stops along the Danube, and they’re included in the public transport system (with the right ticket). For a more leisurely experience, opt for a sightseeing cruise - it’s an unforgettable way to see the city’s landmarks, especially at night when they’re all lit up.
Practical Tips for Navigating Budapest
Validate Your Ticket: Always validate your ticket before boarding public transport. Ticket inspectors are common, and fines can be hefty.
Use the BKK FUTÁR App: This app is a lifesaver, showing real-time schedules and helping you plan your route across buses, trams, and the metro.
Avoid Rush Hour: Public transport can get crowded during peak hours (8–10 AM and 4–6 PM), so plan accordingly.
Best Season to Visit Budapest
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in every season so you can decide for yourself.
Spring (March to May): The Sweet Spot : Spring in Budapest is pure magic. The city starts waking up after winter, and you’ll see flowers blooming in every park, from Margaret Island to City Park. Temperatures are mild, usually between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F), making it perfect for walking tours and outdoor sightseeing.
One of the highlights is the Budapest Spring Festival, which features everything from classical music performances to art exhibitions. Plus, you’ll avoid the summer crowds, so places like Fisherman’s Bastion and Széchenyi Thermal Baths feel a little more peaceful. If you’re a foodie, this is also a great time to try seasonal dishes like wild garlic soup at local restaurants.
Summer (June to August): Lively and Bustling : Summer is Budapest’s busiest season and it’s not hard to see why. The city is buzzing with life and festivals like Sziget Festival draw crowds from all over the world. Temperatures hover around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), so it’s warm but manageable.
It does get incredibly crowded, especially at major attractions like Buda Castle and the Parliament. You’ll want to book accommodations and tours well in advance. That said, summer evenings are magical. Locals and tourists flock to outdoor ruin pubs, riverside bars, and open-air concerts. If you love a lively atmosphere, this is your season.
Autumn (September to November): Cozy and Picturesque : If I could only visit Budapest once, I’d choose autumn. The weather cools down to a comfortable range of 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), and the autumn foliage turns the city’s parks into a painter’s dream. Walking along Andrássy Avenue or around Gellért Hill feels extra special with those golden leaves crunching underfoot.
This is also wine season in Hungary, and the Budapest Wine Festival at Buda Castle is a must-do if you’re a wine lover. Fewer tourists mean you can enjoy landmarks like the Great Market Hall without elbowing your way through a crowd.
Winter (December to February): Festive and Cozy : Winter in Budapest has a charm all its own, especially if you visit around the holidays. The Christmas markets at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica are some of the best in Europe, with twinkling lights, delicious chimney cakes, and mulled wine to keep you warm. Temperatures can dip below freezing, but that’s just an excuse to spend extra time in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths. Sitting in a steaming outdoor pool at Széchenyi Baths while snowflakes fall? Amazing.
January and February are the off-season, so if you’re looking for budget-friendly travel, this is the time to go. Just pack warm clothes and plan to cozy up in the city’s many cafés.
Where to stay in Budapest
Some of the best budget to average cost hotels in Budapest.
Bohem Art Hotel - A chic, modern hotel with artistic decor, just a short walk from the Danube and Váci Street.
Bo18 Hotel - Located near Corvin Shopping Mall, this hotel offers cozy rooms and an impressive buffet breakfast.
ROOMbach Hotel - Known for its vibrant, trendy design and proximity to Deák Ferenc Square, the heart of Budapest’s nightlife.
Queen’s Court Hotel & Residence - Offers spacious suites, an indoor pool, and a hint of luxury, located near the city center.
Manzárd Panzió - A charming bed-and-breakfast with a garden and pool for relaxing after sightseeing.
Browse all Budapest accommodation on Booking.com or click the interactive map below to see live prices of hotels in Budapest.
BUDAPEST ITINERARY DAY 1
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Discover Buda and Its Historic Charm
Budapest is a city of two halves, split by the mighty Danube River: Buda, with its historic charm, and Pest, buzzing with vibrant city life. For your first day, dive into the best of Buda and sprinkle in some must-visit spots in Pest. Here's how to make the most of it:
Morning: Central Market Hall & St. Stephen’s Basilica
Start your day at the Central Market Hall, Budapest’s oldest and largest indoor market. Wander through its bustling aisles filled with colourful produce, paprika souvenirs, and local delicacies like lángos. It’s a great spot to grab a light breakfast or snacks for later.
