budapest one day tour bus

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Official Hop On Hop Off Budapest

Convenient sightseeing tours across one of the most exciting capitals of Europe. Dive into the city and explore all the hidden treasures with Hop On Hop Off Budapest!

1. Choose the most suitable ticket for your plans!

2. choose among the ticket types.

Student/children

0-5 years: free

3. Choose a date!

Take a tour of budapest at your own pace: hop on hop off, audio guide in 16 languages.

Sightseeing regardless the weather

Multiple packages, student discount, sightseeing and public transportation combined, day river cruise included, get on or off at any of the stops, buy your ticket, hop on hop off, 24h/48h/72h.

• Red and Green route
• 21 stops at the major sights
• Audio Guide on 16 languages
• Free Boat ride of Danube
• Free walking tour
• Valid for both red and green routes

Online price: from 38 €

Get the most out of your holiday with these!

• More discounts

Online price: from 15 €

• Free public transport

Online price: from 33 €

• Cozy, open-air minibus

How to book?

Check the sightseeing routes and choose from the packages.

Buy your Hop On Hop Off Budapest ticket online via paypal or credit card.

Check out your e-mails, the confirmation will be sent via email.

Print the attachment of the confirmation e-mail or get your physical ticket at our pick-up points to show it to our colleague on the bus. Your ticket is valid from this point on.

Explore the best of Budapest!

Explore the Hungarian capital with Hop On Hop Off Budapest sightseeing tours! Our sightseeing buses will take you to all the remarkable places of the city, while providing you with convenient seats and safe transportation regardless of the weather.

Catch panoramic views from Buda Castle, cruise the Danube and visit historic sights, while learning exciting information about our history and fun facts about the city’s landmarks via the Audio Guide available in 16 languages.

Do you want an overview of the Hungarian capital or you better take your time to discover all the historic streets and hidden secrets? Choose among our 24 to 72 bus tickets according to your plans and enjoy this unique sightseeing experience! Feel free to hop off at any of the stops and discover the neighborhood on your own, then you can hop back on to the sightseeing bus at the nearest stop. You may use the same ticket every time within its validity period. Get your Hop On Hop Off Budapest tickets online! And psst… don’t forget to download the Guide.me app to get all the discounts your Hop On Hop Off Budapest tickets offer you.

Nyugati Railway station

Budapest eye, margaret bridge (margaret island), batthyány square, clark adam square (funicular), castle garden bazaar, gellért bath, ferenciek square (parisien passage), anantara new york palace, grand hotel hungaria, liszt ferenc square, andrássy avenue, józsef attila street, szechenyi thermal baths, state opera house, heroes square, st stephen's basilica, castle of buda, chain bridge.

• Budapest Christmas holiday tips - 4 must see things

As Christmas is coming, Budapest transforms into a magical winter wonderland, so you surely are at the best place to catch the festive spirit. There are tons of places that are worth visiting during December, that’s why we created a list to help you organize your program plan. Here are the ultimate tips for your Budapest Christmas holiday!

• What to do at night in Budapest? Here are the best ideas!

As the sun dips below the horizon, Budapest shows its other face - an enchanting, vibrant and vivid face. You surely don’t want to leave the city without getting involved in its nightlife. So here are the best things to do at night in Budapest!

• Top 4 autumn activities in Budapest

Autumn has officially arrived in Budapest, and that means two things: you definitely want to enjoy the warmer days outside and you want to admire the unique beauty of autumn nature. The Hop On Hop Off tour is the best opportunity to use your time: you get to spare the exhausting walking , while still seeing all the top places in Budapest. But how to get the best of your autumn holiday in Budapest?

• Top 10 things to do in Budapest beyond the touristic places

You surely want to see all the must see places in the city. But trust us when we say that you also want to go beyond: here’s the list of the top 10 things to do in Budapest beyond the ordinary.

Hop On Hop Off red route stops

St. Stephen’s Basilica

First bus comes: 9:00

Last bus depart: 18:00

The largest religious building of Hungary, the St. Stephen’s Basilica is a marvel to visit regardless of religion. Must see!

Széchenyi Square (Chain Bridge, Pest)

First bus comes: 9:04

Last bus depart: 18:04

A spacious square with a park, set in the heart of Budapest, surrounded by illustries buildings and dominated by an odd Soviet statue!

First bus comes: 9:07

Last bus depart: 18:07

A beautiful downtown street of Budapest with famous pubs and clubs.

First bus comes: 9:10

Last bus depart: 18:10

One of the largest classic synagogues in Europe, the Dohány Street Synagogue tells the troubled history of Budapest’s rich multicultural background with great elegance!

First bus comes: -

Last bus depart: -

Astoria is one of the most popular meeting spots of Budapest! Set just outside of the emerging party district, explore the nearby sights of the Great Synagogue, Hotel Astoria, and the National Museum! Our buses do not stop here temporarily

Andrássy Avenue 3.

First bus comes: 9:17

Last bus depart: 18:17

A spacious avenue that will put Paris to shame! A walk on the tree-dotted Andrássy Avenue is always a great way to relax! Don’t forget to visit the nearby House of Terror museum as well.

First bus comes: 9:19

Last bus depart: 18:19

Nicknamed the most beautiful opera house in the world, this classic building will stun you with its rich, classic architecture!

First bus comes: 9:22

Last bus depart: 18:22

A great cozy little square packed with great restaurants. Come here to enjoy a fine lunch menu or an early dinner.

Heroes's Square

First bus comes: 9:26

Last bus depart: 18:26

The iconic statues of Heroes’ Square dominate the city park and Andrássy Avenue area. A must see historical landmark that all visitors love and adore!

First bus comes: 9:08

Last bus depart: 18:38

Set on the newly renovated Baross Square, Grand Hotel Hungaria is a great place to stay at if you want to be close to great transportation options!

First bus comes: 9:12

Last bus depart: 18:42

A monumental classic coffee house that will take your breath away! Any sightseeing bus tour would be meaningless without a stop at the New York Palace!

Astoria II.

Astoria is one of the most popular meeting spots of Budapest! Set just outside of the emerging party district, explore the nearby sights of the Great Synagogue, Hotel Astoria, and the National Museum! Our buses do not stop here temporarily!

First bus comes: 9:21

Last bus depart: 18:51

Just next to the Váci Shopping street, Ferenciek Square is busy traffic point of the city. Still, the architecture around the square is well worth the visit!

First bus comes: 9:29

Last bus depart: 18:59

Iconic bath of Budapest with beautiful architecture inside.

Castle Garden Bazar

First bus comes: 9:36

Last bus depart: 19:06

Since its reopening in 2014, the Castle Garden is a true gem of Buda. Take a walk above the city and enjoy the view!

First bus comes: 9:38

Last bus depart: 19:08

Come here to explore the Castle District, check out the brand new Castle Bazaar, or maybe take a stroll on the iconic Szécheny Chain Bridge!

Batthyany Square

First bus comes: 9:41

Last bus depart: 19:11

Breathtaking view from the square to the Danube and the Parliament. One of the best places to take magnificent photos of Budapest!

First bus comes: 9:44

Last bus depart: 19:14

An always busy connection to the peaceful Margaret Island. Take a walk and explore the island, come here to relax, maybe get a gelato!

Nyugati Railway Station (WestEnd Shopping Mall)

First bus comes: 9:51

Last bus depart: 19:21

Nyugati Railway station is one of the three main railway terminals in Budapest, Hungary. Known to locals and foreigners alike simply as the Nyugati.

Báthory Street - Parliament visit

First bus comes: 9:54

Last bus depart: 19:24

Parliament is one of the most beautiful buildings in Hungary. It is really worth a walk around it and you can buy a guided tour to explore the Parliament inside.

St. Stephen’s Basilica (terminal)

First bus comes: 9:58

The largest religious building of Hungary, the St. Stephen’s Basilica is a marvel to visit regardless of faith. Must see!

Hop On Hop Off green route stops

Március 15. Square

First bus comes: 09:18

Last bus depart: 18:18

A square with character! Recently renovated, the March 15th Square is a great place to take a quick break from the rushes of Budapest. And the view is amazing too!

Fővám Square (Great Market Hall)

The starting point of the famous Váci shopping street. You will also find here the Great Market Hall, the enchanting Liberty Bridge, and loads of marvelous cafés and architecture! Our buses do not stop here temporarily

Kálvin Square (National Museum)

First bus comes: 9:35

Last bus depart: 18:35

The busy spot of the inner boulevard of Budapest! Loads of cafés nearby, great place to hop off of your bus tour!

First bus comes: 09:39

Last bus depart: 18:39

Astoria is one of the most popular meeting spots of Budapest! Set just outside of the emerging party district, explore the nearby sights of the Great Synagogue, Hotel Astoria, and the National Museum!

Anker Lane - City center

First bus comes: 9:43

Last bus depart: 18:43

One of the smallest, but most popular streets in the middle of Budapest. Interested in the Hungarian nightlife? Start your journey here!

Nyugati Railway Station (WestEnd Shopping Center)

First bus comes: 9:50

Last bus depart: 18:50

St. Stephen’s Basilica (arrival)

First bus comes: 10:00

Last bus depart: 19:00

1. Choose among the ticket types!

2. choose a date.

• Tours / Prices

Budapest Travel Blog

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Book Budapest Hop on Hop Off Tickets & Tours

Big Bus: 1/2/3-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Budapest

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Explore Budapest on a double-decker bus with this 1, 2, or 3 day hop-on hop-off pass.
• With the ability to hop on and hop off, visit multiple attractions across 20 stops on a bus departing every 20 to 30 mins.
• Discover Budapest from another perspective from the Danube River on a cruise and a guided walking tour of the city, included with your pass.
• Stay connected on the go with free Wi-Fi and scenic panoramic views from the open-top deck.
• Gather a deeper understanding by tuning in on the audio guide commentary available in 16 languages.

Discover Pass: 1 Day

• 1-day unlimited HOHO pass
• Audioguide in 16 languages
• 1-hr guided walking tour of Budapest
• Danube River boat tour

Essential Pass: 2 Day

• 2-day unlimited HOHO pass

Explore Pass: 3 Day

• 3-day unlimited HOHO pass
• Entry into attractions
• First Bus: 9am
• Last Bus: 5pm
• Popular spots: The Zero Stone, Soviet Memorial, Church of St Anne
• Please click here for the detailed boarding points.
• Tip: If you hop off at the Buda Castle, make sure you get to the castle's terraces. You will get to enjoy stellar panoramic views of Budapest.
• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi.
• The audio guide is available in English, German, Hungarian, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, Polish, Swedish, Korean, Greek, Turkish, Arabic, Hebrew, Dutch, and Portuguese.

City Sightseeing: 24/48/72-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour of Budapest with Danube Cruise

• Discover Budapest with this 24/48/72-hour hop-on hop-off pass.
• With the ability to hop on and hop off, sightsee Budapest on a bus that departs every 20 to 30 mins, taking you through over 21 stops and audio guide commentary available in 16 languages.
• Enjoy exciting discounts along with a walking tour of the city for a more immersive experience.
• Take in the fleeting panorama of Budapest's revered sights like the Castle Garden, Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Heroes' Square, and more from the open-topped decks of the bus.

Iconic Pass

• 24-hour unlimited HOHO pass
• Stops near all the major sights
• Walking tour of Budapest
• Danube River boat cruise

Essential Pass

• 48-hour unlimited HOHO pass
• 72-hour unlimited HOHO pass
• First bus: 9am from St. Stephen’s Basilica
• Last bus: 6pm
• Frequency: Every 20min

Danube Cruise

• First boat: 1pm from dock 6, Duna Korzo, in front of the Marriott Hotel
• Last boat: 6:30pm
• Frequency: Every 90min

Click here for a detailed route map and its boarding points.

• Tip: Visit St. Stephen's Basilica, Budapest's largest church with an 8,500 capacity. Don't miss the mummified hand of Hungary's first king, St. Stephen, displayed near the main altar.
• Audio guide available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Hebrew, Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Finnish, Arabic, Greek, Turkish, and Hungarian.
• These tickets are valid for 30 days from the date of purchase.

Combo (Save 10%): 24/48/72/96/120-Hour Budapest Card + 1/2/3-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour Tickets

• Gain value with this combo, offering a Budapest Card and a hop-on hop-off bus tour, exploring the city's diverse attractions efficiently.
• Budapest Card offers free entries to top attractions like the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum, immersing you in the city's rich history.
• Take advantage of two complimentary walking tours to explore Buda's romantic charm and Pest's dynamic culture, providing a well-rounded Budapest experience.
• Explore Budapest at your own pace with a 1/2/3-day hop-on hop-off tour, passing revered landmarks like Parliament, Margaret Island, Heroes Square, and Chain Bridge.
• The Big Bus Tour offers a unique perspective of the city with a Danube River cruise and a guided walking tour, giving you an immersive Budapest exploration.

Budapest Card

• Budapest Card (24, 48, 72, 96, or 120-hour)
• Unlimited use of public transportation for the duration selected
• Two guided walking tours
• Online audio guide in German, English, French, Italian, Spanish (optional)
• Discounts at 86 selected providers

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

• Tip: Visit the unique Hungarian National Gallery to get a glimpse of the country's rich artistic heritage.
• Please note that most museums are closed on Monday.
• The free guided sightseeing walks will be conducted in English.
• The Budapest Card is to be used on consecutive calendar days, and not based on the time of day.
• The Budapest Card can only be used for one-time entry into attractions.
• Tip: Time your bus ride to coincide with sunset for beautiful views of the city.

Combo (Save 5%): Big Bus Budapest Hop-On Hop-Off Tour + miniBUD Airport Shuttle Round-Trip Tickets

• With this pocket-friendly combo, get passes for a hop-on hop-off bus tour around the city and swift round-trip transfers between Budapest Airport and the city center.
• Get access to the Red Route, a Danube River boat tour, and a 1-hour guided walking tour of Budapest, with the ability to hop on and off easily.
• Travel in comfort aboard the miniBUD airport shuttle which departs every 30 minutes and has a non-stop 24/7 running service.
• Choose between a 1, 2, or 3-day HOHO pass with your transfer tickets included!

Discover Pass + miniBUD Airport Shuttle Round-Trip Tickets

• Round-trip transfers between Budapest Airport and Budapest Keleti Railway Station
• Drop-off to hotels or selected locations in central Budapest
• Ample luggage allowance

Essential Pass + miniBUD Airport Shuttle Round-Trip Tickets

Explore Pass + miniBUD Airport Shuttle Round-Trip Tickets

• Round-trip transfers between Budapest Airport and City Center

Big Bus Budapest

• Tip: Experience the thermal bliss of Széchenyi Baths near Heroes' Square stop as you relax in the soothing hot springs and get an authentic Budapest wellness experience.

miniBUD Airport Shuttle

• Tip: Cross the iconic suspension bridge, Chain Bridge that connects Buda and Pest, offering picturesque views of the Danube River and the city skyline.
• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, Bulky Luggage Space.
• Upon arriving at the airport arrivals terminal, proceed to one of the information points to validate your voucher. After your voucher has been scanned, you'll be able to board the shuttle bus. This convenient door-to-door service will be provided by an experienced driver who will transport you to your chosen destination within central Budapest.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Budapest Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours 2024

Divided by the River Danube, Budapest in Hungary is one of the top tourist destinations in Europe and is home to some great examples of classical architecture. It’s made up of two distinct areas, the hilly Buda district and the flat Pest area, each with its own amazing sights and attractions. 

