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The Ultimate 2 Days in Budapest Itinerary for 2024 (Map + Tips!)

What should I do if I only have 2 days in Budapest? Is 48 hours in Budapest enough?

With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know what you should try to squeeze in… but that’s where I can help! After spending many days traversing the city in search of the best local eateries and captivating neighborhoods, I’ve narrowed down my list of the top things you should try to fit into your 2 day Budapest itinerary!

Known for its prime location on the mighty Danube River and its exotic thermal baths dating back to the 12 th century, Budapest is a spectacular European destination for travelers seeking a cultural punch on their next vacation.

In addition to the ultimate one and two-day itineraries, you’ll also find everything you will need to know from the best time of the year to visit, practical tips for exploring the city, the best sites and attractions, how to get around, where to stay, what to pack, the best foods to try, how much money you’ll need, and even what to do if you have more than 2 days in Budapest!

At the bottom of this article, you’ll also find a live map that you can use to start planning your Budapest itinerary, and you can use my free Budapest travel guide to help you get around ( hint: not all of them are included in this post ).

If you’re wondering how many days in Budapest you need, don’t worry, we cover that too. There is plenty of opportunity for an exciting adventure around every corner in this magical city, so, book your train or flight and have a beer at one of the famous ruins bars for me!

Get My FREE ​ 3-Day Budapest Itinerary!!

Ready to visit the best of the best when it comes to ruins bars and museums? Let me send you my itinerary! Don’t worry, you can unsubscribe any time, but Budapest is a place you’ll keep coming back for more 😉

The Best Things To Do in Budapest for One Day

While you will be able to fit a lot of these exciting things in on a one day in Budapest itinerary, you’ll be happier if you’re able to swing 48 hours in Budapest since you’ll be able to spend more time in each place and you’ll have the opportunity to experience more things.

This will also prevent you from having to rush from place to place and will provide you with enough time to relax and soak in the city’s famous Szechenyi baths!

However, we understand that sometimes time is tight, so if you only have one day, these activities will leave you with a great impression of Hungary’s capital.

Stroll the Chain Bridge

This impressive stone bridge is widely known across Europe for its sheer size, majestic Lion sculptures, and its importance for connecting the two sides of this centuries-old city.

Stroll across for marvelous views of Buda Castle and the Parliament Building, and watch the dinner cruises float down the Danube River after sunset.

This is one of the most popular lookouts in the city to capture the sweeping cityscape of Budapest! Centrally located, you won’t be able to miss this beautiful site if you’re walking from place to place.

Get Lost in Buda Castle

As the former palace of the great Hungarian Kings dating back to the 13 th century, this magnificent castle dominates the Danube with its grand display and elegant construction.

Later reconstructed in the mid-18 th century, this palace is a top attraction on any Budapest itinerary!

Also known as the Royal Palace, this enormous building is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has hosted several festivals and events over the years including the Hungarian Palinka Festival, the Budapest Wine Festival, and the Hungarian Festival of Folk Arts.

Make your way up to Castle Hill and start by wandering the stunning courtyards and lookouts around the castle. There is no entrance fee to do this, so if you’re on a tight budget, this is a perfect activity for you to do.

You can also always pack yourself a picnic and eat it atop of the castle walls overlooking the Danube River… is that romantic or what? Be sure to check out the Matthias Fountain while you’re up there!

If you would like to go inside the castle and explore its depths, you can choose one of two wings or both. The first wing contains the Budapest History Museum and the second contains the Hungarian National Gallery.

Both are very impressive and provide a wonderful day activity for people of all ages, including children.

Whether you decide to head inside or not, Buda Castle is a stunning, gothic paradise that deserves to be explored during your 2 days in Budapest!

Take a Danube River Cruise

While the Danube River might not be good for swimming in, it is absolutely good for cruising on!

Taking a cruise down the Danube not only allows you to sit back and relax while exploring the city, but also provides you with a completely unique perspective of all of the major attractions.

Due to Budapest’s special location where it has been divided into two sides with both being perched on this mighty river, it can be difficult to see the best of both sides without walking back and forth across the Chain Bridge (even though that’s definitely not a bad thing!)