There are two levels to Central Market Hall.
Downstairs looks like a local market with fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and every type of salami imaginable.
Upstairs there is a food court and all the souvenirs you could ever need.
Foodies can book a Central Market guided tour with tastings where you will try many of Hungary’s delicious foods.
St. Stephen’s Basilica
Next, make your way to St. Stephen’s Basilica over on the Pest side - a short walk across the city. You will be able to see incredible panaromic views over Budapest from the dome of the basilica.
The church really is an architectural marvel and also home to the preserved right hand of Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen.
You can head inside the church for a small donation. It’s worth it to see the ornate, detailed ceiling.
Climbing the tower costs 500 HUF (€1.40) which really is a bargain. There’s a lift if you don’t fancy the steep flight of stairs.
Cross the Chain Bridge
From the basilica, take the short 20 minutes walk towards the Chain Bridge, one of Budapest’s most famous landmarks.
This historic suspension bridge connects Pest to Buda and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landmarks. Take your time crossing it - this is one of those postcard-perfect moments. The giant stone lions guarding the bridge are equally iconic.
Explore Buda Castle
You’re going to head back to the Buda side and head up Buda Hill to visit Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history and a must for three days in Budapest.
You can either take a leisurely stroll up or hop on the funicular for an easier ride. A one-way funicular ticket costs 1,200 HUF (€3). Once you reach the top, turn left for Buda Castle or right for Fisherman’s Bastion.
Spend your afternoon exploring the castle grounds, the Hungarian National Gallery, and the Budapest History Museum.
Be sure to stop at Matthias Church which was built in 1015. When the city was captured by the Turks, it was turned into a mosque. Nowadays, its gothic turrets and mosaic tiles are a highlight.
Don’t miss the panoramic views of the Danube and Parliament building from the Fisherman’s Bastion nearby - it’s one of the city’s most incredible views!
If you want to explore the caves of Buda Castle, which I really recommend, you can explore a part of the network of underground tunnels under Castle Hill with a guide by booking a guided tour of the Buda Castle caves.
Entrance fees at Buda Castle:
Budapest History Museum – 2,800 HUF
Hungarian National Gallery – 4,200 HUF
Fisherman’s Bastion – 1,200 HUF
Matthias Church – 2,500 HUF
Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet?
The insurance companies I recommend are Hey Mondo and Safety Wing
Hey Mondo is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing is great value, with monthly coverage starting at £40. It’s really easy to use and it just renews each month.
Read my full travel insurance post here, where I go into detail about all companies.
Evening: Discover the Ruin Bars
After descending from Buda Hill, head back over to Pest to experience Budapest’s legendary ruin bars. These quirky, eclectic bars are set in abandoned buildings and courtyards, decorated with mismatched furniture and funky art.
Start with the original and most famous, Szimpla Kert, for a truly unique nightlife vibe. With its buzzing atmosphere, it's a great place to grab a drink and reflect on the day. Some of the furniture in this ruin bar include pianos and bathtubs that you can use as benches!
If you’re visiting in winter you should wrap up warm as it’s not much warmer than the outdoors unless you find a heat lamp to sit near. Drinks are definitely tourist prices, with bottles of wine starting at €14.
If you fancy a bit of a ruin bar crawl you can book a guided tour which included some drinks and games.
Optional Night Walk
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, take an evening stroll along the Danube Promenade. The illuminated Buda Castle and Chain Bridge against the night sky make for a magical end to your first day in Budapest.
BUDAPEST ITINERARY DAY 2
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Morning: Free Walking Tour
Kick off your second day with a free walking tour to get more acquainted with the city. Many tours start in central Pest and cover iconic sights while sharing fascinating stories about Budapest’s history, culture, and architecture. It's the perfect way to get your bearings while learning from a local guide.
Free Tour offer various free walking tours of Budapest including an introduction to the city and a Buda Castle tour. They work on tips so be sure to give one if you enjoyed yourself or learnt something new.
