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Pre-trip essentials
Travel logistics simplified
Visitor information
- Drop off belongings: We recommend you store your backpacks and suitcases in a locker before stepping out for the day. If you aren’t planning to check into a hotel, you can leave your belongings with any of the city’s premium locker services. Lions Luggage Lockers, situated about 5 minutes away from Opera metro (yellow line), offers great deals if you plan to store your luggage for over 5 hours.
- Simplify travel with hop-on-hop-off bus tours: The most convenient and budget-friendly way to travel in the city is to book Budapest hop-on-hop-off buses. Skip the hassle of navigating public transport routes in a new city. These buses run along designated routes, which pass through popular landmarks. You can ‘hop in’ and ‘hop off’ the bus as many times as you want and walk to the nearest attraction.
- Save big with city card combos: Save almost 12% on individual ticket prices with Budapest cards. Make unlimited use of the city’s public transport system and get free entry to popular museums like the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. Enjoy guided tours, complimentary walking tours, and Danube sightseeing cruises.
- When does the first hop-on-hop-off bus arrive in the day?
The Big Bus hop-on-hop-off bus tours operate between 9 am to 5 pm. The City Sightseeing tour’s last bus leaves at 6 pm from its first stop. These buses stroll along 16 to 25 bus landmarks along a particular route. - Where do I get down to visit the Buda Castle?
Step off at Clark Adam Square, opposite Funicular, Lanchid Street to walk to the nearest Buda Castle. Also, stop by the nearby History Museum for a deeper insight into the city’s past. - How long do I have to wait to get on a hop-on-hop-off bus in Budapest?
The Budapest hop-on-hop-off buses are scheduled around every 15 to 20 minutes. You do not have to wait for long to get on the next bus. Note that the last buses leave around 5 pm to 6 pm from the first stop. - Which attractions can I visit if I book Budapest hop-on-hop-off bus tours?
You can explore a majority of the city’s top landmarks if you get on the Budapest hop-on-hop-off buses like the Heroes’ District, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, and more.
Morning: 8am to 11am
Start your day with fresh bread and cold meat
No matter where you are based in the city, you can always find quaint cafes and breakfast buffets, offering extra-garlicky Hungarian langos, warm bread loaves, and a delectable selection of cured meat. The LANG Bistro and Grill, located near Castle Hill, offers a remarkable breakfast spread with a variety of traditional Hungarian dishes along with global cuisines.
- Opening hours: 7am to 10:30am, 12pm to 3pm, and 6pm to 11pm
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Clark Adam Square (Big Bus tours), Batthyany Square (Big Bus tours), Chain Bridge on the Pest side (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: 30 minutes to an hour
- Pro-tip: It is always a good idea to people-watch and have traditional Hungarian dishes in a fine establishment. Soak in the city’s morning charm and be on your way.
Unveiling crowns and chains: Looking at the city’s storied past
After smashing a breakfast buffet, wear your most comfortable footwear and get an early start to the day. Catch the first hop-on-hop-off bus and get off near the Szechenyi Chain Bridge. Spanning the Danube River, this bridge connects the Buda and Pest side of the city. Walk over the bridge and catch glimpses of the prominent Hungarian Parliament Building and the green oasis of Margaret Island.
- Opening hours: Throughout the day
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Clark Adam Square (Big Bus tours), Batthyany Square (Big Bus tours), Chain Bridge on the Pest side (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: around an hour
- Pro-tip: Visit the Chain Bridge early in the morning for the best lighting and fewer crowds. It also makes for stunning photo opportunities. Make use of the pedestrian pathways along the sides of the Bridge for a leisurely stroll along the Danube.