By taking a cruise, you’re allowing somebody else to chauffeur you around while your only job is to take in the view and maybe snap a couple of special photographs while you’re at it.

Some river cruises will also provide dinner, though these are more expensive, they are a great way to spend an evening “out on the town” without having to do much walking at all.

If you’re traveling with someone who may have limited mobility or who can’t be walking or standing for long periods of time, I highly suggest doing some research on the best cruise line for you.

River cruises can be booked in advance online or down by the docks in Budapest.

We didn’t do one so I can’t suggest any companies in particular, but I will say to do some research before booking since some of the cruises looked nicer than others.

Walk Around Heroes’ Square

This beautiful square is centrally located on the Pest side of the Danube at the end of the infamous Andrássy Avenue.

Visitors can take in the striking Millennium Monument and get up close to the detailed Seven chieftains of the Magyars, while also being in a prime location to do some exploring.

History enthusiasts can also take a peek at the Memorial Stone of Heroes, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Budapest famous Műcsarnok, or the Palace of Art.

While there isn’t too much “to do” in this area for people not interested in exploring the local museums, it is quite a special place in Budapest and deserves at least a selfie or two.

Explore St. Stephen’s Basilica

Located on the Pest side of Budapest at the end of the Chain Bridge, this Basilica has quite the dramatic entrance. Visitors are able to climb the building’s 146 stairs to the top for sweeping views of the city and wonderful photo opportunities!

Named after the very first King of Hungary, this Roman Catholic Basilica is one of the most elegant and stunning constructions in all of Hungary. Its massive size can hold up to 8,500 people during their highly popular organ concerts and when they host the Budapest Spring Festival.

As one of the highest points in Budapest, the St Istvan Basilica towers impede the skyline and can be seen nearly anywhere in the city!

Wander Around the Hungarian Parliament Building

If you’re anything like me, when you see this building you’ll be mesmerized by its magnificent beauty and highly embellished construction. Dozens of windows are lined with sharp, pointed spires and gothic charm.

The palace is a wondrous blend of medieval architecture and dominant power, making it the most exciting building to see in Budapest.

Perched on the Pest side of the Danube, visitors can choose to explore the visitors center or even opt for a full tour of its royal rooms and grand halls.

Pictures simply don’t do the building justice, as it is actually the third largest Parliament building worldwide, and is Hungary’s largest building overall.

Its incredible size can’t truly be explained and must be experienced, so do yourself a favor and head directly here once you arrive in Budapest!

Take in the Views from the Fisherman’s Bastion

Also known as Halászbástya, this supreme lookout is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city of Budapest. Located just north of Buda Castle, it can be easily combined with other popular sites and attractions.

The Fisherman’s Bastion holds a strong historical aspect of Budapest’s culture, as it was originally built as a defensive structure in the 16 th century, and was later destroyed and rebuilt in the following centuries.

Many of the highest points of the structure overlook the Danube and a small area known as Víziváros, which to this day is popular among fishermen, thus explaining where the structure gets its name.

A day at Fisherman’s Bastion can be spent strolling through the endless crevasses and scenic lookouts, climbing its towers and dramatic staircases, and taking in the gorgeous views of the city and dividing river!

Have a Feast at the Central Market Hall

One of my personal favorite parts of spending 2 days in Budapest was spending a few hours exploring every nook and cranny of this famous market hall.

Commonly known to be the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest, you can find everything from food to clothing and jewelry here.

I’m not one to really take my time and look at every inch of a place, especially when there’s a whole world outside waiting to be explored, but I nearly had to be pulled away from this expansive hall.

Everything is so vibrant and colorful and every booth and stall draws you in with different sights, smells, and sounds! It was like walking through a storybook and around every corner was something new.

We ate our way through almost every food stall and tried everything from fresh smoothies to crêpes and fried apple tarts, and we even debated trying the cone of meat, but couldn’t bring ourselves to do it… maybe on our next visit!

They also had different spices you could sample and weigh out to buy, indoor food trucks (weird concept isn’t it? But, oh so cool!), and multiple floors to wander through.

After filling up on every food imaginable, we peeked at everything from handmade scarves and jewelry to the coolest Budapest souvenirs .