However, with a city this dense, planning your own transportation around town can be quite complicated and tiresome. 

Budapest Hop-on Hop-off buses are a very convenient and hassle-free way to get to explore the city’s highlights. You can choose which spots you want to visit and can plan your schedule as you wish. It’s as simple as it sounds; you can hop on a bus, travel to all important landmarks in the city, and then hop right off, with no strings attached. 

Read on to know all about the hop-on hop-off services in Budapest.

Why Choose Budapest Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours?

Hop-on hop-off tours are the easiest and most convenient way to experience the sights of Budapest.

• Open-Top Buses: The double-decker buses offer an excellent vantage point from which to take in the breath-taking beauty of the city.
• See all the Top Landmarks: You hop off at any attractions you wish to explore, or just enjoy the sights from the comfort of the air-conditioned bus. 
• Complimentary Add-Ons: Also enjoy additional services such as night tours, and or cruises along the Danube River.
• Save Money: Since the buses stop at all the major attractions in Budapest, you can save money on transportation when compared to visiting each landmark separately.
• Pre-recorded Commentary: There are audio guides in up to 23 languages to learn more about the city throughout your journey.

Your Budapest Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour Options Explained

City Sightseeing

• Choose between the 24, 48, and 72-hour options and explore the city in an open-topped double-decker sightseeing bus.
• With 22 stops across two routes, you will be able to visit all the city's major attractions at your own pace.
• Popular stops include Heroes’ Square, the Parliament, Castle Garden, and St Stephen’s Basilica.
• With certain tickets, you get a complimentary Danube River Cruise and access to a free walking tour & bike tour
• Ride on buses that are well equipped with services like WiFi, air conditioning, and comfortable seats.
• Listen to an audio guide in 16 languages that tell you everything you need to know about the city.

Flexible Cancelation Policy: You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Discounted Ticket: Infants aged 5 and under do not require tickets. Children aged 6-17 enjoy reduced prices on their tickets.

• Get 24, 48, and 72-hour hop-on hop-off tickets and explore the city in an open-topped double-decker sightseeing bus.
• With 20 stops across two routes, you will be able to visit all the top attractions in Budapest.
• Popular stops include Parliament, Margaret Island, Heroes’ Square, and Chain Bridge.
• With some tickets, you get a complimentary Danube River Cruise and access to a free walking tour & bike tour
• Enjoy buses equipped with amenities like WiFi, air conditioning, and comfortable seats.
• Listen to an audio guide in 23  languages and learn more about the history of Budapest.

Flexible Cancelation Policy: Get a full refund on canceling this ticket up to 24 hours in advance.

Discounted Ticket: Children aged 5-15 enjoy reduced prices on their tickets.

Budapest Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour Timetable

City Sightseeing 

• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
• Frequency: Every 20 minutes.
• Tour Duration: 140 mins
• Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM
• Frequency: Every 20-25 minutes
• Duration: 1hr 37min

Blue Route:

• Timings: 9:30 AM to 4 PM
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes
• Duration: 30min

Budapest Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour Routes

City Sightseeing has one curated route with a total of 22 stops.

On the Red Route , popular stops are Chain Bridge, Heroes’ SQuare, Castle Garden, Gellert Bath, and Parliament.

Big Bus has two routes with a total of 20 stops

On the Red Route popular stops are the Parliament, Gellert Baths, National Museum, Chain Bridge, and Vaci Street.

Along the Blue Route , popular stops are Castle Garden, Citadel, and Castle Hill Funicular.

Budapest Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour Highlights

St. Stephen's Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is the third largest church in Hungary. Originally completed in 1905, it is built in the neoclassical style and is named in honor of Stephen, the first King of Hungary whose right hand is housed in the reliquary.

Buda Castle

Buda Castle is a palace complex atop Castle Hill that was originally completed in 1265. But, the palace you see today was built between 1749 and 1769. It houses the Hungarian National Gallery and The Budapest History Museum.

Széchenyi Spa

The Széchenyi Spa is Europe's largest spa complex and one of Budapest's most popular bathhouses. The bath complex boasts 15 indoor thermal pools and 3 vast outdoor pools. Széchenyi Spa’s water has medicinal and healing properties.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

The Szechenyi Chain Bridge spans the Danube River and connects the areas of Buda and Pest. Opened in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge across the Danube in Hungary and is built using wrought iron and stone.

Gellért Baths

Gellért Baths are one of the city's largest and most well-known thermal spas. Built in the Art Noveau style, with stained-glass windows and brilliant porcelain tiles covering the walls, bathing here feels like a regal ritual.

Hungarian National Museum

Founded in 1802, the Hungarian National Museum is the national museum for the history, art, and archaeology of Hungary. There are seven permanent displays here, including renowned Byzantine art from the 11th century.

Hungarian Parliament

Situated along the Danube River, the Hungarian Parliament building is one of the finest examples of Gothic and Renaissance Revival architecture in Hungary. You can explore the 691 rooms, 10 courtyards, staircases, and statues.

Fisherman’s Bastion

The Halászbástya or Fisherman's Bastion near Buda Castle. It offers a panorama of Budapest from its Neo-Romanesque lookout terraces. The original walls were built in the 1700s, and the current structure in the 1890s.

Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden

Spread across 18 hectares, the Budapest Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world, having opened in 1866. There are more than 1072 species of plants and animals, ranging from butterflies to carnivores plants, Komodo dragons, and wombats.

Dohany Street Synagogue

Also called the Great Synagogue or Tabakgasse Synagogue, this is the largest synagogue in Europe. Built between 1854 and 1859 in the Moorish Revival style, it also houses the Heroes' Temple, the Memorial, and the Jewish Museum.

Heroes’ Square

Heroes' Square (or Hősök tere) is one of the major squares in Budapest, end of Andrássy Avenue next to City Park. Its iconic Millennium Monument has statues featuring the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important Hungarian national leaders.

Matthias Church

Matthias Church, or the Church of the Assumption of the Buda Castle, was originally built in 1015, though the current building was constructed in the 14th century in the late Gothic style. Two Kings of Hungary were crowned in this Roman Catholic church.

Hop On Hop Off Budapest Visitor Tips and Guidelines

• Buy your tickets online in advance and research the routes you want to explore.
• Set out for your tour as early in the morning as possible. That way, you will be able to see more of the city.
• Be flexible with your itinerary. Budapest has many wonderful sights to see all over town, so be prepared to go out of your planned schedule.
• Some of the attractions like museums need separate tickets. Note which attractions have tickets available online so you can book early and save time.
• Dress in relaxing clothing if you are planning to take a lot of stops on your way. Don’t forget to wear comfortable footwear as well.
• If you are going to visit churches and synagogues, then please wear clothes that cover the knees and shoulders.
• Since Budapest can get quite sunny, remember to put on sunblock before going on the tour and to carry sunglasses.
• Please carry water bottles and snacks to keep hydrated and full on your tour of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budapest Hop On Hop Off

A. Yes, Budapest does have a hop on hop off bus tour offered by two operators - Big Bus, and City Sightseeing.

A. You can purchase Budapest Hop on hop off bus tour tickets online.

A. Yes, you can buy Budapest hop-on hop-off tickets online here .

A. There are various hop-on hop-off bus tours, and their tickets which begin from €38.70.

A. Hop-on hop-off buses are tourist buses that allow you to board and leave whenever you like and sightsee at your own convenience

A. Budapest hop-on hop-off bus tours run at a frequency of 30 to 40 minutes.

A. Yes, you will get access to audio guides available in up to 23 languages, to help you learn more about the city.

A. Yes, the hop-on hop-off tours in Budapest are accessibility-friendly for wheelchair users.

One Day in Budapest: A Local’s Guide to Touring Budapest in a Day

Are you looking to experience the best of Budapest in one day? You’re in the right place!

Having only one day in Budapest is far from ideal, but don’t worry, you can still maximize your time here and make the most of it. As a local, I’m here to help you plan your perfect one day Budapest itinerary. Trust me, even just a day in this city will leave you with amazing memories, and you will be planning your return visit in no time.

Ready to explore what Hungary’s capital has in store for you? Let’s get into it!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

Table of Contents

Useful Info for Spending a Day in Budapest

How to get to budapest.

Most people arrive in Budapest by plane, but if you are coming from within Europe there are also excellent train and bus connections from nearby countries.

Budapest Airport is located 16 km (10 miles) southeast of the city center and international flights arrive from all over Europe. From the airport, the easiest way is to hop in a taxi but you can also opt to use public transportation.

The airport shuttle bus (100 E) connects the airport to the city center, making three different stops en route. The journey to Deák Ferenc tér takes about 40 minutes and a ticket costs 1,500 Ft ($4 US) per person.

It’s important to note that normal bus tickets and passes are not valid on this route. You must purchase a special ticket at BKK ticket offices or ticket vending machines. Once you get on the bus, you have to validate your ticket right after boarding.

Best time to visit Budapest

Budapest can be visited year-round, but your experience might differ depending on the season. If you want to take advantage of fewer crowds and pleasant weather, plan to spend a day in Budapest in spring or early fall.

The best time of year to visit is from April to May, and again in September-October. Summer can be very hot (especially in July and August), which makes walking around the city quite uncomfortable at times.

If you want to enjoy the Christmas markets in Budapest , the best time to visit is in late November and December. However, it can be very cold during this period, especially at night, so make sure to pack accordingly.

How to get around Budapest

Getting around Budapest is easy and fast. The city transportation system consists of four metro lines and it is also served by countless trams, buses, and trolleys.

Most of the attractions on this one day Budapest itinerary are close to each other, so you should be able to walk from one place to another.

If that’s not an option, then the public transportation network is a great alternative. A single ticket costs 350 Ft ($1 US) which is valid for one single ride without transfers. You can also buy a 24-hour Budapest travelcard for 2,500 Ft ($6.5 US), which is valid on all forms of public transportation for 24 hours.

For more information about the different kinds of tickets and passes, visit the official BKK website .

Where to stay in Budapest

If you have just one day in Budapest, my recommendation is to stay near the city center. All of the major attractions are within walking distance from each other and this will save you time on transportation.

The classic city center is comprised of the 5th, 6th and 7th districts (all of them are located on the Pest side) and there are plenty of great hotels to choose from. If you want to read more about what each district has to offer, check out my full guide on where to stay in Budapest .

If you’re in a hurry, here are my top recommendations for spending a night in Budapest.

LUXURY – Anantara New York Palace Budapest

Anantara New York Palace Budapest occupies an elegant 19th-century building in the heart of Budapest, close to the Opera and Andrássy Boulevard. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms feature luxurious Italian furniture and fabrics like silk wallpaper and Murano chandeliers.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Moments Budapest

Located on the iconic Andrássy Avenue of Budapest, Hotel Moments Budapest offers stylish rooms, wellness facilities, and an on-site restaurant. Each room comes with a private bathroom and exclusive bathroom amenities.

BUDGET – T62 Hotel

Attractively set in Budapest, T62 Hotel features air-conditioned rooms, a bar, free WiFi, and a shared lounge. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and a concierge service. T62 Hotel also offers a continental or buffet breakfast.

Morning of Your One Day in Budapest

Sunrise at fisherman’s bastion.

Even if you have only one day in Budapest, you can’t miss a chance to witness one of the most amazing and romantic sunrises in Europe. And there is no better place to do that than the Fisherman’s Bastion!

This 19th-century fortress is an iconic symbol of Budapest, and its beautiful towers and turrets are the perfect place to watch the sun come up over the Danube river. Plus, if you come early enough, there is no entrance fee to access the upper towers!

Even if you’re visiting in the summer when the sunrises are crazy early, the views from Fisherman’s Bastion are worth the early wake-up call. After all, you only have one day in Budapest – make it count!

If you’re not an early riser, I would still recommend heading to the Fisherman’s Bastion as early as you can. As one of the most popular tourist attractions, it gets super busy during the day, so it’s best to visit in the morning to avoid crowds.

Read Next: Top 20 Budapest Instagram Spots Recommended by a Local

Marvel at Matthias Church

Next up on your Budapest one-day itinerary has to be the impressive Matthias Church ! It’s just a 1-minute walk from Fisherman’s Bastion as it’s literally next door, so it makes sense to visit these two sites at the same time.

Matthias Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Hungary, and it’s full of incredible architectural details. Dating back all the way to the 1000s, the church has seen many transformations over the centuries, and its current Neo-Gothic style blends both classic and modern elements.

Although the exterior of the church is spectacular, the interior is just as breathtaking. However, it only opens at 9 am from Monday to Saturday and at 1 pm on Sundays, so going inside might not be an option if you visit too early. Nevertheless, you can still admire the outside of the church and get plenty of amazing photos.

Grab breakfast

After exploring two of the city’s most popular attractions, it’s time to make a quick stop for breakfast – the most important meal of the day. If you only have one day in Budapest, then you’ll want to fuel up for a full day of exploring! 

You’ll find plenty of amazing breakfast spots in Budapest , but my two recommendations are Home of Franziska on the Buda side or Mokka Cukka on the Pest side.

Home of Franziska is a chic cafe that’s well known for its breakfast options. Whether you’re after an omelet, waffles, or a smoothie bowl, this place has endless choices.

Your other option is Mokka Cukka which also has delicious breakfast options. With a wide selection of both sweet and savory options, you’ll be spoilt for choice here. However, some of the most popular options include eggs benedict, french toast, and American pancakes.

While Home of Franziska is really close to Fisherman’s Bastion on the Buda side, Mokka Cukka is actually almost right next door to the Hungarian Parliament, the next attraction on your one day Budapest itinerary. So no matter which one you choose, you’ll be close by either way.

Read Next: 24 Incredible Breakfast Places in Budapest You Have to Try

Tour the Hungarian Parliament

Once you’re done filling up on breakfast, it’s time to head over to one of Budapest’s most iconic attractions – the Hungarian Parliament. This impressive building is the third largest parliament in the world, and its Neo-Gothic style design is absolutely stunning.

To get there from the Fisherman’s Bastion, you have to walk down to Batthány tér where you can hop on the M2 metro line. Once you get off at Kossuth Lajos tér metro station (which is only one stop on the line), you’ll be right in front of the Parliament.

Now, since you’re only visiting Budapest for a day, squeezing in a tour of the Hungarian Parliament building can be a bit tricky. Visiting the inside of the building is only possible on a guided tour, and you have to buy a ticket in advance for a specific time slot.

Therefore, if you want to explore the Hungarian Parliament on your one-day trip to Budapest, then make sure to book a tour in advance. Tickets do sell out usually, but if you still have a few weeks left until your Budapest trip, you should be able to find a spot.

However, if you don’t end up being able to get tickets for the Hungarian Parliament, then don’t worry! You can still take in the stunning view of the building from the outside – it’s just as impressive and definitely still worth a visit.

Walk along the Danube River

After exploring the Hungarian Parliament, it’s time to take a break and enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Danube River. It only takes around 15 minutes to reach Szechenyi Chain Bridge from the Parliament building, so you can easily make the journey on foot.