Stepping into the past: A fairytale-like sojourn at Castle Hill
Hop on the Funicular and ride up Castle Hill. It will reach you to the top in just 3 minutes. You can also hike up the hill, however, since we are short on time, we recommend taking the Funicular. The ride also offers sweeping views of the entire city and the World Heritage Sites along the Danube, so you can get your money’s worth. Take around half an hour to walk past the hill’s quaint stores. You can pick up any souvenirs of your choice. Soak in the cobblestone streets and medieval buildings all around.
- Opening hours: Throughout the day
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Clark Adam Square (Big Bus tours), Batthyany Square (Big Bus tours), Chain Bridge on the Pest side (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: 1 to 2 hours
- Pro-tip: Do not try to walk up the hill when you are short on time. The Funicular offers great views plus saves time. Consider purchasing a walking guided tour to take you through the rich history and various landmarks on Castle Hill.
Atop the Castle Hill: Exploring Buda’s royal splendor
If you only have a few hours to spare, let the Buda Castle be the one monument you explore to the fullest. Once the seat of Hungarian kings, this castle is a treasure trove of art and culture. Explore its numerous rooms and take a walk across its courtyards. Inside its walls are the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, both featuring an extensive collection of Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to contemporary times. Look through these art pieces to understand more about the city’s past.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Clark Adam Square (Big Bus tours), Batthyany Square (Big Bus tours), Chain Bridge on the Pest side (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Pro-tip: You do not need to pay any entry fee to access the Buda Castle grounds. Take your time to wander around the premises. If you want to explore the art exhibits, purchase Buda Castle tickets. During winter months, the palace closes slightly early, around 4pm.
Budapest’s royal witness: Matthias Church
If the sun’s out and you feel like soaking in the warmth, walk to the Matthias Church, around 2 minutes from the Castle. Look for intricate Gothic carvings along the church’s southern entrance, the Bride’s Gate. These designs were installed around the 15th century when King Corvinus ruled the city. The church also displays a coronation mantle, a fascinating reminder of the Baroque additions made during the 19th century. The Matthias Church chronicles the changes brought about by multiple rulers across centuries.
- Opening hours: 9am to 5pm
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Clark Adam Square (Big Bus tours), Batthyany Square (Big Bus tours), Chain Bridge on the Pest side (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: around an hour
- Pro-tip: Take pictures of the colorful Zsolnay tiles on the roof of the Matthias Church. Make sure you are wearing modest clothing, which covers your shoulders and knees when stepping inside the church.
The city’s turrets of time: Atop Fisherman’s Bastion
The Fisherman’s Bastion is another picturesque spot above Castle Hill. It is a short walk from the Matthias Church. This lookout terrace was originally built to commemorate the 7 tribes who established the city around 895 AD. The true magic of the Fisherman’s Bastion lies in its panoramic views across the Danube. Spot the Buda Castle, the iconic dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica, and more from this spot.
- Opening hours: Throughout the day
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Clark Adam Square, opposite Funicular, Lanchid Street (Big Bus tours), Chain Bridge on the Pest side (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: 30 minutes to an hour
- Pro-tip: The lower terraces offer free entry, while the upper terrace costs a small fee. Pay the charges, for the views from the top are worth your penny. Visit around late morning or afternoon for relatively manageable crowds.
Noon: 12pm to 3pm
From stew to strudel: Feast on traditional Hungarian dishes
It is quite likely that after your Castle Hill rendezvous, you would have completed your step count of the day. However, the day is far from being over. Rest your feet and gorge on some scrumptious dishes at Lanchid Sorozo, a dining restaurant near Fisherman’s Bastion. We recommend trying their Klaasjizus Marhaporkoit Nokedlivel, a beef stew with squidgy, noodle-like dumplings. The kid’s menu comes with chicken schnitzel, fries, and tiramisu.
- Opening hours: 11am to 11pm
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Andrassy Avenue, at Bajsy-Zsilinszky (City Sightseeing) or Opera, Andrassy ut 25, next to the metro station (Big Bus tours)
- Duration of visit: around an hour
- Pro-tip: Even if you only have 1-day in Budapest and you are running to tick off places from your itinerary, slow down during lunch. Order whatever you want and savor the taste of traditional Hungarian delicacies.