Even if you’re only spending 1 day in Budapest, you should really try to set aside for exploring the amazing Central Market Hall!

Have a Drink with a Local at a Ruins Bar

Ruins bars are a combination of one of Budapest’s best-kept secrets and main attractions at the same time. These local bars are typically found in old, abandoned buildings and have been brought to life by the artistic imprints of those who founded them.

Don’t be surprised if you see makeshift bar counters, mismatched glasses, and a plethora of vandalism and street art. It’s all a part of the experience!

Relatively a new thing to Budapest, these bars started back in 2001 with the original, Szimpla Kert . Created in the midst of an abandoned factory, since then there has been no saying where a new ruins bar might pop up.

Some other popular ruins bars found throughout the city include Fogasház , Instant , Corvin Teto , and Grandio . While there are dozens more, these ones, in particular, stand out to everyone ranging in age from college student to classy grandfather.

Regardless of where you stay in Budapest, be sure to at least pop your head into one of these cultural night scenes for a true taste of Hungary’s capital.

Best Things To See in Budapest in 2 Days

If you have time for a Budapest 2 day itinerary, then these are some of the best things to do! Spend some extra time in the museums , relaxing in the thermal baths, and possibly catch a show at the Opera House!

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Heroes’ Square

Known as Szépművészeti Múzeum in Hungarian, this museum is home to dozens of interesting collections and exhibits boasting antiquities from the Egyptian, Roman, and Hungarian eras!

Get a glimpse of over 600 sculptures from Renaissance Italy and an outstanding collection of artwork and drawings from notable artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Vincent van Gogh.

Discover pieces of artwork that date back to the 13 th century as well as an exhibition on the discovery of Egyptian pharaoh Amenhotep II’s tomb.

And learn about the strategies of hunting during the Renaissance Era or get lost in the grand Renaissance Hall which is full of 16 th -century Italian architecture!

With so much to explore, you could actually spend half a day here without seeing the same thing twice which is why we recommend including it only if you have at least 2 days in Budapest or more.

If spending a few hours exploring this popular museum seems worthy of fitting into your 2 days in Budapest, then skip the line and book your tickets ahead online here !

Walk Through the House of Terror

Located on the famous Andrássy Street in Budapest, the House of Terror owns up to its name. It’s home to several life-like exhibitions that relay the terrors of the events of the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary.

The museum commemorates the events of Hungary’s history with Nazi Germany and the Hungarian Communist regime, while demonstrating to visitors the horrific details of what awaited those who were imprisoned or detained during these times.

This museum is one of the most heart-stopping attractions in Hungary’s capital and is well worth even a quick visit during your 2 days Budapest itinerary.

Catch a Show at the Hungarian State Opera House

This neo-Renaissance opera house is an outstanding representative of Budapest’s beautiful architecture and historical significance. It was built by the famous architect, Miklós Ybl, in the 19 th -century and is now one of the most popular things to include on any Budapest itinerary!

From impressive ballet shows and theatrical plays to wonderful remakes of traditional classics such as The Nutcracker, the State Opera House makes for a great night out in Budapest.

You can also witness an authentic opera show which is a unique experience to have regardless if you find it as emotionally overwhelming as other people do!

If you are planning to go out to a show at the Hungarian State Opera House during your two days in Budapes t, I suggest taking a peek at their repertoire and booking tickets in advance online !

This way, you can have more options for the available shows and pick your seats.

Relax in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths

While the popular Széchenyi Thermal Bath wasn’t constructed until the early 1900s, some thermal baths across Budapest date back to the 12 th century! Now don’t get me wrong, these famous baths are nevertheless magical, rejuvenating, and oh so enticing to most travelers.

With 15 heated indoor pools and 3 massive outdoor pools embellished with numerous fountains and small waterfalls, this place is nearly heaven.

Found on the Pest side of the Danube, this northeastern attraction is extremely popular among tourists due to its beautiful setting inside of a Baroque palace. Guests can enjoy themselves anywhere from the pools to the saunas and steam rooms, and even enjoy playing pool games in the midst of dozens of people!