On the way, you’ll be able to take in some gorgeous views of the river and the Buda side. You can admire some of the city’s most iconic sights, like Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion from a different perspective.

There are also a few great spots along the river where you can stop for a quick break. One of the most important stops you can’t miss is the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, which is dedicated to those who were killed during World War II.

Once you reach Szechenyi Chain Bridge, you can stop and admire Budapest’s first permanent bridge built across the river. It was designed by English engineer William Tierney Clark and it’s an iconic sight of Budapest.

Unfortunately, the bridge is currently closed for renovations until the end of 2023 so it’s not possible to walk across it. However, you can still admire the beautiful architecture of the bridge (at least the parts that are not under construction).

Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

After getting some fresh air along the Danube River, it’s time to head back towards the city center. There you will find St. Stephen’s Basilica , one of the most important churches in Budapest.

The basilica was built in honor of Hungary’s first king, Saint Stephen and it’s been a part of the city’s skyline since 1905. In fact, its 96 meters (314 feet) height makes it the largest church in all of Hungary and also the tallest building in Budapest, together with the Hungarian Parliament.

The exterior of the basilica is quite impressive, but the inside of the building is even more so. The entrance used to be free, but starting in 2023, you will have to pay 2,000 Ft ($5.5 US) to enter. However, it’s completely worth it as the interior of the basilica is simply breathtaking!

There are also regular organ concerts held in St. Stephen’s Basilica, so if you’re lucky enough to be there on the day of one, then make sure not to miss it. It’s truly a magical experience!

Another attraction you can’t miss on your one day in Budapest is the panoramic terrace of the basilica, which offers magnificent views of the city. It’s a great way to take in Budapest’s skyline and get some awesome photos of the city.

The terrace is open from 9 am to 7 pm, and the ticket costs 3,200 Ft ($8.5 US). The ticket also includes access to the Treasury, where you can see some fascinating religious artifacts and relics.

Read Next: 4 Days in Budapest: The Ultimate Budapest Guide by a Local

Afternoon of Your One Day in Budapest

Grab lunch at street food karavan .

After a full morning of exploring the capital, it’s time to relax and grab some food. There are lots of great restaurants in Budapest but one of the most unique and interesting places is Street Food Karavan.

Street Food Karavan is an awesome food court that’s home to a wide variety of food trucks, all serving different types of cuisine. Whether you fancy American food, Mexican, or you’re looking to try some local Hungarian dishes, you’re not going to run out of options here!

Some of the stand-out choices include Zing Burger, MexKitchen, Goulash Station, and Las Vegan’s.

The prices are really reasonable, so it’s perfect for budget travelers who want to try some traditional Hungarian food. Plus, the atmosphere here is really relaxed and laid-back and it’s a great place to get to know some of the locals.

One thing to note is that Street Food Karavan is completely outdoors, so make sure to check the weather forecast before you go!

Stroll around the Jewish Quarter

By visiting Street Food Karavan, you will be already in the heart of the Jewish Quarter so after lunch, I recommend dedicating some time to exploring the area.

This part of Budapest has a long history and is known for its culture, charm, and fantastic atmosphere. It’s also the most densely populated area of the capital. 

The Jewish Quarter is home to some of the most important monuments in Budapest, including the iconic Dohány Street Synagogue . Built in 1859, this synagogue is currently the largest synagogue in Europe and it’s definitely worth a visit.

Once you’re there, you can also visit the Jewish Museum, which is actually in the same building as the synagogue. The museum showcases the history of Hungarian Jews and it’s another great way to learn more about the city’s past.

The streets of the Jewish Quarter are also great for wandering around and admiring the unique architecture. Be sure to keep your eyes open for some of the beautiful street art!

Read Next: Where to Stay in Budapest: Best Districts & Hotels

Have an afternoon cafe at New York Cafe

Budapest is renowned for its coffee culture and one of the best places to experience it is at  New York Cafe . Opened in 1894, this cafe is considered to be one of the most beautiful cafes in the world and once you step inside, you’ll see why.

The atmosphere inside New York Cafe is simply stunning. With its ornate decorations, grand chandeliers, and breathtaking paintings, it’s no wonder it is such a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. It’s the perfect place to take a break and enjoy some delicious coffee and cake.

If you’re feeling really fancy, then you can also order afternoon tea which includes sandwiches, pastries, and scones. Another popular item on the menu is the 24-carat gold New York cappuccino.

New York Cafe is open from 8 am to midnight every day, so it’s a great place for an after-dinner drink as well. Unfortunately, they only take reservations for dinner, so if you want to visit the cafe during the day, factor in some extra time for queuing.

Evening of Your One Day in Budapest

Enjoy a romantic evening cruise on the danube.

There is no better way to end your one day in Budapest than going on a cruise on the Danube river. There are lots of different cruises to choose from and they all offer a great way to see the city’s stunning skyline.

One of the best options for a romantic evening is the dinner and sightseeing cruise. This Candlelit Dinner River Cruise starts at 7 pm and combines a delicious 4-course dinner with some of the best views of Budapest.

The cruise takes you past some of the city’s most iconic attractions, such as Margaret Island, the Hungarian Parliament, and the Danube Promenade. It’s a great way to end your one day Budapest itinerary and the perfect way to say goodbye to the city.

If you would rather have dinner elsewhere, take a look at this One-Hour Sightseeing Cruise instead. It has three different departure times (6 pm, 7.20 pm, and 8.40 pm) so it’s easy to find one that suits your schedule. It’s also way more affordable than a dinner cruise so it’s a great way to explore the city’s sights without breaking the bank.

No matter which cruise you choose, the views from the river are sure to take your breath away. I would recommend choosing a cruise around sunset time so you can see the city illuminated in all its glory.

Have a delicious dinner at a local restaurant

If you opted for a cruise without dinner, I would recommend having dinner at a local restaurant. Budapest is known for its delicious food and there are lots of great places to choose from.

Here are some of my favorite restaurants, all of which are located inside the city center:

• Borkonyha : This Michelin-star restaurant is a great place to sample some traditional Hungarian dishes with a modern twist. They also have more than 100 different types of wine!
• Mazel Tov : If you love Israeli and Middle Eastern cuisine, then Mazel Tov is the place to go. They have a great selection of dishes, from kebabs to falafel, and the restaurant is simply gorgeous.
• Két Szerecsen : This cozy bistro has been open for nearly 20 years and is one of the best places in the city to try some local cuisine. They also have an extensive drink menu and a terrace that’s perfect for summer evenings.
• VakVarjú Restaurant : Another great place for traditional Hungarian food is Vakvarjú Restaurant. Located in the heart of Budapest, this restaurant offers a wide selection of dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

No matter which restaurant you choose, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing dinner and a wonderful evening in Budapest!

End the night at Szimpla Kert

If you still have some energy left after your busy day in Budapest, head over to Szimpla Kert . This iconic ruin pub is one of the most popular spots in the city and it’s a great way to end your night.

Szimpla Kert is located in an old factory building and it has become famous for its unique decor made up of random furniture and interesting knick-knacks. It’s like stepping into a surreal alternate reality!

The bar has lots of different areas to explore and each one is more interesting than the last. You can enjoy some craft beers, dance in the garden area or even attend a movie night – there’s something for everyone.

Szimpla Kert is open until 4 am every day so it’s a great spot for late-night drinks or a post-dinner dance. With its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic decor, Szimpla Kert is definitely one of the highlights of any trip to Budapest.

Planning a trip to Budapest?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Budapest. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Hotel Guides:

• Where to Stay in Budapest: Best Districts & Hotels
• 17 Best Budapest Hotels with River Views
• Hotel Review: Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Travel Guides:

• One Day in Budapest: A Local’s Guide to Touring Budapest in a Day
• 2 Day Budapest Itinerary: A Local’s Guide to a Perfect Weekend in Budapest
• 4 Days in Budapest: The Ultimate Budapest Guide by a Local
• Top 20 Budapest Instagram Spots Recommended by a Local
• 24 Incredible Breakfast Places in Budapest You Have to Try
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Budapest in Spring
• 17 Festive Things to Do in Budapest in December
• Best Christmas Markets in Budapest You Can’t Miss (+Tips for Visiting)

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The ultimate hop on-hop off sightseeing tours in Budapest

Hop on-hop off buses, boat rides, walking tours, and more – here’s everything you need to know for the perfect sightseeing experience in budapest..

Budapest has a thousand faces, and no two visits are the same. You might want to see the historical side of the capital and check every important landmark during your stay. Or, you might choose to see the hip side of Budapest, visiting ruin pubs and posh cafés . Prefer exploring the surroundings either on foot or by bike? You’re spoiled for choice. There is, however, a less talked about yet obvious way of doing all the above: going on a sightseeing bus tour . Hop on and strap in, because we’re about to take a deep dive and explore the best hop on-hop off sightseeing tours Budapest has to offer.

In this article, we recommend multiple hop on-hop off sightseeing bus tours. Keep reading to get the full picture, or click t he links below to jump to the company you’re interested in.

1. City Sightseeing – Book with us for a 10% discount

2. Big Bus – Book with us for a 5% discount

3. RiverRide – book with us for a 5% discount

An all-around sightseeing experience: Hop-on hop-off with City Sightseeing Budapest

There’s hardly a more extensive way of exploring the city than Budapest Sightseeing’s Hop on-hop off tours. It’s almost unfair how many things you can do and see over the course of a few hours – getting on one of the signature red or green buses guarantees a memorable sightseeing trip through the streets of Budapest. But let’s see the numbers first! The main tour itself lasts for roughly 2 hours and includes 22 stops (2 of which with a quick stop for taking photos), and audio guide is available in 16 different languages . City Sightseeing Budapest’s double deckers give a unique vantage point for sightseeing: if you’re lucky enough to snatch a spot on the top, you get to see most attractions within arm’s reach – quite literally.

Where to hop on

Hop on-hop off stalls and offices can be found throughout downtown Budapest , but if you already have a ticket, you can get on the bus anywhere along its route. Finding a stop is super easy: just pinpoint the location using your map or the app. Signposts are clearly visible and easy to differentiate from regular bus stops. While there’s no set schedule, there’s a ride every 20-30 minutes , so no matter where you want to get on board, you don’t have to worry much about waiting.

When to hop on

Budapest Hop on-hop off day tours start as early as 9 AM , and the last bus departs at 5 PM . There’s also a night tour leaving at 8:30 PM from the Basilica . Tours operate all year: if you’re visiting during the hottest months, open top and air-conditioned buses grant a cool sightseeing experience, and if it’s colder during your stay, you can stay warm while seeing the landmarks of the city.

While some of the main attractions of Budapest are within walking distance , exploring the city on foot could take days. Now imagine getting on a Hop on-hop off tour and checking out every UNESCO World Heritage Site plus a dozen more spots, all in a matter of two hours! Don’t worry about rushing through the attractions: buses roam through downtown at a more than casual 30-40 kph (18-24 mph) speed, allowing you to marvel at every landmark.

So, without further ado, here’s what you can see during the two-hour trip:

Stop 1: Basilica

The journey starts right in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica. This massive cathedral was built over a century ago and has been an iconic monument of downtown Budapest ever since.

Stop 2: Széchenyi István tér

While the square itself is not that remarkable, the buildings around it certainly are. You’ll get a sneak peek of the Chain Bridge Budapest , the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, the Gresham Palace, and a handful other majestic buildings.

Stop 3: Március 15. tér

Dubbed as the “Gate of the Danube Promenade”, Március 15. tér (named after the failed revolution in 1848-49) houses several attractions, including the Inner City Parish Church, which was built almost 1,000 years ago.

Stop 4: Fővám tér

After passing Elizabeth Bridge and Liberty Bridge to your right, the iconic main building of the Corvinus University of Budapest and the equally imposing Central Market Hall continue the line of attractions.

Stop 5: Kálvin tér

Just a few hundred meters away from Fővám tér, Kálvin tér is another important stop on the “Kiskörút”(Small Boulevard). While it primarily functions as a busy downtown hub, it also boasts the marvelous building of the Reformed Church.

Stop 6 and 14: Astoria

One of the major junctions in the heart of the city, Astoria, is actually named after Hotel Astoria, one of the city’s most extravagant and storied hotels: this stunning building has preserved its looks for 100 years with almost no change.

Stop 7: Anker köz

Although undisputedly an iconic landmark of downtown Budapest, Anker Palace (located in Anker köz) can only be enjoyed from the outside as it had been neglected through the decades to such extent that it was closed in 2013.

The Hop on-hop off tour takes a brief stop here: you’ll have 10 minutes to walk around and snap a few photos before continuing the trip.

Stop 8: Andrássy Avenue 3

A part of the UNESCO World Heritage, Andrássy Avenue is perhaps Budapest’s best-known road. Right where the avenue runs into Deák Ferenc tér, you can see the eclectic façade of the Saxlehner Palace, which is one of the many landmarks on Andrássy Avenue.

Stop 9: Opera

Built by Miklós Ybl (who also designed St. Stephen’s Basilica), the Hungarian State Opera House is a gorgeous gem from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Composers like Gustav Mahler and Ferenc Erkel (composer of the Hungarian anthem) have served as directors of the Opera, a bustling hub for musicians, singers, and composers to this day.

Stop 10: Liszt Ferenc tér

Dotted with tiny cafés and crowned by the Academy of Music, Liszt Ferenc tér is a serene spot located just a few steps from Oktogon, another busy junction in the city.

Stop 11: Heroes’ Square

Definitely a finalist on any “Top Budapest Sights” listicle, Heroes’ Square is a must-see attraction. Apart from the immense statue complex dominating the view, it also serves as the gate to Városliget, which is the largest green area within the city limits.

Stop 12: Keleti railway station

Serving as one of the three major railway stations of the city, Keleti is the easternmost landmark during the tour. Built in eclectic style, the building itself is also adorned by statues of James Watt and George Stephenson, two iconic figures of the Industrial revolution and pioneers of rail transport.

Stop 13: New York Palace

Approaching downtown Budapest once again, New York Palace marks yet another spectacular stop of the Hop on-hop off tour. Home to the famous New York Café and a historic hotel, New York Palace is the jewel of Nagykörút (lit. Grand Avenue) with its rich, ornate façade and dazzling interior.

The tour takes its longest break here: you’ll have 15 minutes to walk up to the Citadel and take pictures of the breathtaking view.

Stop 15: Ferenciek tere

Just before crossing Elizabeth Bridge to explore the Buda side, your last stop is Ferenciek tere (lit. square of the Franciscans). Apart from being an important traffic junction, it’s worth remembering that Váci street, the go-to fashion and shopping street in the city, starts from this stop.

Stop 16: Citadel

After a steep climb to the top of Gellért Hill, the Citadel is the Hop on-hop off tour’s first stop on the Buda side. This is arguably the prettiest spot for taking photos of Budapest as the majority of the capital’s most prominent landmarks can be seen from here.

Stop 17: Várkert Bazár

Situated at the feet of the iconic building of Buda Castle, Várkert Bazár (lit. Castle park bazaar) is an old-new attraction of the city. Built over a century ago but just recently reopened in 2014, Várkert Bazár is a fancy addition to the Castle, packed with cafés, restaurants, and plenty of greens spots.

