Budapest is one of the most amazing capitals of Europe with an incredible historic timeline. It’s very touristic friendly with great atmosphere and delicious cuisine. I had 5 days to discover best city highlights – here are most epic things to see in Budapest during 5 days trip.
Most epic things to see in Budapest in 5 days.
I always highly recommend – get a city map after your arrival. You can get one from the tourist information or just get it from people selling Bus Tours around the Old Town area. These maps are brilliant for sightseeing around the city, all the spots are marked on the map, so you can easily draw a tour line and make a smart itinerary! Apart from the delightful traditions of Budapest residents, there are a number of city spots you can’t miss to visit! So don’t just hang around delicious local bars but taste the Hungarian heritage.
Landed in Budapest – Book an affordable shared airport shuttle bus transfer.
Budapest by night!
There is no way you miss the Budapest cruise night tour across the River Danube! The city looks spectacular during nighttime. The boat tour passes by the most epic old buildings, historically important sites and panoramic city spots.
Buda and Pest = Budapescht.
Budapest is devided by River Danube – second longest river in Europe – into two parts: Buda and Pest. Can you believe in the past the city was devided into 3 different cities – Buda, Pest and Obuda. Only in 1873 it has united to appear as Budapest.
Is Buda reacher than Pest?
Definitely Buda remains more residential and posh part of the town. Pest is being more touristy and chilled, with tons of local bars, amazing atmosphere and real local lifestyle. Definitely a part you want to explore more when visiting Budapest.
St Stephen’s Basilica.
St Stephen’s Basilica located in the heart of Pest is Hungary’s most sacred relic. This is where I started exploring Budapest. The entry fee to St Stephen’s Basilica is around 3 euros. Old Town is located a short walk from the Basilica. It’s a great destination to try real Hungarian dishes – delicious traditional cuisine.
The easiest way to get around the city is by underground. 4 lines of the underground cover both sides of the city – Buda and Pest.
Central Market Hall - one of the best things to see in Budapest.
Budapest’s Nagy Vásárcsarnok – Central Market Hall – this is a great place to find real local cuisine. Must try! but prepare yourself for crowds! Hungarian food is as delicious as it looks. My advice is do not buy souvenirs there, they are much cheaper on the streets of the old town. 🙂 If you are willing to taste the most famous Hungarian specialty – fresh chunks of creamy duck or goose liver, this is the place to visit!
World famous Szechenyi Spa Baths.
One of those must-do things in Budapest is visiting Szechenyi Baths, spending a few hours relaxing in its therapeutic thermal waters. Szechenyi Spa Baths is a stunning and one of the largest spa baths in Europe with 15 indoor baths and 3 grand outdoor pools.
Did you know - One of the most unique local traditions is playing aqua chess?
Soak in Hungarian culture.
Visit Heroes’ Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can learn about Hungary’s history and see the iconic Millennium Monument. After that visit the nearby City Park with Vajdahunyad Castle – a stunning architectural masterpiece demonstrating various styles.
The Shoes on the Danube memorial.
Walking along the river toward the Hungarian Parliament you will see The Shoes on the Danube – the famous memorial to the Budapest Jews who were shot by Arrow Cross militiamen between 1944 and 1945. Can you imagine the idea of the monument came from a movie director? It’s one of the most touching things to see in Budapest city.
The soul of Pest.
One of the most iconic things to see in Budapest is the Hungarian Parliament Building, where you can take a guided tour to admire its stunning interior and learn about Hungarian governance.
Afterward, take a walk along the Danube Promenade to appreciate the views of the Buda side.
In the evening, you might want to prepare for one of Budapest’s most famous experiences – Danube River cruise.
Buda Hill with Fisherman Bastion.
A very easy way to get to Buda Hill is taking bus no 16, going from Pest to Buda. The bus takes you all along Buda Hill directly to Matthias Church & Fisherman’s Bastion (amazing looking during night time). You’ll be able to explore its museums, including the Hungarian National.
From there you can move on to Fisherman Bastion, located near Buda Castle. Its fairy-tale-like structure features seven towers representing the seven Magyar tribes. This spot is perfect for photo ops and provides stunning views of the Pest side of the city, particularly the majestic Parliament building.
Szechenyi Chain Bridge and Parliament building.
Bus no 16 also stops near the Citadel, where you can admire the view of the Parliament buildings which looks spectacular during nighttime. The bus runs frequently so you can get off, do some sightseeing, catch the next bus, and continue the ride toward the hill. Don’t miss to walk the Chain Bridge, one of the most interesting things to see in Budapest! Below you can find some of the most interesting and popular city tour options.
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