Next on this list of famous thermal baths is the Gellért Baths on the Buda side of the city. Adorned with stained glass and highly detailed, Romanesque columns, these stunning baths provide both indoor and outdoor heated pools for its guests.

Commonly thought of as Budapest’s most beautiful baths, you can’t go wrong if you decide to spend your one day soaking in the sun!

Last, but certainly not least on this list, are Lukács Baths . Although these baths weren’t constructed until the 1880s, it’s thought that the local thermal springs are actually from the 12 th century and contain healing properties.

Visitors can enjoy a large variety of amenities including an infrared sauna, a weight bath, and even a Himalayan salt wall.

Feel free to book yourself a massage or specialty treatment if you’re really looking to unwind over the course of your 2 days in Budapest.

And if you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a Saturday, they may even be hosting a “spartie” or a spa party with exciting music and shows until the early hours of the morning.

Map of 2 Days in Budapest Itinerary

Google Maps is completely customizable, so it’s a great way to start getting an idea for your itinerary. You can use the map above to get started on your very own itinerary!

The Best Time to Visit Budapest for 2 Days

Budapest is a wonderful city to visit year-round, but if you’re looking to escape the massive swarms of tourists or want to experience the city in the very best weather, there are a few things you should know.

Like many places in Europe, the summer months of June through August provide the warmest weather, the least amount of rain, and unfortunately, the largest amount of tourists.

If hour-long restaurant waits, crowded photos, and crammed city buses aren’t your thing, then maybe consider visiting Budapest in the shoulder seasons.

The shoulder seasons run from March through May and September through November .

In March, April, and May, average temperatures gradually increase from the low 40s to the low 60s, with May being the rainiest month.

In September, October, and November, average temperatures start to drop from the low 60s back down to the low 40s, with November being the rainiest month.

Personally, I absolutely loved visiting Budapest in March! There were very few tourists, the weather was comfortable in the mid-50s on some days, and we had most of the attractions to ourselves.

If you’re planning on spending only one day in Budapest, I highly suggest traveling there in the shoulder season so you can make the most out of your time in this fantastic city!

Practical Tips for Seeing Budapest in One Day

Since you’ll be working with such a short amount of time, it can get stressful trying to fit in everything you want to see. These tips are useful regardless if you are spending one or 2 days in Budapest.

So, to prevent any unwanted disappointment, use these tips to help you in deciding what aspects are most important to you and learn some neat tricks to make the most out of your one day in Budapest!

✔️ Prioritize your itinerary

Even if you’re bouncing from place to place and are spending as little time as possible in your hotel room, it’s still pretty unlikely that you’re going to get to see and do everything you want to. Instead, make a list of everything you want to include in your one day in Budapest, and rank the items from most important to least important.

✔️ Use the metro

Budapest is actually split into two sides, Buda and Pest, and the city is quite large with attractions being relatively far from each other.

To save on some walking time, take advantage of the city’s convenient metro system. It’s fast and affordable!

✔️ Eat on the go

If you’re really trying to save on time, there are plenty of small cafes and street food carts you can try all over the city.

Simply grab a sandwich and coffee to explore with! Restaurants, especially in the summer months, typically have long waits and can take a long time since servers aren’t necessarily assigned to specific tables and you’ll need to ask for your check when you’re ready to leave.

✔️ Buy tickets in advance

Whether you’re looking to join a city tour or get into the popular Széchenyi Thermal Bath, always research if you’re able to book online in advance. This will save you time and usually money, as well!

✔️ Stay in a central location

If you only have one day, don’t try to save yourself some money by staying near the airport. You’ll end up having to pay for a train ride into the city which takes about 1 hour each way. You’ll lose precious sightseeing time and may end up regretting your decision and paying for a different place to stay closer to all the action.

What to Know Before Visiting Budapest

Like a lot of places in Europe, you have to pay to use the restroom … even if you’re a paying customer.

✔️ Many people don’t speak English in Budapest

It’s a good idea to brush up on some common phrases like “please”, “thank you”, “how much?”, and “can I have the bill, please?” before arriving. If you aren’t familiar with a Hungarian accent, it can be difficult to understand a local even if they are speaking English, so do your best to get familiar with the accent beforehand.