GetYourGuide also offer various different walking tours which you can check out here.
Hungarian Parliament Building
After the walking tour, make your way to the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of Budapest's most recognisable landmarks. This stunning Gothic Revival masterpiece sits on the banks of the Danube. Book a guided tour in advance as it can get busy particularly during peak toursit times. Once inside you will see the lavish interiors and the Hungarian Crown Jewels and will be able to explore the maze of chambers and staircases while learning about the building’s history from a guide.
Alternatively, if you don’t fancy going inside you can visit Parliament from the outside and snap some photos.
Shoes on the Danube Memorial
From Parliament, take a short walk along the Danube Promenade to the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial.
This poignant tribute honors the Jewish victims who were tragically executed during World War II. The Arrow Cross militiamen were a fascist party that overtook the government in the mid-20th century, killing thousands and forcing countless Jews into concentration camps.
The rows of cast-iron shoes along the riverbank are a moving reminder of the city’s history and commemorates the 3,500 people killed on these banks and lost to the Danube, 800 of whom were Jews.
Afternoon: Relax at a Budapest Bath House
No trip to Budapest is complete without visiting one of its famous thermal bath houses. Whatever the season your 3 day Budapest itinerary should absolutely include a thermal bath house visit.
Hungary has a long history of bubbling hot springs which have been used for leisure purposes for decades. There are many bath houses in Budapest so you have a few to choose from which we’ll discuss in a moment.
The Széchenyi Thermal Baths are one of the largest and most iconic in the city. Located in City Park, this neo-baroque bath complex has indoor and outdoor pools of varying temperatures, saunas, and even spa services. Entry is €25 on weekdays and €28 on weekends including entry to the indoor and outdoor pools as well as locker hire.
The outdoor pools are by far the best, even if you have to run outside in swimwear during the winter. You can go during the daytime or evening. During the day you will get magnificent photo ops and at night you can take advance of the bar they have there.
Just don’t forget to bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops!
Here are some of your other options for thermal bath houses in Budapest:
Gellért Baths: These are the second-most popular thermal baths in Budapest. The indoor baths are often praised for their stunning design, while the outdoor ones are considered less impressive compared to Széchenyi’s.
Lukács Baths: Offering a similar experience to Széchenyi but with a more local vibe, these baths are known for having some of the most mineral-rich waters in the city (so they say!).
Irgalmasok Veli Bej Baths: A hidden gem among Budapest’s bathhouses, this spot offers serene baths with fantastic views of the city.
Rudas Baths: Steeped in 500 years of history, Rudas features a thermal room, wellness facilities, a ladies-only section, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views. For an indulgent experience, consider booking their spa and dining package.
Budget tip : Lukacs Baths are free with a Budapest Card. If you’re not particuarly bothered about which spa you visit, get your €20 Budapest Card here and choose Lukacs (usually €12 entry).
Evening: Danube River Boat Cruise
End your day with a magical Danube River boat cruise. Most evening cruises offer breathtaking views of Budapest's illuminated landmarks, including the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, and Chain Bridge.
Choose an option with commentary to learn more about the city, or splurge on a dinner cruise for an extra-special experience. Either way, it’s a peaceful way to wrap up your second day in Budapest.
Optional Night Walk
If you still have some energy left, take a stroll down Andrássy Avenue to admire the beautifully lit buildings and vibrant nightlife. Budapest at night has a special charm, with streetlights casting a beautiful glow over its historic streets.
BUDAPEST ITINERARY DAY 3
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Morning: Dohany Street Synagogue and Jewish Quarter
Start your final day on this 3 day Budapest itinerary at the Dohany Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe and a must-see for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
It is the best place to learn about Jewish history in Budapest. It was built in the 1800s borrowing Moorish styles from North Africa and Spain.
During its history, it’s been raided, bombed and used as a base for German Radio before being returned to the tragically diminished Jewish community.
Take a guided tour to learn about the history of Budapest’s Jewish community, including the tragic events of World War II. The adjacent Jewish Museum and Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Garden are also worth exploring.
