2 Days in Budapest: Here’s to how to make the most of it

I’ve been to Budapest no less than 6 times, and yet each time I only stayed 2-3 days. Why? Despite being a huge city with tons to do, I always found that 2-3 days was all I needed to see the attractions, and enjoy myself in the city.

With so many cheap flights from other European cities, and being so well connected short trips to Budapest have the become the norm. If you’re travelling to Budapest soon, and only have a couple of days, then this guide is for you.

Where is Budapest?

Budapest is the capital of Hungary, tucked away in Central Europe. It’s split in two by the Danube River-Buda on the west bank, with its hills and castles, and Pest on the east, home to buzzing bars and grand boulevards.

You can reach Budapest in under 3 hours by train from Vienna, or just over 2 hours by plane from major hubs like London, Berlin, or Rome. Once you’re here, everything is surprisingly walkable, or just a quick tram ride away.

A Brief History of Budapest

Every visit to Budapest uncovers something new. It’s not just the skyline, the baths, or the ruin bars, it’s the feeling that this city has lived a thousand lives.

Budapest was once two cities, Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube and unified in 1873. But its roots go back much further. The Romans built Aquincum here, the Ottomans left their baths, and the Austro-Hungarians gave it that unmistakable grandeur. The architecture alone tells its story elegant boulevards, faded mansions, bullet-scarred walls.

This is a city that’s been shaped by empires and uprisings, where you can wander Roman ruins in the morning and sip wine under fairy lights at night. There’s beauty, yes but also grit, soul, and surprise in every street. That’s why I keep going back.

I’m sure Budapest will entice you just as much as it has me.

Budapest two day itinerary

Despite its size, two full days is typically enough to enjoy Budapest’s main attractions. Here’s my Budapest two itinerary based on my experiences visiting the city.

Day 1: Buda & Pest Highlights

The first day is all about getting your bearings and a feel for the two parts of the city. It starts early in the morning, so I hope you’re well rested.

Morning: Castle Hill & Danube Views

Fisherman’s Bastion
Get here early to beat the crowds and enjoy those panoramic views over the Danube. The towers look like something from a fairytale, and they’re free to wander before 9am.

Matthias Church
Right next door to the Bastion, this 700-year-old church is all intricate tiles and colourful detail. It’s worth popping inside if you’re into architecture or history.

Buda Castle
Walk along the cobbled streets of Castle Hill toward Buda Castle. The castle itself houses a few museums, but even if you skip them, the grounds are beautiful and great for photos. You’ll also get panoramic views of Pest.

Castle Hill Funicular or Walk Down
Ride the funicular down for a classic experience, or walk the scenic path back toward the Chain Bridge. Either way, you’ll get postcard-worthy views on the descent.

Lunch: Riverside Stop

Cross the historic Széchenyi Chain Bridge into Pest and stop for lunch near the Danube. Look for a bistro or café with outdoor seating. It’s the perfect place to rest your feet and soak up the river vibes.

Afternoon: Parliament, Shoes Memorial & Café Culture

Hungarian Parliament Building
You’ll have seen across the river from your views in Buda, but it’s worth getting up close for look. it’s one of Europe’s most iconic buildings. Even if you don’t take a guided tour, walk around the outside and admire the gothic spires and grand façade.

Shoes on the Danube Bank
Just a short walk south of Parliament, this powerful memorial commemorates Jews who were killed during World War II. It’s quiet and sobering, and worth the stop.

Coffee Break at a Historic Café
Try the elegant Gerbeaud or the quirky Szimply depending on your vibe. Budapest does cafés very well, and this is your chance to relax before the evening picks up.

Evening: Danube Cruise or Ruin Bar Crawl

Ruin Bars in the Jewish Quarter
If nightlife’s your thing, head to District VII for unique bars built inside abandoned buildings. Start at Szimpla Kert, then hop around — each one has its own quirky personality, and the locals are friendly. I’ve lost count of the amount of times someone has bought me a palinka

Option B: Danube River Cruise
If bars aren’t your thing, then you could enjoy a 1-hour evening cruise instead.  It’s one of the best ways to see the city. Landmarks like Parliament and Buda Castle are beautifully lit after dark.