Stop 18: Clark Ádám tér

Located at a busy junction, this square is the alpha and omega of every road in Hungary: a large Zero Kilometer statue serves as the reference point for all road distance calculated within the country’s limits.

This is also the stop where you can take the Buda Castle shuttle. You can catch one of the tiny buses every 15 minutes, departing from the same stop where you get off the Hop on-hop off bus.

Stop 19: Batthyány tér

As the tour continues along the west bank of the Danube, the Parliament Building reveals its best-known side right across the river. Batthány tér itself has two iconic buildings: the Church of Stigmatisation of Saint Francis and the Saint Anne Parish.

Stop 20: Margaret Bridge, Buda side

This is the last stop of the Hop on-hop off tour on the Buda side: from here you can reach the most popular getaway spot of the city, Margaret Island. The island offers vast open spaces, a beach and a swimming pool, running paths, bars and much more.

Stop 21: Nyugati tér

Nyugati tér (lit. Western square) is home to a modern and a classic attraction as well. While West End Mall provides a perfect spot for shopping, Nyugati railway station is a busy hub for tourists as many trains depart from here to countries like Austria, Germany, Slovakia or the Czech Republic.

This is the last stop of the tour (merely 10 minutes from the last stop on foot), so even though you can get off for only a 5-minute break for taking photos, you might want to stay a bit longer to enjoy the sight of this landmark to its fullest.

Stop 22: Parliament

You can’t really spell a Hop on-hop off sightseeing tour in Budapest without the Hungarian Parliament Building. Stretching across Kossuth Lajos tér and located just a few steps from the Danube, the Parliament is not only the most iconic but also the largest building in the entire country.

Hop-on hop-off by night

If you think you’ve seen it all at daylight, hop on another bus tour at night. It’s often said that Budapest’s true beauty is revealed after dusk, and night tours do its best to live up to this standard. Hop on at Deák tér at 8:30 PM and enjoy an almost 2-hour trip through a city illuminated by a myriad of lights.

Boat ride by night

Your Hop on-hop off sightseeing experience can’t be complete in Budapest without taking a boat trip on the Danube. With a two- or three-day ticket, you get to spend a 1-hour guide tour (either in English or German) on a Danube boat cruise. Get on board to marvel at some of the best-known landmarks of the city – in fact, 8 of the stops from the Hop on-hop off tour can be seen from the boat cruise as well. And to get a little more than a sneak peek, check out our complete guide on all the landmarks along the river.

Should you visit between April and the end of September, the Hop on-Hop off tour includes a free voucher for renting a bike for one hour. Just get in the saddle and pedal to the Buda Castle and back – the rental can be found right at Stop 17, Várkert Bazár. Want to do some more exploring on two wheels? Check out what else we’ve got in store for you.

After all that vehicle-based sightseeing, how about stretching your legs a bit? Enjoy an hour-long guided tour between St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Chain Bridge as our expert tour guides take you through the posh 5 th district. Visit iconic landmarks, learn about their history – all at a comfortable pace. And if you’re looking for more routes, make sure to check our article on the top walks in Budapest. 

Go big with Big Bus Budapest – A sightseeing tour to remember

Another global sightseeing bus giant, Big Bus offers unforgettable hop-on hop-off bus tours in Budapest, too. Seasoned travelers know that this company doesn’t miss when it comes to quality sightseeing, and they sure live up to the expectations in Hungary’s capital as well. Their main tour (the red route) consists of 20 stops and lasts a bit over 1.5 hours , during which time passengers pass the main attractions and landmarks of this beautiful Central European city. During the tour, audio guide is available in a staggering 23 languages (Hungarian, English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, Polish, Swedish, Danish, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Greek, Turkish, Arabic, Hebrew, Brazilian Portuguese, Czech, Romanian, Croatian, Dutch and Norwegian).

Similarly to City Sightseeing Budapest, you can start your journey on a Big Bus tour from any of the 20 stops . Just use their app or website to locate the stop closest to you. Generally, buses run every 20-25 minutes , so whichever stop you choose, you shouldn’t wait long for your ride.

The first Big Bus Budapest tour starts at 9 AM from the first stop and the last one departs at 4 PM. Big Bus also operates a night tour (more on it a bit further down), which starts at 6 PM from the Basilica.

Big Bus Budapest takes you on a wonderful journey on both sides of the Danube, through a route fairly similar to that of City Sightseeing Budapest. Since we’ve covered most of the stops above, we’ll only list the stops of the company’s main route (the red one) and the main attractions and landmarks visible or accessible from the stops:

1. Heroes’ Square

• Zelnik Gold Museum
• Széchenyi Baths
• Budapest Hall of Art
• Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Vajdahunyad Castle
• Transport Museum

2. Keleti Railway Station

3. New York Café

• Great Synagogue Budapest
• Astoria Hotel

5. Váci Street

6. Castle Garden

• History Museum

7. Castle / Funicular

• Buda Castle
• Funicular: this restored 19th century antique will bring out your nostalgic side. As the toy-like cars climb the hill, you’re presented with breath-taking panoramic views of Budapest. Don’t miss out!

8. Batthyány Square

• Eternal Flame
• Church of St. Anne
• Parliament Building
• River cruise

9. Margaret Bridge

• Statue of József Bem
• Margaret Island
• Lukács Baths

10.   Nyugati Railway Station

11.   Parliament

• Statue of Imre Nagy
• Soviet Memorial
• Statue of Ronald Reagan
• Liberty Square
• Museum of Ethnography

12.   Basilica

13.   Chain Bridge

• Academy of Science
• Gresham Palace

14.   River Cruise / Dock 11

• Greek Orthodox Cathedral
• Vigadó Concert Hall
• St. Gellért Monument

15.   Great Market Hall

• Gellért Baths
• Cave Church
• Liberty Bridge

16.   National Museum

17.   Király Street

18.   Andrássy Avenue

19.   Opera

20.   Octogon / Liszt Ferenc Square

Soak in the sights of the illuminated city aboard a Big Bus. There’s a nighttime sightseeing tour starting from the Basilica at 6 PM every day, during which passengers get to experience the impeccable beauty that is Budapest after sundown. Please note: seating is on a first-come first-served basis.

Big Bus also offers boat rides with its Premium and Deluxe tickets (and with Premium being only a few euros more, it’s definitely worth it!), so you can get the most out of your sightseeing days in Budapest. Beautiful bridges over the Danube , and magnificent landmarks on the riverbanks wherever you look – a must-try in the Hungarian capital.

Walking tour

If you feel like exploring the city on foot , Big Bus also offers guided walk tours with all its ticket types. Although checking out Budapest from the comfort of a bus seat is arguably the most convenient way of sightseeing, there are some places you can only reach by walking. And since it’s covered in the price of the ticket anyway, why would you miss it? Slip in a pair of comfy shoes and get some feet-on experience of the city.

RiverRide – The famous amphibious bus of Budapest

Although RiverRide is technically not a hop-on hop-off bus tour ( you can’t get on or off whenever and wherever you want ), we just couldn’t write an article on sightseeing bus tours in Budapest and not say a word about it. Having begun its journey in 2009, RiverRide was the first amphibious bus on the European continent and became popular very fast. Let’s face it: it’s not everyday you splash into a major river and rock on the waves on a bus you just rode in the center of a city. Well, not every day outside of Budapest anyway. While some might be averse to trying this unique sightseeing experience, we can assure you: RiverRide is completely safe and, as a matter of fact, a real hit among tourists and families with kids who come to visit the Hungarian capital.

A ride on this curious bus takes approximately 1.5 hours depending on the traffic and water level, and audio guide is available in 12 languages (English, German, Hungarian, Russian, Italian, Spanish, French, Hebrew, Danish, Swedish, Romanian, Ukrainian).

Unlike City Sightseeing and Big Bus, RiverRide isn’t a hop-on hop-off bus tour, as you can only board and leave the bus at its departure and arrival point at Széchenyi István Square. The bus stop is in front of an office building at Széchenyi István tér 7-8., Budapest 1051.

RiverRide operates all year round, with 3-4 departures per day depending on the season. For the most up-to-date schedule, visit their website . Please note that unexpected events such as heavy traffic and a rise in water level may alter the schedule and route of the bus tours, so it’s best to check with the company before you book a ride.

The bus starts its journey at Széchenyi István Square and spends approximately half of the trip on land before it splashes into the Danube.

The stops of the ride are as follows:

1. Hungarian Academy of Sciences

2. St. Stephen’s Basilica

3. Synagogue

4. Opera House

5. Heroes’ Square

This is when the bus descends into the Danube from a ramp. Don’t get startled if you see a number of curious onlookers – despite having operated in Budapest since 2009, RiverRide continues to amaze most of the locals, too. Fun fact: the company goes out of its way to inform people they do not have to call emergency services, as their bus is perfectly capable of and was designed for floating in water .

7. Chain Bridge

8. Parliament

9. Citadella

10.   Buda Castle

After the bus/boat turns back near the Chain Bridge , it goes back to where it descended into the river, gets back on land and rides along the Danube back to Széchenyi István Square to finish its journey.

Stay connected during your sightseeing

The landmarks and attractions you’ll see during your bus tours are so worth sharing! Snap up a handy gadget that gives you loads of Internet while you’re out and about. Click here for more info. 

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Budapestbylocals.com

Budapest hop on hop off tours, convenient bus & boat sightseeing in budapest.

The Budfapest Hop On Hop Off tours offer you practical and convenient city sightseeing by bus, showing you the most famous Budapest’s sights.

From the air-conditioned , cool double deckers you can see and learn about the city’s most important historical and cultural monuments.

Guiding is provided through headphones or live guiding where you can select from several languages to listen to the guide.

No matter what’s the weather like, you’ll be sitting comfortably in the specially designed sightseeing bus and enjoying the city’s panorama .

In nice warm weather you can enjoy the sunshine on the open-top, cabrio buses while in bad weather you’re protected from the cold and rain in the closed vehicle.

You can hop on and hop off at any stop you like.

Here are the most popular bus tours that we tried and recommend to everyone wanting to quickly, efficiently see all the famous landmarks .

What Travellers Say?

Table of Contents – Budapest Hop On Hop Off Tours

Details: tour companies, itineraries, duration, tickets.

Currently three companies operate hop on hop off bus and boat tours in our city each with 48 hours ticket validity:

• Big Bus Tours – an international company with tours in several European cities. Offers two bus tours (a daytime and a night tour), 27-stops, audio commentary in 23 languages, departing at every 15-30 minutes with a boat tour, a night tour and walk tours included. Ticket validity: 48 hours, Price: 27.76 EUR – [highlight color=”yellow”]Offers the best value for the price:[/highlight] clean buses, friendly, helpful staff, good quality audio guiding.
• Giraffe Hop on Hop Off by the Citytour Hop On Hop Off Ltd. – their office is located at 2., Andrássy út district VI. and is open: Mon-Sun: 8.30-18.00. The company was founded in 2008 by the merge of two big local travel agencies: Eurama and Budatours. Today Giraffe offers several tours of various lengths (bus, boat, walk) in and outside the Hungarian capital. They have two daytime hop on hop off bus tours (red line and yellow line), a boat tour, and a night tour. Ticket validity: 48 hours, Price: 22 EUR/20 EUR.
• City Circle Sightseeing Tours by Program Centrum: two different bus tours (green & pink line), a night bus tour, two boat tours, free gifts and discounts to cafes, museums, galleries. Ticket validity: 48 hours, Price: 22 EUR/18.80 EUR.

Each Hop On Hop Off city tour lasts approx. 2 hours, you can hop on and join the tour or get off at any of the stops during the ticket validity.

1. Big Bus Tours – Day Tour, Night Tour, Free River Cruise & Free Walk Tours

You can see the major landmarks of Budapest form the dark red, open-top Big Buses. The daytime tour stops at 27 places covering all the important sights in both Buda and Pest.

The first bus departs from Heroes’ Square at 9.06 in the morning. Buses run at 15-30 minute frequency. The audio guiding (in 23 languages) on the history of the various sights can be clearly heard.

You can also go on a 1.5-hour river excursion with your ticket. A 1-hour night bus tour departing at 19.30 from Deák Ferenc Square is also included.

You can also go on two 1.5-hour guided walking tours ,: one explores the Pest side and starts at 11.00 from Andrássy út 3., the other takes you around Buda and departs from Szentháromság Sqr. in Buda Castle, every day at 14.30.

2. Giraffe Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Tours – 4 Routes

You can choose from 4 city tours : 2 during the day, a river tour, and a night tour.

You can choose from 22 languages to listen to the audio guiding :

English,German,French,Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Greek, Finnish, Swedish, Dutch, Russian, Arabic Japanese, Korean, Hebrew, Czech, Romanian, Polish, Chinese, Turkish, Croatian and Hungarian.

You can join the tour or leave at any stop you want. They also offer a walk tour .

Three colour-coded bus tours are:

• Red Line – 16 Stops: Departs from József Nádor tér in the city centre, every 30 minutes between 9.30 and 14.00, then at 15.00 and 16.00 – it covers all the major sights in 16 stops . Duration 2 hours.
• Yellow line – 20 Stops : The yellow line departs from Erzsébet Square in downtown, every 30 minutes between 10.00 and 12.00, then at 12.000, 13.00 and 14.000. Includes 20 stops , duration 2 hours.
• The night tour departs every day at 19.15 in May, September and October, every day at 20.15 in June, July and August. Duration: 1.5 hours. Departure from Dock8 at Vigadó tér (Pest, city centre, Danube Promenade).
• Boat Tour – tours depart at every 30 minutes between 11.30 and 16.30 then at 19.00, 21.00, 22.00. Four additional tours on the weekends (Friday, Saturday, Sunday): at 14.00, 15.00, 16.00, 17.00The tour lasts 1 hour .

TIP: See more Danube River Cruises with meal and/or drinks and live music (on the program starting at 19.00). Depart every day all year round, great value for money.

• Walk Tour: the 2-2.5 hour tour is every day at 10.00 departing in front of the Opera House on Andrássy Av, No. 22.

Your ticket will be valid for 48 hours.

full price: 22 EUR, students: 20 EUR.

Giraffe Hop Hop Off – Red Line – Itinerary-Main Stops (16):

1. Start:József Nádor tér

The tour starts in downtown Budapest , near most major hotels near the river Danube.

2. Stop: Erzsébet Square – You can change for the Yellow Line .

A small, centrally located park with a lake and a popular club, concert venue and bistro underneath it: Akvárium Klub .

People bask in the sunshine in good weather sitting on the benches around the lake.

The square is also a frequented by skateboarders – you can view their breakneck stunts all year round.

Budapest latest and most spectacular attraction , the Eye also stands there.

The gigantic Ferris wheel operates almost all year round, every day from 10.00 to 24.00 and offers a stunning view if you dare to take a ride on it.

The park regularly hosts festivals , one of our favourite is the WAMP Gastro & Design Fair on Sundays.

Landmarks: the City Centre, St Stephen’s Basilica

3. Stop. Andrássy út – You can change for the Yellow Line .

At the beginning of Andrássy Avenue , near St. Stephen’s Basilica.