✔️ Everything is very affordable, so don’t bring too much currency with you.

With the average meal only costing a few thousand Forints, we came way overprepared with nearly 90,000 Forints on us. Especially if you plan on booking your accommodations online with a debit or credit card, you won’t need this much cash on you.

Getting Around for 2 Days in Budapest

The nice thing about Budapest is that everything is easily reachable either by walking or public transportation. If you’re thinking about renting a car, while I highly suggest that you don’t , it could be beneficial if you’re looking to explore outside the city, as well.

Car rentals can be quite pricey and most of the time lead to major headaches in most cities in Europe, including Budapest. Especially in the event that you were to get in an accident, things just get all the more complicated.

Instead, save yourself the migraine and opt for walking through this beautiful city and taking advantage of its affordable and easy-to-use metro system! You can be anywhere in the city within minutes with no strings attached.

If you’re wondering just how affordable the metro is, jump down to the section about how much money you may need per day in Budapest!

Another great way of seeing the city is by bicycle. You’ll actually see the majority of locals either on the metro, riding a bike, or on a moped or motorcycle, so why not join them?

It’s a fun and freeing way of seeing more of the city in a shorter amount of time and even may save you a blister or two.

Where to Stay for 2 Days in Budapest

Budapest is broken down into districts, all with their own unique personality and charm. What’s great is there is something for everyone from the trendy shopping streets of Terézvaros to the high-end elegance of Belváros and the hip nightlife of Erzsébetváros.

No matter where you stay, you’ll always be within a short walk to the metro. So, don’t worry if you aren’t sure where to stay or if you don’t fall in love with the district that you picked, you can always hop on the train and be where you want to be in no time.

Everything you need to know about each district is below, so use this guide to help you determine which Budapest district is right for you !

✔️ 1 st District

Home to the most popular attractions in the city on the Buda side of the river, the first district is a good place to stay if you’re looking to be surrounded by stunning architecture and sweeping views.

Fisherman’s Bastion , Buda Castle , and Matthias Church are all right at your doorstep and you’ll usually wake up to some of the best sunrises in the city!

However, while this district is bustling with tourists by day, that’s not so true for the evening hours. Relatively far from most bars and restaurants, this area can be a slight buzzkill if you’re looking to both explore the city and revel in its nightlife.

But, if you’re looking for a romantic and peaceful trip to Budapest without swarms of tourists, then this is the district for you!

✔️ 5 th District (Belváros) – where to stay if you only have 2 days in Budapest

A thin stretch that lines the Pest side of the Danube, this district is where you’ll find everything from the impressive Parliament Building , the Shoes on the Danube memorial , St. Stephen’s Basilica , and the breathtaking Chain Bridge .

In the middle of many attractions, restaurants, charming shopping streets, and bars, this district is one of the best places to stay in Budapest for people of all ages!

✔️ 6 th District (Terézvaros)

One of the more upscale sides of the city, the 6 th district boasts the elegant Andrássy Avenue which is lined with the Budapest Opera House , the House of Terror , and many popular fine dining restaurants.

Extremely picturesque, this neighborhood definitely deserves a walkthrough if you can’t afford the high-end hotels and dramatic ambiance.

✔️ 7 th District (Erzsébetváros)

Better known as the Jewish Quarter , this lively district is simply bustling with shops, bars, and restaurants and is one of the best spots in Budapest for eccentric nightlife.

Remember those Ruin bars I told you about? Well, this is where you’ll find them!

There’s also no shortage of hip food trucks and trendy cafés, and you can expect to save a few dimes in this part of the city.

Well known among backpackers and budget travelers, the 7 th district is the most popular district in Budapest!

✔️ 8 th District (Jószefváros)

Studded with grand mansions and overflowing with street artists and hip bars and cafés, this district is home to the impressive National Museum and the lovely square, Mikszáth Kálmán tér , known for its strong line up of fun boutiques and streetside cafés!

Definitely one of the most expensive areas of Budapest, if you’re looking for luxury hotels and high-end restaurants, this is the district for you.

✔️ 9 th District (Ferencváros)

Home to the infamous Central Market Hall , this unique district shares some streets with the downtown area of Budapest.