Riding the Ferris Wheel of Budapest: Beyond the city skyline
After having lunch, walk over to your nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop, and head to Andrassy Avenue. As you make your way down Erzsebet Ter, you will see the Budapest Eye, one of the tallest mobile Ferris wheels in Europe. Not for the faint-hearted! A typical ride on the Budapest Ferris Wheel lasts about 15 to 20 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the scenic views, spot historic sights, and capture memories. The Budapest skyline looks particularly amazing from one of their cabins. You can also catch glimpses of the Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament, and the Danube River.
- Opening hours: 11am to 11pm
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Andrassy Avenue, at Bajsy-Zsilinszky (City Sightseeing) or Opera, Andrassy ut 25, next to the metro station (Big Bus tours)
- Duration of visit: 20 to 30 minutes
- Pro-tip: Check the weather forecast before planning to visit the Budapest Ferris Wheel. If it’s raining cats and dogs, most likely, the services will be disrupted. And, you will face visibility issues during foggy weather.
Echoes of kings and saints: A tour of St. Stephen’s Basilica
After an adrenaline rush at the Budapest Ferris Wheel, walk to St. Stephen’s Basilica, around 7 to 10 minutes away. As you step inside, a sense of awe washes over you, as you take in the soaring ceilings, grand facades, and stained glass windows. Look up and marvel at its spectacular dome, adorned with intricate patterns and motifs. The Basilica is almost 96 meters tall, making it one of the highest buildings in the city, alongside its Parliament. If you manage to climb the Basilica’s 364 steps, you will be rewarded with some of the best views of the city’s skyline.
- Opening hours: 9am to 5:45pm
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Andrassy Avenue, at Bajsy-Zsilinszky (City Sightseeing) or Opera, Andrassy ut 25, next to the metro station (Big Bus tours)
- Duration of visit: 30 minutes to an hour
- Pro-tip: Make sure you are wearing clothing that covers your knees and shoulders when visiting the Basilica. Keep some extra time on hand to climb to the top and enjoy picturesque views of the city.
Early evening: 4pm to 8pm
A journey through music and history: Hungarian State Opera
After spending a few minutes at the top of St. Stephen’s Basilica, walk for around 12 to 15 minutes to reach the Hungarian State Opera. It is a haven for art enthusiasts and opera lovers. Featuring gilded columns, marble interiors, and a grand staircase to a chandelier at the center, the inside of the Opera House is awe-inspiring. The facade also displays statues of prominent musical stalwarts and opera guests, who had once graced the Opera with their presence. If you plan to attend a musical performance at the State Opera, you must pre-book tickets in advance and keep a few extra hours on hand.
- Opening hours: 12pm to 7pm, depending on performance times
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Budapest Muegyetem Rkp. 1111, opposite Hotel Gellert and closer to the riverside (Big Bus tours), Gellert bath stop (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Pro-tip: Book a guided tour of the Hungarian State Opera to access special areas and discover hidden gems within the building, which is not usually open to the general audience.
Indulge in a luxurious escape at the Gellert Thermal Baths
Feeling zapped after walking and exploring the city? Board the nearest hop-on-hop-off bus and reach the Gellert thermal baths. Housed in a Neoclassical building, this thermal bath is complete with healing pools, mineral-rich waters, sauna rooms, and more. The main hall features a big indoor pool, surrounded by massive columns. The outdoor offers wave pools, sunbathing terraces, and massages. Unwind your senses and relax in any of their thermal pools. Beyond its therapeutic waters, take a walk inside the complex. The Gellert baths also feature intricate mosaics, sculptures, and decorated windows inside.