Day 2: Thermal Baths, and City Sights

Your second day blends Budapest’s relaxing side with its rich history and vibrant street life. It’s a mix of steaming pools, grand boulevards and local flavors.

Morning: Thermal Baths and Heroes’ Square

Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Start your day like a local with a morning soak. Széchenyi is one of Europe’s largest and most iconic thermal baths. The outdoor pools are especially inviting, even in winter. Arrive early to avoid queues and enjoy a more peaceful vibe.

There are tons of thermal baths in Budapest each with their own vibe, but Széchenyi is the one I recommend to first-timers. You can book tickets in advance on the Széchenyi website.

City Park Walk
After your soak, wander through Városliget (City Park). You’ll pass Vajdahunyad Castle, a whimsical mix of architectural styles, statues, and locals out for a stroll or coffee.

Heroes’ Square
At the park’s edge stands Heroes’ Square, a grand plaza dedicated to Hungary’s most important national figures. It’s bold, imposing and makes for great photos.

Lunch at the Great Market Hall

Head back toward the city centre and stop for lunch at a spot serving classic Hungarian dishes. Try goulash, chicken paprikash or lángos if you’re feeling adventurous.

Anyone who knows me, will know I’m not usually a big fan of markets, but for something quick and atmospheric, the Great Market Hall has plenty of food stalls and options.

Afternoon: St Stephen’s Basilica and Andrássy Avenue

St Stephen’s Basilica
One of Budapest’s most striking churches. You can climb to the dome for panoramic city views or just admire the grandeur from below.
Andrássy Avenue
Walk the elegant Andrássy Avenue toward the city centre. This UNESCO-listed boulevard is lined with embassies, theatres and luxury boutiques. It’s also home to the Hungarian State Opera House, worth a peek even from the outside.

Evening: Sunset Spot & Dinner

Sunset at Gellért Hill or Liberty Bridge
For sweeping views of the city at golden hour, head up Gellért Hill. If you’re short on time, the Liberty Bridge offers a laid-back alternative — locals often sit here with drinks as the sun goes down.

Dinner in the Jewish Quarter
Finish the day in one of the city’s liveliest neighbourhoods. The Jewish Quarter is packed with cool restaurants, wine bars and tiny eateries. Go modern Hungarian or try one of the many international spots.

Memento Park – something a little different

Is you’re looking for something a little different from the usual city tours, you could take a trip to Memento Park. The park houses over 40 statues that were removed from Budapest after the fall of communism.

They aren’t going to be everyone’s taste, but as someone visiting for the first time from Western Europe, I was impressed by the sheer scale and boldness of the statues, the likes of which just don’t exist in the UK.

2 Days in Budapest: Time & Budget

Here’s a run down of the costs and time you can spect when visiting the main attractions.

I visited many of the main attractions during separate trips to the city, so the duration and costs were different each time, but if I was doing a full two day trip now, this is what I’d expect:

What to Eat in Budapest – Must try foods

Food is a huge part of the travel experience and even though you might only have two days, it’s worth trying a few local stapes.

Hungarian food is hearty, flavourful, and surprisingly addictive. Here are a few dishes worth making time (and room) for:

Gulyás (Goulash)

Forget the gloopy stew you might associate with the name. In Hungary, gulyás is a spiced beef soup, rich with paprika, tender meat, and vegetables. It’s warming, delicious, and usually served with a basket of fresh bread. One my favourites after time spent at the baths.

Lángos

This beloved street food is deep-fried dough, typically topped with sour cream and grated cheese, though you’ll find sweet versions too. It’s indulgent, messy, and worth every bite. Look for it at markets or food stalls around the city.

Paprikás Csirke (Chicken Paprikash)

A creamy paprika-based chicken dish usually served with nokedli (similar to spaetzle). It’s comforting and full of flavor — the kind of thing you’ll want to recreate at home.

Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake)

A sweet spiral pastry baked over an open flame, then rolled in sugar, cinnamon, or crushed nuts. It’s crisp on the outside and soft inside, ideal with coffee or as treat.

Töltött Káposzta (Stuffed Cabbage)

Cabbage leaves filled with rice and minced meat, simmered in a rich tomato-paprika sauce. A winter favorite, but you’ll find it year-round. Not for me, but worth trying if you want an authentic Hungarian experience.

Bonus: Pálinka and Tokaji

For drinks, sample a shot of pálinka (a strong fruit brandy) or try Tokaji, a world-famous Hungarian dessert wine. Both are part of the national identity and pack a punch.

When to visit Budapest

I’ve explored Budapest in every season, and for me late spring to early summer is the best time to enjoy Budapest. Here’s the lowdown on when to plan your trip:

Spring & Early Summer (April–June)
The city bursts into bloom, outdoor cafés spill onto sidewalks, and the Danube sparkles under mild, sunny skies. April pulls in fewer crowds,perfect for grabbing that Insta‑worthy shot at Fisherman’s Bastion, while May and June bring warmer days without the summer tourist crush. June has typically been my favourite time to visit Budapest.

High Summer (July–August)
European summer is hot. Highs and reach 30+ °C (90 °F), and nights can bring thunderstorms. Despite this, Budapest will be a hive of activity with crowded baths, summerfestivals and open‑air concerts. It’s great for boat parties on the Danube, visiting ruin bars in the evening.

You’ll just need to book your accomodation and  thermal‑bath tickets well in advance.

Fall (September–October)
September can still be warm, but as the weather cools the crowds thin out again. It’s great for walking around and seeing the sights, but not so good for river rides on the Daube.

Winter (November–March)
Winter is not the for faint of heart. If you’re unlucky and a Siberian cold front rolls in, you could be looking at -15°C to – 20°C (5°F-0°F) for week or more. Typically, though you can expect days of single digit temperatures, and getting below freezing at night.

This does make for great photos at the steamy outdoor thermal baths, but for a miserable icy walk around the city.

Where to Stay in Budapest

With just 2 days in Budapest, it pays to stay central. Here are a few great areas to base yourself:

Castle District (Buda)

Charming, quiet, and packed with history, it’s ideal for couples or first-time visitors who want atmosphere over nightlife. It’s a little uphill, but well-connected by bus and funicular.

Jewish Quarter (Pest)

Buzzing with ruin bars, cafes, and late-night energy. Perfect if you want to be close to the action, especially for nightlife and street food.

Belváros (Inner City)

Close to the Danube, Parliament, and shopping streets. A solid all-rounder with good metro links and plenty of mid-range accommodation.

Hotel stays

Budget: Maverick City Lodge – sociable and central, with private rooms and dorms
Mid-range: Hotel Rum Budapest – stylish boutique vibes in the heart of Pest
Luxury: Aria Hotel – rooftop views and spa, a splurge-worthy choice near St. Stephen’s Basilica

Budapest is super walkable, and public transport (trams, metro, buses) is efficient and affordable, even from the airport.

Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips

It’s always fun to learn a few phrases when going to a new country, so here are a few phrases and cultural tips to help you on your visit.

Yeah, if I’m honest Hungarian is crazy-difficult, the only things I managed were ‘Hello’ and ‘Cheers.’

Say Hello – Szia (“see-ya”): Use with one person. Say “sziasztok” (“see-ah-stok”) when greeting more than one.
Thank You – Köszönöm (“kuh-suh-nuhm”): Always appreciated.
Cheers – Egészségedre (“eh-gaysh-sheh-ged-reh”): Used when toasting drinks — don’t worry if you butcher it, they’ll love that you tried.
Shoes Off Indoors: If invited to a Hungarian home, take off your shoes at the door.
Dress Respectfully: Especially in churches or fine dining spots.
Quiet Hours: Keep voices low in residential areas, especially after 10pm. Worth remembering when existing one of Budapest’s many ruin bars.