It’s full of dazzling buildings (Opera), mansions and former palaces (mainly Art-Nouveau).

4. Stop: The Opera House – You can join the walk tour starting at 10.00 every day.

The Hungarian National Opera House is one of Budapest’s top attractions standing on the elegant Andrássy Boulevard.

The neo-Renaissance 19-century building awaits culture lovers with a rich ballet and opera program in two seasons each year. You can explore the interior on guided tours .

5. Stop: Liszt Ferenc Square – You can change for the Yellow Line .

Liszt F. Square, just off Andrássy út, is more of street packed with restaurants and bistros.

It has a lovely plaza with wooden benches and some greenery with the statue of Franz Liszt in its centre.

Landmarks: Music Academy, Budapest’s ” Broadway” (Theaters).

6. Stop: Heroes’ Square

Hősök tere is a sprawling plaza at the end of Andrássy avenue, next to City Park.

Numerous statues of Hungarian historic figures and the Millennium monument dominate the square.

Landmarks: two large art museums : Hall of Arts/Műcsarnok and Museum of Fine Arts (currently closed until 2018 due to a major reconstruction project), City Park, Holnemvolt Adventure Park (the former Amusement Park), Hungarian Circus, Vajdahunyad Castle , Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden

7. Stop Keleti Railway Station:

The stop is located near one of the three main train stations, the Keleti Railway Station in district VII .

8. Stop: New York Cafe

The legendary coffee house on the ground floor of the New York Palace , stands on Grand Boulevard and is often referred to as the most beautiful cafe in the world.

In its heyday, during the turn of the 19-20 centuries, it was a centre of literary life .

Today it belongs to a luxury hotel, the Boscolo Budapest Autograph Collection , but you can drop by for a coffee and scrumptious cake to ogle the lavish interior.

9. Stop: Astoria – You can change for the Yellow Line .

Not much to see here, Astoria is a busy transportation centre at edge of the inner city in district VII where Rákóczi út and the Small Boulevard meet. It received its name after the Astoria Grand Hotel that once stood on the corner (today it is the Danubius Hotel Astoria).

Landmarks: The Great Synagogue in Dohány Street is just a few steps from here as well as the Hungarian National Museum on Múzeum krt (on Small Blvd.)

10. Stop: Váci utca

The stop is in downtown Pest, right at the main pedestrian shopping street, Váci utca, and a few minutes away from the biggest market hall in Budapest .

Although the street is known for its many shops , cafes and restaurants (altogether around 500) it also offers some historic sights.

The wall of medieval Pest stood once here.

There’s a lovely baroque church, the Church of St. Michael that hosts organ concerts. Most of the buildings were built in the 19. century though.

Váci útca ends at one of Budapest’s most famous squares, Vörösmarty tér . The marble statue of Hungary’s famous poet, Mihály Vörösmarty dominates the square.

An iconic coffee house and confectionery, the Gerbeaud can also be found here. The square hosts Budapest’s main Christmas fair as well as a spring fair around Easter.

Do stop for a cappuccino (today they prepare coffee from freshly roasted, specialty beans supplied by a local roaster company, Casino Mocca) and a slice of cake (Dobos, Sacher, or Gerbeaud: layers of yeast-based pastry with home made apricot jam, ground walnuts with a chocolate icing on top) or dessert. Somlói galuska , a classic Hungarian dessert is really nice here.

11. Stop: Várkert Bazaar

A Várkert (Castle Garden) at the foot of the Castle Hill in Buda is a relatively new addition to the city’s top landmarks.

The series of buildings designed by architect Miklós Ybl at the end of the 19. century had been completely restored in previous years.

Today the former palaces house exhibitions , events, there’s a nice Renaissance-style garden and an escalator that takes you up almost to the Royal Palace .

You can take some great photos of the Pest side from many points as you explore the area.

12. Stop: Funicular, Clark Adam Square – You can change for the Yellow Line .

The Funicular (Budavári Sikló) is a special normal gauge railway vehicle at the foot of Castle Hill that will take you up to the Royal Palace.

The construction was initiated by Ödön Széchenyi, son of the Greatest Hungarian, Count István Széchenyi between 1868 and 1870 .

It carries passengers every day between 7.30 and 22.00 .

Fares: one-way full price: 1 200 HUF, return: 1 800 HUF, children-one-way (ages: 3-14): 700 HUF, children return: 1 100 HUF. You’ll find more information on the Funicular here .

Landmarks: the “0” km stone on Clark Adam Square, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge

13. Stop: Castle district

One of the oldest part of the city dating back to the early middle ages.

Landmarks: the Royal Palace that houses the History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery, Fishermen’s Bastion, Matthias Church , Szentháromság Sqr., lots of Gothic Medieval and Baroque buildings , charming cafes and bistros. A couple of smaller museums.

14. Stop: Gellért Hill

A dolomite rock in Buda with the Liberty Statue and the Citadel perched on its top.

Lots of parks , winding footpaths and wonderful panorama.

Landmarks: Statue of Bishop St. Gellért, the Gellért Baths, fantastic view from the top of the hill, the Citadel fortress

15. Stop: Március 15. Square – You can get on the Blue Boat Line at Dock 8A.

Március 15. Square is one of our favourite places in the city.

This small plaza along the Danube Promenade offers wonderful views of the Danube with the white graceful Erzsébet Bridge spanning it.

The two-towered Inner City Parish Church is the oldest building of Pest. The first temple was built on Roman ruins of Contra Aquincum in the XI. It was rebuilt and expanded in the following centuries for many times.

The remains of Contra Aquincum , a Roman fortress from the II. century were moved to a glass covered,underground room during the square’s reconstruction in 2010-11.

KIOSK restaurant is a fine place to have lunch or a drink while admiring the panorama form its terrace.

16. Stop Eötvös Square – You can change for the Yellow Line .

Eötvös tér is where the Danube Promenade (Dunakorzó) and a strip of luxury hotels (Sofitel, Marriott, InterContinental) start. This is the heart of the inner city.

The Chain Bridge, the Shoes on the Danube , Parliament on Kossuth Square are all within walking distance.

You’ll also find many restaurants and cafes in the area.

Giraffe Hop On Hop Off Yellow Line Itinerary – Main Stops (20)

The yellow line covers slightly more stops but the duration is the same as the red line’s cc. 2 hours. We only describe the ones that are not in the Red Line’s route.

1. Stop – Erzsébet Square – You can change for the Red Line .

2. Stop – Városháza Park

A tiny square near Deák Ferenc tér (M1, M2, M3 metro) that frequently hosts fairs around major holidays (Easter, Christmas).

3. Stop – Central Synagogue in Dohány Street

Budapest’s great synagogue, the second largest in the world and the largest in Europe , is a beautiful work of architecture built in the middle of the 19. century.

It is the place of worship and the most important religious monument and symbol of the city’s Jewish community.

The Holocaust Memorial Garden is in the courtyard: the metal willow tree commemorating the victims of the Nazi holocaust.

Landmarks: Hungarian Jewish Museum & Archives , Jewish District : a fastly developing area with ruin bars, restaurants, designer shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafes (My Little Melbourne, My Little Brew Bar, Warm Cup) and two more synagogues (Kazincy Synagogue, Rumbach Street Synagogue).

4. Stop – Astoria – You can change for the Red Line .

5. Stop – Eötvös Square – You can change for the Red Line .

6. Stop – Vigadó Square – You can go on a boat tour at Dock8A

The elegant building facing the Danube is the Vigadó hall (formerly Redoute) a concert hall and cultural centre that was build in the 19. century.

It was once the venue of grandiose balls and concerts by famous composers and musicians.

It was renewed a couple of years ago and it’s worth your time to take walk inside and admire the dazzling interior .

7. Stop – The Whale/Bálna

The Whale/Bálna is a monstrous steel and glass buildin g on the Pest riverbank.

It was meant to be thriving shopping and cultural centre, with a but unfortunately it still feels quite abandoned .

There’s a Sunday flea market and the New Budapest Gallery.

It frequently hosts events and festivals (Cheese Festival, Belgian Beer Festival). Nice view of the Danube and the Buda side from the cafe and pub terraces

8. Stop – Zwack Unicum Museum & Visitor Centre

The factory of the famous Hungarian digestive , the Unicum is in district IX.: Dandár utca 1 .

The museum introduces how the herb liqueur is made but you can also get an insight in the tumultuous history of the Zwack family. Opening hours: Mon- Sat: 10.00-17.00.

9. Stop – Gellért Square

It’s a lovely square in front of the Gellért Hotel and Thermal Bath .

The newest metro line, M4 has a stop here.

You can take a hike up to the Citadel frotress for some awesome photos or have a dip in the pools of the Gellért.

10. Stop – Funicular/Clark Adam Sqr. – You can change for the Red Line.

11. Stop – Batthyány Square (M2/red metro)

It’s a small square north of Castle Hill in Víziváros/Watertown, dotted with churches (the two-tower Church St. Anne regularly hosts organ concerts), historic buildings and statues.

It also has a Food Market , not as impressive as the Great Market at Fővám tér – where you can shop for local produce and food stuff.

12. Stop – Margaret Bridge – (trams 4, 6)

It’s one of the most beautiful bridges of the city and the second oldest that was refurbished a couple of years ago.

It connects the southern corner of Margaret Island and the Buda side. Scenic views, excellent place to take photos of the Danube and the Parliament .

You walk to the island, a refreshing green park with many leisure activities , from the tram stop in the middle of the bridge.

13. Stop – Nyugati Train Station (M3/blue metro, trams 4, 6)

Nyugati is one of the three major railway terminals in the capital city. Built by the Eiffel Company in the second half of the 18. century it boasts striking architecture.

The square , that is also called Nyugati is a major transportation hub where the Grand Boulevard (Nagykörút), Váci út and Bajcsí-Zsilinszky út intersect. There’s a large shopping centre, WestEnd , accessible from the underway or from Váci Road.

14. Stop – Jókai Square – You can change for the Red Line.

15. Stop – Andrássy Avenue 2. – You can change for the Red Line.

The stop is at the western end of the elegant boulevard, close to the Basilica and Erzsébet tér . Lots of opportunity for luxury shopping , taking a coffee break or just stroll and admire the marvelous buildings.

16. Stop – Széchenyi Square/Chain Bridge (tram2) – You can change for the Red Line at Eötvös tér, just a short walk to the south of Széchenyi tér.

17. Stop – Petőfi Square (tram 2) – You can go on a boat tour at Dock8A .

Petőfi Square is part the Danube Promenade next to Március 15. tér and Erzsébet bridge.

The statue of the revered national poet Sándor Petőfi (hero of the 1848-49 Revolution and war of Independence ) stand here.

There’s a drinking well should it be a scorching hot day. The Hungarian Orthodox Cathedral also stands here. Nice spot to admire the Buda side and the Danube.

18. Stop – Fővám Square/Central Market (M4/green metro, tram 2).

This is the southern end of Váci utca and the location of the Central or Great Market Hall, the first covered food market of the city. You can shop and eat at three levels.

Ideal place to pick up some Hungarian paprika spice , wine, honey, sweets, have a piece of strudel or a more heartier dish on the gallery.

19. Stop – Kálvin Square (M3/blue, M4/green metros, trams 47, 49)

Kálvin tér is part of the Small Boulevard .

The city’s New Main Street (partly pedestrian) begins here with charming squares, ample cafes, bistros and beautiful architecture .

Landmarks: the graceful, white building of the Hungarian National Museum is close by on Múzeum körút should you want to immerse yourself in the history of the country.

Egyetem tér is a favourite place of mine with the charming and quaint baroque University Church. There’s a Starbucks (in the place of the charming Cafe Alibi that sadly closed in February 2016) if you love overpriced, bad coffee and cakes.

Central Coffee House , just a few steps from Egyetem Sqr. on Károlyi Street is a fine example of Budapest’s historic cafes (coffee and cakes are much better elsewhere though: try one of the two specialty/3rd wave cafes on Múzeum krt : Budapest Baristas or Fekete Espresso & Brew Bar.

Dynamobake in Képíró utca, at No. 6., a small street just off Kecskeméti utca and a short walk from Egyetem tér is also a great choice: quality home-style cakes, biscuits, natural fruit syrups, fresh coffee and a friendly owner, Bea.

20. Stop – Király Street

The most interesting and the busiest section of the 1,6 km long street stretches between Károly körút and the Grand Boulevard in district VI.

As the firewall painting says on the photo Király is “the most Pesti” street in the city. It is packed with restaurants, cafes apartments for rent, hostels clubs and bars.

It is worth getting off here and explore the neighbourhood on foot. If you take detours to side streets of Király you can explore the buzzing party district, which is also the historic Jewish quarter.

Gozsdu Court – lots of restaurants and cafes, Akácfa utca, Kertész utca, Dob utca, Kazinczy Street (there’s a synagogue), Rumbach Street (another synagogue).

Remember to look up and admire the colorful firewall paintings that transformed the look of the area in recent years.

2. City Circle Tour – 2 Different Routes, Boat Tour, A Walk Tour, Free Bike Tour + Discounts

See all the wonderful landmarks of Budapest on the City Circle Bus Tours: in the extra package included are (for only 22 EUR):

• Green Line Tour: a 2.5-hour, extensive bus route with 20 stops , audio guiding in 25 languages, departing from the Basilica on Szt. István Sqr. every 30 minutes between 9.30-17.30, every day from 01. April till 02 November
• Pink Line Tour : a 1-hour bus tour with 12 stops , live guiding in English and German, departing from Clark Adam Sqr./Buda, every hour between 10.00-17.00, every day from 01. April till 02 November
• 2 One-Hour long Boat Excursions: one at night the other during the day, departs hourly between 10.45-20.45 every day from 01. April till 02 November, and at 21.30 and 22.30 in June, July, August.
• Your ticket is valid for 48 hours from the time of your first departure; you may hop off and hop back on the buses at any stop and whenever it suits you during the 48-hour period.
• Night Bus Tour: a 2-hour sightseeing once every day: departure at 20.00 in April-May and September-October, at 21.00 in June-July-August.
• A 1-hour bicycle tour on Margaret Island (during summer season): a green island in the middle of the river conveniently accessible from Margit Bridge, it is full of historic sights, monastery ruins, a rose garden, fountains, small zoo, a playground, tended walkways and paths ideal for biking. You can rent a bike on the island, from the staff stationed behind the musical fountain (southern tip of the island, near Margaret bridge).
• A 1-1,5 hour walking tour around Kossuth Square and the Parliament, Szabadság Square, the National Bank building, Ronald Reagan’s statue and the Basilica.
• A Booklet with Discount Coupons to cafes, restaurants, attractions, free goulash soup, a free glass of beer, a free shot of hard liquor.

Price: 22 EUR, 18.80 EUR for children under 12.

City Circle Hop On Hop Off Bus Green Route – Itinerary (20 Stops), Timetable:

Duration: 2.5 hours

Date & Time: every 30 minutes from 10.00 – till 17.00, daily between 01. April – 02. November

Guiding: audio in 25 languages, You’ll receive a headphone upon the first boarding that you can keep till your ticket is valid (48 hours).