- Opening hours: 9am to 7pm
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Budapest Muegyetem Rkp. 1111, opposite Hotel Gellert and closer to the riverside (Big Bus tours), Gellert bath stop (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Pro-tip: If you do not have swimsuits and towels, do not worry, for you can rent them here. Expect crowds during peak hours. It is best to book Budapest thermal bath tickets in advance before reaching the venue.
A feast for the senses: Spice up your trip at Central Market Hall
After indulging your senses, walk for around 8 to 10 minutes along Szasagbad to reach Central Market Hall. You will be instantly swept up in a cacophony of voices, urging you to look at their stalls. This massive indoor market, housed in a 19th-century building is always overflowing with plump Hungarian sausages, paprika in almost every shade imaginable, and fresh, seasonal fruits. If you are a foodie, try out honey cakes, cured meats, and Hungarian wines. The best perk of shopping from Central Market Hall is that every product is fresh from the farm and hand-crafted with care. The constant chatter of vendors, the aroma of spices, and the bustling crowd make for a lively atmosphere inside.
- Opening hours: 6am to 6pm
- Nearest hop-on-hop-off bus stop: Budapest Muegyetem Rkp. 1111, opposite Hotel Gellert and closer to the riverside (Big Bus tours), Gellert bath stop (City Sightseeing)
- Duration of visit: 1 to 2 hours
- Pro-tip: Visit early in the morning or around late afternoon for slightly manageable crowds. Do not miss out on the upper floor, which sells a number of Hungarian delicacies like Langos and Tokaji wines.
Night: 9pm to 12am
Budapest sightseeing cruises: A relaxing sojourn with live entertainment
It has been a long day of traveling and exploring. If you feel fatigued, you can return to your hotel. However, if you want to experience more of the city’s nightlife, go for a Budapest sightseeing cruise at night. Most of these cruises depart from Silverline, 1051, Petofi ter, Dock 11. After nightfall, these cruises offer a 3 or 6-course menu, with live folklore shows and piano performances. You can enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner and look out into the river. Most of the surrounding landmarks are illuminated, casting a soft glow in the waters. Whether you are traveling with your romantic partner or your family, this cruising experience is sure to delight like no other.
- Opening hours: between 11am to 5:45pm (day cruises) and 9pm to 12am (dinner cruises)
- Duration of visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Pro-tip: Tickets sell out months in advance. We recommend booking Danube cruise tickets in advance, especially between June to August, as it is one of the most popular activities in Budapest.
Sample Hungarian spirited delights: Go for the Palinka experience
If you feel the night is still young, head to the Palinka Museum. The Palinka experience can be summed up in a few words: fire in your belly and fun for your heart! Palinka is a fruity brandy, a cornerstone of Hungarian culture. Held in special bars or dedicated tasting rooms like the Palinka Museum, these experiences usually involve a variety of Palinka cocktails, with experts telling you about their preparations and cultural significance. From classic tastes like plum, cherry, and apricot, to exotic delights like sour cherry and quince, Palinka comes in a variety of flavors. You can also partake in the distillation process and blend your own Palinka cocktail.
- Opening hours: 2pm to 12am
- Duration of visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Pro-tip: Invest in guided tours for a more comprehensive understanding of Budapest’s wine and brandy culture. Experts will acquaint you better with the tasting and distillation process.
Calling movie connoisseurs at Budapest rooftop cinema: City lights and silver screens!
Now that you are most likely to be mildly sloshed after your Palinka sampling, walk to the Deak Ferenc Ter. Board the M2 to reach Szell Kalmar Ter and arrive at Lovohaz. End your 24 hours in Budapest with a rooftop cinema under the sky. Settle into a comfortable bean bag chair with a tub of popcorn and catch a screening of your chosen matinee. From classic favorites to independent productions, the Budapest rooftop cinema offers a curated selection for you to choose from. Take advantage of their bar service and sample a few of their house favorites! Whether you are a movie buff or want to spend some time with your significant other under the sky, the city’s rooftop cinema offers a unique experience like no other.
