48 Hours in Budapest

Budapest, the beautify capital of Hungary, has so much fascinating culture and stunning architecture to offer, that you could spend a lifetime admiring. However, for those busy travellers, who only have a weekend to spare, this guide is perfect to you can make the most out of your brief trip

What to do in Budapest

Budapest, the beautiful capital of Hungary, has so much fascinating culture and stunning architecture to offer, that you could spend a lifetime admiring. However, for those busy travellers, who only have a weekend to spare, this guide is perfect to you can make the most out of your brief trip.

There are several must do’s when visiting this city. The first of which is a morning exploring the hilly castle district of Buda. If you are staying in Pest, be sure to cross the river via the iconic Chain Bridge, created to permanently join the two areas of Buda and Pest in 1873, when the capital merged into one. Once in Buda, you can either take the scenic route and walk up the hill, or ride the funicular, which offers a fun and quick way to take you up to the castle district and ensures you won’t be too tired for a busy day of sightseeing ahead.

As you alight the funicular, you are greeted by the Royal Palace, home to the Hungarian National Gallery for all those art lovers. Outside the gallery, you also have one of the opportunities to capture the expansive view of Pest, including the incredible structure of the Hungarian Parliament. If you head to the right, through the open streets of the town, you will reach the breathtaking Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion. A ticket can be purchased to explore both of these, as well as to take a tour to the top of the bell tower that allows you a panoramic view of the city, ensuring no scenery or photo opportunity is missed.

The second must do is an relaxing visit in the afternoon to one of Budapest’s iconic baths. Two of the largest and more intricately designed spas are Szechenyi and Gellert. They are not only beautiful to look at, but enable you to take a break from trekking around the sights and relax for a few hours in the thermal healing water, which keep you relaxed and warm whatever the weather.

The Great Market Hall is also worth visiting whilst in the city centre. It is the city’s largest indoor market with a huge range of fresh goods, wines, souvenirs and liquors, across its three floors. Its neo-Gothic style and busy atmosphere makes it a great place to do some shopping, grab a light bite or just do some people-watching. Though, it can get very busy on an early morning and is closed on a Sunday.

St Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament are architecturally stunning buildings and also absolute must sees. Both are situated in Pest, with the Basilica a short walk from Vaci Street, the main area for shopping and dining. At the city’s largest church, the right hand of St Stephen, Hungary’s first Christian King can be seen in the main aisle, and you can also visit the top of the dome for another excellent view of the city. The Parliament is not too much further away and is situated along the riverfront. The gothic style building is magnificent both inside and out. Due to its position, it might be best admired from one of the many river cruises available, a perfect way to spend one of your evenings and see many of Budapest’s famous landmarks from a different and exciting perspective.

For a more lively evening, the unique ruin bars are the place to be. In the old Jewish Quarter, bars are built in the ruins of abandoned buildings, stores and lots. From the outside they are nothing out of the ordinary, but inside have an incredible buzzing atmosphere, each with its own personality, providing a fantastic way to experience Budapest nightlife and complete your trip.

Where to eat

Of course, whilst doing so much exploring, you will need to fuel up and thankfully the city has many fantastic places to dine. Right in the centre, Vaci Street has a variety of restaurants, from traditional Hungarian to Italian and even the globally known Hard Rock Cafe, so you can be sure to find something that suits almost anyone here.

Whilst exploring the castle district, the Ruszwurm Cafe, just across the street from Matthias Church, is the place to go for a coffee and snack. The family run business serves many traditional cakes, including custard cake and apple strudel, to keep you going. The New York Cafe is also one to look out for. It is absolutely beautiful, with a grand exterior and beautifully detailed interior, serving everything from breakfast and brunch to afternoon tea and dinner, meaning it will cater for whatever time of day you want to visit.

For something slightly more affordable, the Jewish Quarter is excellent, with quality local specialities and traditional cuisine. And of course for a more special evening you can dine on one of the aforementioned river cruises around Margaret Island

Where to stay in Budapest

There are many hotels in Budapest at all ends of the price spectrum. You can find the well-known Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons and Iberostar Grand Budapest in the city centre, as well as the Hilton right next to Matthias Church, if you are looking for a more luxurious stay.

However, there are many other, less expensive, but still well situated hotels such as Novotel and Ibis and many cheap hostels, perfect for travellers on a budget. If you prefer to be under your own steam, or perhaps in more authentic and local areas, apartments can be easily rented through sites such as booking.com or Airbnb