• St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István tér): 09.30 – 17.30 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Pink Line .
• Széchenyi Square (Pest end of the Chain Bridge): 09.35 – 17.35 (every 30 minutes). The striking Art-Nouveau Gresham Palace – today houses the Four Seasons Hotel Budapest is the must-see sight here. – You can change for the Pink Line .
• Andrássy Avenue 1.: 09.40 – 17.40 (every 30 minutes): It’s full of dazzling buildings (Opera), mansions and former palaces (mainly Art-Nouveau).
• Opera House: 09.42 – 17.42 (every 30 minutes)
• Liszt Ferenc Square: 09.44 – 17.44 (every 30 minutes): A busy side street of Andrássy Blvd. with lots of green, and plenty of youthful restaurants, cafés and many people.
• Heroes’ Square: 09.55 – 17.55 (every 30 minutes): Hungary’s biggest square with the Millennium Monument : historical statues and famous museums.
• Széchenyi Bath/City Park: 09.59 – 17.59 (every 30 minutes): The Széchenyi is the grandest spas of the city with interior and open air pools, saunas, massages and other wellness treatments. In the vicinity, the Zoo , the Gundel restaurant, the Vajdahunyad Castle and many more attractions await visitors.
• Grand Hotel Hungaria, Rákóczi út 90., near Keleti Train Station: 10.07 – 18.07 (every 30 minutes): two historic hotels built in the middle of the 19. century used to stand here, the buildings were destroyed in the bombings during WW II, the building today houses the Hotel Hungaria City Center
• New York Palace: 10:13 – 18:13 (every 30 minutes)
• Astoria: 10:19 – 18:19 (every 30 minutes). In downtown Pest, near the National Museum and the Synagogue.
• Károly körút 23. – The Orczy House: 10.22 – 18.22 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Pink Line .
• Dohány Street Synagogue: 10:25 – 18:25 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Pink Line .
• Astoria: 10:30 – 18:30 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Pink Line .
• Ferenciek tere: 10:32 – 18:35 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Pink Line .
• Clark Adam Square (Funicular/Sikló): 10:39 – 18:39 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Pink Line .
• Castle Dirstrict/Royal Palace, Fishermen’s Bastion, Matthias Church: 10:44 – 18:44 (every 30 minutes)
• Citadella/Gellért Hill: 10:57 – 18:57 (every 30 minutes): The highest point of downtown Budapest, with breathtaking views of the city and its river.
• Március 15. tér/Elizabeth Bridge, Danube Promenade: 11:12 – 19:12 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Pink Line , and go on a Boat Tour .
• József Nádor tér: 11:22 – 19:22 (every 30 minutes)
• St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István tér): 11:25 – 19:25 (every 30 minutes).

City Circle Hop On Hop Off Bus Pink Route – Itinerary (12 Stops), Timetable

1. Clark Adam Square/Buda end of the Chain Bridge (Sikló/Funicular: takes you up to Buda Castle): 09:20 – 15:50 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Green Line .

2. Margaret Bridge: 09:35 – 16:05 (every 30 minutes)

3. Parliament/Kossuth tér: 09:38 – 16:08 (every 30 minutes): The Parliament is Budapest’s most revered building in the government district.

Kossuth Square got revamped in 2013: it is a more compact and greener place now with some statues of prominent Hungarian figures, a visitor center with museums and exhibitions, underground parking, and a pool in which the facade of the building reflects nicely.

4. Széchenyi Square (Pest end of the Chain Bridge): 09:43 – 16:13 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Green Line .

5. Petőfi Square (near Erzsébet bridge on the Pest riverbank): 09:46 – 16:16 (every 30 minutes). You can go on a Boat Tour, at Dock No. 10.

6. Whale Shopping, Cultural & Entertainment Centre: 09:50 – 16:20 (every 30 minutes)

7. Fővám Square (Great Market Hall/Vásárcsarnok): 09:55 – 16:25 (every 30 minutes)

8. Kálvin tér (National Museum/Nemzeti Múzeum): 10:00 – 16:30 (every 30 minutes)

9. Károly körút 23. – The Orczy House: 10:06 – 16:36 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Green Line .

10. Városháza tér/City Hall Square: 10:09 – 16:39 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Green Line .

11. Ferenciek tere: 10:14 – 16:44 (every 30 minutes).You can change for the Green Line .

12. Clark Adam Square/Buda end of the Chain Bridge (Sikló/Funicular: takes you up to Buda Castle): 10:20 – 16:50 (every 30 minutes). You can change for the Green Line .

Budapest Walking Tours – Sightseeing Tips – Budapest in 1 Day – World Heritage Sites

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About the author.

Lizzy is a Budapest native who lives in one of the suburban districts with her husband, their two boys and 2 dogs. Besides exploring Budapest, in her freetime she loves baking and biking in the Buda Hills.

One Day in Budapest: How to See Budapest in a Day

With its regal architecture, stunning setting along the Danube, delicious food, and compelling history, spending even just one day in Budapest is always a treat.

Can you see all of Budapest in a day?

Most definitely not–in a perfect world, I’d suggest no fewer than 3 days here , and we personally still have plenty of things to do in Budapest on our wish list after spending several weeks in the city.

But schedules don’t always work in our favor, and with a little advance planning, an early alarm clock, and some luck, you can see a surprising amount of Budapest in one day.

Trying to pull off one perfect day in Budapest, Hungary?

Here’s how to structure your Budapest itinerary !

Table of Contents

Budapest in One Day Itinerary

Where to stay in budapest, getting around during one day in budapest, tips for seeing budapest in a day, read more about visiting budapest (and beyond), your one day budapest itinerary map.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Start your morning bright and early at Fisherman’s Bastion.

Beautiful Fisherman’s Bastion, with its fairytale-castle-like architecture and amazing views of Budapest, is the perfect place to kick off your one day Budapest itinerary.

While Fisherman’s Bastion was only built in the late 19th century and never acted as a castle, that doesn’t change the fact that it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Budapest!

Seeing the city from above while it is bathed in the morning light is a special experience–and so is beating the bulk of the crowds to this incredibly popular viewpoint.

Duck inside Matthias Church.

Directly behind Fisherman’s Bastion sits the colorful and striking Matthias Church.

With its brightly colored tiled roof, detailed painted interior, and architectural splendor, it’s no surprise to learn that this building has quite a history !

Dating back to the 13th century, Matthias Church has, among other highlights, played host to royal weddings, the coronations of two Habsburg Kings, and spent 150 years as a mosque.

Its current colorful rooftop, though, is the product of a more recent facelift: it was installed in the late 19th century when Fisherman’s Bastion was built!

Take the funicular down from Castle Hill.

The fastest–and arguably most fun–way to get from the top of Castle Hill where you visited Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church to Budapest’s iconic Chain Bridge is to take the Castle Hill Funicular.

Originally built as public transportation in the 19th century, the funicular is now used exclusively to ferry tourists up and down beautiful Castle Hill.

Not in the mood for a funicular ride, or the line is too long?

Don’t worry–you can catch a bus as well.

Stroll across the Chain Bridge.

Budapest’s Chain Bridge is arguably the second-most recognizable feature of the city, just behind the Hungarian Parliament building.

A walk across here will not only give you an up-close-and-personal view of the bridge, complete with its imposing lion statues, but also the Danube, Parliament, Margaret’s Island, and several other bridges and features of Budapest.

We always make a point to walk across the Chain Bridge on every visit to Budapest–it’s just too much fun to miss!

Stop by the Shoes on the Danube monument.

Once you exit the Chain Bridge on the Pest side of the river, turn left and stroll along the Danube.

The views of Buda across the water and Parliament ahead are lovely, but be sure to keep an eye out for the Shoes on the Danube monument as well.

These brass shoes are permanently affixed to the bank of the Danube to tell a very sad story: the shoes are installed as a memorial to people (many of them Jews) who were murdered along the banks of the Danube in Budapest in 1944 and 1945.

Before being shot and having their bodies fall into the Danube to be swept away, victims were forced to remove their (valuable) shoes, so as not to waste them.

And, while I hate to even have to say this, things I’ve seen and heard about happening here compel me to point out that this is definitely not the place for Instagram photos or selfies.

S tay respectful, please.

Marvel at the Hungarian Parliament.

The magnificent Hungarian Parliament building is nothing if not opulent.

As the most recognizable feature of Hungary and perhaps one of the most beautiful seats of government in all of Europe, it is an incredible building that absolutely deserves some attention during your one day in Budapest.

If you’d like to take a tour inside the building, you’ll need to  book a tour  at least a few days in advance.

When updating this post in 2023, I was surprised to see how far in advance tickets are booked out–so the further ahead you can plan this visit, the better!

(If tickets are sold out for your dates and you want to be sure to visit, another option is booking  a third-party guided tour like this  that includes a visit to Parliament).

If you’d rather not fork over the forint, admiring the building up close from the outside is definitely still worth the visit.

Make your way to St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Named for the first King of Hungary (you’ll definitely see St. Stephen’s name a lot around the city!), St. Stephen’s Basilica has a beautiful interior, beautiful views from its rooftop, and–for an unexpected twist–St. Stephen’s right hand.

Whichever of these highlights does (or doesn’t!) appeal to you, there’s no doubt that almost everyone can find something interesting about St. Stephen’s Basilica.

We definitely recommend climbing the tower if you have time, but keep in mind that the elevator option still requires some stairs, so those with mobility issues should probably abstain.

Stop for coffee and cake and Central Cafe.

There are endless opulent coffee shops in Budapest, a relic from its glitzy 19th-century heyday, but we’re personally partial to Central Grand Cafe .

Both cheaper and less crowded than the ever-famous New York Cafe (though Central Cafe is still very pricey for Budapest!), tucking into a coffee and a piece of Esterhazy Cake in their gorgeous dining room is one of my favorite pleasures in the city.

Whether you choose Central Cafe or another spot in Budapest, part of your attempt to see Budapest in a day should definitely include a visit to a beautiful coffeehouse!

Visit Central Market Hall.

Budapest’s bustling Central Market Hall is an absolute must-see with one day in Budapest.

The sights, smells, and tastes here are just delightful–and if you’re hoping to take home some Hungarian paprika, this is an easy and fun place to buy it.

Be sure to visit both the first floor, home to food and spice stalls, and the second, which has both Hungarian souvenirs (think lace, carvings, etc., along with some more typical souvenirs like t-shirts and magnets) as well as restaurants and fast food stalls.

Though the market is a bit touristy these days, it’s still lovely and definitely worth a visit.

If you’re up for a snack, the langos sold upstairs isn’t bad, either!

We recommend getting it the traditional way, topped with sour cream and cheese (we eat at least one of these on every trip to Budapest).

To get to Central Market Hall from Central Cafe, we recommend going a couple of minutes out of your way to stroll down Vaci Utca, one of the most famous streets in Budapest, and one of its main pedestrian thoroughfares.

Relax at the Szechenyi Thermal Baths.

From here, it’s time to hop onto Budapest’s public transportation system and head to a completely different part of town–City Park!

Make a beeline for the Szechenyi Thermal Baths to experience an iconic Budapest experience (just don’t forget a bathing suit and anything you need to freshen up , because you’re probably not headed back to your hotel afterward).

How long to spend at the thermal baths is completely up to you–many people could easily spend all day here, but with only one day in Budapest, obviously, that’s not an option for you.

A couple of hours, depending on how your day in Budapest is going so far, should definitely work.

We absolutely recommend buying your ticket in advance to save time when you’re in Budapest!

Buy your skip-the-line ticket for the Szechenyi Thermal Baths now!

Check out other City Park sights.

Once you’re refreshed from your dip in the thermal baths, it’s time to check out another couple of famous sights around the park, which are a very short walk from the Szechenyi Baths.

Be sure to stop by…

Vajdahunyad Castle

Vajdahunyad Castle was built in the late 19th century in honor of Hungary’s 1000th birthday as part of the same flurry of activity that brought us Fisherman’s Bastion and the colorful rooftop of Matthias Church.

The castle was originally built out of cardboard but ended up being so popular that it was eventually rebuilt into the permanent structure you see today.

Heroes ‘ Square

Also built in 1896 to commemorate 1000 years of Hungary, the monuments of Heroes’ Square honor leaders of the Magyar tribes who brought their people to Hungary, various freedom fighters, and former Hungarian Kings.

It’s a mishmash , if you will, of honored Hungarians throughout the country’s very long history.

Close out your one day in Budapest with an iconic experience.

At this point, your day in Budapest will be coming to a close–but hopefully, your energy will hold out for at least one more experience!

Here’s how we suggest finishing up your trip.

Option 1: Cruise on the Danube.

A cruise on the Danube at night is a truly incredible experience.

Lights highlight the city’s most important structures, including Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament, and the dazzling lights of the city that surround the landmarks are also captivating.

We adored our sunset cruise on the Danube, and think it’s an excellent way to finish up seeing Budapest in a day.

Whether you opt for  an extremely affordable sightseeing cruise  or  a dinner cruise featuring Hungarian food and folk dancing , it’s definitely worth the splurge to hit the water while in Budapest.

Book your Danube river cruise today!

Option 2: Hit up the ruin bars.

More of a partier, or just love a unique nightlife space?

If so, t hen you can’t leave Budapest without experiencing its ruin bars!

These pubs are set up in once-abandoned buildings in Budapest’s Jewish district, and each has its own unique vibe.

Consider starting your night at the famous Szimpla Kert, or sign up for a pub crawl to put the planning in someone else’s hands and make sure you find the coolest spots!

Book your Budapest pub crawl today!

Option 3: Why not both?

Up for a late night?

There’s nothing stopping you from finishing your one day in Budapest with a sunset cruise followed by a trip to the ruin bars!

Budapest tends to run on the late side anyway , and combining both options is a great way to get every last moment of enjoyment out of a day in Budapest.

If you’re planning a day trip to Budapest, perhaps by visiting as part of a greater Danube river cruise or hopping over from Vienna, you can of course skip this section.

For those planning to spend one night in Budapest, though, we recommend opting for a central hotel that will allow you to spend most of your day exploring on foot.

Here are a few great places to stay in Budapest!

Jackquaters  — Located right next to Vaci Utca and only 100 meters from the Danube, Jackquaters is the perfect location for anyone visiting Budapest.

Budapest highlights like the Chain Bridge and Great Market Hall are within easy walking distance.

Check rates & book your stay at Jackquaters!

Hotel Erzsébet  — With Central Market Hall and Vaci Utca at your fingertips, you definitely won’t go hungry while staying at the beautiful Hotel Erzsébet!

With modern interiors, easy access to the metro, and a central location, this well-reviewed property is a reliable and cozy place to stay.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Erzsébet!

Hotel Mika Superior  — Not only does Hotel Mika Superior offer beautiful rooms, fabulous service, and a delicious included breakfast, it’s located in the old Jewish Quarter of the city, near the Dohany Street Synagogue and Hungarian Opera House.

This is one of our personal favorite neighborhoods to stay in while visiting Budapest!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Mika Superior!

The first half of this suggested itinerary for Budapest in a day can virtually all be done on foot, minus the funicular ride that’s mentioned.

Not only will walking cut down on costs, but it will also help you see more of the city–Budapest is beautiful enough that it deserves to be admired on foot as much as possible.