- Opening hours: 6:30pm to 10pm
- Duration of visit: 3 to 4 hours
- Pro-tip: Arrive by evening if it is a popular film screening. It can get quite chilly as the night sets in. Bring along a blanket or jacket to stay cozy throughout the film.
Your visual guide to Budapest’s 1-day itinerary
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Know before traveling to Budapest
Transportation
Dine
Shopping
Visitor tips
The city is also well-connected by trams, buses, metro, and trains. For someone on the clock, we recommend a combination of hop-on-hop-off tour buses and walking.
- Metro: M1, M2, M3, and M4 metro lines run throughout the city and connect major attractions. Deak Ferenc Ter is the only junction where all 4 metro lines connect. The M1 (Yellow Line) connects the oldest historic sites in the city while the M2 passes through the city center. The M3 (Blue Line) is crucial to reaching the Kobanya-Kispet airport shuttle bus stop and traveling to the northern and southern parts of the city.
- Trams: The Tram Line 2 runs from the Pest side of the Danube and offers the most scenic views of Buda Castle. The Tram Lines 4 and 6 run in a large loop, connecting Szell Kalman Ter to Zsigmond Korter. They cross-cross both the Buda and Pest side of the Danube.
- Buses: Buses are generally slower than metro lines, however, they are useful in traveling to the airport. Bus Number 200E connects Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport to the Kobasya-Kispet metro station, streamlining its route and saving time. You can hop on Bus Number 16 to travel to the Castle District.
- Trains: Budapest has 3 primary stations, connecting regional as well as international locations. The Keleti Palyudvar (station) connects the M2 and M4 metro lines and transfers trains to the east of the city. The Nyugati Palyudvar connects to the M3 metro line and deals with northern and western domestic routes within Budapest.
Hungary offers some of the most flavorful and unique dishes in the entire world. Traditional Hungarian dishes are known for their flavor bursts and a healthy mix of vegetables and protein. Dining with a fine view and people-watching is one of the fine pleasures of traveling in Budapest. When in the city, make sure to try these dishes.
- Goulash: A hearty, rich soup, filled with beef chunks, potatoes, and carrots, and simmered with plenty of paprika.
Where to eat? Gundel Cafe Patisserie Restaurant (near Budapest Zoo) - Porkoit: A slow-cooked stew made with Nokedli (a type of Hungarian dumplings)
Where to eat? Kehli Vendeglo (slightly away from Margaret Island) - Langos: Deep-fried dough, topped with garlic and sour cream, eaten as a popular street snack.
Where to eat? Retro Langos Budapest (near the Hungarian State Opera) - Hortobagyi Palacsinta: A savory crepe with meat fillings, topped with a hearty paprika sauce.
Where to eat? Cafe Kor (Near St. Stephen’s Basilica) - Toltott Kaposzta: Stuffed cabbage leaves, filled with minced pork, paprika, and other vegetables, cooked in a hearty tomato sauce.
Where to eat? Urban Betyar (Near St. Stephen’s Basilica) - Halaszle: A spicy fish soup, infused with paprika, and made with carp or catfish.
Where to eat? Halaszbastya Restaurant (Near Fisherman’s Bastion)
From luxury boutiques to artisanal crafts, Budapest offers a multi-dimensional shopping experience. Here are some of the most popular shopping squares in the city and what they offer.
- Vaci Street: Stretching from the Vorosmarty Square to the Great Market Hall, this street is lined with international brands like H&M & M, and Zara, alongside local boutiques. You can also purchase jewelry with local motifs and Hungarian delicacies like Tokaji wine and Palinka.
- Andrassy Avenue: This street is more of a grand boulevard connecting the city center with Heroes’ Square. From fine art pieces, handmade collectibles, and international, branded clothing, this street offers something for everyone.