History buffs can make their way through the numerous museums including Fradi and the Holocaust Museum , and art enthusiasts can explore the Groupama Arena and the Trafó Arts Center .

The 9 th district is also well known for its overflowing bars pushing local craft beers, so if you’re looking to dive deep into the beer culture of Budapest, this neighborhood should be on your list.

What to Pack for 2 Days in Budapest

Since you’re only visiting for one day, you won’t need to bring a lot with you. Also, if you’re traveling through Budapest from other European destinations, it’s likely you’ll have most of the necessary items with you!

Although the number of layers and articles of clothing you bring will vary depending on the season that you visit, there are some essential items that you definitely shouldn’t go without.

✔️ A reusable water bottle with a filter – this one is my favorite ✔️ A day backpack large enough to hold some snacks and your personal items ✔️ A good, supportive pair of walking shoes ✔️ A camera, or phone with a good camera ✔️ A backup battery pack ✔️ Snacks

These are the basics for visiting Budapest, regardless of the time of year you visit or for how long. Trust me when I say that this city is big and you’ll be thankful you had these items.

The water in Budapest also isn’t the cleanest and isn’t recommended for drinking, hence making sure that your reusable water bottle has a good filter.

Also, snacks are always a good idea in case you get caught up sightseeing or in the rare event that you don’t like any of the food you won’t get hangry… most foodies will know what I mean by this!

For my full list of items that I never leave home without when I travel to Europe, check out my travel essentials checklist !

What to Eat in Budapest

Hungary is home to rich and savory cuisine boasting aromatic spices and depths of flavor. On our first trip to Budapest, I was so overwhelmed with the amount of choices we had everywhere we went.

However, it didn’t take long before I fell head over heels in love with the dish above… authentic Hungarian Pörkölt !

This rich beef and onion stew is delicately paired with lightly salted, homemade spaetzle and topped with a garnish of parsley.

We also loved the curried chicken wings , the goulash , and the chicken paprikash and found them to best some of the best food in Budapest!

All of these dishes are extremely popular in Hungary, as well as several other dishes including sausage and sauerkraut , rántott sajt , and Lángos .

Lángos is a very popular snack in Budapest you’ll often see locals eating while walking through the city. It traditionally consists of fried dough, a generous layer of sour cream, and a mound of shredded cheese, but you can customize it any way you’d like!

While sitting at a restaurant can be time consuming, if you’re a real foodie like we are, you need to do it at least once during your 1 day in Budapest.

The people are extremely kind and hospitable (we returned to the same restaurant several nights in a row and the staff all remembered us), the food is simply delicious and highly affordable, and you’ll find yourself ordering more and more each time you go.

If you’re really in a rush and don’t have much time for savoring a meal, head to the Central Market Hall I talked about above and grab yourself a tasty treat on the go.

They have everything from sandwiches, fried apple tarts, crêpes, meat cones, fresh produce, and more!

FAQ: 2 Days in Budapest

In this section, I’ll be answering some of your essential questions related to traveling Budapest!

Is One Day in Budapest Enough?

One day in Budapest really isn’t enough to see and do a lot of the fun things this magical city has to offer.

Especially since the city is divided into two sides, Buda and Pest, or the west side of the river and the east side of the river, respectively, there’s a lot to get around to.

However, even though I typically recommend at least 2 days in Budapest, you can certainly knock a lot off your Budapest bucket list in a single day! The city is extremely walkable and provides a super fast and convenient metro system to get you between attractions in a jiffy.

So, to answer the common question: “ How many days do you need in Budapest? “, my answer is 1-2. As long as you have at least 24 hours, you can get a really good feel for the city from the attractions to the local cuisine, the beautiful scenery, and the exciting culture.

While 2 days in Budapest or more is optimal for experiencing everything, you can certainly have a fun and memorable trip in as little as one day in Budapest.

Is 2 Days Enough for Budapest?

In short, yes, 2 days is enough to see Budapest . But, it’s important to realize that Budapest is one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, so it can be difficult to decide how much time you want to spend there before you see it .