After visiting Central Market Hall, though, you’ll definitely want to pick up public transportation to head to City Park and to the thermal baths .

You’ll also likely want to take public transportation from City Park to the Danube for a river cruise and/or to the ruin bars .

Budapest has a great (and inexpensive!) public transportation network comprised of trams, a metro, and buses.

You can buy single tickets, a group of 10 tickets, a 24-hour pass, a 72-hour pass, or a 7-day pass to the transportation system.

Depending on where you’re staying for your one day in Budapest and whether you’ll need transportation to get to and from there, you may want to buy a 24-hour pass, or it might be easier to simply buy individual tickets.

We recommend running the numbers for both based on your own plans and preferences!

You can’t see it all, so don’t try.

Sadly, this suggested one day Budapest itinerary barely scratches the surface of the city–but with so many incredible things to do in Budapest , there’s simply no way to cover them all with limited time.

Our very first trip to Budapest only lasted about 2.5 days–and while we didn’t come close to seeing everything we wanted, we definitely left knowing that we would be back (and we made good on that promise–we’ve been back more than once!).

If you have your heart set on a specific Budapest experience that isn’t covered here, absolutely make room for it… just know you’ll probably have to cut something else from the list to do so.

Eat as much Hungarian food as you can!

Hungarian food may be difficult to pronounce for most of us, but it is delicious.

With only one day in Budapest, don’t bother with anything other than Hungarian food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

You won’t be sorry !

Book your attractions in advance.

With only one day in Budapest, you’ll make life much easier for yourself if you book tickets to attractions ahead of time–and for visiting Parliament, it’s absolutely necessary! If you’re following this suggested itinerary for Budapest in a day, we recommend purchasing a Hungarian Parliament tour (if you want to go inside and tickets are sold out), a Szechenyi Thermal Baths ticket , a Danube cruise , and/or a ruin pub crawl before arriving in the city.

Ready to keep planning your trip to Central Europe?

We’d love to help!

You can  browse all of our Hungary blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• Budapest in November: Worth the Trip? (+ Tips!)
• Prague or Budapest: Which One Should You Visit
• The Perfect 7 Day Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary
• Our Delicious Budapest Food Tour + Wine Tasting (+ How to Book!)
• How to Travel Europe By Train: The Ultimate Guide (+ Tips!)

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

13 thoughts on “One Day in Budapest: How to See Budapest in a Day”

Wow! You packed a lot into a one day itinerary. I visited Budapest back in 2012 for a few days and I don’t think I got to all of this stuff. A reason to go back, for sure! We just moved to Prague so jetting off to Budapest for the weekend, and following this itinerary, seems like something to add to our summer to-do list. Thanks for the inspo!

https://teaspoonofadventure.com/

Great One Day Itinerary to one of our favourite destinations in Europe! But you forgot the amazing Street Art and Murals! They are a must see as well. Visit our blog for Street Art!

Budapest does have some amazing street art! It’s not our personal priority with one day in the city–it’s on or 3 day suggested itinerary, though!

Followed your itinerary and we were not disappointed!! Thanks for creating such a great guide to such a beautiful city! Our short time there was wonderful!

Thrilled to hear that, Diana! So glad you had great time in Budapest. We can’t wait to walk along the Danube there again.

Wonderful itinerary. How many of the places you’ve mentioned do allow dogs? We are traveling with a psychiatric service dog we don’t know the Hungarian laws.

Hi Andreea! We haven’t taken Ranger to Budapest yet, so no first-hand knowledge, but I understand that Budapest is considered to be very dog-friendly, with well-behaved dogs being welcome in most restaurants and shops. 🙂

Great itinerary! Will definitely follow this as we also have 1 day to spare in Budapest. What do you recommend as mode of transport for 1 day? Also how early did you start your day? We are going by the end of this year.

Thanks, Kay!

The first half of this itinerary is pretty walkable, but after Central Market Hall, you’ll want to pick up some transport. We typically use the metro in Budapest but there are trams/buses available as well.

To avoid the crowds (and take advantage of as much daylight as possible since you’re visiting in winter), I’d recommend arriving at Fisherman’s Bastion as soon after sunrise as you can. The sun doesn’t rise until almost 8:30 AM in December, though!

I followed your blog for my one night stay in Budapest and I must say this blog was very very helpful! I followed exactly the same way you have suggested. Highly recommend it to people who are looking to stay in Budapest for a short period! Thank you 🙂

Thank you so much for sharing, Sania!

Glad you had a great trip to Budapest and thrilled we were able to help. 🙂

Thank you for this advice! Other ‘One Day in Budapest’ blogs and vlogs just list the major tourist attractions. You actually describe how to walk it, and what to focus on, and what to pass by.

Thanks, Tonya! Hope you love Budapest as much as we do. 🙂

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Budapest One Day Itinerary + Map, Tips & Guide

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What To Do in Beautiful Budapest for a Day

In recent years, Budapest has become one of the most popular tourist spots in Europe, and for a good reason!

Straddling the mighty Danube River, the Hungarian capital is full of history, has some amazing spas thanks to its thermal waters, and is home to some of the most beautiful landmarks in Europe. With a lively blend of Western, Eastern, and Central European culture, Budapest is eclectic and interesting.

In this Budapest travel guide, we’ll share an itinerary for a day in Budapest, highlighting the top attractions and hidden gems that you won’t want to miss. You’ll find information, tips, and recommendations for visiting Budapest, with an interactive map, organized to make the best use of your day.

Budapest Trip Resources

Here are the services we use and recommend for traveling in Hungary;

• Search for affordable flights with Skyscanner
• Book your airport transfers with Intui Travel
• Find hotel and accommodation deals with Booking.com
• Book the best value car rentals with Rentalcars.com
• Find the best activities and tours with Get Your Guide
• Get highly-rated travel insurance with True Traveller
• Get your convenient travel esim from Airalo or Holafly

When to Visit Budapest

Late spring and early autumn will still grant you warm temperatures with fewer crowds and more affordable hotel rates.

If you love Christmas markets and beautiful Christmas decorations, visiting Budapest during the holidays is also a great idea. Keep in mind that winters in Budapest are usually quite cold, so make sure to pack some warm clothes.

RELATED POSTS: Europe Winter Destinations: 22 Amazing Wintry Places

Getting to Budapest

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport , formerly known as Budapest Ferihegy International Airport, and still commonly called just Ferihegy, is the international airport serving Budapest, and by far the largest of the country’s four commercial airports. The airport is located 16km southeast of the center of Budapest.

You have several options to get into downtown Budapest from Ferihegy Airport;

Transfer – The quickest and most convenient option, you can book in advance with Intui Travel .

Taxi – Grab a metered cab which will cost around 8,045 HUF (Hungarian Forint) and take about 35 minutes.

Bus –  Airport shuttle bus 100E departs from the airport every 30 minutes and the trip takes approximately 35 minutes to Deák Ferenc tér central metro station, tickets cost 900 HUF. Bus 200E will drop you off at Nagyvárad tér from where you will need to take a metro to reach the city centre and this line can be used with regular BKK (Budapest’s public transport system) tickets.

Where to Stay in Budapest

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – Booking.com | Agoda
• Mid-Range: Callas House – Booking.com | Agoda
• Budget: Hotel Rumor – Booking.com | Agoda
• Hostel: NETIZEN Budapest Centre – Booking.com | Agoda

What to See & Do in Budapest

Separated by the Danube River,  Buda and Pest  form the two halves of Hungary’s capital, linked by the famous Chain Bridge since 1849. Despite being spread across both sides of the Danube, Budapest is a compact and very walkable city.

Follow our one day Budapest itinerary to see all the highlights of this wonderful city within your tight timeframe. If you prefer someone else to organize your day, check out this small group orientation walking tour of Budapest with a local guide.

One Day in Budapest Interactive Map

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Catch the Sunrise at Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the most iconic places in the city and it’s certainly the best place to start your first day in Budapest. Although it looks like a fairytale castle, it’s actually a panoramic lookout tower located on the Buda side of the city.

Since it’s one of the top tourist spots in Budapest, try to visit as early as possible to avoid the crowds. If you don’t mind waking up early, watching the sunrise from Fisherman’s Bastion will surely leave you speechless. 

From there, you can enjoy an incredible panoramic view over the Pest side of the city, including some of the top Budapest must-sees like the Hungarian Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica. 

Top Tip : An advantage of getting up early is that you don’t need to pay an entrance fee for the upper towers. While most part of the Fisherman’s Bastion is free to visit, you need to pay 1,000 HUF to enter the upper part if you get there after 9am.

Admire Matthias Church

Behind Fisherman’s Bastion is the Church of the Assumption of the Buda Castle, more commonly known as the Matthias Church, which was built between the 13th and 15th centuries.

At the end of the 19th century, it was completely renovated and has a predominantly neo-Gothic style with a distinctive slender spire and an intricately tiled and colorful roof.

Explore the Castle District

Sitting on top of a hill overlooking the city, Buda Castle is one of the most important historic landmarks in Budapest and it’s a must-visit on every Budapest itinerary.

The castle that once used to be the residence of Hungarian kings is now the home of many interesting museums, such as the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. 

While you’re there take the opportunity to explore the labyrinth cave system under the Buda Castle District as you learn about the history and unique geology of the caverns.

From Fisherman’s Bastion, it takes around fifteen minutes to reach the Castle on foot. Alternatively, if you don’t fancy walking up the hill, you can use the funicular to save your legs. Getting lost in the Castle District and soaking up the views is definitely one of the best things to do in Budapest in one day. 

On your way down from the Castle, don’t forget to visit the Castle Garden Bazaar. It’s recently been renovated and consists of many beautiful gardens, exhibition halls and restaurants.

Cross Széchenyi Chain Bridge

After visiting the most important monuments on the Buda side, it’s time to explore the Pest side of the city. You can find eight bridges crossing the mighty Danube River in Budapest, each with different styles and characteristics. 

Szechenyi Chain Bridge, with the giant stone lions guarding each bridgehead, is certainly the most famous bridge in Budapest.

It was the first permanent bridge built on the Danube River and it connects the Castle District with the city center on the Pest side. The bridge itself is really beautiful as well but nothing can beat the views you get from the bridge!

Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

No Budapest itinerary is ever complete without visiting the largest and most beautiful church in Budapest, St. Stephen’s Basilica.

The construction of the Basilica started in 1845 but it wasn’t completed until 1905. It was named after the first King of Hungary, Stephen, who was also the founder of the Hungarian state. 

This Roman Catholic masterpiece is open every day from 9am to 7pm and the entrance is free. However, if you want to go up to the panoramic lookout towers, you need to pay a small entrance fee of 1,000 HUF. Although there is an elevator, you will still need to climb a few stairs but don’t worry, the 360-degree view will surely make up for it.  

The lookout tower has different closing times in each season and unfortunately, it closes pretty early in the summer, at 6.30pm. Winter is the only period when the tower is open long enough to watch the sunset which is a pretty magical experience!

If you’re visiting in late November or December, you can also see one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Budapest in front of the Basilica from a bird’s eye view. 

Top Tip : If you want to include a little break, head over to High Note Skybar which is one of the best rooftop bars in Budapest. It’s located right next to St. Stephen’s Basilica so you can get an up-close view of the Basilica from the terrace.

Check Out Deák Ferenc Square

After visiting St. Stephen’s Basilica, head over to Deák Ferenc Square which is the heart and soul of the city center. From spring to autumn, the square is usually full of locals and tourists alike, making it one of the liveliest places in Budapest. You can find many restaurants and cafés with great outdoor terraces around the square. 

Alternatively, you can just simply sit on the grass like many locals do while catching up with friends and doing some people-watching.

Deák Ferenc Square is also the starting point of Fashion Street, or Deák Palota , a pedestrian-only street lined up with luxury fashion shops and high-end restaurants. Right behind the square is a giant Ferris wheel called the Budapest Eye. If you haven’t had enough panoramic views yet, it’s the best way to see Budapest.

Stroll Along the Danube River

Taking a leisurely walk along the Danube River is a must, even if you only have one day in Budapest. From Deák Ferenc Square, you can easily walk back to Széchényi Chain Bridge within minutes.

After reaching the bridge, continue walking in the direction of the Hungarian Parliament along the Danube River. It’s a mere ten minute walk from the bridge to the Hungarian Parliament but most likely it will take a bit longer as you will want to stop a few times to soak up the views.

You will also pass by the ’60 Pairs of Shoes’ memorial on the Danube Bank, a tribute to the Jewish population who tragically lost their lives in the Danube by the Cross Arrow Military during World War II.

Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament is easily the most beautiful building you will see during your one day in Budapest. The Neo-Gothic style Parliament Building is the seat of the National Assembly and one of the most important landmarks in Hungary. 

It’s not only the tallest building in Budapest but it’s also the third largest parliament building in the world! It’s possible to visit the inside of the Parliament with a guided tour which is usually 45 minutes long.

The tour is really popular so it’s worth booking your tickets online well in advance, or book a tour with skip-the-line tickets and learn about the history of this stunning building with an expert guide.

Take a Ride on Tram #2

Going for a panoramic ride with tram number 2 is one of the cheapest, quickest, and most iconic ways to see the city.

The tram runs along the Danube River, from Margaret Bridge (the third bridge to the north) all the way down to Rákóczi Bridge (the last bridge to the south), and passes by many important landmarks.

Although it’s a panoramic ride, it doesn’t require any extra ticket other than a simple BKK ticket which costs 350 HUF, or your 24-hour Budapest Travelcard.

Top Tip : If you’re running short on time, get off at Fővám tér from where you can reach the Citadel, the next (and last stop) on this one day Budapest itinerary.

Watch the Sunset from the Citadel

There is no better way to finish off your one day in Budapest than watching the sunset from the Citadel, a 19th century fortification located on top of Gellért Hill, offering sweeping views over the entire city.

Getting to the Citadel is a bit of a stretch as it requires a fifteen to twenty minute uphill walk, however, it’s truly worth it. The Citadel is one of the most popular sunset spots in the city so you will not be alone, but the views will surely make up for the crowds.

Cruise the Danube

The city’s lifeblood and an important trade route, the Danube is Europe’s second-longest river.

Rising in the Black Forest of Germany and snaking its way through Central Europe to the Black Sea, some 2,850km later, the river and Budapest, often called ‘Queen of the Danube’, have a symbiotic relationship.

Take a city highlights evening river cruise to appreciate the might of the river and see Budapest from a different perspective.

Visit a Ruin Bar

The city’s ruin bars are fast becoming a must-do in Budapest. Ruin bars are budget pubs housed inside the huge and dilapidated prewar buildings of the Jewish Quarter of the city.

Szimpla Kert , which opened in 2003, was the first. Despite the crowds you expect in any tourist hot spot, it’s worth stopping in for a drink to see the impressive space for yourself.

On Sunday mornings, the place transforms into a farmers market selling street food and locally produced items such as salami, cheese, and honey.

Where to Eat in Budapest

Stand25 bisztró.

Just a few minutes from the Basilica is Stand25 Bisztro . This cool and casual bistro specializes in traditional but refined Hungarian food, inside a market hall come food court.

Must-try dishes here include the goulash soup, the layered potatoes, and the somlói galuska, a delicious rum-soaked local dessert.