- Deak Ferenc Street: This street is also known as the Fashion Street of Budapest for its range of stylish clothing stores. You can also purchase trendy footwear, accessories, and branded dresses from this street.
- Kiraly Street: This street is popular for its vintage collection. You will find a range of stores, selling antique items, retro clothing, and collectibles.
- Central Market Hall: Though not a street, the Great Market Hall is famous for its fresh produce, Hungarian delicacies, spices, wines, and artisanal handicrafts. You can also sample a wide range of langos, sausages, and pastries here.
- Start your day early: To make the most of your 24 hours in Budapest, set out early. Most landmarks open from 9am to 10am, so you can grab breakfast on the go, and be one of the first visitors lined up to explore the heritage sites.
- Invest in passes and combos: To save money on the commute, book Budapest hop-on-hop-off tours. They will pick you up and drop you off near the city’s popular landmarks. Invest in city cards to save big on public transport. You can also book combo tickets to save almost 50% on individual ticket prices.
- Buy a data plan: We recommend you buy a data plan to be well-connected, as Wi-Fi may not work in all areas. Download maps offline. You can also find restroom facilities on Google Maps.
- Avoid street taxis: Do not hail cabs or taxis from the streets. These are known as ‘gypsy’ cabs and will overcharge you. It is best to use apps or, if you are near a metro or train station, use public transport.
- Always validate your ticket: In train stations and bus stops, there are no ticket checkers. But, make sure to validate your ticket from the orange machines before embarking on your journey.
Frequently asked questions about touring Budapest in 1 day
What can I do in Budapest in 24 hours?
Budapest offers several landmarks and historic sights for a fun-filled day out. If you are an art enthusiast, head to Buda Castle, and explore the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum inside, filled with remarkable art pieces, dating from the Middle Ages to contemporary times. The Castle District is ideal for history buffs. You can also go on a daytime sightseeing cruise along the Danube, sip on cocktails, and catch glimpses of a majority of the city’s important sites.
What are some romantic things to do in Budapest in 1 day?
Stroll hand in hand with your partner along the Danube bank. Visit the Buda Castle and explore its art galleries. Drop by the Hungarian State Opera House and enjoy a stellar musical performance. You can hop on a Budapest sightseeing cruise and spot most of the city’s heritage sites by the river bank. Upon nightfall, head to the ruin bars near the Jewish Quarter, go on a dinner cruise or dance the night away in Sparty.
What can I explore in Budapest in 1 day with my children?
If you have children in your company, you can spend a day exploring the Hungarian Railway Museum and the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden. The Castle District, with its Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church are also top choices to visit with family, for they are integral to understanding the city’s storied past.
Which are the top landmarks in Budapest that I can visit in a day?
The Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Shoes along the Danube, and the Hungarian State Opera are some important landmarks to visit when traveling to Budapest for a day. Most of these attractions are situated in and near the Castle District, so you can get down at Clark Adam Square, ride up the Funicular, and enjoy exploring these landmarks.
Can I explore Budapest on a 10-hour layover?
Yes, while it may be slightly stressful, you can enjoy the city’s best on a 10-hour layover. Keep your belongings in a locker facility and head out. If it is a nighttime layover, go on a dinner cruise, Sparty bath cruise, or catch a matinee show at Budapest rooftop cinema. You can also go on a pub crawl and sample some of the best Hungarian wines and cocktails. During the day, you can visit the Castle District, explore the Buda Castle, go on a Jewish Heritage tour, or soak in Budapest’s thermal baths.
How much does it cost to spend a day in Budapest?
Invest in Budapest city cards or hop-on-hop-off combo tickets to save money on public transport. You can get around the city for around €30 to €40. Most landmarks require you to pay around €20 to €40 to explore its interiors. If you book hop-on-hop-off combo tours, you can save almost 50% on these individual ticket prices. You need around €50 to €60 to spend on coffee, pastries, goulash, and langos. On average, you can explore Budapest in 1-day for about €70 to €80.