It’s also important to keep in mind that the city is actually comprised of two parts – Buda and Pest. So, if you are going to make a quick visit, then you will want to try and see a little of both parts which may require more than 2 days.

On my first visit, I spent about 3 days in Budapest and found it to be the perfect amount of time to see all of the markets (particularly the Central Market Hall), pick out some good souvenirs, and pop into a few ruin bars along the way.

I definitely would have been able to make 2 days in Budapest work, however, I was far less rushed having the extra time. So, if you’re wondering “ is 3 days in Budapest enough? “, the answer is yes!

How Many Days is Best to Stay in Budapest?

To fully experience Budapest and not feel rushed, staying 3 days in Budapest is ideal in our opinion . However, if your time is limited, 2 days are adequate to cover the main attractions.

The duration of your stay in Budapest truly depends on your travel style and your interest level in the city’s history, culture, and architecture. Even if you only have 1.5 days in Budapest, you could make a great itinerary for that amount of time by prioritizing your interests.

Remember that quality trumps quantity, and it’s better to fully explore a limited number of attractions than to rush through a long checklist.

Why is Budapest So Cheap?

Budapest is considered cheap compared to many other European cities due to the difference in cost of living and the strength of foreign currency against the Hungarian Forint.

The city’s economy and standard of living are improving, but prices for goods, services, and accommodations remain lower than in the more popular tourists countries of Western Europe.

This, along with the country’s rich history and culture, makes Budapest an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Is Budapest Hungary Worth Visiting?

Budapest, Hungary is definitely worth visiting. This city is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture, offering a unique blend of the old and the new.

From the stunning architecture of the Parliament Building and Buda Castle to the poignant Shoes on the Danube memorial, Budapest is rich with sights that tell the story of its past.

Coupled with its affordable cost of living which makes it an attractive destination for visitors, the vibrant food scene, the lively ruins bars, and the relaxing thermal baths, there’s something in Budapest for every kind of traveler.

So whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone in search of a unique cultural experience, Budapest is worth visiting!

How Much Money Do You Need for 2 Days in Budapest?

Now for the most common question of all: Is Budapest Expensive to Visit?

Fortunately, no! Budapest is actually one of the most affordable cities in Europe in terms of everything from flights to accommodations, meals, and attractions.

Even during peak season, it’s possible to find nice hotels at reasonable rates and delicious food at fair prices.

During your 2 days in Budapest, while you won’t need too much money, it will be important that you have some local currency. You can buy some Hungarian Forints from your bank before leaving home, in the airport, or at a local bank when you arrive.

If you aren’t yet familiar with the difference between Forints and, well, the rest of the world’s currency, you’re in for a treat! On most occasions, you’ll be getting a real bang for your buck. Check out the conversion rates below.

USD to Hungarian Forint: $100 = 30,486 Forints Euro to Hungarian Forint: €100 = 35,921 Forints

Meal costs will vary depending on if you eat in a sit-down restaurant or grab a bite from a street cart, but you can typically expect to spend between $1-6 (305-1829 HUF) at breakfast , $2-7 (609-2134 HUF) at lunch , and $5-9 (1524-2743 HUF) at dinner .

If you decide to take advantage of the metro system, single tickets cost $1.30, or 350 HUF and if you need a train ride from the airport to the city center, you’ll be set back another 400 HUF ($1.50). Like I said, Budapest is one of the most affordable cities in Europe.

Accommodations will vary greatly depending on if you book a budget hostel, a mid-range hotel, or a luxury hotel, but here are some average prices for each.

Budget Hostel: $14 (4268 HUF) Mid-Range Hotel: $60 (18,292 HUF) Full Suite or Apartment: $80 (24,390 HUF)

Again, prices are based on averages and can vary greatly depending on the time of year, the number of people you’re traveling with, and if you’re open to a public dormitory or prefer a private room.

So, if you plan to visit Budapest for one day and are wondering how much money you’ll need, add up the above expenses based on your travel style. The average, mid-range traveler will need about $77 (23,659 HUF) for the day.

This includes a train ride from the airport, two single metro tickets, 3 meals, and a mid-range accommodation.