Rosenstein Vendéglő

An award-winning, family-run restaurant, Rosenstein , serves Hungarian and Jewish classics, such as chicken dumplings and pan-seared foie gras with potato croquettes in a Tokaji wine sauce. Casual but stylish and classy, it’s worth a trip to the slightly out-of-town location for some of the best traditional food in Budapest. 

Top Five Budapest Travel Tips

• You can purchase a 24-hour Budapest Card for 6,490 HUF which grants you free use of public transportation, free guided walking tours, and free entrance to a few museums (including the ones in Buda Castle). However, unless you want to explore all the museums, it’s not worth buying it if you follow our Budapest one day itinerary.
• Getting around in Budapest is really easy and the city is totally walkable. You will only need a few BKK tickets that can be purchased for 350HUF each(or 450 HUF on the spot), or buy the 24-hour Budapest Travelcard for 1,650HUF which covers all of Budapest’s public transport, including trams, but it does not cover the 100E airport shuttle bus.
• A strange local tradition in Budapest dates from 1848 when the Hungarian revolution was overthrown by the House of Habsburg. To celebrate the victory in Vienna, Austrians everywhere clinked their beer glasses to show their joy.  Although 167 years have since passed, Hungarians still never clink their glass, and neither should you!
• Although Hungary is a member of the EU, it has retained its own currency, the forint. Although you can pay with credit cards almost everywhere in Budapest, it’s worth having some cash in your pocket, and euros are widely accepted. Try to avoid using the yellow and bluecolored Euronet ATMs for picking up forints, as they use a poor exchange rate with additional fees.
• If you’re a coffee lover, make sure to explore Budapest’s kávéház, or cafés. Many have been around since the early 16th century after the Turks brought coffee to Hungary, and they know how to make a great brew!

More Than One Day in Budapest?

If you have a bit more time in Budapest, add these top attractions to your itinerary;

Szechenyi Thermal Baths

Known as the ‘City of Baths’, Budapest sits on a fault line, and its thermal baths are naturally fed by 120 hot springs. The Szechenyi Baths are one of the most popular thermal baths in Budapest, offering three outdoor and fifteen indoor pools.

The Szechenyi Baths are also quite famous and get booked up very early, so book your tickets online well in advance .

Heroes Square & City Park

Heroes Square is a beautiful landmark consisting of several statues of important Hungarian national leaders, such as the Seven chieftains of the Magyars, the indigenous people of Hungary.

Right behind Heroes Square, you can find City Park, the biggest park in Budapest, which is home to Vajdahunyad Castle, Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and the Budapest Zoo.

Wander Andrassy Út

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the grand tree-lined boulevard of Andrassy Út connects the Bulgarian State Opera House and City Park and is best explored on foot for a chance to glimpse some of the city’s finest houses. 

Danube Bend & Szentendre with Lunch with Cruise

If you take one day trip from Budapest, make it this highly recommended and well-organised day trip from Budapest.

Take an adventure back in time as you tour the Blue Danube and visit historic attractions, from the heart of the Catholic Church at Esztergom , the largest basilica in Hungary and the former royal residence of Visegrád.

With a professional guide to offer insights, this tour is the perfect opportunity to see  more of the Hungary in less time!

Written for The Gap Decaders by by Krisztina of She Wanders Abroad

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Coach / Bus Tours & Trips from Budapest

See the best Coach / Bus trips from Budapest, Hungary. We have 19 adventures that range from 5 days up to 27 days in length. The most popular time for tours leaving Budapest is August.

19 Coach / Bus tour packages from Budapest with 423 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Budapest to Bucharest

Maybe just a little too much walking for a 72 year old, overweight man who still smokes. That be said, I did manage to keep up, and Dani was very good about helping me with my luggage on and off the trains.

Croatia and the Balkans

A really interesting trip; beautiful countries with interesting histories. Sarajevo a highlight for most as so surprisingly attractive and enjoyable. Several good tours and activities included. Nice range of fellow travellers from 30-80 including couples and singles.

Highlights of Eastern Europe (Classic, End Vienna, 14 Days)

This trip was such a delight from start to finish. The hotel in Budapest is just beautiful and I had a spa treatment to start the trip. The salt mines were a personal favourite of mine. Our Travel Director Carl was very informative and was always on hand to give additional information. I HIGHLY recommend this trip. Truly magical!

Highlights of Eastern Europe (Classic, End Budapest, 14 Days)

Top! Perfect in all aspects.

Treasures of the Balkans & Transylvania

The tour guide was knowledgeable, respectful and went the extra mile to make everybody comfortable and happy. Hotels were OK with the usual problems: No AC, TV not working. Optional aid dinners were not worth the price paid. Local tour guides in each venue visited were excellent. The tour overall met my expectations. Next time we won't choose the optional paid dinners.

5 Days Transylvania Tour from Budapest to Bucharest

Excellent excellent excellent

• Sightseeing

Imperial Escape

Imperial Escape with Berlin

Enchanting Europe : Budapest to Prague (4 Star Hotels)

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

European Splendour : Budapest to Berlin (4 Star Hotels)

Budapest & Balkans Superior - 14 days

Hungary to Slovenia Superior - 9 days

Highlights of Eastern Europe (Small Groups, End Vienna, 14 Days)

Easy Pace Budapest, Vienna & Prague (Classic, 10 Days)

All Around Europe (4 Star Hotels)

What people love about coach / bus tours from budapest.

A well planned trip with some surprising accommodation stops. We were amazed at how much we enjoyed our trip, and can highly recommend it.

I loved the Croatia and Balkans tour. It was the perfect mix of structured activities and free time. Our G Adventures CEO Adin was amazing. I would’ve liked one more day in Split, though.

Wonderful trip with an excellent tour leader Petra and great coach driver Joe. We had so many tours and wonderful dinners with our. We seen so many great sites and have lifetime memories.

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Vienna to Budapest: A 5-Day Cultural Odyssey

April 21, 2024 · 3 min read

Begin your 5-day cultural odyssey in the heart of Europe, exploring the grandeur of Vienna and Budapest. Day 1 immerses you in Vienna's royal history with a 3-hour visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, followed by an hour admiring the masterpieces at the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Conclude with a stroll around the historic Heldenplatz. Day 2 continues with Vienna's imperial legacy at the Hofburg Palace for two hours, delves into the literary treasures of the Austrian National Library, and marvels at the Gothic splendor of St. Stephen's Cathedral. On Day 3, unwind in the lush Stadtpark, experience the acoustics at the Vienna Music Society, and be captivated by the art at Belvedere Palace. Transition to Budapest on Day 4, where the sacred Matthias Church awaits, followed by the panoramic views from Fisherman's Bastion and the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building. Your journey culminates on Day 5 with the historic Buda Castle, the iconic Széchenyi Chain Bridge, and the monumental Heroes' Square. This itinerary promises a blend of culture, history, and architectural wonders, curated for an unforgettable experience with Trip.com.

• Day 1: Imperial Splendors and Artistic Treasures

Schönbrunn Palace

Begin your Viennese adventure with a visit to the majestic Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Immerse yourself in three hours of royal history as you stroll through the lavish rooms and expansive gardens, each telling tales of Austria's illustrious past. The palace's grandeur and the beauty of its baroque architecture make it a perfect starting point for your journey through Vienna.

Attraction Info

• Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Österreich
• Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
• Open from 04/02-11/03,8:30am-5:30pm;Open from 11/04-03/31,8:30am-5:00pm，The above times refer to the palace of Schönbrunn opening hours. For the opening hours of other sub-attractions (such as garden, maze, etc.), please refer to the official website https://www.schoenbrunn.at/en/visitor-information/opening-times The business hours of each sub-attraction are different, and some sub-attractions may be closed due to seasonal reasons. Please refer to the actual situation.

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Kunsthistorisches Museum

Next, let the allure of art and history guide you to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, a temple of fine arts housing an incredible collection of masterpieces. Spend an hour marveling at the works of great masters, enveloped by the museum's own architectural beauty. Located at Maria-Theresien-Platz, this museum is not just a treasure trove for art enthusiasts but a monument of culture that stands as a testament to Vienna's love for the arts.

• Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Wien
• Suggested tour duration: 1-4 hour
• Open on Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open on Thu,10:00am-9:00pm，The specific business status during public holidays is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Heldenplatz

Conclude your day with a serene walk at Heldenplatz, the historical square that has witnessed many of Vienna's pivotal moments. Take an hour to soak in the atmosphere of this iconic space, set against the backdrop of the majestic Hofburg Palace. As you wander through the Volksgarten, let the echoes of history and the tranquility of the present create a perfect end to your first day in Vienna.

• Volksgarten Hofburg Palace, Vienna Austria
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open 24 hours

Where to Stay Tonight

Heymi apartments oper, steigenberger hotel herrenhof.

• Day 2: Imperial Splendors and Cultural Treasures

Hofburg Palace

Begin your second day in the heart of Vienna with a visit to the majestic Hofburg Palace. As the former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty, this grandiose complex invites you to explore two hours of Austria's regal past. With its stunning architecture and historical significance, the Hofburg Palace is a testament to Vienna's imperial grandeur. Wander through its opulent halls and imagine the echoes of royal footsteps that once graced these rooms.

• Hofburg, Michaelerkuppel 1010 Vienna
• Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
• Open from 9:00am-5:30pm，It is possible to stay in the Sisi Museum until 5.00 pm and at the Imperial Apartments until 5.30 pm.

Austrian National Library

Next, enrich your cultural journey at the Austrian National Library, an architectural gem housing a world of knowledge. Just a short stroll from the Hofburg Palace, this library is not only a sanctuary for book lovers but also a museum that showcases the grandeur of baroque design. Spend an hour marveling at the frescoed ceilings, antique tomes, and the enchanting ambiance of the State Hall, one of the most beautiful library rooms in the world.

• Josefsplatz 1, 1015 Wien, Austria
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open on Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open on Thu,10:00am-9:00pm

St. Stephen's Cathedral

Conclude your day's exploration with a visit to the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece stands as a symbol of Vienna's resilience and faith. With just a half-hour stay, you can gaze upon its intricate tile roof, climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city, or simply absorb the spiritual atmosphere within its ancient walls. The cathedral's impressive spire and rich history make it a must-see on your Vienna itinerary.

• Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Österreich
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open on Sun,7:00am-10:00pm;Open on Mon-Sat,6:00am-10:00pm

Hotel Royal

Do&co hotel vienna.

• Day 3: Vienna's Vibrant Vistas and Vivacious Vibes

Begin your third day in the heart of Vienna with a serene stroll through Stadtpark, the city's verdant oasis. As the morning sun filters through the lush canopy, the park invites you to unwind amidst its manicured lawns and winding paths. This urban retreat, nestled at Parkring 1, is a perfect prelude to a day filled with culture and history. Spend an hour here, and let the tranquility set the tone for the adventures ahead.

• Parkring 1, Vienna Austria

Vienna Music Society

Next, let the harmonious history of Vienna guide you to the prestigious Vienna Music Society. Located at Musikvereinspl. 1, this iconic theater is a testament to the city's rich musical heritage. As you spend two hours here, imagine the echoes of past symphonies filling the grand halls, and feel the artistic pulse that has made Vienna a sanctuary for music lovers worldwide.

• Musikvereinspl. 1, 1010 Wien, Austria
• Suggested tour duration: 2-2.5 hour
• For details on performance times, please check the official website https://www.musikverein.at/spielplan/. The specific business status is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Belvedere Palace

Conclude your day's journey with a visit to the majestic Belvedere Palace. Beyond its role as an art gallery, this baroque palace is a piece of living history, standing proudly at Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27. With two hours to explore, you'll be captivated by the opulent galleries and the stories etched into its walls. The palace's grandeur and the masterpieces it houses are a fitting finale to a day spent in the embrace of Vienna's cultural embrace.

• Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria
• Open from 10:00am-6:00pm，The specific business status is subject to the opening situation on that day.

Goldegg Residence

Hotel daniel vienna - smart luxury near city centre.

• Day 4: Historic Splendors of Budapest

Matthias Church

Begin your fourth day in Budapest with a spiritual retreat at the majestic Matthias Church. Nestled in the heart of the city at Szentháromság tér 2, this architectural marvel isn't just a church, but a symbol of Budapest's rich history. Spend a couple of hours marveling at its intricate details, from the colorful roof tiles to the stunning Gothic elements that have witnessed centuries of stories. The church's serene ambiance provides a perfect reflective start to your day's journey through Budapest's historical tapestry.

• Budapest, Szentháromság tér 2, 1014 Hungary
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open on Mon-Fri,9:00am-5:00pm;Open on Sat,9:00am-1:00pm;Open on Sun,1:00pm-5:00pm

Fisherman's Bastion

Just a stone's throw from Matthias Church, continue your historical exploration at Fisherman's Bastion. This fairytale-like monument, perched high on Castle Hill, offers panoramic views of the city that are simply breathtaking. With its turrets and ramparts, the Bastion feels like a journey back in time to a medieval era. Dedicate an hour to wander through the castle-like terraces and soak in the vistas of the Danube and the Hungarian Parliament Building, which is your next stop.

• Budapest, Szentháromság tér, 1014 Hungary

Hungarian Parliament Building

Conclude your day's historical odyssey at the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building. A short distance from Fisherman's Bastion, this architectural masterpiece at Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3 stands as a testament to Hungary's legislative heritage. With its striking Gothic Revival façade and the majestic dome, the Parliament Building is not only a hub of political activity but also a symbol of national pride. Spend an hour here to appreciate the grandeur of one of Europe's oldest legislative buildings and its role in shaping the Budapest skyline.

• Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary
• Open from 1/1-3/31,8:00am-4:00pm;Open from 4/1-10/31,8:00am-6:00pm;Open from 11/1-12/31,8:00am-4:00pm

Anabelle Bed and Breakfast

Downtown apartments budapest.

• Day 5: Royal Finale in Budapest with Castles and Heroes

Buda Castle

Begin your final day with a royal touch at Buda Castle, the historical castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings in Budapest. Set aside 2 hours to explore this iconic symbol of Hungary's storied past. Perched on Castle Hill, it offers panoramic views of the city and houses the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. The grandeur of its architecture and the richness of its history make it a must-visit destination, providing a fitting start to your last day in this majestic city.

• Budapest, Szent György tér 2, 1014 Hungary

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Next, take a leisurely half-hour stroll across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a suspension bridge that spans the River Danube between Buda and Pest. As one of the most recognizable bridges in Budapest, it's not just a way to cross the river but a historic monument in its own right. The bridge's stunning architecture and the views it offers are a photographer's delight, so be sure to capture the moment as you transition from the regal heights of Buda to the bustling streets of Pest.

• Budapest, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, 1051

Heroes' Square

Conclude your Budapest adventure at Heroes' Square, one of the most visited sights in Budapest. Allocate half an hour to appreciate this spacious square, which features the iconic Millennium Monument with statues of the leaders of the seven tribes that founded Hungary. Surrounded by the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art, it's a cultural hub that commemorates the past while celebrating the present. It's the perfect spot to reflect on your journey and the memories you've created over the past five days.

• Budapest, Hősök tere, 1146 Hungary

Mirage Medic Hotel

Ibis budapest heroes square.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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