Hungary
Budapest's iconic landmarks
Time for some culture! Admire Budapest's iconic landmarks and relax in its most famous thermal bath. Time to cross off those bucket list items!
Start your day at the magical Fisherman’s Bastion
What better way to start your day than in a fairytale setting with amazing views of Budapest? This enchanting fortress, with its graceful turrets and archways, is as mesmerizing as the panoramic views it offers. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, just because it has so many beautiful spots for photo opportunities! Make sure to read our secret tip too, if you’re interested in having this place to yourself ;-) Additionally, the Matthias Church is also less than a minute away, so you’re bound to have a great time in the area.
A 15-minute walk takes you to your next destination.
Visit Buda Castle
Your next stop of a magical 24 hours is Buda Castle, the historical castle and palace complex of the Hungarian Kings in Budapest. It’s a beautiful castle in Baroque style and has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. With good reason! When you’re standing outside the castle you won’t know where to look, it is that beautiful and big! And not only that, if you’re looking away from the castle you get amazing views of Pest and the Danube as well!
A nice 10 minute stroll will take you to your next destination. You might even see it already!
Cross the Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Welcome to the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the crown jewel of bridges in Budapest. It was our favorite bridge during our time in Budapest, just because of the elegant colors and beautiful architecture. By crossing this bridge, you will also leave Buda and visit Pest, the more lively part of the city. Make sure to enjoy the amazing views while standing on the bridge as well!
A calming, 15 minute walk along the Danube bank will take you to another amazing landmark.
Admire the Parliament Building
You’ve probably already spotted your next destination in the distance. Who could miss this beautiful perl along the bank of the Danube? With its combined Gothic Revival and Neo-Renaissance styles, it really is an architectural gem that captures the attention. We really recommend going all the way around it, it’s just so big! Right in front of it is a giant square that really adds to the “vibe of power”, so cool. You can also choose to explore the interiors, but be aware that it’ll be around € 13 for a guided tour of 45 minutes, and that you have to book this in advance. But no worries, even without visiting its interior, the Parliament Building is very impressive!
Lunch awaits right around the corner, only 4 minutes away.
Delicious lunch at Mokka Cukka
Located in a cozy street just 4 minutes away from the magnificent Parliament Building, you’ll find your lunch spot of the day: Mokka Cukka. This cozy gem offers delicious and affordable lunch options, the perfect meal to recharge your energy for what’s coming next. They have a variety of lunch options, ranging from sweet to savory and everything in between. On top of that, if you’re more looking for “brunch” than “lunch”, order some mimosas!
A 15 minute bus ride or 40 minute walk is all it takes to get to the next point.
Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath
When thinking of Budapest, you probably think of thermal baths! So, don't forget to visit the city's most famous thermal bath during your 24 hours in the Hungarian capital. Escape the hustle and bustle of Budapest, and go for a relaxing afternoon at Széchenyi Thermal Bath. With 3 outdoor pools and an impressive 15 indoor pools, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy. And that’s without even mentioning the beautiful architecture! Everywhere around you, you’ll see Neo-Baroque and Neo-Renaissance elements. Super cool! There is also a cafe/restaurant at the thermal baths so make sure to grab something to eat here! Dishes can be as simple as ice cream or as delicious as some local Hungarian dishes. Right next to the baths you’ll find the Széchenyi Garden Restaurant if you’re looking for a fancy dinner!
Take the subway line 1 at Vörösmarty tér until you get off at Oktogon. From there, take a tram for 2 stops and walk along the banks of the river. This trip will take you 30 minutes tops. Not a fan of public transportation? It takes around 50 minutes to get to your last stop of the day.
End your day with an evening river cruise on the Danube
What better way to end your 24 hours in Budapest than an evening river cruise past all of Budapest’s landmarks? It is THE best way to end a magical 24 hours in Budapest. The cruise will take you past countless landmarks and icons like the Parliament Building, Buda Castle or Liberty Bridge. For a chance of a good seat, make sure to arrive at least 20 minutes before boarding to be one of the firsts in line. Once they let you board, take a seat on the cruise (make sure to take a seat outside!) and enjoy the city’s stunning landmarks illuminated under the night sky. Also, check out our tip to decide which cruise you want to go on!