Entry to the Dohany Street Synagogue costs 5,000 HUF (€13.50 and includes a guided tour, entry to the Hungarian Jewish Museum in the same building, and access to the memorial to the 30,000 Jewish Hungarians who were killed during the Holocaust.)
Jewish Quarter
After visiting the synagogue, spend time wandering through the Jewish Quarter. This incredible neighbourhood is a mix of history and modern culture, where you'll find remnants of Jewish heritage alongside trendy street art, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.
Don’t miss a stroll through Gozsdu Courtyard, a hub of lively eateries and shops.
If you’re feeling hugary visit Mazel Tov which is inside a refurbished warehouse. This Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant serves the best hummus, falafel and shakshuka in the city.
Climb Gellért Hill
In the afternoon, make your way to Gellért Hill, one of the best spots for panoramic views of Budapest. The walk to the top can be steep, but it’s worth the effort for the incredible views of the city, the Danube River, and its iconic bridges. Along the way, you’ll see the Citadella and the Liberty Statue, both significant landmarks.
Take your time to enjoy the peaceful greenery and snap some photos as you explore the hill. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several trails that vary in difficulty, so you can choose one that suits your energy level.
Evening: Sunset at Gellért Hill
Stick around Gellért Hill to watch the sunset for your last evening in Budapest - it’s one of the most magical experiences in the city. As the city lights begin to twinkle and the sky shifts to shades of orange and pink, the view is unforgettable. This is the perfect spot to reflect on your trip and soak in the beauty of Budapest.
If you’re hungry after your descent, consider grabbing dinner at one of the nearby restaurants on the Buda side or return to the Jewish Quarter for a lively evening in one of its famous ruin bars. It’s a great way to end your three-day adventure in this dynamic city.
WHERE TO EAT DURING YOUR BUDAPEST TRIP
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There’s so much to eat and drink during a Budapest weekend itinerary, from hearty Hungarian stews to Israeli cuisine and decadent desserts.
Gulyás (Goulash): A hearty soup made with beef, vegetables, and paprika.
Halászlé (Fisherman's Soup): A spicy fish soup made with freshwater fish and lots of paprika.
Lángos: Deep-fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic.
Töltött Káposzta (Stuffed Cabbage): Cabbage leaves filled with minced meat and rice, cooked in a paprika-infused tomato sauce.
Dobos Torte: A layered sponge cake with chocolate buttercream and a caramel topping.
Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake): Sweet, cylindrical dough baked over an open fire, coated in sugar and cinnamon.
Somlói Galuska: A decadent dessert of sponge cake, rum, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream.
Főzelék: A thick vegetable stew, often served as a side or a light main dish.
Palacsinta: Thin Hungarian pancakes, often filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
TOP TIPS FOR VISITING BUDAPEST
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Ride Tram 2 : Hop on this tram for a budget-friendly sightseeing ride along the Danube. It's like a moving postcard of Budapest’s landmarks.
Use the Budapest Card : This includes free transport, museum entries, and discounts at attractions.
Pack for Comfort : Bring good walking shoes and layers. The cobblestone streets and sudden weather changes can catch you off guard.
Learn a Few Words in Hungarian : Even a simple “köszönöm” (thank you) will bring smiles from locals.
Pack safety products : Budapest is a safe city but, like any capital, there may be pickpocketing. Consider a money belt for security.
Make sure to bring your own towel to the bath houses. The ones for hire aren’t wonderful. I always travel with a quick-drying microfibre towel.
Make sure you have travel insurance! The insurance companies I recommend are Hey Mondo and Safety Wing. Hey Mondo is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing is great value, with monthly coverage starting at £40. It’s really easy to use and it just renews each month.
Read my full travel insurance post here, where I go into detail about all companies.
READ MORE : Top Safety Products for Travel
BUDAPEST ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip to Budapest? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans to anywhere in the world.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights to Budapest using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Hungary and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfer from GetYourGuide
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals in Budapest on Booking.com.
BUS TICKETS : It is easy to book your transport once you’re in Budapest but if you’d like to book in advance you can buy private transfers online through Bookaway .
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions in Budapest on Viator or Get Your Guide.
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