Day 1: Buda Castle District
Buda Castle & Funicular
Historic castle complex on the hill. Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest History Museum. Take funicular up from Chain Bridge.
Fisherman's Bastion
Neo-Gothic terrace with best Danube views. Seven towers representing Hungarian tribes. Matthias Church nearby.
Lunch in Castle District
Traditional Hungarian goulash, langos (fried dough), and local wines. Try Arany Kaviar or Pest-Buda Bistro.
Hospital in the Rock
Secret WWII hospital and nuclear bunker beneath Castle Hill. Fascinating underground tour.
Chain Bridge at Sunset
Budapest's most iconic bridge. Walk across as city lights begin to twinkle on both banks.
Dinner on the Danube
Riverside restaurant or dinner cruise. Watch Parliament building illuminated at night.
Day 2: Pest & Thermal Baths
Parliament Building Tour
Neo-Gothic masterpiece, third-largest parliament in the world. Crown Jewels, stunning interior. Book ahead.
Central Market Hall
Art Nouveau food market. Hungarian paprika, sausages, langos upstairs. Perfect for souvenirs and lunch.
Szechenyi Thermal Bath
Europe's largest thermal bath complex. Hot pools, saunas, chess-playing locals. Bring swimwear, spend hours.
Heroes' Square & City Park
Millennium Monument, Vajdahunyad Castle, ice rink in winter. Beautiful evening walk.
Ruin Bar Hopping
Budapest's unique nightlife. Szimpla Kert is iconic. Abandoned buildings turned into eclectic bars.
Day 3: Hidden Gems
St. Stephen's Basilica
Climb to dome for 360-degree city views. Holy Right Hand relic, stunning interior.
Jewish Quarter
Dohany Street Synagogue (largest in Europe), Tree of Life memorial, vibrant neighborhood with cafes.
New York Cafe
"Most beautiful cafe in the world." Opulent 19th-century interior, coffee and cake experience.
Gellert Hill & Spa
Citadel viewpoint, Liberty Statue. Gellert Baths for art nouveau thermal experience.