Now, this does not include money for tips, souvenirs, attractions, and so forth, so be sure to do some research on these things before visiting to give you a more accurate idea of how much currency you should bring.

If you’re trying to visit Budapest on a budget, be sure to check out my 23+ Amazing Free Things To Do In Budapest !

What are the Do’s and Dont’s in Budapest?

Don’t

• Exchange your money at a bank or the airport for local currency
• Explore the city on foot
• Visit the museums and attractions
• Try some authentic dishes
• Practice some Hungarian phrases
• Learn something new at the museums
• Exchange your money for Hungarian Forints on the street
• Explore the city alone at night
• Skip good opportunities for tours
• Only eat at chain restaurants
• Get frustrated when someone doesn’t understand you
• Avoid wandering from the main tourist center

Now let’s jump into some of your most frequently-asked questions so you have all the details to plan your perfect 2 day Budapest itinerary!

Which is Better to Visit Budapest or Prague?

For me personally, Prague is better to visit when compared to Budapest. Don’t get me wrong! Both Budapest and Prague are popular tourist destinations in Europe, known for their beautiful architecture, vibrant cultures, and rich history.

Choosing between them can be very difficult, as these two cities both have a lot to offer and appeal to different types of travelers, which is why it took me having to visit both cities back to back to compare their immediate differences.

For my full comparison, check out my guide on Prague or Budapest: Which City Is Right For You in 2024?

What Shouldn’t You Miss in Budapest?

If you’re trying to visit Budapest in 2 days, it can be difficult to know which landmarks and attractions are actually worth your time.

To help you make the most of your visit, here are a few things you should definitely not miss when traveling to Budapest:

• The Parliament Building: As one of the largest legislative buildings in Europe, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a must-see with its ornate architecture and impressive dome.
• Shoes on the Danube: This memorial to honor the hundreds of civilians who were killed by fascist troops during World War II is one of the most moving and powerful memorials in Europe.
• The Chain Bridge: This iconic bridge over the Danube River has a rich history and is one of the most popular attractions in Budapest.
• The Buda Castle: Located on Castle Hill, this complex is home to some of the best views in all of Budapest.
• Gellert Hill: Hike up Gellert Hill for incredible panoramic views of the city and a peek inside the Cave Church, which is carved right into the hill.
• The Central Market Hall: This bustling market hall is filled with food stalls, souvenir shops, and beautiful architecture at every turn.
• Heroes Square: Situated in Pest, Heroes Square is dedicated to the founding fathers of Hungary and surrounded by beautiful buildings, museums, and monuments.
• The Houses of Parliament: As one of the most recognizable landmarks in Budapest, the Houses of Parliament are a must-see with their stunning architecture and panoramic views over the Danube River.
• Buda Castle Hill Funicular: Take the funicular up to the top of Castle Hill for incredible views of Budapest and a peek inside Buda Castle itself.
• Széchenyi Thermal Baths: Take a dip in one of Europe’s most famous thermal baths to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
• Dohány Street Synagogue: This stunning synagogue is one of the largest in Europe and a must-see for anyone interested in Jewish history.

The Best activities in budapest

Subscribe to get access to a full map with every amazing thing there is to do in Budapest with an exact location! Get started planning your walking route and itinerary in Budapest!

Deciding between just visiting Budapest or including cities from the rest of Europe? Check out our Destinations page here for up-to-date itineraries, travel guides, and our latest travel tips and hacks!

Not sure if Budapest is safe? Check out our in-depth guide on Safety in Budapest !

Enjoying our one day itineraries? Check out our others from the most popular destinations in Europe!

One Day in Paris One Day in Prague One Day in Berlin One Day in Porto One Day in Lisbon One Day in Bruges One Day in Amsterdam One Day in Barcelona One Day in Brussels One Day in Ghent

Now, you can probably see why Budapest is extremely popular among tourists of all ages and if you can’t, you’ll just have to go there and check it out for yourself!

Budapest is one of the most exciting cities in Europe with its medieval charm, hip ruins bars, exotic night scene, and unique attractions.

Whether you plan on spending two weeks or 2 days in Budapest , you can use this guide to help you with all of your Budapest-related questions!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

• Central Hungary

Emily Guide - Day Tours

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